Checklist for a Successful Security Camera System Installation
The biggest drawback stopping many people from buying CCTV cameras is concerns about the actual security camera installation. Installing CCTV cameras can have its problems, but these can be avoided with some good planning.
What to do before buying a CCTV System
Ensure you are buying the right security system for your property. If you are unsure then a paid professional can do a survey and advise you of the best suited equipment and solve any potential problems you may have.
Check your Power Source
The most common problem is the lack of access to a power source. This problem is especially common in an outdoor CCTV installation. It’s discouraging to step outside with your security camera in hand only to discover that there’s nowhere to plug it in.
If you know of any potential power source problems before installation, get some good advice from a security system installer or a sales representative. Their expert advice may open up different options that you didn’t think of.
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.
Choosing the correct lighting options
Another problem with an outdoor CCTV installation is lighting. If you want to monitor an area at night, you need to make sure the area has enough light for the camera. You can do this by adding extra lighting, or you can choose a camera with low lux ratings or even infrared capability, depending on how low the light level.
Weather factors
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.
What about Wireless Security Cameras?
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 range of a wireless system is adequate for most installations. It is finite, though, and its range can be reduced by obstacles between the camera and the receiver. The presence of walls or other obstacles need not eliminate wireless from consideration for your CCTV installation. You need to know ahead of time, though, what distances and what obstacles in the path of the signal you will have to deal with so you choose the right system.
Finally, installing security cameras is well within the ability of a competent do-it-yourself enthusiast. Complications arise mainly when a buyer brings home a system that doesn’t fit their situation and then can’t get an adequate picture. If you take an hour to plan your needs ahead of buying and try and get some quality advice, your security camera system installation should be straight-forward.
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