Installing A Home Security Camera

More and more people are choosing CCTV as a means of additional home security nowadays. But professional security camera installation can be quite a costly procedure and so one option is to install the camera and systems yourself.

The first thing to consider when installing an outdoor security camera is where it is going to be located, and what it is going to watching. There are various issues regarding privacy and the Data Protection Act when it comes to home security cameras, but a rule of thumb is as long as you are not watching another person’s property and invading privacy, you should be OK (however we would always suggest getting legal advice before installing a CCTV camera). As the camera is also an important deterrent to would-be intruders, making sure it is not hidden from view is a good idea.

The most important areas at the front of a property are typically the driveway and the front doorway, though if your camera is automated and can be moved then you could focus on the driveway at night when your car is parked there, and on the door during the day when you are at work (assuming you take your car with you).

A second camera at the rear of the property will normally be focussed on the back door, but keeping an eye any shed or outhouse might be advisable as well.

Regardless take into account blind spots and before settling on a location to site a security camera, see what kind of coverage you get from test locations. Ensure cameras are placed out of reach to prevent vandalism, but make sure they aren’t too high as to miss details or to provide blind spots.

Also take into account if you are going to be using a wireless camera or if you will need to run wires through wall or window frames. Wireless security cameras are the less hassle but are a bit more expensive, but there are some very reasonably priced models available. If you are going to be powering your camera from inside your home, ensure you have enough cable to reach into your home and connect to the power source.

Along with any power cables, there is the issue of video cables as well. Once again wireless cameras receive a feed from the camera without the need for wires, whereas you will need to run the video cables for a wired camera to the recording/viewing source, so ensure that is taken into account. That includes wire length requirements, holes that need to be drilled for them and filling any gaps around the holes for the wires with caulking or fillers.

The only other point to consider is weather proofing. Many CCTV cameras (especially those designed for outdoor use) are weatherproof as standard, but some are not and many people will adapt an indoor camera for outdoor use. If this is the case you will need a weatherproof enclosure for your camera as well.

Once all of this is decided, you will need to mouth the camera (run wires first, it makes life a lot easier) using some sturdy, hardwearing and heavy duty bolts, ensure no naked wires are susceptible to the elements and any enclosures for the camera are weatherproofed. Test all connections and ensure you are receiving a signal and if all is well you have yourself a working security camera to protect your home and deter intruders.

Always remember to get advice before fitting any kind of CCTV security system from local authorities or the police, as well as from professional security system installers where possible.