Surveillance System Cabling

[vwphone]

Hello all.

I am trying to add surveillance systems to the list of items that I can offer my clients.
Through my hardware supplier, I am able to access a couple of very good manufacturers, Samsung being my favorite.
I have a client that wants a system and he is used to buying systems that you can get at cosco and home depot so he is unable to swallow $10000 for an 8 camera system that is degradable to 16 cameras. I don't want to get into a discussion about brands.

My question is about the cabling. I would like to have someone break down the differences between the cabling options. I know that shielded direct buried cat5e is an option for cables to be put in underground conduit if I go with IP Cameras. I also know that Siamese RG59 18/2 cable is an option for analog cameras so...What are my limitations on resolution, digital communication, camera types, etc. The client wants me to do the cabling as a separate installation from the system and I need to know what kind of cable I should run. I think we are going to go with analog coax camera but I want to hear from you guys before I start pulling cables through conduit. Thanks!

 

[wires]

Since IP is the coming technology and you can run analog (with baluns) over twisted pair I'd go with cat5e. Shielding is not necessary.

 

[mforrence]

For underground, distance may play a role. You can go significantly farther with coax vs cat5. Either one will have potential lightning issues. Every underground conduit will eventually fill with water - you must use duct rated cable. In a perfect world, you'd use fiber for outdoor, with separate power. The world is certainly going IP, especially in environments where cabling to a single DVR becomes difficult. For small organization, analog remains a viable player. Samsung is a good choice. I agree, it's tough to compete with Costco and Sams's Club. Some US states/locations have regulations regarding security contractors - be aware.

 

[CableContractor]

We all know it's going IP. So, plan accordingly and install a minimum of Cat5e for all your surveillance jobs. If you install analog systems, cable them up with Cat5e and use the baluns (about $10-$20/pair). Then, when the client can afford to upgrade to IP, simply plug the existing cables to your new IP System/Cameras; assuming they all have POE ports built in. Cost difference between RG59 siamese cable vs. Cat5e is about 3-5 cents/foot.

How to overcome the Costco brand of systems? 1) most of the systems they sell at ridiculous prices are ANALOG (500-600 TV Lines) all made in China; 2) most of the kits come with RCA cables in lengths of 50 feet or so, really RCA? Yes RCA.; 3) they all say internet viewable, but you still need to program this feature (port forwarding in your firewall etc); 4)Warranty? Manufacturer's warranty through the store depending on manufacturer; 5) Tech Support...good luck with that; 6) System and cameras still need to be professionally installed if the homeowner is not a DIYer. The list goes on, but you get the jist.

If you want a system that comes close to Costco Prices....look at HIKVision. HIKVision is the OEM manufacturer for many brands that you've already seen used; including the one you mentioned. They have 4-16 port IP Systems and 1.3 to 5 MP cameras that are very affordable. I have made HIKVision my go to system for price conscious customers. And yes, they are a Chinese manufacturer (one of the biggest manufacturers in the world).