How to Set Up a Car CTV Recording System

Vehicle Surveillance Recording Systems are typically used in public transit vehicles or government vehicles, however certain circumstances may require you to install one in your vehicle. The following guide will help you to understand the products available as well as how to install them to suit your needs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Vehicle Surveillance Recording System
• Camera
• Wire
• Tools

1. Surveillance Camera: There are many surveillance cameras available. Before purchasing one, consider the reason for the camera. Does it need to be inconspicuous or would it be more effective in plain sight? You can purchase many different kinds from keyhole cameras to roof mount cameras. Choose the one that best suits your needs and install it according to manufacturer specifications. The camera will either be powered via a battery or will connect to the cars battery which will require you to run a hot feed from the fuse box to the hot leed on the camera and connect the ground leed on the camera to the vehicle chassis. Run wire from the camera to the area where you will install the Digital Video Security Recorder.
2. Security Recorder: Mount the security recorder in a secure area. This should be in a large glove compartment or in the trunk. It should be somewhere where it will not be at risk of becoming damaged. If security is an issue, you can hide it under interior panels or under the hood of the car somewhere. Run a hot feed from the fuse box to the digital recorder. Connect it to the hot lead on the recorder. Connect the ground lead on the digital recorder to the chassis on the car. Connect the video feed coming from the camera to the recorder. This should be a simple RCA connection.
3. Playback: Many recorders have a built-in screen or come with one. Others have removable data storage and must be played back at another location. Check with the manufacturer for requirements on playing back within the vehicle. These instructions will vary significantly depending on the system purchased.

Tips & Warnings

• Check legal requirements. Recording Police officers or other government officials without consent can be illegal.