Hey everyone,
I’m in the process of setting up a PoE surveillance system and could really use some advice from those who’ve been through it. Here’s where I’m at:
I’m in the process of setting up a PoE surveillance system and could really use some advice from those who’ve been through it. Here’s where I’m at:
- Pre-Wiring for Outdoor Cameras:
Some of the cameras will be wired through the attic (I’ll run a fiber cable from a Brocade ICX 7250 in the basement to a secondary switch), but I also need to pre-wire in the basement before I close it up with drywall. I’m not ready to install the cameras just yet, so I’m wondering—what’s the best way to "rough in" Ethernet for outdoor spaces? Are there any tricks, recommended junction boxes (or ways to just temporarily weatherproof the wire since I know some cameras work best with a direct wire), or conduits to use for protection and future-proofing? Going through brick in some places and vinyl siding in others.
- Figuring Out Camera Coverage:
I don’t want to go overboard with too many cameras, but I also don’t want to miss anything important. What’s the best way to plan for full coverage before I start wiring and closing up spaces? Any tools or tips for this?
- Camera Ecosystem Recommendations:
Right now, we’re using Arlo and Nest, and we’re paying for both premium subscriptions—which I’d really like to stop doing. I’m looking for a system that includes outdoor PoE cameras and a doorbell camera, all recording to a single NVR. Does anyone have a brand they’d recommend that can handle this? The current doorbell camera has hardwired power, but is Wi-Fi, which would be optimal - I want to avoid running wire in finished spaces and keep drywall repair to a minimum.
Thanks in advance!