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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ's Surveillance Cables

What is a coaxial cable in CCTV?

A coaxial cable is a type of electrical cable used to transmit video signals from CCTV cameras to DVRs or monitors. It has a central conductor, insulation, shielding, and an outer jacket.

What are the common types of coaxial cables for CCTV?

RG59 (most common for analog CCTV)
Siamese cable

What is Siamese coaxial cable?

A combined cable that has both coaxial (for video) and two power wires (for supplying power to the camera).

Do I need a BNC connector for CCTV coaxial cable?

Yes, BNC connectors are standard for connecting coaxial cables to CCTV cameras and DVRs.

How do I attach a BNC connector to a coaxial cable?

Strip the cable to expose the inner conductor and shielding.
Crimp or twist-on the BNC connector securely.
Ensure no loose shielding causes signal loss.

Can weather affect coaxial CCTV cables?

Yes, water ingress can damage cables. Use waterproof connectors and outdoor-rated cables.

What is the best coaxial cable for 4K CCTV?

For 4K over coax (e.g., HD-TVI 3.0/5.0), use RG6 with high shielding (95% braid + foil) for best results.

Does coaxial cable work with IPcameras?

No, IP cameras use Ethernet cables (Cat5e/Cat6). However, some systems can convert coaxial to IP using adapters.

What is the maximum resolutions upported by coaxial CCTV?

Modern HD-over-coax systems (HD-TVI, HDCVI, AHD) support up to 8MP (4K) resolution.

Does coaxial cable length affect video quality?

Yes, longer cables cause signal
loss. Use thicker cables for long runs.

How do I reduce interference incoaxial CCTV?

Use high-shielded cables.
Keep away from power lines.

How do I extend a coaxial CCTVcable?

Use a BNC coupler (barrel connector) or an active video amplifier for long distances.

What is an RJ45 cable?

An RJ45 cable (commonly called Ethernet or LAN cable) is a twisted-pair cable used for wired network connections, including IP cameras, computers, and switches.

Which LAN cable is best for IP cameras?

Cat5e or Cat6 (supports PoE and high bandwidth).

What is the maximum length for an Ethernet cable?

100 meters (328 ft) for reliable data transmission (longer distances require switches or extenders).

Can I use a LAN cable for CCTV?

Yes, for IP cameras (not analog CCTV, which uses coaxial cables).

What is PoE (Power over Ethernet)?

A technology that delivers power and data over a single Ethernet cable (used for IP cameras).

Can all Ethernet cables support PoE?

Yes, but Cat5e, Cat6 or higher is recommended for better power delivery.

How many wires are in an RJ45cable?

8 wires (4 twisted pairs).

Can I crimp my own RJ45 connector?

Yes, using a crimping tool and following the correct wiring order.

Can I extend an Ethernet cable?

Yes, using:

RJ45 coupler (for short extensions)
Network switch (for longer runs)

What is the best cable for 4K IP cameras?

Cat6 or Cat6a (higher
bandwidth for high-resolution video).

Can I run Ethernet cables outdoors?

Yes, but use outdoor-rated (UV-resistant, waterproof) cables.

Why is my PoE camera notworking?

Check cable quality (Cat5e or higher).
Verify PoE, switch/injector compatibility.

Can I use Cat6 with Cat5econnectors?

Yes, but Cat6 connectors are recommended for better performance.

What is a patch cord?

A patch cord (or patch cable) is a short-length cable with connectors (like RJ45, RJ11, or fiber optic) used to connect devices in networks, audio systems, or data centers.

What’s the difference between a patch cord and an Etherne tcable?

Patch cord: Short (1ft–10ft), flexible, used for device-to-device connections.
Ethernet cable: Longer, often solid-core, used for permanent wiring.

What is the maximum length of a patch cord?

For Ethernet patch cords, the total network run should not exceed 100m (328ft), including patch cords.

How do I choose the right patch cord length?

Choose the shortest length that fits your setup to reduce clutter and signal loss.

Why does my patch cord keep disconnecting?

Loose/damaged connector
Poor crimping
Physical wear

What’s the lifespan of a patch cord?

Typically 3–5 years, but depends on usage and bending.

FAQ's Power Adapter & Power Supply

What does 2A and 5A mean in power adapters?

2A = 2 Amperes (max current output)
5A = 5 Amperes (higher current capacity)

Can I use a 5A adapter for a device that needs 2A?

Yes (if voltage matches). The device draws only the current it needs.

Can I use a 2A adapter for a 5A device?

No—The adapter may overheat or fail since the device demands more current.

Do Outdoor Cameras Have Two-Way Audio?

Most do—useful for deterring intruders or
talking to visitors.

How do I know if my device needs 2A or 5A?

Check:

Device label/manual
Original power adapter specs

What devices typically use a 2A adapter?

Wi-Fi routers
Small CCTV cameras

What devices need a 5A adapter?

High-power gadgets (some PoE switches)
Large LED displays
Some DVRs/NVRs

Are 2A/5A adapters AC or DC?

Most are DC output (e.g., 12V DC). Check the label.

Can I use a 5A adapter for a CCTV camera?

Yes, if the camera’s current draw ≤ 5A (most use 1A–2A).

What power supply do I need for my CCTV cameras?

Most CCTV cameras (especially IP/analog) use 12V DC or 24V AC. The amperage (10A, 20A, 30A) depends on number of cameras.

What's power consumption per camera?

Power consumption per camera (check specs, e.g., 0.5A–2A per camera).

Example:

10A PSU → Supports ~8–10 cameras (if each uses 1A).
30A PSU → Supports ~25–30 cameras.

What’s the difference between10A, 20A, and 30A power supplies?

Current capacity: Higher amperage supports more cameras.

Form factor:

10A: Compact, good for small systems.
20A/30A: Larger, often rack-mounted for professional setups.

Do I need a regulated power supply?

Yes! A regulated 12V DC PSU ensures stable voltage, preventing camera damage from surges/drops.

How to calculate total power needs?

Total Amperage = (Camera 1 Amps + Camera 2 Amps + …) × 1.2 (safety margin)

Example: 10 cameras × 1A each = 10A → Use a 12A or 15A PSU.

Are PoE switches an alternative?

Yes! For IP cameras:

PoE switches deliver power + data over Ethernet (no separate PSU needed).
Max distance: 100m per camera.

What happens if my power supply is underpowered?

Symptoms: Cameras may reboot randomly, IR night vision fails, or video feed drops.

Solution: Upgrade to a higher-amp PSU or split cameras across multiple PSUs.

How do I protect my CCTV system from power surges?

Use a surge protector or UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply). For outdoor cameras, install lightning arrestors on coaxial/PoE lines.

Can I use a 30A PSU for just 2–3 cameras?

Yes, but it’s inefficient. A smaller 5A–10A PSU is cheaper and runs cooler for light loads.

What’s the max distance for 12V DC power without voltage drop?

Up to 50ft (15m): Thin wires (18–20 AWG) work. Beyond 50ft: Use thicker wires (12–14 AWG) or 24V AC PSU (less drop).

Safety tips for power supplies?

Use surge protectors.

Ensure proper ventilation (PSUs heat up).
Check UL/CE certification for reliability.

FAQ's CCTV Surveillance Monitor

What size monitor is best for CCTV surveillance?

Small setups (4-8 cameras): 19"–22" (1080p)
Medium setups (9-16 cameras): 24"–27" (1440p/4K)
Large setups (16+ cameras): 32" or larger (4K, multi-screen)

Do I need a special monitor for CCTV?

No, but dedicated surveillance monitors like G-LENZ offer longer lifespans (24/7 operation) vs. consumer TVs/PC monitors.

Can I use a TV as a CCTV monitor?

Yes, but TVs may auto-dim or sleep, disrupting surveillance. Disable these features in settings.

What resolution should a CCTV monitor have?

Minimum: 1080p (1920×1080) for clear playback. 4K (3840×2160) is ideal for large grids (32+ cameras).

What resolution should a CCTV monitor have?

Minimum: 1080p (1920×1080) for clear playback. 4K (3840×2160) is ideal for large grids (32+ cameras).

Is HDMI or VGA better for CCTV monitors?

HDMI (digital, supports 1080p+/audio) > VGA (analog, max 1080p, no audio).

How often do I recharge the battery?

Every 3–6 months (depends on usage).
Solar-powered = No charging needed.

How many monitors can I connect to an NVR/DVR?

Depends on the NVR/DVR—most support
1–2 monitors (HDMI + VGA), while advanced models allow 4+ outputs (for video walls).

Do CCTV monitors need speakers?

Optional—useful for audio-enabled cameras but not critical for silent monitoring.

What’s the best use for a 19" CCTV monitor?

Small offices/budget setups (4–8 cameras at 720p/1080p).

What’s the best use for a 22" CCTV monitor?

More screen real estate for 8–12 cameras without overcrowding. Can a 22" monitor display 16 camera feeds clearly.

What’s the best use for a 32" CCTV monitor?

Control rooms, large grids (16+ cameras), or 4K NVRs for crisp detail. Potentially ensure proper viewing distance (3–5 feet minimum).

How do I split camera feeds on one monitor?

Use your NVR’s multi view feature (e.g., 4x4, 8x8 grids) or a video wall controller.

Why is my CCTV monitor flickering?

Loose cables, incorrect refresh rate, or interference. Try HDMI over VGA and secure connections.

What’s the ideal brightness for a CCTV monitor?

250–300 nits (standard rooms), 400+ nits (sunlit areas).

How long do CCTV monitors last?

3–5 years with 24/7 use (longer if rotated/put to sleep periodically).

FAQ's PoE Switch

What is a PoE switch?

A Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch provides both data connectivity and electrical power to connected devices (like IP cameras, VoIP phones, or wireless access points) over a single Ethernet cable.

How many ports are available?

The switch comes in three variants:

4 PoE ports + 2 uplink ports
8 PoE ports + 2 uplink ports
16 PoE ports + 2 uplink ports

What is the power of this switch?

This switch has a 30W total power, meaning it can deliver up to 30W combined across all PoE ports.

What PoE standard does this switch support?

It supports IEEE 802.3af (PoE), delivering up to 15.4W per port.

Is the switch plug-and-play?

Yes, it supports auto-negotiation for easy setup.

Does it require a separate power adapter?

Yes, it uses an external power adapter (included).

Does it support PoE+ (802.3at)?

No, this is a standard PoE (802.3af) switch. For higher power (up to 30W per port), consider a PoE+ switch.

Can I use non-PoE devices?

Yes, it supports standard Ethernet devices (PoE is auto-detected).

What is PoE Auto-Detection & How Does It Work?

The switch automatically detects if a connected device is PoE-compatible before supplying power, preventing damage to non-PoE devices.

Can I Mount the Switch on a Wall or Rack?

Yes, most models include wall-mount slots or rack-mount ears (for 16-port versions).

What is a PoE uplink port?

An uplink port on a PoE switch is a high-speed port (usually Gigabit Ethernet or SFP) used to connect the switch to a router, core network, or another switch. It does not typically provide PoE power (unless specified).

Why do PoE switches have uplink ports?

Uplink ports ensure:

Higher bandwidth for backbone connections
Better network stability (reduced bottlenecks)
Scalability (daisy-chaining multiple switches)

Are uplink ports always Gigabit?

Most modern switches use Gigabit uplinks, but older models may have Fast Ethernet (100Mbps).

How do I connect a PoE switch via uplink to my router?

Plug one end into the switch’s uplink port (or any port if no dedicated uplink).
Plug the other end into the router’s LAN port.
The switch should auto-detect the connection.

FAQ's Surveillance Storages

What is a surveillance HDD?

A hard drive designed for 24/7 recording, optimized for write-heavy workloads in security systems.

How is a surveillance HDD different from a regular HDD?

Surveillance HDDs (like WD Purple, Seagate SkyHawk are built for constant writing, vibration resistance, and longer durability.

Can I use a regular HDD for surveillance?

Not recommended—regular HDDs may fail faster due to constant writing and lack of error recovery controls.

What storage capacity do I need for my CCTV system?

Depends on camera count, resolution (1080p, 4K), compression (H.264, H.265), and retention period (e.g., 1TB = 7 days for 4 cameras at 1080p).

Does a surveillance HDD improve video playback?

Yes, it’s optimized for smooth simultaneous recording and playback.

Can I use an SSD for surveillance instead of an HDD?

SSDs are faster but expensive for long term storage; HDDs are more cost-effective for high-capacity needs

Do surveillance HDDs work with all NVRs/DVRs?

Most are compatible, but check your NVR’s supported drive list (e.g., WD Purple works with most brands).

How long does a surveillance HDD last?

Typically 3–5 years with 24/7 use, depending on workload and environment.

Can I use an external HDD for my NVR/DVR?

Not recommended—external HDDs may overheat or disconnect during 24/7 use. Internal surveillance-grade HDDs are more reliable.

Can I install a surveillance HDD myself?

Yes, if your NVR/DVR has user-accessible drive bays. Follow manufacturer guidelines for compatibility.

Can I use a MicroSD card for security cameras?

Yes, many IP cameras support MicroSD cards for local storage (e.g., 256GB max in some models).

What’s the best MicroSD card for surveillance?

Look for high endurance cards (e.g., SanDisk Max Endurance) rated for continuous writing.

Why do surveillance cameras need endurance MicroSD cards?

Regular cards wear out quickly from constant writes; endurance cards last longer (e.g., 10K–100K write cycles).

How much footage can a MicroSD card store?

Example: 128GB card ≈ 3–7 days of 1080p footage (varies by compression and motion detection).

Do all security cameras support MicroSD cards?

No—check your camera’s specs; some require cloud or NVR storage.

How do I format a MicroSD card for my security camera?

Use the camera’s built-in formatting tool or FAT32/exFAT via a computer (check camera manual).

Why does my camera say “MicroSD card error”?

Could be corruption, incompatible card, or wear—try reformatting or replacing with an endurance card.

What’s the maximum MicroSD card size my camera supports?

Check the camera’s specs (e.g., 256GB is common, but some support 1TB with firmware updates).

Can I use multiple MicroSD cards in a camera for extended storage?

No—most cameras support only one card. For more storage, use an NVR or cloud backup.

Why does my camera stop recording to the MicroSD card?

Card may be full, corrupted, or overheated. Format it or replace it with a high endurance card.

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