Survey what is visible and hidden
Mark priority areas, obstacles and potential mounting locations on the map. Check the view from the intended position and record sectors hidden by terrain or vegetation. Consider tree growth and seasonal changes affecting framing.
Greater height may improve some sight lines and change others. Selection should follow surveying and structural assessment, avoiding a location chosen only because it appears to be the property’s highest point.
Maintain image stability
The mount, pole or tower must be sized for the camera, accessories and installation conditions. Wind can cause vibration; with tighter zoom, small movements interfere with observation. Checking structure and mounting requires appropriate technical assessment.
Plan power, cable routing, sealing and maintenance access according to selected equipment. An image stable during initial testing should also be checked under operating conditions expected at the location.
Relate movement to smoke analysis
A speed dome visits different directions; it does not keep all sectors in view simultaneously. Define positions, dwell and return times, checking software requirements for analyzing a scene after movement. PTZ compatibility does not imply smoke detection.
Document areas without visibility and periods without observation. Where continuous monitoring is required, assess additional locations or fixed cameras. Handover should identify actual project limitations and procedures for reviewing alerts.
What to assess for your project
- Map obstacles and priority sectors.
- Check structure and mounting stability.
- Verify positions and analytics requirements.
- Record areas and periods without observation.
COM3
How COM3 can help
COM3 can assess speed dome locations for smoke monitoring projects according to the survey and analytics requirements. Scope may include visibility planning, video integration and infrastructure, validating locations and documenting limitations before deployment.
Topics in this article
Further reading and references
Technical sources consulted for the fundamentals of this content. Project recommendations are an editorial synthesis by COM3.