Camera Location Tips

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DID YOU KNOW? Most issues with recording, night vision, and video quality are based on incorrect location of camera installation? Any product that has not been installed in accordance with the installation instructions or damaged due to incorrect installation will void any warranty claim.

Follow all these tips to prevent such issues:

• Cables and connections should be kept out of the weather. Even though outdoor cameras are weather and water-resistant, prolonged exposure to adverse weather conditions such as sunlight or excessive moisture, may eventually damage the internal components of the camera and adversely affect its performance. Run cables inside a wall cavity or other protected enclosure, and ensure that all wiring and connectors are insulated and protected from moisture.
  • If installing outdoors, ensure the camera is mounted below an eave or roof covering to reduce exposure and extend the lifespan of the camera.
    
• Although the sky looks nice when you look at the live view from your cameras, it is an unlikely direction for an offender to approach. Make sure your cameras have minimal sky in it as the light in daylight can make the foreground of the image darker. Also see Why Is My Camera Feed Turning Back and White

• It’s recommended to mount your cameras at an elevated position where the direction of activity is cross-wise in the camera's field of view. Place your cameras as close to the area of interest as practicable.  If mounted too high, the distance may be extended beyond the camera's PIR range. The best position for a bullet camera is above looking slightly down, keeping in mind the details you are looking for. Here is an example for 2 different types of cameras and the max distance for recording:  

  The SWIFI-CORECAM has a PIR range of up to 26ft / 8m from the sensor's location, not the floor distance.

  The PRO-4KRL camera has a PIR range of up to Up to 32ft/10m from the sensor's location, not the floor distance.

  
  See:

  • Why Does My Recorder or Stand-alone Camera Stops Recording After A Minute
  • Why does my Wi-Fi Camera stop recording motion prematurely
• The distance between the camera and subject is a factor in how often it triggers the camera to record. The PIR can reliably detect movement up to 30ft/9m; movement beyond this range may or may not be detected. It will less likely detect heat and motion from a neighbour's property. Here are examples of ideal distances and angles of view:
  
• The viewing angle of the camera's location can also cause unwanted recordings or none.
  
  See:
  • Understanding and Addressing False Triggers
  • How to Stop Recording When There Is No Human Movement
• Environmental factors can also cause unwanted recordings or none:
  • How Settings and Surroundings Impact Motion Detection
  • Preventing Insects from Triggering Your Security Cameras

The user manuals for your recorder and camera models provide more tips for DIY installation:

• Watch our video for Swann General Camera Mounting Tips.
• Check the recorder manual's Thermal-Sensing Camera Tips page.
• Check the camera manual's Camera Location Tips.