DIY Security Systems
The method of installing a security camera actually depends on what type of camera you have. Whether you want to have surveillance inside or outside of your home, the basics are the same. If you have decided to invest in a wired security camera instead of having a Wi-Fi security camera, the setup or process can be a bit complicated. Still, you will end up with a better security camera system in the end. Read on to learn how to wire security cameras like a pro.
What You’ll Need
Before we dig deeper on how to wire security cameras, you will need to prepare the following tools for installing a wired security camera:
- Ethernet cable
- A power drill with spade bits and drive bits (or any regular drill bits as well)
- Steel fish tape
- A Masking tape (or any tape for that matter)
- A friend or family to help out (seriously, this one is highly recommended)
As you go through the installation process of how to wire security cameras, you might decide to utilize other tools to make things a bit easier, depending on your particular situation. Still, the things listed above are the basics that you will need.
Installing the Security Camera Wiring
If you opt for a CCTV camera, the installation process of how to wire security cameras is a bit more complicated than having a wireless one. CCTV cameras use what we call a Power over Ethernet (PoE) cable to connect to a network video recorder (NVR), so this means that you will have to thread the cable from the camera to where your receiver is. If your receiver is in your basement and your CCTV camera is at your front door, the installation might get involved. Most likely, you will have to thread the cable through your basement.
Installing a CCTV camera is similar to installing IP cameras, but you will need a few more tools: a spade bit, fish tape, and, most likely, a little bit of help from a friend or family.
Tips on How to Set Up a Security Camera with a PoE Cable
These are the tips on how to wire security cameras like a pro.
- Figure out the spot where you will place the camera. Installing wired security cameras is not just about picking any spot and mounting them. You have to consider what makes the most sense as far as installation (and if it’s even feasible to install a security camera where you want it) is concerned.
- Use a pencil to mark the outline of your camera – where screws will go, and the center where your camera will be installed. Some security cameras come with a drill template so you can have an idea of where to drill.
- Use the spade bit to generate a bigger hole so you can feed your PoE cable through. If a spade bit is not available, you can utilize a larger drill bit on hand.
- Run the cabling within your walls. You will have to feed the PoE wire through your ceiling walls or your basement and thread it into the room where your receiver is. The fish tape is useful here since it’s flexible enough to penetrate deep, tight spaces. Depending on the structure of your home, you might also need to have extender cables.
- Install your camera. Once you’ve finished running the cables, connect the ethernet cable to your security camera, mount it, and attach the other side of the cable to your NVR. And you’re done!
How to Hide Camera Wiring Outside your House
If you’re not a fan of drilling a bunch of holes in your house, you can hide these wires by using cable raceways and other tools to make your camera’s wires less visible.
Cord covers
Cord covers make your security camera’s wiring more discreet. If you’re running your wires along with the siding of your house, you can add these budget-friendly covers, also known as cable raceways. Most of these covers come in white, but you can paint over them to match the color of the surface they’re on.
Soffit
The soffit is what covers the underside of your roof and shields your eaves and attic spaces from harsh weather. You can also hide your security camera’s cable along the edging of the soffit.
Wire-free cameras
You can also opt for entirely wireless security cameras that run on batteries. These cameras have almost the same features as wireless IP cameras, like night vision and two-way audio. Just make sure to change the batteries as needed.
Conclusion
Installing a wired security camera may seem to have additional work compared to a wireless one where you simply pick a spot and mount them. The process of how to wire security cameras may be a little complex, but once installed, this is the best way to keep an eye on your home and family, and any unwanted guests. Still, you will have better security with your wired camera. Find out more about Security Cameras.