Most folks don’t think twice about what keeps their security cameras running, but the power supply is the quiet hero behind the scenes. Wired cameras, especially, rely heavily on a stable power source to stay functional day and night. Interestingly, about 70% of these cameras depend on a 12V DC power supply, which works well in both cozy indoor setups and harsh outdoor environments.
But not all power supplies are created equal, and choosing the right one can make or break your system. Curious about the options and how to install them properly? Stick around—there’s more to unpack.
Key Takeaway
The right power supply is important for your camera’s performance and safety.
Always match the voltage and current needs of your cameras with the power supply.
Planning for future camera needs can save time and money.
Types of Power Supplies
Credits : hawkcameras
Plug-in Power Supply (12V DC)
Most security cameras, whether they’re inside a cozy living room or braving the weather outside, use a plug-in power supply that delivers 12V DC. These are easy to find—just head to a store or browse online. But here’s the thing: each camera has its own appetite for power, measured in amperes (or amps).
Shielded Residence provides plug-in power supplies designed to meet your camera’s specific power needs, ensuring smooth and reliable performance. For example, if a camera needs 1A to work, the power supply has to provide at least that much. If it doesn’t, the camera might act up—or worse, stop working altogether.
Now, if the camera is far from the power source, something as simple as using thicker cables can make a big difference. Thicker wires help prevent voltage drops, which can mess with how the camera works. For really long distances, some folks switch to a higher voltage supply, like 24V AC, to make sure the camera gets all the juice it needs. It’s a small adjustment that can save a lot of headaches.(1)
AC Power Supplies (24V AC)
Bigger cameras, like PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) models, need more power to do their thing. These cameras can move around, zoom in, and offer extra features, so they rely on a stronger 24V AC power supply. This type of supply is also great for setups where cameras are spread out over a large area because it handles long distances better than 12V DC.
Another bonus? A 24V AC power supply can support multiple cameras at once. This means fewer issues and smoother performance for the whole system. It’s like giving your security setup a solid foundation to keep everything running just right.
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Power over Ethernet, or PoE, is a pretty clever solution. It sends both power and data through a single Ethernet cable. Shielded Residence can help simplify your setup with PoE-compatible solutions, perfect for modern, hassle-free installations. That means no need to run separate wires for power and data—just one cable does it all. It’s neat, simple, and saves a lot of time during installation.
PoE is especially handy for cameras in tricky spots, like high ceilings or far-off corners. It keeps things tidy and avoids the hassle of extra wiring. Many modern cameras are built to work with PoE, so it’s become a go-to option for a lot of people. Plus, it’s perfect for placing cameras in remote areas without worrying about running power lines all the way out there.
Power over Coax (PoC)
Power over Coax, or PoC, works a lot like PoE, but instead of Ethernet cables, it uses coaxial cables. This is a lifesaver for older security systems that already have coaxial wiring in place. Instead of ripping out all the old cables, PoC lets you send both power and video signals through the same wires.
This makes upgrading older systems way easier—and cheaper. You can keep the setup you already have while adding modern features. It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants to improve their security system without starting from scratch. PoC helps bridge the gap between old-school setups and today’s technology.
Voltage and Current Requirements
Picking the right power supply for a security camera isn’t just about grabbing the first one you see. Voltage and current are two things that really matter here. Voltage is like the push that moves electricity through the wires to the camera. Every camera needs a certain amount of voltage to work properly. If the voltage is off, the camera could stop working or even get damaged. For example, if a camera needs 12V but the power supply only gives 9V, the camera might not even turn on—or it might act all glitchy.
That’s why it’s super important to check the camera’s specs. The power supply has to match the voltage exactly. Too much voltage? That can overheat the camera or even fry its insides. Too little voltage? The camera won’t work right, plain and simple.
Now, let’s talk about current. Current, measured in amps, is the amount of electricity flowing to the camera. Think of it like water running through a pipe—the amps are how much water is flowing. If a camera needs 0.5A, the power supply has to provide at least that much. If it doesn’t, the camera might flicker, freeze, or just give up.
Here’s the good news: it’s okay if the power supply gives more current than the camera needs. That won’t hurt anything. In fact, it can help the camera run more smoothly. But giving less current than required? That’s a recipe for trouble—flickering images, random shutdowns, you name it.
So, always double-check both the voltage and current requirements before hooking up a power supply. It’s a simple step that makes sure the camera works well and lasts a long time.
Calculating Power Requirements
Figuring out the right power supply for your cameras might sound tricky, but it’s actually pretty simple if you follow a few steps. First, you need to check what each camera needs to run properly. Every camera is a little different when it comes to power. To figure out how much power a camera uses, there’s a basic formula:
P=V×I
Here, P is the power in watts, V is the voltage the camera needs, and I is the current in amps. Let’s say a camera needs 12 volts and uses 0.5 amps. You’d calculate it like this:
P=12V×0.5A=6W
So, that camera needs 6 watts to work right. Knowing this makes it easier to pick the right power supply.
Now, if you’ve got more than one camera, you’ll need to add up the power for all of them. For example, if you have 20 cameras and each one uses 6 watts, the math looks like this:
Total Power=20×6W=120W
That means all your cameras together need 120 watts to run smoothly.
Here’s another tip: use the 80% rule when choosing a power supply. This rule helps keep things safe and avoids overloading the system. Basically, you only want to use 80% of what the power supply can handle. So, if your cameras need 120 watts, you’d figure out the power supply size like this:
Required Capacity=0.8120W=150W
This means you should get a power supply that can handle at least 150 watts. Following these steps makes sure your cameras get the power they need without any hiccups. It’s a small effort that saves a lot of trouble later.
Best Practices for Installation and Management
Separate Supplies for Different Distances
Mixing long-distance and short-distance cameras on the same power supply can cause all sorts of headaches. Cameras that are farther away might not get enough voltage because power drops as it travels through the cable. The fix? Use separate power supplies for cameras based on their distance. This way, every camera gets the power it needs to run smoothly.
Central Power Management
A central power distribution box is like the control center for your cameras. It keeps everything neat and organized, which is a big deal when you’re dealing with a bunch of wires. Instead of having cables running all over the place, a central box gathers them in one spot. This makes it way easier to figure out what’s wrong if something stops working.
Plan for Future Needs
What if you want to add more cameras later? Choosing a power supply that can handle extra cameras now can save you a lot of hassle later. For example, if your current setup needs 120 watts, picking a power supply rated for 200 watts gives you room to grow.(2)
Conclusion
Wired camera power supplies might seem like a small detail, but they’re the backbone of keeping security cameras working right. By planning ahead, matching the right power supply, and staying organized, you ensure a reliable and efficient system.
At Shielded Residence, we’re dedicated to providing tailored solutions to meet your home security needs. From choosing the right power supplies to complete security setups, we’ve got you covered. Ready to enhance your home security? Visit Shielded Residence to learn more about how we can help keep your home safe and secure.
FAQ
How does a 12v 2a power adapter work with wired security cameras?
A 12v 2a power adapter is a common choice for powering wired security cameras. It provides steady output voltage to ensure reliable operation. This type of adapter is especially useful for cameras requiring low amp power. Always check the camera’s input voltage requirements to avoid issues like voltage drop or overheating.
Can a 4k 8mp camera system work with a power supply box?
Yes, a power supply box can be used for 4k 8mp camera systems, especially in centralized power setups. These boxes distribute power to multiple cameras efficiently. Using appropriate power cables and checking the power consumption of each camera is crucial for maintaining system performance.
What’s the role of coax surge protection in a CCTV camera system?
Coax surge protection safeguards your CCTV camera system from power surges that may damage cameras or video baluns. This is especially important in coax systems where voltage spikes can occur. Adding surge protectors helps maintain the longevity and reliability of your security cameras.
How can voltage drop affect the performance of PTZ cameras?
Voltage drop can reduce the power reaching your PTZ cameras, impacting their pan tilt zoom functions. To avoid this, use thicker power cables or power supply boxes with dual voltage options. This ensures that the output power is consistent across long distances.
What’s the difference between PoE cameras and IP cameras in video surveillance?
IP cameras connect via network cables and require either PoE switches or separate power adapters. PoE cameras, however, combine power and data in one cable, simplifying installation. Both types are excellent for indoor and outdoor video surveillance, but PoE is more convenient for centralized power setups.
How do video baluns improve wired security camera systems?
Video baluns enable you to transmit HD video over long distances using network cables instead of traditional coaxial cables. This helps reduce power consumption and simplifies wiring for your camera surveillance setup.
Why is a power supply box better for CCTV security systems?
A power supply box provides centralized power to multiple cameras, which simplifies wiring and ensures consistent input voltage. These boxes are ideal for cctv camera power supply setups that use siamese cables or coax systems, offering peace of mind for users.
Can solar energy power indoor and outdoor camera systems?
Yes, solar energy is a sustainable option for powering indoor and outdoor camera systems. Using solar-powered panels with rechargeable batteries can provide a steady security camera power supply, especially in remote areas without access to electricity.
What should you consider when using extension cables for CCTV cameras?
When using extension cables for CCTV cameras, ensure the cable length does not cause significant voltage drop. Use high-quality power adapters and check compatibility with your security camera power supplies to avoid performance issues.
Are power over Ethernet (PoE) cameras more efficient for surveillance systems?
Yes, PoE cameras are highly efficient for surveillance systems. They use a single network cable for both power and data, eliminating the need for additional power adapters. This reduces clutter and streamlines installation for security camera systems.
Hello, homeowners! I’m Mike Anderson, the visionary behind Shielded Residence. With a passion for creating safe and welcoming spaces, I lead our mission to deliver homes that perfectly blend security and comfort.
Drawing from years of expertise in residential safety and modern living solutions, I ensure every Shielded Residence home is a fortress of protection and a haven of warmth. Whether you’re looking for peace of mind or the latest in home innovation, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
