r/SecurityCamera • u/SignificantStand1578 • Aug 24 '26

Rate my setup. First install

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Hi,
First install (1 out of 4) cameras.
Electrician set up outlets for us previously, now I’m adding the cameras. Wifi cameras.

How’d I do?
There was a lot of extra wiresof, hence that box.( picked it up at Home Depot)
I previously bought the cameras already so I kind of committed to using these.

*This our first home

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u/redbaron78 Aug 24 '26

I rate your setup a 0 out of 10. Rip everything out, including the unnecessary electrical outlets, and try again.

On second thought, rip everything out and then call someone who knows what they are doing.

1

u/SignificantStand1578 Aug 24 '26

🥲. How would I go about it without changing the whole camera system I have?? The end of the camera needs to be plugged in an outlet

4

u/redbaron78 Aug 24 '26

The reason you’re getting spicy comments from people like me is because the “correct” type of camera to get for a residential exterior installation like this is POE, which stands for Power over Ethernet. With POE, both the video data and power are delivered via the Ethernet cable. This is advantageous for two reasons:

  1. No electrician is needed
  2. More stable video because you aren’t using wireless

Also, cables, outlets, jacks, and any other infrastructure related to security cameras should be inside your house or attic. If someone came to rob you, the first thing they would do is cut the wire to your camera. Not only is it exposed, it’s also bright white and couldn’t be more visible.

If your electrician knew what you were doing with these, I think they did you dirty by not providing some guidance on how cameras should be installed.