To install a home security camera: choose wired PoE or Wi-Fi cameras, plan where each camera goes and how its cable reaches power or the recorder, mount it high and out of reach, connect it, then set up the app, recording and alerts. A single Wi-Fi camera only needs a power point and your Wi-Fi. A wired system needs a cable from each camera back to the recorder, which is the hardest part to do neatly. In an HDB flat, also check where your cameras are allowed to point.
Step 1: Which type of camera should I use?
| System | Power | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Wired IP (PoE) with NVR | Through the network cable from the NVR or PoE switch | Several cameras, outdoor positions, reliable recording |
| Wi-Fi camera | Power adapter at each camera, or battery | One or two indoor cameras, easy DIY |
| Analog / HD-analog with DVR | Separate power supply, usually via Siamese cable | Upgrading an existing analog system |
Step 2: Where should I put the cameras?
- Cover the entrances first: main door or gate, back door, and ground-floor windows. Then cover the living area or driveway if needed.
- Mount cameras about 2.5 to 3 m high, out of easy reach, angled slightly down to see faces.
- Do not point a camera straight at bright light or at a window from inside; glare and infrared reflection spoil the picture.
- Outdoors, mount under the eaves or a shelter, away from direct rain.
- Keep cameras away from toilets, bedrooms of other occupants and anywhere people expect privacy.
What are the rules for CCTV in an HDB flat?
HDB does not require approval for a standalone CCTV camera or smart doorbell inside your flat, as long as it does not face another flat's door or windows. For a camera outside your flat, for example in the common corridor, ask your Town Council first. Condos have their own MCST by-laws, so check with management. Businesses also have duties under the PDPA, such as putting up a CCTV notice.
Step 3: What tools and materials do I need?
- Drill with masonry bits, wall plugs and screws (often in the camera box)
- Cable: Cat5e or Cat6 for IP cameras, or Siamese/coaxial for analog
- Trunking or conduit to protect and hide cables
- Ladder, cable ties, and a tester for network cable if you crimp your own connectors
Step 4: How do I mount the cameras and run the cables?
- Plan each cable route from the camera to the recorder before drilling, and measure it.
- Hold the camera's base at the spot, mark the holes, drill, insert wall plugs and screw the base on.
- Run the cable in trunking along walls and ceilings, or through the false ceiling, and leave a little slack at each end.
- Seal any hole that goes outdoors so water cannot enter.
- Attach the camera and aim it, checking the view on the app or monitor before tightening.
Step 5: How do I connect everything?
- PoE IP cameras: plug each camera cable into a PoE port on the NVR (or a PoE switch), connect the NVR to your router and a monitor, then power on the NVR.
- Wi-Fi cameras: plug in the power adapter and add the camera to your Wi-Fi through the maker's app. See how to set up an IP camera wirelessly.
- Analog cameras: connect the coaxial cable to the DVR's video inputs and the power pair to the power supply.
A small UPS (battery backup) for the recorder and router keeps recording through short power cuts.
Step 6: How do I set up recording and the app?
- Activate the recorder with a strong admin password and set the date and time.
- Check the hard disk and set the recording schedule (continuous or motion).
- Enable the brand's cloud service and add the recorder to the phone app. See how to connect a recorder to your phone.
- Set motion or human detection areas and alerts.
- Walk past each camera and check the recording plays back correctly.
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Frequently asked questions
- Can I install CCTV myself?
- Yes, especially Wi-Fi cameras or a small PoE kit. Running cables neatly through walls and ceilings is the hardest part; for that many people use an installer.
- Do I need HDB approval for CCTV in my flat?
- Not for a standalone camera inside your flat that does not face another flat's door or windows. For a camera outside the flat, ask your Town Council first.
- Do security cameras need internet?
- Not to record to a recorder or memory card. Internet is needed to view the cameras and get alerts on your phone.
Want this done for you?
We supply and install CCTV, door access, video intercom and Wi-Fi systems across Singapore, from Hikvision, Uniview, Vstarcam, TP-Link, Ruijie and EZVIZ. Send a photo or floor plan and we will recommend a setup and a fixed price.