How to Install an Outside Security Camera System
The type of security camera can affect how you
install in both inside and outside of your home. Some cameras send images to
a television, so that you can monitor your home or office easily from a safe
location. Others send the data straight to a tape or a computer, allowing it
to record in case it is necessary for later use. Other cameras are able to
do both, providing you with both a real-time image as well as a recording
for later viewing. These different types of receivers may require their own
unique form of installation, so it is important that you follow any specific
instructions that come with the camera and system.
Installing an Outdoor Camera
Outdoor security cameras tend to be the most
difficult to install. Even if the camera has protection, it should be in a
location that will reduce damage from the elements while still capturing the
images that you want it to capture.
·
Choose a Camera That Fits Your Location
Most likely when you are installing an outdoor
camera you will want it to work well at night. Most likely you will use a
bullet camera equipped for outdoor use, however you will need to decide
between an infrared camera and a day/night camera depending on the amount of
light there is at night. If you have a street light, the moonlight is
bright, or anything else that allows for nighttime lighting – even low level
– you may want to opt for the day/night camera which tends to receive better
image quality. If it is pitch black outside at night, an infrared camera may
be more beneficial.
·
Screw the Mount to an Awning or Side of
the Building
Choose someplace sturdy and use the mounts that
come with bullet cameras to install it either underneath an awning or on the
wall of your house. You want to make sure that wherever you decide to hook
it up, the backing will not break off over time. Though many cameras are
able to be moved a full 360 degrees, for safety it is best to make sure that
the camera is at least vaguely pointing its ultimate direction when you
screw it in.
·
Connect the Receiver
Some cameras are wireless. When this is the case
you will simply need to plug in the device (there is no such thing as a 100%
wireless camera) and hook the receiver up to the computer or television that
you plan to use to monitor the images. If your camera is not wireless,
connect the cable and tape it along the side of your house towards the
indoors so that it will be unlikely to trip anyone, until you reach the
receiver you need to connect it to.
·
Check the Feed
Your next step is to make sure that you are not
only receiving the feed, but that the camera is fixed on the area that you
would like to record. Take your time to make sure that the camera is
pointing the right way, and that you are getting the maximum amount of
viewability/information from the security camera.
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