camera-newbie 0 Posted March 26, 2012 Ok.. Parts are in the mail -- I'll be installing one IP camera that will be powered by POE and 2 CNB analog domes .. I'm planning to run all CAT5 and gather the CNB's come with their equivalent of baluns (please let me know if that is not the case!) but am a bit leery about running the CAT5 cable out in the open between the camera and where it disappears into the attic and eventually to the encoder or network switch. Do you guys usually just use EMT for this sort of thing or some of that water-tight grey tubing like you might find for a spa or similar 'wet' location? I'm just trying to figure out my game plan ahead of time. I still need to buy a box of CAT5e as my current box is almost gone -- I'm planning on using another box of Coleman cable #96263 in some color other than blue or white since my attic is full of cables like that.. It'd be nice to be able to tell the difference between regular CAT5 for voice/IP vs camera data. By the way.. If I run these cables containing the 12VAC for the analog cameras alongside existing Ethernet cables, what's the chance that the 12VAC might induce signal issues onto the regular ethernet cables next to it? I've got a ton of cable hangers in the attic to route the IP/voice cables from points in the house to the garage distribution panels. I can separate if needed.. TIA! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jxk716 0 Posted March 27, 2012 and gather the CNB's come with their equivalent of baluns (please let me know if that is not the case!) Usually baluns are separate. the CNB VCM 24vf have a BNC video output. Do you guys usually just use EMT for this sort of thing or some of that water-tight grey tubing like you might find for a spa or similar 'wet' location? I'm just trying to figure out my game plan ahead of time. At my home, I've used PVC conduit, junction boxes and flex tube where needed. It was least expensive and easy to work with. But, yes, if you plan to run cable outside it is best to protect it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
camera-newbie 0 Posted March 27, 2012 Correct.. (about the BNC video output), but the docs for that camera indicate that it comes with something that pretty much looks like a balun in that package.. I guess if that isn't the case I'll find some locally.. I'm thinking I might bite the bullet and use EMT and just assume I'll paint any exposed portions to match the house. I guess I'll be using my hammer-drill to get into the stucco.. but am hoping I can just route things on the eaves.. Luckily we've got some helpers around the house that can help out with fishing cables. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jxk716 0 Posted March 27, 2012 I think you are referring to the green connector on that camera. It is for power. The grey and black connector is for RS 485 (the VCMs do not have those) Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted March 27, 2012 If I run these cables containing the 12VAC for the analog cameras alongside existing Ethernet cables, what's the chance that the 12VAC might induce signal issues onto the regular ethernet cables next to it? Zero chance of problem. And the others are correct, the cameras DO NOT come with baluns... fortunately there are lots of options out there, but as we've seen in other recent threads, there are some shady online sellers hawking straight-through connectors as baluns, so be sure to check in here before you actually buy something if you're not sure Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
camera-newbie 0 Posted March 27, 2012 thanks guys! I guess I was misled by the online PDF manual which sort of implies a balun (or 1/2 balun?) comes with the camera but was listed as "optional". Anyway, in terms of buying one, how about one from this page or this page? Is there a better place to buy from? I'm assuming in my case I can get away with passive baluns since none of my runs are anywhere near 1000ft -- I think the longest is perhaps 50-75' max. By the way.. Should I get baluns with surge protection? Is that primarily for locations with lightning and/or power issues on a regular basis? Is this a common problem I should be worried about? If so, I don't mind spending an extra ~$10/balun if it keeps the cameras protected/isolated.. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Soundy 1 Posted March 27, 2012 thanks guys! I guess I was misled by the online PDF manual which sort of implies a balun (or 1/2 balun?) comes with the camera but was listed as "optional". If you're talking about the UTP cable... you're right, it LOOKS like a balun, but it's unclear if that's actually the case. It's optional, either way, so you won't find it bundled with the camera. Anyway, in terms of buying one, how about one from this page or this page? Is there a better place to buy from? Never dealt with either of those sellers, so I can't give you any direction there... however, we use this style (GEM branded) with the VCM-24VFs, and they do fit perfectly in the back-box; in fact, the balun and the BNC connector just wedge nice and snug in the back-box to hold the wires in place while you mount it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
camera-newbie 0 Posted March 27, 2012 Works for me.. I'll order a few pairs! Thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
