Connecting home CCTV surveillance cameras

There are several ways to connect home CCTV surveillance cameras to the rest of your system.

The most common is standard coaxial cable, the same cable used to connect video equipment in your home. Some installers use unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables, like the CAT5 cable used in computer networks, because they can reduce interference caused by electrical currents. A simple switching device called a balun can be used to connect coaxial lines to UTP, so you can combine both in a single system. UTP is cheaper than coaxial cable, so for very large homes, this may be an advantage.

Wireless

In most cases, wireless connections are not recommended for home video surveillance systems. While wireless technology has taken off in recent years, it simply has not reached the level of reliability that home CCTV users demand.

The frequencies they use are subject to interference from cordless telephones, air-conditioners, baby monitors, and almost anything with an electric motor. Users will have to expect snowy pictures, particularly in apartments and condos. In addition, CCTV surveillance cameras need electrical power – so you’ll have to run one wire to the camera even if the video connection is wireless.

There are situations where wireless is the way to go: connecting across a public street, for example, where digging a trench is not a practical solution. Wireless systems are also better suited for rural areas, where there are fewer potential sources of interference. In these cases, wireless transmitters can make expensive or potentially impossible installations feasible.

Installation of a wireless system requires specific expertise to diagnose problems and to fine-tune the setup, so make sure your CCTV surveillance camera vendor is experienced with wireless setups if you choose to go this route.

Compatibility with home security systems

If you already have a monitored home security system, make sure that any home surveillance cameras you purchase will be compatible. Certain home security manufacturers have proprietary systems that only work with their cameras.

Before you meet with CCTV vendors, let them know who your home security provider is so they can set you up with the appropriate equipment. You can also contact your home security provider on your own to see if it offers home surveillance equipment – you may qualify for a discount as an existing customer.