How to Install a Home Security Camera

Before you can install a home security camera, you must first decide on the camera. You might ask yourself some of these questions. The wireless cameras can be moved easily and are very simple to install. How many cameras will you need to cover all the areas you want covered? Will the camera hold up during your most severe weather conditions where you live? How much lighting will the camera get? Is there a light right next to the camera or will the camera be taking pictures in a dark, shaded area?

Do you want to be able to hear what you are seeing?

If you want to hear what you are seeing, you will need to find a camera that is equipped with a microphone just for that purpose.

Do you want a color picture or a black and white picture?

With a color you will get a much clearer picture than with the black and white. However, color cameras do not work as well as black and white when the lighting is low or limited.

Do you want to record the pictures taken by the camera?

Some cameras are made for the pictures taken to be for viewing purposes only. The best use for these cameras is to watch the kids while they are playing or see the person at the front door. Some cameras are designed for use on a permanent basis and come attached to a VCR. If you decide to buy them separately make sure the two pieces of equipment are compatible and able to work together. You can set some recorders to record only when movement is detected. Also some VCRs are able to fit several hours of recording onto one videotape by the use of time lapse recording.

Would you like a wired camera or would you prefer a wireless camera?

The choices you have on this question will depend largely on the planned location for the cameras. Wired cameras are stationary and can not be easily moved. However, you may be certain that the quality of the picture will be better than a wireless camera.

On the other hand, wireless cameras can be moved easily and installation is simple, but you must keep other equipment such as cordless phones and baby monitors away from the cameras so they won’t interfere with the signal.

Is the location of the cameras outdoors or indoors?

If you will be using the cameras outdoors, they will require special waterproof covering. They may not be able to tolerate severe temperatures. Since they will be exposed, vandals will probably try to damage them. The cameras will need a tough outer casing to withstand the abuse and to prevent tampering.

Is there a light source and where?

For the images of the picture to be seen clearly, there will need to be a light source whether it comes from the sun, installed outdoor lighting, or from the camera. If you don’t have a good source for lighting, check into a camera with a low lux rating. This type of camera require less light and will still give you a clear picture. If there is no light at all you might consider an infra-red camera or even a night vision camera.

Will there be a way to get electricity to the outdoor cameras?

Some cameras plug into the wall and use electricity for power while others use a battery power. As a rule there are not an abundance of power outlet on the roofline outdoors.

Will you need to use a computer with your camera?

This will enable you to watch current time recordings from a location transmitted through the Internet. You must get software to go with the camera for this type of endeavor.

How many cameras do you think you will need?

You will have to check with your monitoring system for your home security system. Some of the systems can only accommodate two or three cameras. You will have to buy a larger system to accommodate more cameras and still leave you room to add more in the future.

Installing your home security camera.

Installing a home security camera will differ with each make and model of camera. A large portion of the home security cameras require very little wiring. Usually the basic steps are the same.

Choose the area you want monitored. Check with the instructions that come with the camera as to the number of yards or feet the camera should to be place. Each camera is different when it comes to the number of yards or feet away from the target to be monitored.

If you will be mounting the camera on a wall, you will want to hold the brace as flat to the wall as the wall will allow and mark the spots where the screws will go.

You may have to drill holes for the screw depending on the material of the wall. Then mount the camera to the wall and tighten the screws to hold the camera in place.

With a wired system, you will have to consult with the instructions to attach the camera to the monitor. Cover the wiring the best you can so as to not leave any exposed.

Connect the monitor to the wall socket. After turning on the monitor, adjust the screen to receive the best signal. Now you are set to go!

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