What You Need to Install DIY CCTV Systems

CCTV systems can help protect your family, your home or your small business. Over the past 10 years, prices for security camera and monitoring equipment have fallen so far that nearly anyone can afford at least a rudimentary setup for their home or business premises, especially if they decide to do the installation themselves. It’s even more affordable when you choose to purchase your surveillance camera equipment from an online store that specializes in high quality CCTV systems for low prices. The trick, of course, is to know what you need to install the security system you want for your home.
What Kind of System Are You Installing?
The equipment you need will be determined by your needs. Do you want a security camera on your front door so you can view visitors approaching? Do you want to keep an eye on the driveway that’s out of sight of the house? Do you want a surveillance camera in your home to keep an eye on things when you’re not there? Each of those requires different types of CCTV equipment and varying levels of skill for installation. As a basic guide, however, these are the major pieces of equipment you’ll need to buy.
Security Camera
The cameras are the heart of most CCTV systems. There are hundreds of styles and models on the market, but you can narrow the field by making a few specific choices.
Wired/Wireless
Wired cameras must be connected to the recorder for your CCTV system by a physical wire. They provide much better images with less choppiness, and are more secure than their wireless counterparts. On the other hand, they’re more difficult to install – in most cases, you’ll have to run wire through your walls, and once you’ve placed them, you’re stuck with their positions.
Indoor/Outdoor
An outdoor security camera has a special waterproof housing to protect it from the weather. You can certainly use an outdoor camera indoors, but the reverse is not a good idea.
B&W or Color
If you’ll be monitoring/recording mostly during the daylight hours, a color security camera provides better image quality and makes it easier to identify people and events. If most of your monitoring will be after dark, however, a black-and-white surveillance camera is a better choice.
Monitoring/Recording
Will you be monitoring the feed from your security camera in real time? Do you intend to record footage and store it, or will you only be concerned with real-time monitoring? You’ll need to choose a DVR or PC-based monitor to record and view footage. Each of those choices has drawbacks and benefits, including cost and convenience considerations.
DIY CCTV systems are affordable for just about anyone. Take the time to think about your needs, and find the equipment that will fill them for less online.