I have a restaurant with an 6 or 7 year old 4 camera samsung rj11 system from Sam's Club I originally put in for keeping an eye on the cash register and to be able to see the parking lot. I would now like to upgrade to something more useful that covers more area and can identify people if anything bad happens. I've been reading many posts and see megapixel cameras have fantastic images but some were saying they were not ready for prime time a couple of years ago. It's a couple years later now, I'm starting from scratch, should I go IP, analog or hybrid?
It's a single building with parking all around. The register is immediately in front of the front entrance. There is a front door, back kitchen door and an emergency exit door in back. I think i'd need at least 4 cameras outside and 3 or 4 inside to cover the entrance, cash drawer (for cash disputes) and a general view from behind the counter. Not sure if cameras in the dining room are a good idea as they may make patrons uneasy. Room to expand with other cameras would be great.
I'm budgeted $3k but will go to $5 if it'll achieve great results with IP or hybrid IP. Does this sound reasonable If I do the install myself? What if I call in a pro?
