How do you test the location of the camera before mounting it?

[flaudia402]

Getting ready to install an 8 or 16 channel system in my home. House is already built, so having to run wiring to existing soffits and eaves. I have a silly question, but how do you go about test fitting the cameras to see if that's the location you should install them? I'm assuming you run the network cable through your home (not the attic), directly to the NVR and use your phone to see what the camera is seeing? Thanks!

 

[sebastiantombs]

For testing purposes, find a way to get a CAT cable outside that is long enough to reach anywhere you might want a camera. Allow extra for "dressing" it to keep things tidy and safe. Get a 5 gallon bucket and a 2x4-8'. Put the 2x4 in the bucket and fill it with sand, gravel or rocks to stabilize the 2x4. Mount your test camera on the 2x4 and have at it. Test by having a friend wearing a hoodie or cap "sneak" around, both day and night. If you can identify them that's a good spot to mount a camera.

 

[looney2ns]

Test each location for a minimum of 24hrs.

Also see this:

 

[dudemaar]

Bucket of rocks and 2x4! best idea ever!


btw I was on holidays when the first location was chosen and mounted.

 

[samplenhold]

I never really liked the bucket-o-rocks method. I just use a clamp to clamp the 2x4 mount to a step ladder.

 

[sebastiantombs]

Then again not everybody mounts three cameras at a time when testing

 

[Jessie.slimer]

Also, as I learned here, it helps to have a varifocal you can use in your test location before buying a fixed lens. I use my IPC-T2231T-ZS at every new location to get a rough idea of what lens to get now.