Setup IP Cameras Using Existing Coax Cables
For many years, building security cameras utilized coaxial cable, or coax, to connect back to a recording device. These types of cables, known as RG-6, RG-11, or RG-59, saw widespread use in the earlier days of video because they were good at transmitting the analog signal used in those applications.
Today, the world is connected digitally. With that change came a change in the preferred type of cable we use to connect our devices. When installing a modern-day IP-based security camera, Cat5a/Cat6 Ethernet cabling is the standard. However, this means buildings that were wired using older coax cable are no longer directly compatible with newer IP cameras. This leaves people wondering, is there any way to reuse the existing cabling, or will they need to take on the potentially expensive task of pulling all new cable? This article will review some of the options one has when looking to upgrade to IP cameras in a building with coax cable.
POE over Coax Converters
Many manufacturers have identified this problem of running newer IP cameras over older cabling, and have developed solutions. POE-Over-Coax (POC) adapters can be placed at each end of an existing coax cable to provide compatibility to the IP camera and Ethernet switch at each end, while taking advantage of the existing coax cable in between:
These adapters offer an alternative to running new cable from the POE switch to the IP camera. Not only can these adapters take advantage of existing coax cable, but they are also capable of connecting cameras at further distances due to the higher power output from the adapter.
Considerations When Using Existing Coax Cables
When considering adapters for using existing coax cabling, there are a number of factors to consider including:
- Length of existing coax runs
- Depending on the length of the run, adapters that can supply more power or transmit data at higher speeds may be required. Some adapters may require an external power supply for longer runs, while shorter runs might not.
- Type of connector being used at each end
- Coax cable used for analog security cameras typically use a BNC-style connector at each end, and so many adapters provide this type of connection as well. Other connector types exist, and so some adapters provide a simple two-wire interface that can be adapted to any type of cable.
- Type of cabling being used
- RG-59, RG-6, and RG-11 type cables may look similar, but are built to different specifications which will ultimately affect the total distance an adapter can successfully connect a POE device.
- Integrity of existing cabling
- If the existing analog camera is not functioning or is displaying a distorted image, it may be due to an issue with the existing coax cabling. Test the integrity of the existing coax cables before deciding to use a POC adapter.
- Number of cameras being connected
- Most adapters are sold in pairs so one can be placed at each end of the existing cable. When connecting a large number of devices, some manufacturers offer higher-channel devices that can connect more devices to a single unit. This may be more cost effective than using many individual adapters.
- Willingness to invest in updated infrastructure
- POC adapters can make more sense when looking at installing IP-based cameras in a space one does not own. Installing adapters is less invasive than running all-new cabling, and building owners might prefer tenants to leave existing cables in place. In spaces that will be occupied for the long term, investing in updated cabling may be more prudent.
- Ongoing maintenance
- Introducing POC adapters into the signal path also introduces an additional point of failure; if a camera is not working, an additional troubleshooting layer is required to determine if the adapters are functioning properly.
- Cost
- Ultimately, the decision to use POC adapters vs. installing new cabling will come down to the cost of each approach. POC adapters can be expensive to purchase and install, and many shorter runs can be redone with Cat6 for less than the cost of a pair of quality adapters.
Using existing coax cable can expedite deployment, lower costs in specific scenarios, and minimize disruption to your building. However, it may also introduce additional points of failure, necessitate compatible POC adapters, and sometimes prove more costly than simply installing new cables.
Modern Solutions for Simplified Security
If you’re looking to upgrade your security system with reliable and cutting-edge technology, explore Verkada’s range of IP cameras and security solutions. Verkada offers innovative products designed to seamlessly integrate with both new and existing infrastructure, providing you with high-quality video surveillance, AI-powered search features, easy setup, and cloud-based management.
Enhance your security system with the latest in surveillance technology.
