How to Install a Security Camera System in Your House

Installing a security camera system in your house is an easy way to achieve some peace of mind. Here's how to do it.
Written by Nicholas Wilson
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
There are a lot of reasons why you might want a
security camera system
in your house. Maybe you are worried about a home invasion and want an extra level of protection. Maybe you have lots of valuables on display and want the camera as a deterrent. Or maybe you just want the peace of mind that comes with having a security system in place. This article will guide you through the process of buying and installing a security camera and make it a little more painless.

Determine Your Needs

Step 1: Decide on the number of cameras. You probably aren’t going to have a camera for every room, so you should think about where the monitoring will take place.
There are a few obvious places, such as a garage or entrance, but you might also have a room where lots of valuables are kept. The best plan is to cover as much space as possible with as few cameras as possible, saving you money and preserving appearances.
Step 2: Purchase the system. With your needs in mind, find a retailer and purchase the security system that fits your needs.
Be sure to think about how you will monitor the cameras. The system will probably come equipped with a DVR system, so that means you should acquire a display of some sort for reviewing footage as needed. This could be a small monitor or a large TV, depending on what your needs are.

Install the Security Camera System

Step 1: Mount the cameras. By this point, you should know where each of the cameras will be placed, so mount them in the areas you have chosen.
Follow whatever directions are provided on the package, but generally you can mount the camera using screws. Drill pilot holes where the screws will go, if needed, and then use the provided screws to secure the camera to the wall.
Step 2: Hook up the power to the cameras. Plug the cameras into a wall outlet, or follow whatever directions you are given in case the cameras are powered in a different way.
Step 3: Connect to your DVR. The cameras should then be physically connected to the DVR if they are wired, or you can make a wireless connection with an antenna, if possible.
Make sure that your television is also properly connected to the DVR. When connecting the cameras to the DVR, you will likely use a BNC connection; when connecting the DVR to the TV, you might use a variety of options, including HDMI, BNC, or coaxial cable.
With these steps completed, you should have a fully functional security camera system in your house, which you can pair with
motion-sensor lighting
for additional peace of mind.. The installation process is really quite simple, and the hardest part is likely trying to determine what your true needs are. Once you have done that, you can move forward with the installation and be that much closer to a secure home.
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