How to Connect Security Cameras to a DVR

Whether you are technologically savvy or not, you will easily be able to connect your security cameras to a digital video recorder (DVR), whether they are at your business or around your home.

Step 1 - Figure Out How Much Cable You Will Need

This is going to depend on how far your DVR is going to be placed in reference to your security camera. Thus meaning, you need to decide where exactly your security camera is going to be located.  For retail locations, the camera should be focused on the cash register as well as one that focuses on the point of entry.

For homes, the best place to focus a security camera is on gathering areas and where you might have any valuables located. For a home, you should also have a camera focused on each entryway.

Step 2 - Mount the Camera

Mount the camera(s) to the walls or ceiling keeping in mind that the higher elevation you place the camera at, the fewer blind spots you will have. You could also place the camera on top of a piece of high furniture. 

Step 3 - Hook Things Up

Now that your camera has been placed, it’s time to hook it up. Make sure the security camera is plugged in and is working. Then plug the male BNC connector into the female BNC input on the DVR. It simply pushes and twists in. Do the same with the other end of the cable by plugging the male BNC connector into the female BNC input on the security camera. Plug in the DVR and you have now successfully hooked your security camera up to your DVR. 

Secure the cable by taping it to the wall, run it down to the floor, and secure it out of the way, preferably along the baseboard of your floor.  This will ensure that nobody trips over it as well as keep your room looking like a normal living space instead of a police interrogation room.

Step 4 - Program Your DVR

Since there are many types of DVRs, it truly depends on the type you have to properly set it up. There are dedicated DVRs that come with a monitor and can record typically up to a month of surveillance. Or you can turn your PC into a video recording system by having a DVR card installed (usually done by a professional). Or lastly, you can use a DVD interface DVR.  However, this last option will only allow you to record as much video as will fit onto each DVD. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines to properly set the timer and set up the recording so that you can have a piece of mind knowing that your home or business is still being watched, even when you are not physically there.