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How to install a CCTV camera and DVR in 6 simple steps

Planning before installing a CCTV camera

The most important aspect of installing a CCTV camera system is choosing the right spots for the camera and DVR to maximize camera coverage and minimize cable length (which in turn reduces the in-line losses that affect video quality). For indoor placement of the best home security cameras, choose a corner in the room from where most entry points into the room are visible. A power socket should also be in close proximity. For outdoors, choose a higher spot covering the door, window approaches, garages, etc. Choose the spots above 10ft so that it cannot be knocked down easily.

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Mounting the camera

mounting the cctv camera

Place the camera unit at the desired place, and make guide marks for drilling. Drill holes and hammer in the screw moldings. Now, screw the camera in place firmly. Insert the power cable of the camera in a socket.

Placing the DVR

locker for dvr unit

DVR of the CCTV is the place where the surveillance hard disk is present. Thus all your CCTV recordings reside inside a DVR. It is highly recommended to keep the DVR inside a locked compartment so that even if an intruder spots the DVR, he/she can’t destroy the recorded videos. This is a vital step to ensure a bulletproof security system for your home.

Managing the cables

wire molding for cctv

Plan the pathway for all the cables from the cameras to the DVR unit. Use wire moldings to keep the wire managed and safe. Nail the moldings along the path and put the Siamese surveillance wire inside.

Connecting the wires

Steps to connect the BNC port:

bnc connector

The video cable is connected via a BNC port. Remove about 1.5cm of the outer covering of the video cable which should now expose the braids. Slide the crimping barrel onto the cable with a wider diameter facing towards the end of the cable. Now remove the white insulator covering the innermost cable. Now insert these exposed cables into the BNC port and screw the crimping barrel. This makes a secure connection. Connect the DVR output port to the screen on which you want the video feed.

Power on the system

CCTV video feed test

Start by powering ON the cameras followed by the display and the DVR. Setup the DVR according to the user manual provided with the DVR. Go over every camera’s feed to confirm each camera is working properly and providing the desired viewing angle.