Quick Guide for Getting DIY Security Cams up and Running
Security cameras come with all form of specifications. They differ in types; your unit may be made of dome shaped cameras or bullet shaped, made for indoor or outdoor, they could be wired or wireless camera systems. others may be a single unit or multiple channels with up to 16 cameras. Others may be designed to be easily installed by every Thomas, others call for professionals to get it in place.
Installing a security camera does differ depending on the form and specification of your unit. Usually most producers add a detailed instruction manual that tries to lead users on the easiest way to have their security unit running, others might not be so detailed. There are a few things all security cameras have with respect to installation and this article focuses on them with regards to installing security cameras.
Camera installation comes in two forms as mentioned above
- DIY (DO IT YOURSELF) installation
- Professional installation
DIY installation
Security companies like Nest pride themselves in making DIY install-able security cameras. These types of cameras are usually wireless Wi-Fi enabled camera units. They do not require lots of wiring and wall drilling and all the extremely intense engineering work as you could simply plug and play.
You do not need much tools for the DIY mode but you will require a screw driver to screw the cameras in place in your desired location. If you don’t know where to install your camera. Check out our post on where to install your security camera.
In your choice for DIY Units, be sure to install your security camera away from a light source glare so it doesn’t affect the field of vision. If you still can’t set it up, you could call in the professionals to do it for you.
Here is a in depth video for more help:
Professional installation
This option is reserved for wired security cameras. Large security camera system like those produced by Uniden and Hikvision requires professional installation. You would require a NVR or a DVR with dedicated storage to save your video feeds, this usually comes with your camera units. Depending on the location you have opted to install your cameras, you would require lots of cable to link them to the central monitoring unit. Other requirement for this method of installations include:
- A power source to power up your camera
- Screws (different sizes to hold the cameras in place)
- A power adapter (which should come with your camera units)
- A screw driver (your installer would have this tool)
- A measuring tape (to measure the cameras distance from the central monitoring station and also the wires.)
- Concealers for your wiring (a handyman or a carpenter can get this done)
- A power supply box especially if you have multiple cameras and a few wall socket.
- Siamese cables
Despite the name professional installation, if you like trying your hands out, you can also successful get these systems installed within a few hours and save some money. An instructional manual usually come with the box or you could inquire for an installer at your point of purchase. Chances are they are installation videos available on the website of the manufacturers or YouTube. There are tool kits available for purchase if you intend to try it out yourself, you can always call the customer service if you run into any difficulty.
Conclusion
While it’s good to try installing complex systems yourself, know your limit and call a professional installer if you cannot get it done. We do advice buying all cameras as a unit than purchasing separately as it save cause and prevent compatibility issues. Get started.
