Security Camera Cable: What You Need To Know

The security camera cable enhances security at home or the office. Capture any hidden video or even audio quickly. Know what’s going on in your home, anytime.

No matter why you want them, you know you need a security camera cable. How do you find the one you need? What is it that you should be looking for? Where to Custom Security Camera Cable for your project? Here is a look.

Chapter 1: About Security Camera Cables

The security camera cables send audio and video signals to the camera. The camera then displays these signals. Also, they are easy to install, but the material used to make these units is also high quality. They come in different lengths, allowing you to position the camera as you want. These cables can help you improve how the security camera performs.

Chapter 2: What Are the Different Security Camera Cables You Can Buy

For installing a security camera, there are two types of cables that you can use:

1. Siamese Coax Cable

The Siamese security camera cable allows easy video and power transmission. It is a “two-wired” solution rolled in a single cable assembly. Also, a video conductor sends the video signal through the BNC connector of the camera. There is also a power wire that sends power from a power supply. Siamese cables have different grades for various signal types. 

Network Cable

A network cable is a kind of Ethernet cable. It transmits video signals and then supplies power to the cameras.

Different network cables are Cat 5, Cat 5e, and Cat 6. They support different internet speeds, bandwidths, and transmitting distances.

Pros and Cons of Each Security Camera Cable

Siamese Cable

Siamese cables are coaxial cables attached to a set of power wires. We remove the power wires from the coaxial cable if the power source is far from the device.

Pros

• Data Integrity: The structure of the cables allows power transmission. There is no interference or video transmission.
• Versatile: You can use cables to transfer data and power. These cables give a good return for your money.
• Simple to Operate: Since the data and power transmit in one cable, the setup process is simple.

Cons

• Complicated: One can face difficulties while handling these units.

Network Cable

Network cables are a preferred option compared to others.

Pros

• Cheap: Network cables are cheaper than other cables in the market.
• Easy to install: Network cables are easy to install. A non-IT person can even install them. The installation does not need any special tools.
• High Speed: We know that the Network cables for a high level of transfer speeds. They can transfer even four signals together.
• Versatile: We can use the network cable as two separate cable types. We can use it in solid conductor form or a stranded conductor form.

Cons

• Difficult to Move: With network cables, you cannot move the computer from one place to another.
• Interference Problem: Network cables are susceptible to radio and electrical interference.

Not Suitable for Shorter Distances: Use network cables to transfer data over a shorter distance. This can be a major problem in the connection.

Chapter 3: Security Camera Extension Cable

You have two different cable types to choose from. Go for the plug-and-play cables, the standard ones to connect to your stereo or television. Or, there are the Siamese cables, the more heavily shielded and insulated ones. You see them more commercially.

The plug-and-play ones are easy to spot. It’s the one that has three connectors. You have a red one for power. Then, there is a yellow one for the video.

Ultimately, there is a white one for audio. Frequently, you will not be using the white one. You also find these in different lengths. Some are as long as 200 feet.

The other option is the Siamese cable. You don’t have to worry about interference with this one. Plus, it is the better option in the longer run.

On the flip side, installing is not easy, and you need special tools. We will be talking about it in more detail below.

Chapter 4: Siamese Coax Cable – What Type of Cameras use This Cable?

There are two kinds of security cameras that Siamese cabling can support. Both types use a BNC connector to send video signals. Here is what you need to know about them.

• HD Security Cameras: Looking to get a newer security camera? You have probably got the HD one. The more modern gen HD security cameras can send 1080P videos.
• Analog Security Cameras: Security cameras that send analog signals use these cables. These are the older versions. You probably do not need them anymore.

I want to note that the HD through coax cameras need real RG59U cabling. This is obtainable in a spool or roll and requires termination with BNC ends.

Siamese Security Camera Cable: Which One is Right for You?

Siamese CCTV cabling is of further two types:

• Already Manufactured Siamese Cable: This cable comes with pre-attached end connectors. It also comes in different lengths.
• Other Types of Siamese Coax Cable: This cable comes in a spool or a roll and is high quality. It doesn’t come with a prefabricated connector. Thus, it needs the users to put its ends on.

1. Premade Siamese Cabling

Premade Siamese Cable is a cheaper and more accessible alternative to an RG59U wire roll. The installation of the cable becomes straightforward. The wire is thin as compared to the standard 20awg RG59U coax cable.

However, there can be some constraints while using these cables as they have a thin gauge. This thin gauge can produce certain video artifacts, such as ghosting over 150 feet.

Above 150 feet, the runs do not offer an electrical current for infrared cameras. The result might be a strobing effect or limited performance of infrared night vision.

Some cameras, such as PTZ cameras that need AC power, can’t use such wiring. In premade Siamese, it does not rate the power wire for 24V AC. Thus, if you use the cable with any unapproved camera, it can get dangerous.

Any cabling of this type bought before 2014 isn’t an HD one. So, if you have this version, it can support only Standard Definition analog cameras.

The newer version of HD premade. Siamese cables can take care of better resolutions. With higher-resolution devices, it’s different. I will thus not recommend using one of these cables. It will not run as great.

2.Siamese Coax from a roll

Siamese Coax has grounded power wire using professional installations. This cabling is for doing a DIY project. In case you have an HD security camera, this is the cabling you should go for.

Siamese RG59 Coax roll is one of the best cables that you can purchase to safeguard your system for the long term. We can buy this cable in spools or rolls of up to 1000ft.

Some of you might get intimidated at the thought of running your cable through a roll. The advantages of using Siamese RG59U from a roll, though, are many. For one, you’ve to stop the power and video. Here is a look at why you will like using it.

• Secures the security camera for the future
• You can customize the length of the cable for each run
• Resistant to weather
• Is useful for several resolutions, i.e., up to 4K

Using a Roll: How Do You Terminate Siamese coax cable?

The Siamese coax cable can terminate with BNC connectors for power and video terminals. The following are the items you need:

• BNC Twist Connector: For terminating the video conductor
• Coax Wire Stripper: For stripping out the wire jacket from the video cable
• Female Power Terminal: You only need this if you are using a power adaptor with a DC plug for connecting the camera
• Male Power Terminal: You need it for terminating the 2-lead power wire with the DC plug. Then, you can connect it to a 12V DC security camera.

Chapter 5: Network Cable – What type of Cameras use This Cable?

IP cameras are the ones that use Network cabling. IP cameras need ethernet cabling for supplying data and power through the same cable.

Do you use PoE-enabled equipment such as PoE NVR or a PoE switch? It will simplify the need for running or supplying separate power to the cameras.

You can supply external power to an IP camera with a 12V DC power adaptor if you need it. After that, the network data signal can carry across the network cable to an NVR or switch.

I would ask you to note that an IP PoE camera can take only one power source simultaneously. Hence, it would help not to plug a PoE camera into an external power-powered over PoE.

How to crimp Network Cable?

It is easy to crimp a network cable. Following is a video that explains how to do it:

Can you use a network cable with BNC cameras?

Yes, a network cable is usable with a BNC camera. However, the network cable can send video signals to these cameras. You only need to use Video Baluns as adaptors.

Chapter 6: Where to Custom Security Camera Cable for Your Project?

Every project is different. So, why stop getting a custom security cable that fits your needs? At CLOOM Tech, we know what we are looking for.

We take into consideration all your needs and specific requirements. In turn, you get customized security camera cables for your organization.

If you order more, we also have bulk discounts, which you are sure to like.

Conclusion

You will be using a Siamese cable for your cabling needs. So, why not ensure you do it the right way? With customized security camera cables, it’s easy.

You know that you don’t have to worry about things going wrong. Additionally, these are made just for your organization. It adds that extra layer of security that you are looking for.