Appendix C: Facts About Digital Wireless Cameras
Appendix C: Facts About Digital Wireless Cameras
Wired VS Wireless Cameras
A wired camera has a video cable that transmits the video signal from the camera to a recording or viewing device.
A wireless camera does not use a video cable. Instead, it wirelessly transmits the video signal to a wireless receiver that is connected to your recording or viewing device. Although the typical digital wireless camera is priced slightly higher than a wired camera, wireless cameras can provide cost savings compared to standard wired setups. For example, wireless cameras do not require cabling to be run between the camera and the viewing / recording device, which reduces installation time and cost.
Does a wireless camera require power?
Yes. Wireless cameras require two power sources: one connected to the camera, and the other to the receiver.
How far can a wireless camera transmit a video signal?
In an open field (with line of sight), a typical wireless camera has a range between 250 to 450 feet. In a closed
Cubical walls, drywall, glass, and windows generally do not degrade wireless signal strength. Brick, concrete floors and walls degrade signal strength1. Trees that are in the line of sight of the wireless camera and receiver may impact signal strength.
The signal range also depends on whether there are competing signals using the same frequency as the camera. For example, signals from cordless phones, routers may affect signal strength.
Range Limiting Factors1
Reflection | Scattering | Refraction | Diffraction | Attenuation |
The signal | The signal | The signal | The signal | The signal |
reflects back | scatters back | bends as it | changes | strength |
| into multiple | travels through | direction as it | weakens as it |
| new signals | an object (i.e | passes around | passes through |
|
| glass window) | an object | an object |
1Source: Xirrus (2010).
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