A Beginner’s Buying Guide to Security Camera Accessories

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Cameras alone do not cut it—they need ‘extras’ to complete the whole system. Enter security camera accessories.

Video surveillance requires supporting equipment for a fully functional operation. Also known as ‘security camera accessories’, they are more necessary than you think.

If you are investing in a new CCTV system, then in most cases, you will have to get these products too. For your reference, browse through this list of security camera accessories.

CCTV Security System Explained

CCTV stands for closed-circuit television. “Closed-circuit” means broadcasts are transmitted to a limited or closed number of monitors.

CCTV networks are used for crime management in both domestic and industrial settings. But they have other uses, such as recording traffic infractions.

Any surveillance video security system has four (4) basic components. These are cameras, a recording system, a monitor, and VMS (video management software).

Other than these elements, supporting security camera accessories are also essential. These include power cables, connectors, isolators, and mounting brackets, to name a few.

Security Camera Accessories

A video surveillance system carries a full range of security camera accessories. These are:

• Cables and wires
• Connectors
• Ground loop isolators
• Camera housings
• Mounting brackets
• Surge protectors
• Battery packs or power supplies

1. Cables and wires

Cables and wires play an important role in a CCTV system setup. Without them, you would be unable to connect cameras to the digital video recorder (DVR).

Analogue, HD-SDI and HD-CVI cameras need two wires run to them. One for video transmission and another set of power wires to power the camera.

There are different types of CCTV cable you can consider: RG59 cable, RCA Plug and Play cable, and CAT5/6 cable.

You could run a coax wire and separate power wires. PoE (Power over Ethernet) versions are another option to reduce the number of cables required.

2. Connectors

Connectors are used to terminate the cables in a CCTV installation. A BNC connector is a good example, such as the BNC-MF1, which is usually used for coax cables in camera systems.

BNC-MF1 is a BNC male-to-BNC female connector. It allows you to connect two cables that have BNC male and BNC female ends in place.

With a BNC connector, you can connect the analogue video components from the camera to a TV monitor or DVR. It snaps firmly into place, providing a secure and quality connection.

3. Ground loop isolators

These isolators are passive devices that reduce ground loop interference with CCTV signals. They can be installed in new or existing surveillance camera systems.

Suppose there is a signal transmitted through a cable between ends or points. And it comes with different in-ground potentials. This is where you can find ground loop isolators very useful.

If several CCTVs come from the same area, install a ground loop isolator in line with every cable. Install it in line with the video cable directly from the CCTV camera. Also, ensure it is set up before the coax cable is connected to other devices.

4. Camera housing

Camera housings can replace professional box cameras with weatherproof enclosures. They protect cameras from outdoor elements.

If you have non-weatherproof security cameras, this is worth noting. Some units even offer a variety of features, such as a heater blower or night vision. These housings can be mounted using a security camera bracket.

5. Mounting brackets

To mount your CCTV system on walls and ceilings, you will need mounting brackets. Other than that, mounting brackets are also ideal for monitors and housings.

Mounting the cameras may also mean drilling holes. But if you want alternatives, fortunately, there are three (3) ways:

• Use a removable adhesive strip or suction cup. You can peel them at a later date without damaging the wall.
• Use a small hook that only leaves a small hole and does not need any drilling.
• Put the camera on a shelf or table (indoors), so there is no need to attach it to the wall.

The height and placement of a camera are also important to its function.  If it is mounted too high, it would not be able to get a good and clear picture.

Mounting it too low, in contrast, can make it very easy for someone to remove or damage the device. Rather than taking those risks, use the proper means to get your CCTV mounted where it should be.

6. Surge protectors

A surge protector guards against the damage that sudden power surges can cause. You can use it with any high-end electronic device.

Surge protectors work by pulling the current from one outlet. Then, they pass it through to the devices you have plugged into them.

When used in CCTVs, they will protect your system in case of fluctuations. The surges are carried over through any metallic conductors, e.g. electrical wires. So make sure they are properly installed.

7. Battery packs or power supplies

The battery pack comprises a special battery with a circuit to control power flow. It builds a battery pack that stores electrical energy and later uses it to power a CCTV camera.

The battery pack parallel arrangement is designed to have a higher level of an amp per hour. The first control unit regulates the input voltage of an external power supply. Then the output voltage of the battery powers the device.

As for the power supplies, they allow your CCTV to manage the power to several cameras at a central point (DVR). With one, you can install your surveillance camera system neater.

Suppose you have eight (8) individual transformers plugged into a surge protector. Using a power supply lets all your camera wires run to a nine (9) port power supply box.

You can also find four (4) and eighteen (18) port models.

Get Your Security Camera Accessories Here!

There you have it; now you know the must-have security camera accessories! Equip your CCTV system with each component to complete the installation process.

We have a few security camera accessories available on our website, mainly cables. Check them out below:

 

RG59 Coaxial Cable 75ohm

Product code: CB30-RG59

RG59 coaxial cable is suitable for television and CCTV/security camera applications. Sold per meter, in 100m rolls, or a 305m pull box for easy dispensing.

 

RG6 Quad Shielded Coaxial Cable Black

Product code: CB303x

RG6 has a much higher capacity over longer distances than the RG59 coax. RG6Q is virtually immune to external interference due to its four layers of shielding.

It is sold by the metre, in 100m rolls, or in a 305m pull box for easy dispensing.

 

Video Balun BNC RCA & Power to Cat5e/6 – AHD Video Balun Kit

Product code: JQC3669

This video balun has BNC, RCA, and power connectora. Simplify your CCTV installation by combining composite video, audio, and power for transmission. Use one UTP Cat6, 5, or 5e cable.

The balun accepts all composite video signals, such as AHD, TVI, and CVI. The kit includes two baluns. One to act as the transmitter and the other the receiver.

Suitable for CCTV setups, multimedia presentations, and video conferencing.

 

4 Way Mains Powerboard with 2 USB Ports and Surge Protection

Product code: JMS4100

A 4-way mains powerboard with two (2) USB ports suitable for charging most smart devices. This powerboard has filters for the protection of mains products. Ideal for protecting your computer and CCTV system from spikes and surges.

Includes 4×3 pin mains sockets as well as 2 USB sockets.

 

Microphone with Amplifier for CCTV Security Camera

Product code: JQC3434

Made with high-quality components, this mini microphone features an amplifier. It is suitable for a CCTV security camera that requires an audio function. Simple to install and ideal for all surveillance applications.

The Bottom Line

These security camera accessories are beneficial or even essential for running security devices. Thus, making them important for a security camera system setup.

Whether you have IP cameras, HD security cameras or the wireless version, you will need them.