How to Run Security Camera Cables 2025

Professional guide to installing ethernet, coaxial, and power cables for security cameras in New Zealand

⏱️ 30 min read 🔧 DIY Guide ⚡ Electrical Work

Security Camera Cable Types

Choose the right cable type for your camera system to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Cat6 Ethernet Cable

Use: IP cameras (PoE)
Max Distance: 100 meters
Power Delivery: Yes (PoE)
Cost: NZ$1-3 per meter

Pros:

  • Single cable solution
  • High bandwidth
  • Reliable connection

Cons:

  • Distance limitations
  • Requires PoE switch/injector

RG6 Coaxial Cable

Use: Analog HD cameras
Max Distance: 500 meters
Power Delivery: No (separate power needed)
Cost: NZ$1-2 per meter

Pros:

  • Long distance capable
  • Interference resistant

Cons:

  • Requires separate power
  • Lower resolution potential

Siamese Cable

Use: Analog cameras
Max Distance: 300 meters
Power Delivery: Yes (built-in power)
Cost: NZ$2-4 per meter

Pros:

  • Video and power combined
  • Cost effective

Cons:

  • Bulkier than ethernet
  • Limited to analog

Tools & Materials Required

Having the right tools makes cable installation safer, faster, and more professional.

Essential Tools

Drill with bits

Hole drilling through walls

NZ$50-200

Fish tape/wire puller

Cable routing through walls

NZ$30-80

Cable tester

Verify connections work

NZ$40-100

Crimping tool

Install connectors

NZ$25-60

Cable stripper

Remove cable sheathing

NZ$15-30

Professional Tools

Wall scanner

Locate studs and pipes

NZ$50-150

Hole saw set

Clean wall penetrations

NZ$40-100

Cable pulling system

Long cable runs

NZ$100-300

Network tester

Advanced cable testing

NZ$200-500

Materials Needed

Cable (appropriate type)

Data/power transmission

Varies by length

Connectors (RJ45/BNC)

Terminate cables

NZ$1-5 each

Cable conduit

Protection in exposed areas

NZ$2-8 per meter

Sealant/caulk

Weatherproof penetrations

NZ$15-25

Cable ties/clips

Secure and organize cables

NZ$10-20

💰 Budget Estimate

Basic tool kit (DIY) NZ$200-400
Professional tool kit NZ$500-1,200
Cable (per 100m run) NZ$100-300
Connectors & materials NZ$50-150

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Follow this professional process for safe and reliable cable installation.

1

Planning & Preparation

⏱️ 1-2 hours
  • Measure cable runs and add 20% extra length
  • Identify wall studs, pipes, and electrical lines
  • Choose entry/exit points for minimal drilling
  • Gather all tools and materials
  • Check local building codes and permits
2

Route Planning

⏱️ 30-60 minutes
  • Plan shortest, most direct paths possible
  • Avoid electrical wiring (maintain 300mm separation)
  • Use existing penetrations where possible
  • Consider future expansion needs
  • Mark cable paths with chalk or tape
3

Drilling & Penetrations

⏱️ 2-4 hours
  • Drill pilot holes first, then expand to size
  • Use appropriate drill bits for wall materials
  • Angle holes slightly downward for water drainage
  • Install wall anchors or grommets as needed
  • Clean up debris immediately
4

Cable Installation

⏱️ 3-6 hours
  • Pull cables through conduit if using
  • Use fish tape for wall cavity routing
  • Avoid sharp bends and kinks in cables
  • Label cables at both ends immediately
  • Test continuity before final connections
5

Termination & Testing

⏱️ 1-2 hours
  • Install appropriate connectors (RJ45/BNC)
  • Test all connections with cable tester
  • Verify power delivery if using PoE
  • Connect cameras and test video quality
  • Document cable paths and connections
6

Weatherproofing & Cleanup

⏱️ 1-2 hours
  • Seal all exterior penetrations with caulk
  • Install conduit covers and cable protectors
  • Secure cables with appropriate clips
  • Test system under various conditions
  • Clean up work area and dispose of waste

Cable Routing Techniques

Master these techniques for professional-quality cable installation in various scenarios.

Through Exterior Walls

Moderate

Steps:

  1. Drill from inside out to prevent water entry
  2. Use 15-20mm drill bit for single cable
  3. Angle hole slightly downward (5-10 degrees)
  4. Install weatherproof grommet or conduit
  5. Seal completely with exterior-grade caulk

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Check for insulation or vapor barriers
  • Use masonry bits for brick/concrete

Through Wall Cavities

Challenging

Steps:

  1. Locate wall studs with scanner
  2. Drill access holes in wall plates
  3. Use fish tape or wire puller
  4. Work systematically from camera to recorder
  5. Patch access holes when complete

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Use flexible drill bits for tight spaces
  • Consider hiring professional for complex runs

Attic/Ceiling Installation

Moderate

Steps:

  1. Access attic space safely with proper lighting
  2. Follow ceiling joists for support
  3. Avoid insulation displacement
  4. Drop cables down interior walls
  5. Use cable guides at sharp turns

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Wear protective equipment
  • Mark cable paths before installation

Basement/Crawl Space

Easy-Moderate

Steps:

  1. Run cables along floor joists
  2. Use cable staples every 1-2 meters
  3. Maintain proper clearance from utilities
  4. Protect cables in high-traffic areas
  5. Ensure adequate ventilation around cables

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Use moisture-resistant cables
  • Avoid running near heating ducts

Weatherproofing & Protection

Proper weatherproofing is critical in New Zealand's challenging climate conditions.

🏠 Exterior Wall Penetrations

  • Drill holes at slight downward angle (5-10°)
  • Use weatherproof grommets or conduit fittings
  • Apply exterior-grade silicone sealant completely around
  • Install drip loop before entering building
  • Inspect and re-seal annually

🌧️ Coastal/High-Moisture Areas

  • Use marine-grade sealants and conduits
  • Apply additional protective coatings
  • Inspect connections quarterly
  • Consider underground cable routing
  • Use stainless steel hardware only

❄️ Alpine/Extreme Weather

  • Use rated cables for temperature extremes
  • Provide additional mechanical protection
  • Allow for thermal expansion/contraction
  • Use freeze-resistant sealants
  • Plan for snow loading on conduits

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Solve installation issues quickly with these professional troubleshooting techniques.

🔧 Cable Length Too Short

Common Causes:

  • Poor measurement
  • Unexpected obstacles
  • Routing changes

Solutions:

  • Add ethernet extension (not recommended for long runs)
  • Install network switch/PoE injector at midpoint
  • Replace with properly sized cable

Prevention:

Always add 20-30% to initial measurements

🔧 No Network Connection

Common Causes:

  • Damaged cable
  • Poor termination
  • Wrong wiring standard

Solutions:

  • Test cable with network tester
  • Re-terminate connectors using T568B standard
  • Replace damaged cable sections

Prevention:

Test cables before and after installation

🔧 Power Issues (PoE)

Common Causes:

  • Cable too long
  • Insufficient power budget
  • Non-PoE switch

Solutions:

  • Use PoE+ switch for higher power cameras
  • Install PoE injector near camera
  • Upgrade to PoE++ for demanding cameras

Prevention:

Calculate power requirements before installation

🔧 Water Damage

Common Causes:

  • Poor sealing
  • Incorrect hole angle
  • Missing weatherproofing

Solutions:

  • Re-seal all penetrations with quality caulk
  • Install drip loops in cable
  • Add weatherproof enclosures

Prevention:

Proper weatherproofing during initial installation

⚠️ Safety Guidelines

Follow these essential safety rules to protect yourself and your property during installation.

Electrical Safety

  • Turn off power at breaker when working near electrical
  • Maintain 300mm minimum from power cables
  • Use insulated tools near electrical components
  • Never work during storms or wet conditions
  • Test for live wires before drilling

Physical Safety

  • Use proper ladder safety techniques
  • Wear safety glasses when drilling
  • Use dust masks in dusty environments
  • Ensure adequate lighting in work areas
  • Have someone assist with long cable pulls

Property Protection

  • Use wall scanner to avoid pipes and wiring
  • Protect floors and furniture during work
  • Seal all penetrations immediately after drilling
  • Clean up debris promptly
  • Document work for future reference

🚨 Emergency Information

Electrical Emergency

Turn off power at main breaker, call electrician if needed

Water Damage

Stop work immediately, dry area completely before continuing

Structural Damage

Stop drilling, assess damage, consult building professional

When to Hire a Professional

✅ DIY Appropriate

  • Simple single-story installations
  • Exterior wall mounting only
  • Short cable runs (under 30m)
  • No electrical complications
  • Basic IP camera systems
  • You have necessary tools

🏢 Hire Professional

  • Multi-story installations
  • Complex wall cavity routing
  • Near electrical systems
  • Commercial buildings
  • Underground cable runs
  • Insurance/warranty requirements

Cost Comparison

Installation Type DIY Cost Professional Cost Time Required
Simple 4-camera system NZ$200-400 NZ$600-1,000 1-2 days DIY vs 4-8 hours pro
Complex 8-camera system NZ$500-800 NZ$1,200-2,000 2-3 days DIY vs 1-2 days pro
Commercial installation Not recommended NZ$2,000-5,000+ Professional only

Testing & Validation

Proper testing ensures your installation will work reliably for years to come.

📋 Pre-Installation Testing

  • ☐ Verify cable quality with continuity tester
  • ☐ Test PoE power delivery capacity
  • ☐ Check cable lengths against requirements
  • ☐ Verify connector quality

🔌 During Installation

  • ☐ Test each cable run before final termination
  • ☐ Verify no damage occurred during pulling
  • ☐ Check continuity at multiple points
  • ☐ Document cable paths and connections

✅ Post-Installation

  • ☐ Full network connectivity test
  • ☐ Camera power-up and configuration
  • ☐ Video quality verification
  • ☐ Weather seal integrity check
  • ☐ System performance under load

Ongoing Maintenance

Regular maintenance prevents problems and extends cable life.

🗓️ Monthly

  • Visual inspection of exposed cables
  • Check weatherproof seals
  • Test camera connectivity

🗓️ Quarterly

  • Clean camera lenses and housings
  • Re-tighten cable connections
  • Inspect for rodent or weather damage

🗓️ Annually

  • Professional system health check
  • Re-seal weatherproof penetrations
  • Update system documentation
  • Plan for upgrades or expansions

Your Next Steps

1. Plan Your Installation

Use our security layout planning guide to map your cable requirements.

Security Layout Guide →

2. Choose Your Equipment

Select cameras and cables that match your installation requirements.

Compare Cameras →

3. Get Professional Help

Consider professional installation for complex or commercial projects.

Get Installation Quotes →

Cable Installation FAQs

What type of cable should I use for IP security cameras?

Cat6 ethernet cable is recommended for IP cameras as it provides reliable data transmission and can deliver power via PoE. It supports up to 100 meters distance and offers excellent performance for 4K cameras.

How far can I run security camera cables?

Ethernet cables (Cat5e/Cat6) work up to 100 meters. Coaxial cables can run 300-500 meters depending on type. For longer distances, use network switches, PoE extenders, or consider wireless cameras.

Can I run security camera cables through existing conduit?

Yes, if there's adequate space and the conduit is rated for additional cables. Maintain proper cable separation and ensure the conduit is weatherproof. Check local electrical codes for requirements.

Do I need a permit to run security camera cables?

Generally no for low-voltage security cables in residential properties. However, check with your local council as requirements vary. Some areas may require permits for extensive routing or commercial installations.

How do I weatherproof outdoor cable connections?

Use weatherproof connectors, seal all penetrations with exterior-grade caulk, angle holes slightly downward, install drip loops, and use protective conduit in exposed areas. Regular inspection and maintenance is essential.