Cheapest Way to Extend Cctv Camera Cable: Easy DIY Hacks

If you have a CCTV camera, you may need to extend the cable sometimes. Maybe your camera is far from the recorder. Or the cable is too short. Buying a new long cable can cost money. But there are cheaper ways to extend your CCTV camera cable. In this article, we will explain the easiest and cheapest methods to do this. You do not need to spend a lot.

Why Extend CCTV Camera Cable?

CCTV cameras need cables to send the video signal. Sometimes, the place where you want to put the camera is far away. The cable that comes with the camera may not be enough. If the cable is too short, the camera will not work well. So, you must add more cable to reach the place you want.

Extending the cable is simple. But you must do it the right way. If you connect the cables badly, the video quality will drop. Or the camera will not work at all. So, read carefully and follow the steps.

Types of CCTV Cables

Before we start, let’s know the common types of cables used in CCTV cameras:

• Coaxial Cable (RG59 or RG6): Used for analog cameras. It carries video signals well.
• Ethernet Cable (Cat5 or Cat6): Used for IP cameras. It carries video and power through PoE (Power over Ethernet).
• Power Cable: Separate cable that supplies power to the camera if not using PoE.

Knowing the cable type is important. It helps you choose the right way to extend it.

Cheapest Ways to Extend CCTV Camera Cable

1. Using A Cable Coupler Or Connector

This is the simplest and cheapest way. You buy a cable coupler or connector. It joins two cables together. You do not need to cut or solder. Just plug the cables into the coupler.

Steps:

1. Buy a cable coupler for your cable type (coaxial or Ethernet).
2. Get an extra cable of the same type and length needed.
3. Connect the original cable and new cable into the coupler.
4. Make sure connections are tight and secure.

This method is cheap. You only pay for the coupler and the extra cable. It is good for short extensions. But for very long cables, signal loss can happen.

2. Use A Cable Splicing Kit

If you want a stronger connection, use a cable splicing kit. This kit helps you join two cables by cutting and connecting wires inside.

Steps:

1. Cut the cable ends cleanly.
2. Strip the insulation carefully from each wire.
3. Match the wires by color or pin number.
4. Use the kit’s connectors to join wires.
5. Cover the joined wires with insulation tape.

This method is cheap and works well. But you need some patience and care to do it right. The connection is stronger and lasts longer.

3. Use Ethernet Extender For Ip Cameras

If you have an IP camera, you may use Ethernet cable. Ethernet cables work well up to 100 meters. If you want to go further, use an Ethernet extender.

What is an Ethernet extender?

It is a small device that boosts the signal over longer distances. You need two extenders: one near the camera, one near the recorder.

Steps:

1. Buy two Ethernet extenders.
2. Connect one extender to the camera and cable.
3. Connect the other extender near the recorder.
4. Use extra Ethernet cable between extenders.

This method is cheap compared to buying a very long special cable. It keeps the video quality good even at long distances.

4. Use A Powerline Adapter For Ip Cameras

If running long cables is hard, try a powerline adapter. This device sends video signal using your home’s electric wires.

How to use it:

1. Plug one adapter near the camera and connect it to the camera’s Ethernet port.
2. Plug the other adapter near the recorder and connect it.
3. Use your home’s electric wiring to send data.

This method avoids long cables outside. It is cheap if you already have powerline adapters. But speed depends on your electric wiring quality.

5. Use Wireless Transmission

Another cheap way is to use wireless transmission. You use a small device to send video wirelessly from camera to recorder.

Steps:

1. Buy a wireless video transmitter and receiver.
2. Connect transmitter to the camera.
3. Connect receiver to the recorder.
4. Place devices where they get good signal.

This method is low cost and easy. But walls and distance can reduce signal quality. It works best for short range.

Credit: www.cctvcameraworld.com

Important Tips When Extending CCTV Cable

• Use the same cable type: Mixing cable types can cause problems.
• Keep cable length under limit: Too long cables lose signal quality.
• Protect connections: Use waterproof connectors if outside.
• Avoid sharp bends: Bending cables too much can damage wires.
• Test before fixing: Test your connection before closing everything.

Credit: www.securitycameraking.com

Comparison Table of Extension Methods

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Cheapest Material To Extend Cctv Cable?

Using RG59 coaxial cable is often the cheapest way to extend CCTV cables.

Can I Use Ethernet Cable To Extend Cctv Cable?

Yes, Ethernet cable works well for some CCTV systems using baluns.

How Long Can I Extend A Cctv Cable Without Loss?

Keep extensions under 300 feet to avoid signal loss and maintain quality.

Do I Need Special Connectors For Cctv Cable Extension?

Yes, BNC connectors or compression connectors ensure a secure and stable connection.

Conclusion

Extending a CCTV camera cable does not have to be expensive. You can use simple and cheap methods. Cable couplers and splicing kits are low-cost options. Ethernet extenders work great for IP cameras. Powerline adapters and wireless transmitters help where cables are hard to run.

Choose the method that fits your camera type and distance. Always protect your connections from weather. Test your setup before fixing everything. This way, your CCTV system will work well without costing much.

Remember, simple tools and careful work can save money. You do not need to buy expensive cables. Follow these tips and enjoy a safe home with extended CCTV coverage.