Surge Protect Security Cameras

How do I Protect IP Cameras, NVR’s and WAP’s?
When it comes to protect IP camera pathways its best to make sure that the network switch that is feeding the outdoor cameras is protected. Protection can also be placed at the camera end however we recommend grounding the unit at the head end and not remotely. Adding additional ground points to any low voltage system can have negative effects. It is best to always float cameras on remote ends so that the frame of the cameras is not grounded in any away. The same goes for wireless access points. A designer my protect the network inside the facility from the WAP being stuck by lighting. The best way to protect the actually WAP is to make sure it too is isolated (floating) and not touching ground or building steel.

“Our Cameras Stopped Working”
We frequently receive phone calls and emails stating “we have cameras located outside and inside and lightning keeps taking them out! What do we do?” Cameras and DVRs monitor the grounds and record activity, and help keep us safe and secure at home and at work. A simple motion setting and email can let you know each and every time someone comes to the door or enters a facility. When programmed correctly the information captured by these systems is invaluable to a home or business. Reducing potential liability alone is priceless for a business.

How it Works
When lightning hits a structure or strikes the earth nearby the energy can be induced onto outdoor camera wires that come from inside the home or business. These copper lines acts like an antenna. Once lightning energy gets onto these copper lines it looks for ground. In most cases the energy will travel through NVR’s and network switches to find the power ground.

Another way lightning can damage camera systems is by creating ground currents (aka ground loops) in the system. When outdoor cameras are powered remotely, or any camera is powered by a different breaker panel than powers the DVR or network, a nearby lightning strike can produce damaging ground currents within the system. Parking lots, public garages, storage facilities, and large custom homes with multiple buildings suffer some of the most severe damage from nearby lightning strikes. This is the result of different ground potentials within the system. See our Transient Protection Design on Ground Loop Surge Filters for more information on how to protect your business’ or home’s DVR’s and network from damaging ground loops and surges.

Benefits
Quality TPD surge suppression properly applied will save money for your clients by reducing electrical maintenance costs, reducing downtime, and extending the life of all protected equipment. Additionally, protecting critical safety systems provides security for the owners and their families or employees, and reduces liability by maintaining the systems at maximum uptime.