Installing CCTV cameras with seven single steps

While some may prefer to contact professional installers, there are people who prefer to secure their homes and offices themselves. We have compiled this guide on installing CCTV cameras for everyone who isn’t quite sure on where to begin.

6 steps to installing a CCTV system:

Planning is vital for your CCTV installations. Create a security checklist and evaluate your current level of security as a first step. The process’s goal is to locate weak spots in your defences and vital entry points into the premises. Consider this data when deciding on the size and features of a security system.

The wiring required for a wired security camera system is typically included in the package. Nonetheless, the type of security system you set up may be affected by the required length of cabling. Standard DVR setups require the use of coaxial cables, which can cause image degradation at distances greater than 90 metres.

1. Decide on the location and prepare the installation

Cameras should be aimed to capture the necessary area of view without focusing on bright areas like windows, doors, or lights. Although adequate lighting is necessary, too much light might diminish image quality. For this reason, the placement of your cameras and DVR is of paramount importance when setting up a CCTV system. It helps to maximise your camera coverage while also reducing cable length.

When deciding where to install your home or business security cameras indoors, look for a spot from where you can see all potential entrance points. There also needs to be access to electricity not far away. Pick locations that are high enough that the cameras won’t be readily knocked down.

Get the camera in position, then mark your drilling spots with a reference point. Make pilot holes and tap in the screw mouldings. Make sure the camera is securely fastened in place. Plug the camera’s power cord into an outlet.

2. Run the cables to the camera sites

After you’ve drilled the necessary holes for the cameras, you can start running the cables to them. To get cables where they need to go, you will have to make holes in the walls or ceiling. Connectors for Ethernet cables are not always pre-installed, so you may need to crimp some on yourself.

3. Connect the cables to the DVR

Establish a strategy for the routing of cables connecting the cameras to the DVR. A pre-terminated cable should be connected from each camera’s location to the DVR’s control point. It is recommended that the male power plug be situated on the side of the camera. Power outlets are typically found on the side of control panels. Each camera’s black BNC cable plug should be connected to the DVR’s corresponding video input socket.

Whether or not you choose to use a wall mount for the DVR box is up to you. Like wall outlets and surge protectors, most will have mounting holes on the back. It can also be placed on a flat surface like a desk or table.

4. Mount and install the cameras

First, attach the camera to the end of the cable that emerged from the opening. Then, shove the surplus back into the opening. Get out your power drill and attach the camera to your building using the included screws. After the camera has been installed, the adjustment screws can be loosened to make quick, rough adjustments, and then tightened again once the fine tuning is complete.

5. Switch on the power

Connecting the cables to the DVR can begin once you have successfully routed the other end of the cables throughout your home or business. Connect the external monitor, keyboard, and mouse to the DVR box, with each cable going into its corresponding port. An external USB drive can be kept permanently connected in case you ever need to transfer footage to it. Important information to keep in mind is that the DVR and the cameras share a common power source. Connect the DVR, monitor, and camera to the mains electricity.

6. Set-up the DVR

The completion of this step concludes the CCTV installation process. To finish setting up your DVR, refer to the manual for further instructions. In some cases, the manual will instruct you to install the hard disc before you can use it, while in others, the hard drive will already be installed and you may get started right away.