Security Surveillance Camera Installation
There are many factors to consider when installing a security surveillance system. This guide will provide an overview of the basic components of a CCTV system, types of security cameras, and important considerations for installation.
Basic Components of a CCTV System
A typical CCTV system consists of four main components: cameras, recording devices, monitors, and
cabling. Cameras can be either analog or digital. There are upsides and downsides to each.
Analog cameras are typically less expensive than digital cameras, but they produce lower-quality images.
Digital cameras, on the other hand, produce higher-quality images but are more expensive.
The recording device is used to store the images captured by the camera. There are two main types of recording devices: DVRs and NVRs. DVRs are digital video recorders that use a hard drive to store images. NVRs are network video recorders that store images on a server.
The monitor is used to view the images captured by the camera. Monitors can be either CRT or LCD. CRT monitors are older than and not as common as LCD monitors. LCD monitors are thinner, consume less power, and produce less heat than CRT monitors.
Cabling is used to connect the cameras to the recording device and the recording device to the monitor.
There are two main types of cabling: coaxial cable and Ethernet cable. Coaxial cable is typically used for
analog cameras, while Ethernet cable is used for digital cameras.
Types of Security Cameras
There are four main types of security cameras: bullet, dome, covert, and PTZ.
- Bullet cameras are so named for their cylindrical shape and are usually used for outdoor security applications.
- Dome cameras get their name from their dome-shaped housing and are typically used for indoor security applications.
- Covert cameras are hidden cameras that can be disguised as everyday objects.
- PTZ cameras are pan-tilt-zoom cameras that can be remotely controlled to pan, tilt, and zoom in on a particular area.
Commercial Security Cameras
Commercial security cameras are designed for use in businesses and other commercial settings. These cameras typically have higher-quality components than consumer-grade security cameras and can be used to keep your premises safe by monitoring inventory, detecting shoplifting, and deterring vandalism.
Cabling and Wiring for CCTV Camera Installation
The type of cabling and wiring used for CCTV camera installation depends on your camera type.
Analog cameras typically use coaxial cable, while digital cameras typically use Ethernet cable. IP cameras are designed to use either coaxial cable or Ethernet cable.
IP Camera Installation Cabling
IP cameras are network cameras that can be accessed over the Internet. These cameras typically use
Ethernet cables for connectivity. However, some IP cameras also support Power over Ethernet (PoE), which allows them to be powered by the same Ethernet cable that is used for data connectivity.
Network Video Recorder (NVR)
A network video recorder (NVR) is a type of digital video recorder that stores images on a server. NVRs are typically used in commercial and industrial settings. They offer several advantages over DVRs, including; scalability and increased security, as well as allowing you to remotely access recorded footage.
Hard drives
Hard drives are used to store recorded footage from CCTV systems. There are two main types of hard drives: internal and external. Internal hard drives are installed inside the recording device, while external hard drives are connected to the recording device via USB or eSATA. External hard drives are typically used for backup.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is a type of storage that allows users to save and access data over the Internet. Cloud storage is typically used for backup. However, some CCTV systems allow users to view recorded footage from any Internet-connected device.
Indoor or Outdoor Security Cameras
Security cameras can be either indoors or outdoors. Indoor cameras are typically small and discreet, while outdoor cameras are larger and more conspicuous. Outdoor cameras are typically used in commercial and industrial settings, while indoor cameras are typically used in residential settings.
Camera Angle and Positioning
You need to pay attention to the angle and positioning of your camera for two reasons: to get the best possible image quality and to avoid blind spots.
Always ensure that you adjust the camera angle so that it is pointed directly at the area that you want to monitor. The position of a camera should be high enough to avoid being obstructed by objects, such as walls or furniture.
Business Security Cameras Cabling
Business security cameras often use Ethernet cables for connectivity. However, some business security cameras also support Power over Ethernet (PoE), which allows them to be powered by the same Ethernet cable that is used for data connectivity.
Should I Do Home Installation or Hire a Professional?
Hiring a professional for installation is always the best option to ensure everything is done correctly. However, if you are confident in your abilities, home installation can work too. Home installation will save you some money compared to professional installation, but it does come with some risks.
For example, if you are not familiar with electrical wiring, you could easily damage your camera or your home’s electrical system. In addition, home installation typically takes longer than professional installation.
CCTV Camera Installation Tips
When installing a CCTV system, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Make sure that the cameras are positioned to have a clear view of the area you want to monitor.
2. Avoid placing cameras in locations where they could be easily obstructed by objects, such as walls or furniture.
3. Make sure that the cameras are positioned high enough to avoid being tampered with.
4. If you are using IP cameras, make sure that the camera’s Ethernet cable is connected to a network router or switch.
5. If you are using an NVR, make sure that the NVR is connected to a power outlet and that the hard drive(s) is properly installed.
6. Make sure that the recording device is properly configured.
7. If you are using cloud storage, make sure that the CCTV system is properly connected to the Internet.
8. Test the CCTV system to make sure that it is working properly.
In a nutshell,
A CCTV system is a great way to improve the security of your home or business. When installing a CCTV system, be sure to keep in mind things such as the positioning of the cameras and the type of recording device. It is always best to find a professional CCTV installer to do the job to ensure everything is done correctly.