How to Select the Right CCTV Network Cable for Your Needs

The right CCTV network cable can make a big difference in the performance and reliability of your CCTV system. With so many different types of cables on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your needs. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to selecting the right CCTV network cable.

Cable Type

The first step is to determine what type of cable you need. There are two main types of CCTV network cables: coaxial cable and Ethernet cable.

Coaxial cable is a type of cable that uses a single copper conductor surrounded by a shield of braided copper wire. Coaxial cable is typically used for analog CCTV systems.

Ethernet cable is a type of cable that uses multiple copper conductors twisted together in pairs. Ethernet cable is typically used for digital CCTV systems.

Cable Length

The next step is to determine the length of cable you need. The length of cable you need will depend on the distance between your camera and your recorder.

It is important to choose a cable that is the correct length. If the cable is too short, it will not reach your camera. If the cable is too long, it will create unnecessary signal loss.

Cable Gauge

The cable gauge is a measure of the thickness of the copper conductors in the cable. The thicker the conductors, the lower the resistance of the cable. This means that a cable with a lower gauge will have less signal loss than a cable with a higher gauge.

The cable gauge you need will depend on the length of the cable and the resolution of your camera. For example, a high-resolution camera will require a cable with a lower gauge than a low-resolution camera.

Cable Jacket

The cable jacket is the outer layer of the cable that protects the conductors from damage. There are two main types of cable jackets: PVC and polyethylene.

PVC is a type of plastic that is resistant to fire and water. PVC jackets are typically used for outdoor cables.

Polyethylene is a type of plastic that is flexible and lightweight. Polyethylene jackets are typically used for indoor cables.

Cable Connectors

The cable connectors are the metal plugs that connect the cable to the camera and the recorder. There are two main types of cable connectors: BNC connectors and RJ45 connectors.

BNC connectors are used with coaxial cable. BNC connectors are typically used for analog CCTV systems.

RJ45 connectors are used with Ethernet cable. RJ45 connectors are typically used for digital CCTV systems.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can select the right CCTV network cable for your needs. The right cable will help to ensure that your CCTV system performs reliably and efficiently.