Assessing your options for new interview recording equipment can be overwhelming—especially when understanding technology isn’t your strong suit. But you can work with a trusted partner to find your agency’s best fit. Knowing the difference between the required features and useful bonuses will help you make the right decision.
Your Starter Checklist for Recording Equipment
Equipment for designated interview rooms in a police department or child advocacy center is often be similar to recording equipment that you can take on-the-go. Ideally, you will want to find a system that includes all of the following tech features for your recording equipment. The first two items are essentials, but all can be extremely beneficial for your users:
- Non-Proprietary CODECS
- Video Date/Time Overlay Watermarking
- Remote Start/Stop (for onsite solutions)
- Chain of Evidence/Audit Trail Report
- Interdepartmental Security
Both onsite and mobile systems rely on non-proprietary CODECS. This is the program that will encode and decode your audio-video data so it can be shared and stored. Think of non-proprietary CODECS as the first requirement on your recording equipment checklist.
Another required element for both system types is watermarking. Your recordings need to have a video date and time overlay as part of their security features. This makes your edits clear, so nothing is lost in your redactions. You simply can’t use any audio video recording system without the appropriate overlay watermarking.
These last two items may not be offered with every provider, so it helps to weigh your options. You need to ensure that your evidence is court-admissible and secure. A robust chain of evidence or audit trail report will help.
A solution that comes with interdepartmental security is also preferable. This ensures that you won’t have any problems sharing recordings from your agency with other necessary parties on the case. Finding a system that minimizes your risk of lost interviews and offers redundant recording will be key.
Interview Recording for Different Locations
While some checklist items are identical for both mobile and onsite recording equipment, there are also distinguishing features for each setup. Mobile systems allow you to take your recording equipment anywhere. Consequently, you’ll want to go with a user-friendly solution for easy adoption in the field. An intuitive tablet that has a new/next-generation interface design will be an invaluable tool for your team.
Recording systems for interview rooms also rely on top-tier audio video equipment. In order for these in-place solutions to function well, you’ll want to work with hardware that delivers high resolution recordings with IP cameras. This will help give your evidence the necessary clarity for viewing body language and other subtle cues in court.
Of course, there are additional features for each of these processes, as well. Including other elements for the tech and use functions will give you the best solution possible. To review the full checklist for onsite solutions, mobile systems, and the interview room setup itself, be sure to download our equipment guidebook. We go into more detail for each of the interview recording needs so you can better understand your options going forward.
Find Your Best System with iRecord
Because there are distinguishing features for each setup, it’s always helpful to have a dialogue with an interview recording equipment expert. That way, you can analyze your needs and make sure that you’re moving forward with the gear that’s best for your team.
At iRecord, our mission is to serve the public safety professionals who work each day to protect our communities. We provide exceptional systems that let you record, save, and make redactions for your important interview evidence. Let us show you how an iRecord solution can meet your needs—and more. Visit our contact page to schedule a preliminary consultation. We’d be honored to hear from you.