Successful CCTV Installation Tips
Steve Dale
People can often be put off from buying security camera systems because of concerns about the complexities of security camera system installation. Even though installing security camera systems can have its hassles, you can avoid most of them by the adequate planning described in this installation checklist.
What to do before buying a Security Camera System
The most important factor is that you make sure you are buying the right system for your situation. A professional survey can help you identify both your needs and potential problems.
Ensuring there is adequate power outlets
One of the most common problems with security cameras is the lack of an appropriate power source. This problem is especially common in an outdoor security camera installation. It's no very encouraging to walk outside to install your CCTV to then realize you can't plug it in.
Therefore, work out where your power outlets are first. If you know you have power source problems before hand, you can get good advice from sales reps or even security camera installers before handing over your cash. Expert advice can sometimes take you in an entirely different direction than you would have without it.
If access to a power source is a challenge to your security camera system installation, consider the following options. You can have power installed near where you plan to install your CCTV cameras. Alternately, you can run cables into an existing power outlet inside your garage. Or you can chose a CCTV camera that draws its power from a plug-in battery unit.
Security Lighting
Another problem with any outside security camera installation is lighting, or the lack of it. If you want to record an area at night, you need to ensure the area is well lit. You can do this by installing additional security lighting. Alternatively, there are many cameras with low light level capabilities, or even infrared night vision capabilities.
Climate Considerations
A sturdy, durable protective cover is essential for an outdoor security camera installation.
However, also consider the operational temperature ranges that your security camera will face throughout the seasons. Few systems can withstand extremes of 120F (48C) in very hot climates, or temperatures as low as -20F (-28C) in extremely cold ones. Make sure your camera is right for your climate before you begin your security camera system installation.
Cables or Wireless?
Another major planning factor in any CCTV camera installation is cabling. Running cables from your camera to your viewing point can be a messy and time-consuming task.
With the ever improving reliability of wireless camera systems, wiring may not be required. However, if you are planning to install wireless CCTV cameras, you still need to plan your installation beforehand.
The broad choice of wireless security camera systems will mean there will be system adequate for most installations. Every system has a limit though, and its range can be reduced by obstacles between the security camera and the control/receiver unit. The presence of walls does not eliminate the wireless option from consideration, but you will need to calculate what distances and what obstacles are in the path of the signal, otherwise you may not chose the right system.
Ultimately, installing security cameras is well within the ability of a competent do-it-yourselfer. Complications arise mainly when a buyer brings home a system that doesn't fit their situation and then struggles to make it fit. If you determine your needs ahead of time and get competent advice, your CCTV installation should be manageable, whether you do it yourself, or use professional CCTV installers.
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