Wireless CCTV: Connecting a Burglar Alarm System, Part 2

January 13th, 2021

In part one of this series about integrating wireless internet CCTV cameras and home security systems we described the equipment that you need to add internet viewing and text message alerts to existing home security systems.  Here in part two, you will find out how to connect the wiring from the I/O port of your camera to the I/O port in your alarm box.

The physical connection is very easy.  First let’s look at the alarm box.  You will need to remove the cover, but make sure that any anti-tamper mechanism is switched off first!  Choose the best point for the wire to pass through the box wall – there are usually a number of pressed potential openings marked on the casing and the one you choose will depend on where the box is situated.  Pass the end of the cable through the opening into the alarm box, then connect two strands to the digital input connectors of the port, and two strands to the output connectors.

Next you will need to run the wiring to the camera and connect it up.  It is always best if you can place the wiring where it will not get trodden on, as this may in time break the strands.  You also need to consider possible tampering.  If this wire is cut, your home security system will still work, as will your wireless CCTV camera, but they will not work together which is our objective here.  Therefore, it is best if the wiring is hidden within a stud wall or a ceiling, if this is at all possible. Bringing the wiring to the alarm box from the wall behind it is also a very good idea if you can manage it, as this makes it practically inaccessible to intruders.

The final part of the physical installation is the wireless CCTV camera end.  Find the output connectors of the I/O port and connect the same colored strands that you connected to the alarm box input connectors.  Make sure you re-check the manuals to be certain of connecting the wires the right way round; it makes a difference and if you get it wrong you could damage your wireless CCTV equipment.  Similarly, take the strands that you connected to the alarm’s output connectors and join these to the camera’s inputs, again making sure you get them the right way round.

Having connected the wiring, you are ready to configure the alarm box and wireless CCTV camera to make everything work.  Have your camera manual and your alarm system manual at the ready, and then take a look at the final part in this series, part three, to find out how to achieve this. If you have any questions about the process please contact your local provider in Monterey, CA.