Calculator inputs
Example scenarios
| Scenario | Site size | Objective | Camera setup | Suggested count |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warehouse interior | 150 x 80 ft | Observe | 4K, ~60 deg HFOV, 50 ft target | ~ 6 cameras |
| Parking lot | 250 x 180 ft | Detect | 4K, ~90 deg HFOV, 75 ft target | ~ 8 cameras |
| Narrow corridor | 120 x 30 ft | Identify | 4K, ~60 deg HFOV, 30 ft target | ~ 7 cameras |
| Open yard | 300 x 220 ft | Observe | 4K, ~60 deg HFOV, 80 ft target | ~ 17 cameras |
These are illustrative starting points. Always verify with drawings and a field walk.
Formula used
This calculator estimates the number of fixed cameras needed to cover a rectangular site using a simple coverage model. It combines field-of-view geometry with a pixel density check at the selected target distance.
This approach is best for early-stage planning. Complex sites may require multiple orientations, higher mounting points, and dedicated cameras for gates, entries, and critical assets.
How to use this calculator
- Measure the area you need to monitor (length and width).
- Pick an objective based on risk and evidence needs.
- Choose a camera setup (resolution and angle) for distance.
- Set the target distance where the objective must hold.
- Add overlap to reduce seams and enable handoffs.
- Apply factors for obstructions and redundancy if needed.
- Export CSV/PDF to document assumptions for stakeholders.
Coverage planning for construction sites
Construction environments change weekly, so camera counts should be based on measurable coverage at a defined target distance. This calculator uses site dimensions, horizontal field of view, and planned overlap to estimate how many fixed viewpoints are needed for continuous monitoring of work zones, storage areas, and access points.
Pixel density targets and usable evidence
The objective selection translates to a minimum pixel density requirement at the target distance. Higher density supports clearer identification of faces, badges, or vehicle plates, while lower density can still support general detection. The report shows achieved versus required density so you can adjust lens angle, resolution, or distance before procurement.
Distance, lens angle, and resolution tradeoffs
Wide angles increase scene width but reduce detail. Narrower angles tighten coverage and improve density, often reducing the number of cameras required for critical choke points. Resolution raises horizontal pixel count, increasing density at the same angle. Use the HFOV control and resolution selector together to balance cost, bandwidth, and evidence quality.
Overlap, obstructions, and redundancy allowances
Overlap reduces blind seams between adjacent views and improves continuity during movement. Busy sites also introduce temporary obstructions such as cranes, parked equipment, and scaffolding. The obstructions factor increases the base count to reflect these realities. Redundancy adds margin for outages, relocations, and changes during phased construction.
Using results for layout and stakeholder alignment
Treat the recommended count as a planning baseline. Validate it against drawings by marking gate lines, pedestrian routes, and high-value storage. Add dedicated cameras for entrances, muster points, and hazardous material areas when needed. Export the CSV or PDF to capture assumptions, support bidding, and keep handover documentation consistent across teams.
FAQs
1) What does “target distance” mean?
Target distance is the farthest point where the chosen objective must still be met. If you need identification at a gate, use the gate-to-camera distance, not the site’s longest dimension.
2) Why does overlap change camera count?
Overlap reserves part of each view so adjacent cameras share coverage. This reduces blind seams and supports continuity, but it also lowers unique coverage per camera, increasing the required count.
3) How do I improve pixel density if it is low?
Reduce the target distance, select a narrower HFOV, or choose higher resolution. These changes increase pixels on target, improving detail for recognition or identification goals.
4) Is this a full design for complex sites?
No. It is an estimating tool for early planning. Complex sites may require multiple orientations, mixed lens types, elevation changes, and dedicated cameras for entrances, gates, and critical assets.
5) Should mounting height affect the calculation?
Height mainly affects angle-of-view and occlusion in real layouts. This calculator records mounting height for reporting, but you should verify real placement with elevations and a site walk.
6) What do CSV and PDF exports include?
Exports capture inputs, computed results, and example scenarios to document planning assumptions. Use them for reviews, budget discussions, and handover packages so stakeholders can compare revisions over time.