How to Install an Infrared Surveillance Camera

Most break-ins, vandalism and burglaries occur at night. To protect your premises, your exterior surveillance system should employ infrared cameras. Infrared cameras use low light wavelengths to see even in total darkness.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide where to install your infrared cameras. Cameras should cover every point of entry, including windows and doors. Driveways, porches, front gates, parking lots, garages, and backyards are all common places for infrared cameras.

2. Consider wireless infrared cameras if you plan on installing cameras away from your home, such as at the end of a long driveway, behind a detached garage or at the perimeter of your property. Remember that even wireless cameras need a power supply.

3. Mount the infrared cameras. Exterior installations must be permanently mounted to protect them from the elements. This usually involves drilling holes in the facade of the building and screwing in the mounting bracket.

4. Run the cables for wired cameras to the recording device, monitor or television. Follow whatever protocols are dictated by the surveillance system you've chosen.

5. Check the line of sight for each camera during the day and at night. Ask someone to walk within the sight lines and make sure the camera captures any movement. Adjust the direction of the camera if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure exterior cameras have a weatherproof cover to protect them from the elements.
• For large properties that require many cameras, consider hiring a professional security company to design and install your whole system.
• Use infrared cameras indoors to monitor people in your home at night.
• Post signs to alert potential criminals that you have infrared surveillance cameras to deter their activity.
• Install cameras high enough to prevent tampering from the ground.
• Run wires up instead of down to keep them from being cut. You may have to thread them through the wall if there isn't an upper window to use.