Camera Manufacturers in the Cannabis Industry

Camera Manufacturers for the Cannabis Industry

Video surveillance is a key part of the security strategy for any cannabis business, but with hundreds of surveillance camera manufacturers on the market, it can be hard for a cannabis business owner to know which to choose. Today, video surveillance is about more than just observation. Modern cannabis camera manufacturers offer solutions that include enhanced video analytics, video storage options, and monitoring services. Each cannabis camera manufacturer features different types of cameras and overall system capabilities. Choosing the right cannabis camera manufacturer for a cannabis business depends on many elements, including regulatory requirements, price, and capabilities. 

Overview

The commercial video surveillance market is changing rapidly. Recently, the Secure Equipment Act of 2021 shook up the commercial video surveillance market, effectively banning some low-cost, Chinese camera manufacturers such as Huawei, Hikvision, and Dahua from use in the US. While the immediate implications of the Secure Equipment Act on cannabis businesses have yet to be seen, it is important for every cannabis business owner to be aware of current and future regulations of camera manufacturers.  

Similarly, cannabis business owners need to be aware of any state policies in place that may impact their choice in camera manufacturer. For example, Missouri’s cannabis regulations mandate that cameras must provide a recording resolution of at least 920×1080 pixels and record a minimum of 15 ​frames per second. Furthermore, the footage must be date and time stamped, surveillance systems must be equipped with failure notification systems. Additionally, camera systems also must allow for real-time remote access by law enforcement. These strict requirements only underscore the importance of checking for local, state, and federal regulations before selecting your cannabis camera manufacturer. 

Quality Camera Manufacturers

The good news for cannabis business owners is there are a variety of low cost, quality camera manufacturers to choose from. Hanwha, for example, is a great value-driven solution and update to many of the low-cost solutions banned under the Secure Equipment Act. Given their competitive price point, Hanwha’s line of AI cameras are a great low-cost entry point for those looking to take advantage of video analytics.

Vivotek is another camera manufacturer known for their inexpensive, quality options, rising just slightly above Hanwha in terms of price. Like Hanwha, Vivotek has a history of working with cannabis companies to meet and exceed licensing requirements. 

Axis cameras are among the most popular choice for the security industry, but also come at a higher price point than their competitors. However, with a higher price point comes additional features, such as reliability, availability of options, and durability. Many Axis camera users have praised Axis for their superior tech support and ease of installation. Cannabis business owners may specifically want to check out Axis Perimeter Defender – an analytics app for their fixed cameras that offers edge-based intrusion detection system. 

Avigilon cameras are also a high-end camera brand comparable to Axis in terms of reliability and price with Avigilon 4K cameras reigning supreme. User’s praise Avigilon’s end-to-end solutions and superior video quality, especially when it comes to analytics. 

Camera manufacturer Bosch is also known for producing high quality cameras at a higher price point. Bosch is widely known for their intrusion detection, access control, alarm, and fire systems, making them a great choice for users who value working with one manufacturer.  

How Can Sapphire Risk Help?

Tony Gallo and the team of application writers and consultants at Sapphire Risk Advisory Group have written hundreds of video surveillance plans that incorporate all of the most common camera manufacturer options for cannabis businesses. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with more security best practices and cannabis industry updates!