Verkada, Avigilon, Milestone, Axis — which platform?+
Verkada for cloud-first, multi-site, small IT teams — fastest to deploy and manage. Avigilon (Motorola) for large enterprises wanting best-in-class analytics with either cloud (Alta) or on-prem (ACC). Milestone XProtect for open-platform on-prem VMS with camera-brand flexibility. Axis and Hanwha for high-quality cameras that work with any VMS. We recommend based on site count, IT posture, integration needs, and budget.
How much does commercial camera installation cost?+
Typical fully-installed cost is $1,500-$3,500 per interior IP camera and $2,500-$5,000 per exterior camera including camera, cable, PoE switch port, mount, license, and commissioning. Cloud VMS adds $10-$40/camera/month. Volume discounts on 20+ camera jobs. Add storage, licensing, and analytics for on-prem systems.
How long can you retain video?+
Standard is 30 days for most commercial applications, 90 days for regulated environments (banking, cannabis, healthcare), and 1 year for high-security. Retention is limited only by storage — we size the plant to the retention requirement, not the other way around.
Can you install cameras in an occupied building?+
Yes — most of our camera work happens in live buildings. We pre-stage cable overhead during business hours and mount cameras with minimal disruption. Retail and healthcare often requires after-hours mounting near sales floors or patient areas.
What resolution should my cameras be?+
4MP as a baseline for general coverage — good balance of pixel density and storage cost. 8MP for wide areas, parking lots, and forensic identification. Multi-sensor (180/360°) for atriums and open warehouses. Match resolution to the coverage area and the identification requirement, not to a marketing spec sheet.
Do you handle LPR (license plate recognition)?+
Yes. LPR-optimized cameras (global shutter, IR illumination, purpose-built lens) at driveways and gates, integrated with cloud or on-prem VMS for plate lookup, deny-list alerts, and access-control integration.
Can you integrate cameras with our access control?+
Yes. Cloud platforms (Verkada, Openpath/Avigilon Alta, Brivo) integrate natively — every door event bookmarks the camera. Traditional VMS integrates with access via API (Milestone/Genetec/Avigilon + LenelS2, Genetec Synergis, Kantech, etc.).
Do you provide 24/7 monitoring?+
We install and commission the cameras; live monitoring is provided through partner UL-listed monitoring stations. Cloud VMS also supports customer-side alert notification via mobile app.
What about privacy — GDPR, CCPA, employee notification?+
We design to your privacy policy: privacy masks over restricted areas, camera placement avoiding restrooms and break rooms, and posted notification signage where required. Storage locations and retention policies are aligned to your legal team's requirements.
Can you support multi-site nationwide rollouts?+
Yes. Cloud platforms make multi-site deployment straightforward — we standardize hardware and configuration across sites, provide project management, and coordinate partner installers nationwide when needed.
How much does security camera installation cost?+
Security Camera Installation pricing depends on drop count, cable type, pathway complexity, and building conditions. Most commercial projects range from $150 to $350 per drop installed. Request a free site survey for an itemized quote.
Do you provide security camera installation nationwide?+
Yes. Access Cabling is headquartered in California with a nationwide technician network for multi-site rollouts across all 50 states.
Is security camera installation certified and warrantied?+
Every installation is Fluke-tested and certified. Structured cabling installs carry manufacturer warranties of up to 25 years through our Panduit, CommScope, Leviton and Belden partner relationships.
