There must be many reasons why wireless outdoor security cameras are so popular and continue to be. Many people are drawn to the ease of use and installation since most wireless cameras are plug-and-play devices. One big drawback against most cameras is running cables and wires all over the place. Wireless security cameras are the solution to this wiring problem. Since the cameras themselves are small and easy to install or mount just about anywhere, it is great for home owners who might choose to move the camera from time to time before they find out what the most effective position is.
There are some problems, however, that still plague wireless cameras as with most wireless devices. That is the wireless signal that allows communication and transmission of video feed between the camera and the receiver. There are numerous ways to work around any signal problems but it takes planning to avoid money wasting trials.
There are three frequencies that commercially available wireless security cameras will use. The lower frequencies mean a stronger signal especially when it comes to passing through objects and obstacles. A wireless outdoor security camera will usually have to contend with at least some walls since the receiver is usually installed inside the building with the camera on the outside. The ideal set up is a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver but we know that is almost never the case. The best way is to first understand your options and figure out what your system is going to look like.
The lowest frequency available is 900MHz. This is best for penetrating concrete and metal walls which can really hinder a wireless signal. Not too many wireless devices use 900MHz frequency so there is little interference plus a strong signal making this a good frequency for small systems. The reason we mention that it is only good for a small system is that at 900MHz, there are only two channels available so a security system on this frequency is limited in size.
Next in line are 2.4GHz wireless security cameras. The higher frequency is very commonly used among wireless devices such as home phones, network routers, wireless printers, keyboard, mice and just about anything else you can think of. For this reason, it can be difficult to install a 2.4GHz camera without running into an interference problem. Even though there are 12 channels available at this frequency, in a densely populated area it is rare that there are not other devices clogging the channels.
A relatively new introduction is the 5.8GHz wireless camera. It offers up to eight channels so you can have a decent sized system. There is a huge problem with weak signal especially when there are objects obstructing the path between receiver and transmitter. Currently, manufacturers are working to improve the quality of their hardware with better antennas and transmitters using 5.8GHz technology.
Understand the wattage of each wireless camera system to get the most range out of your wireless outdoor security cameras. Do not always go for the cheapest camera since the transmitter output might be too weak for the range you require.