What's the difference between universal and camera-specific mounting brackets?
Universal brackets (adjustable arms, multi-angle joints) fit dozens of camera models but may have 2–5mm play in pan/tilt. Camera-specific brackets (fixed geometry, optimized weight distribution) provide rigid mounting for high-end PTZ or turret cameras where vibration and alignment matter. Use specific brackets for outdoor long-range and camera-specific for cost-sensitive indoor deployments.
How do I size conduit for a multi-cable run (camera + power + intercom)?
NEC Code limits cable fill to 40% of conduit interior area. For mixed cables (2× Cat6 + 1× 12-2 power + 1× 16-2 intercom), use 1" PVC—it provides ~0.86 sq.in. and stays under 40% fill. Always upsize by one nominal size to ease future pulls and reduce friction heat loss.
Why do outdoor fasteners need stainless steel?
Mild steel fasteners (zinc-plated or electroplated) corrode within 12–24 months in salt-air, humid, or UV-exposed conditions, causing camera drop-off and mounting failure. A2-70 stainless steel resists oxidation for 10+ years. Galvanized is cheaper but requires re-inspection every 2 years in harsh climates.
What PoE power supply size do I need for a 16-camera system?
Budget 60–90W per 4 cameras depending on camera class (standard ~15W, high-power PTZ 90W). For 16 cameras, use two 120W supplies (one per 8-camera run) or one 240W supply with dual feeds for redundancy. See PoE budget planning to account for cable loss over distance.
Which cable glands work with both Cat6 and coax in the same enclosure?
M20 and M25 cable glands (metric standard) accept split rubber bushings that isolate Cat6 and RG59/RG11 coax. Ensure gland is IP65-rated and silicone-sealed. Test each cable pull to confirm no pinching before final tightening.
How much conduit slack should I leave for future expansion?
Leave 25–30% spare capacity in all conduit runs—e.g., pull 3 cables through 1" conduit rated for ~5 cables. This allows upgrade from Cat6 to Cat6a, addition of power or intercom lines, and future equipment without complete conduit replacement. Oversized conduit is cheaper than rework.