Short Answer: RG59 coaxial and CAT5e/CAT6 Ethernet cables are most common for CCTV. Coaxial offers long-distance analog signal transmission, while Ethernet supports IP cameras with Power over Ethernet (PoE). Choose based on camera type, distance, power needs, and environmental factors like weather resistance.
What Are the Main Types of CCTV Cameras?
What Are the Different Types of Cables Used for CCTV Cameras?
CCTV systems primarily use RG59 coaxial, CAT5e/CAT6 Ethernet, and Siamese cables. RG59 is ideal for analog cameras, transmitting video up to 300 meters. Ethernet cables support IP cameras and deliver PoE up to 100 meters. Siamese cables combine power and video lines, simplifying installation for analog setups. Fiber optic cables are used for ultra-long distances beyond 500 meters.
How Do Environmental Factors Influence CCTV Cable Selection?
Outdoor installations require UV-resistant, waterproof cables like IP67-rated Ethernet or armored coaxial. Extreme temperatures demand jackets rated for -40°C to 75°C. Buried cables need direct burial ratings with gel-filled insulation. Industrial sites may require EMI-shielded cables to prevent signal interference from machinery.
For coastal areas, consider marine-grade cables with anti-corrosion properties. In wildfire-prone zones, plenum-rated cables with low smoke emission are critical. Below is a comparison of cable jackets for different environments:
| Environment | Recommended Jacket | Certifications |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor General | UV-resistant PE | IP66 |
| Underground | Gel-filled PVC | UL 2424 |
| Industrial | Double-shielded PUR | EN 50288-7 |
Why Should You Consider Power Over Ethernet (PoE) for Modern CCTV Systems?
PoE simplifies wiring by combining power and data in CAT5e/CAT6 cables, reducing installation costs. It supports distances up to 100 meters and enables centralized power management. PoE++ (IEEE 802.3bt) can deliver up to 90W, powering PTZ cameras with heaters. Compatibility with most IP cameras makes it future-proof for smart security upgrades.
How to Properly Install and Secure CCTV Cables?
1. Use J-hooks every 1.5 meters for horizontal runs
2. Separate power and data cables by 12+ inches to avoid interference
3. Weatherproof connections with dielectric grease and shrink tubing
4. Test continuity with a multimeter before final mounting
5. Leave service loops (30cm at cameras, 1m at DVR/NVR)
6. Label both ends of every cable for troubleshooting
When running cables through walls, use fire-stop putty to maintain building code compliance. For aerial installations, employ messenger wires with UV-resistant ties. Always maintain bend radius limits – minimum 4x cable diameter for coaxial, 1″ for Ethernet. Essential tools for professional installation include:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cable toner | Trace wire paths |
| Klein ratchet cutter | Clean cable cuts |
| Weatherproof RJ45 crimper | Outdoor connections |
“The shift towards IP-based PoE systems is irreversible – we’re seeing 80% of new installations using CAT6A for future 10Gbps readiness. However, don’t overlook hybrid solutions: combining analog coaxial with HD-over-Coax tech (HD-TVI/AHD/CVI) lets legacy systems compete with IP at lower costs. Always overspec cable ratings by 20% for climate change resilience.”
– Security Infrastructure Specialist, 15+ years in surveillance tech
FAQs
- Can I use regular electrical wire for CCTV?
- No – CCTV requires 18-14AWG stranded copper for power (24V/12V) and impedance-matched coaxial/Ethernet for signals. Household wiring lacks proper shielding and gauge consistency.
- How long can CCTV cables run?
- RG59: 300m (analog), CAT6: 100m (PoE), Fiber: 40km+. Use active PoE extenders or fiber media converters beyond standard limits.
- Do 4K cameras require special cables?
- Yes – 4K@30fps needs CAT6a (500MHz) for IP cameras or HD-over-Coax (5MP+). Avoid CCA (Copper-Clad Aluminum) wires – pure copper conductors ensure stable throughput.