Nowadays, more and more individuals and professionals prefer advanced technology systems in their daily lives. Many people rely on video surveillance systems for home protection. These devices have many advantages, as they deter criminals, provide evidence of the existence of a crime, and allow you to benefit from a discount on your insurance premium. If you are convinced of the importance of video surveillance, then invest and install it. In this article, you’ll find the tips and steps you need to take to get started.

Choose the video surveillance system that best suits your needs and budget.

There are many different types of video surveillance systems on the market, but choose the one that suits you best.

• • Analog video surveillance is the most common system, as it is the least expensive and easiest to install. It can have up to 20 cameras that capture images. An analog signal transmits these images to a storage device. They can be recorded and consulted in real-time on mobile devices (tablets, PC, etc.).

• • Wired video surveillance includes cameras that capture images and specific software that ensures its operation. The transmission of images is ensured by a computer network.

• • Video surveillance by wireline connection (IP) is composed of webcams or IP cameras connected to a computer network. The images are transmitted through an Ethernet cable, and their viewing can be done immediately or later. Be aware that the cost of webcams is more attractive than that of IP cameras.

• • Wireless video surveillance (Wi-Fi) is the most advanced, the most powerful, and the most expensive. It is equipped with cameras that are linked to a receiver. The latter is responsible for transmitting images to the recording device through radio waves.

Choose the location of your surveillance cameras.

It is essential to place surveillance cameras in strategic locations. Their number depends on the size of your home.

Inside, it is better to install a camera at the level of your front door, another in the corner of the living room to give an overview of the room, and another in the corridor to view the access to the rooms.

Outside, first, you can install a camera on the front of your house, high up but well protected from the weather, which allows you to monitor all traffic between your gate or wicket and your front door. Then, you can place another one on your terrace, which will be pointed towards an access point in your property. Finally, add another on one side of your walls to monitor specific areas such as your garage, garden, or pool.

Install your video surveillance equipment the right way

On the one hand, if you opt for a custom-made video surveillance system, leave the installation to a security professional. On the other hand, if you choose a ready-to-assemble or kit video surveillance system, you can install it yourself. To do this, follow the steps below:

• • Assemble all the components (security cameras, video recorder, power adapters, mounting brackets, and various accessories) of your video surveillance as well as the necessary equipment (screwdriver, electric drill, etc.) and check their proper functioning.

• • Attach your surveillance cameras to their location. For reliable and long-lasting fixing, put in fixing plugs. Then, place the mounting brackets and screw them to the wall with the electric drill. Next, attach your cameras to the brackets and adjust the angles. Choose an angle that offers the best view. However, place them near a wall socket to avoid using an extension cable for their power.

• • Connect the cameras to the recorder. To do this, connect each end of the adapter to the cameras’ power supply and to the wall socket. Then connect each end of the video cable to the output port of the cameras and the video input port.

• • Finally, test the operation of your video surveillance on the monitor or any other screen (smartphone, television, computer, etc.).

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