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When it comes to protecting your home and family, a home security camera system is one of the best ways to improve security. Fancy a home security system but put off by the price tag? Such systems empower homeowners to monitor their properties remotely and in real time, and have peace of mind that they can scare off would-be intruders at the push of a button.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know abount DIY home security camera systems. This article covers everything you need to know about video surveillance systems so that you can make an informed decision on how best to protect your home with a DIY camera system, from how they work and what they consist of to just how to install your own!
. Most newer DIY systems use an NVR because they were made to work with IP (Internet Protocol) cameras connected via Wi-Fi. Some DIY systems provide cloud storage, which means you never need a physical recorder, with your footage stored online. Rain hammers the white blocks, while cloud storage could be free, but also have upper limits on what you can store without extra costs.
Why Use a DIY Home Security Camera System?
There are a few reasons why many home owners are choosing DIY home security camera systems rather than live installations. Some of them are the major perks:Affordability
Professional security camera solutions can be expensive, with installation fees and monthly monitoring costs. DIY security camera systems are much more affordable for that reason. Although performing the latter may take a considerable investment from your side in terms of equipment, it can save you on installation as well as monthly charges associated with professional monitoring plans.Easy Installation
Ease of installation is a significant draw for DIY systems. These cameras usually feature user-friendly quick setup with little to no technical know how needed. Most DIY camera system include clear instructions and easy-to-use apps that help you through the installation process, step by step. Unlike more traditional systems that rely on a technician to install the cameras and run wires to them, DIY systems typically work wirelessly and often require only that you mount the cameras with adhesive pads or brackets.Customization and Flexibility
A DIY security camera system allows you to build a kit to fit your needs, rather than throwing equipment at a system that may exceed your expectations and is too hard to manage. You can choose the cameras that work for your needs, from indoor or outdoor cameras, high-definition video, two-way audio and motion detection. Many DIY systems also support scalable expansion, enabling you to add extra cameras or accessories in the future if your security needs evolve.Remote Monitoring
Most DIY home security camera systems have cloud storage and mobile apps, so you can look in on your property from afar. Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or just out for a stroll, you can view live feed or recorded footage from your mobile or computer with ease. Get notified with real-time alerts and push notifications from the Home camera whenever an unusual movement is detected in or at your home.Control and Convenience
You have total control of your security settings with a DIY home security camera system. You can also change its angle, recording schedule and even turn the system off when you don’t need it. Most DIY systems include user-friendly apps or web portals to manage your cameras and settings, putting control at your fingertips.Important Components of a DIY Home Security Camera System
Choosing a DIY home security camera system is a multi-part decision, and it helps to know the basics of what each part is. A standard system has multiple devices that perform different functions to protect your home.Security Cameras
The cameras themselves, of course, are the most important part of any home security camera system. In general, there are a few categories of cameras, each meant for a specific need:- Indoor Cameras: These cameras are suitable for indoor monitoring, like hallways, living rooms or nurseries. They tend to be small and more designed to match the decor of your home.
- Outdoor Cameras: As the name suggests, outdoor cameras are designed to be used in the elements and are often weatherproof. These cameras are usually mounted at entrances, as well as driveways or exterior walls of the home for recording footage of anyone approaching your property.
- Wire-Free vs. Wired Cameras: Most DIY security camera systems come with wire-free or wireless cameras, which adds convenience because you won’t have to run cables through your walls or ceilings. Nonetheless, wired cameras may be preferred for reliability with constant power and internet connection.
- Battery-Powered vs. Plug-In Cameras: Battery-powered cameras offer flexibility in where you install them since you won’t need to have a nearby power source. But they do need regular battery replacement or the occasional recharge. Cameras that plug in are always powered (but may have to be positioned near an outlet).
- Pan-and-Tilt Cameras: These cameras have motorized movement, enabling you to adjust the viewing angle remotely for a wider coverage area. They can be particularly helpful for keeping an eye on open areas or monitoring activity around your property.
Base Station or Hub
This is the main unit that links all your system's components together. This device typically connects to your home’s Wi-Fi network and talks with your cameras and sensors. It receives signals from the cameras and sends notifications to your phone or other devices.Motion Sensors
Security cameras do a good job of recording video footage, but motion sensors can alert the user of movement in parts of the house that may not have complete camera coverage. These sensors send notifications when they detect movement, making sure you know about any unusual behavior before it’s even captured on video by the cameras.NVR or DVR
A Network Video Recorder (NVR) or //Digital Video Recorder (DVR is used to record video footage as it comes in from your camerasMobile Application or Internet Portal
A smartphone app or web platform to monitor your DIY security system. These apps let you watch live video, check recorded video clips, configure camera settings and get alerts. Many DIY systems also let you connect the cameras with other smart home devices like doorbell cameras, smart locks and security alarms.Installing a DIY Home Security Camera System
Even for beginners, installing a DIY home security camera system is often easier than you would think. Here’s a how-to guide to get you started:Plan Your Security Setup
The first step before entering the world of CCTV is to assess your home and understand where you need the surveillance. Consider potential points of entry, like doors, windows and the driveway. Make sure that you know how many cameras you’ll need and where the placement should be for maximum coverage. If your system has motion sensors, position them in high-traffic space or along walkways.Mount the Cameras
After you’ve decided on a spot for each of your cameras, it’s time to set them up! DIY cameras are usually provided with adhesive mounting pads or screws for installation. For wire-free cameras, you just mount the camera to any surface. With wired cameras, you might need to drill holes or use existing conduits for cables. Position the cameras at the proper height and angle to achieve the best field of view.Pioneer Base Station or Hub
The base station or hub is the central hub for all of your cameras. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect it to your home’s Wi-Fi network. Connect the NVR or DVR (if applicable) to the hub and make sure it has power and storage available.Power the Cameras
If you have wired cameras, plug them in to a power outlet. For battery-powered or wire-free cameras, install the required batteries or plug the cameras into a power source. Make sure you have power to the cameras to keep them operational.Set Up the Smartphone App
Install the app from the manufacturer on your smartphone or tablet. Use the app instructions to join the cameras with your home Wi-Fi network. From your app, you’ll be able to view live video feeds, adjust camera settings, and set up motion detection alerts.Test the System
After moving the cameras into place and establishing the inputs, run a test to verify that everything is working as expected. You can walk around your home and activate the motion sensors, make sure the camera feed is crisp, and check that the alerts work. This is an important step to ensure you have tested everything needed and that the system is working as intended.How to Get the Most Out of Your DIY Home Security Camera System
Make Good Use of Cloud Storage: In the event that your system supports cloud storage, be wary in deciding the correct level storage option. For people with larger camera setups, or who need a lot of footage stored with other online cloud based services, you’ll need bigger plans with room for storage.- Keep Your Software Up To Date: Many DIY camera systems come with regular firmware and software updates to enhance performance and security. So ensure your cameras and apps are up to date to work fully.
- Think About Integration with Other Smart Home Devices: Some DIY home security systems go with other smart home devices including smart locks, smart lighting and voice assistants. It forms an integrated, synced home safety system.
- Strategically Position the Cameras: To minimize blind spots in the coverage, it’s crucial to position your cameras at locations where they can capture the most relevant footage. Always cover high-traffic areas and entry points.
- Check Your Internet Connection A wireless security camera system relies heavily on a strong, stable internet connection. Make sure your home Wi-Fi is up to the challenge these needy cameras bring, particularly if you're streaming high-def video footage.
