Surveillance Camera Cables

Match the cable to your camera system: coaxial (RG59/RG6) for analog/CVI/TVI cameras, Siamese coax for power + video in one run, and Cat5e/Cat6 for IP cameras using PoE; also check connectors (BNC for coax, RJ45 for Ethernet) and required length

Choose a length that covers the run with some slack; for coax use thicker RG59 or RG6 for longer runs (RG6 has lower loss over distance), and for power lines use appropriate gauge (e.g., 18–16 AWG for typical camera power runs) to minimize voltage drop; for Ethernet, Cat5e/Cat6 is reliable up to 100 meters for PoE

Yes: use outdoor-rated, UV-resistant, and gel-filled or direct-burial cables for exterior runs and shielded cable or shielded connectors in electrically noisy environments; pair outdoor cable with watertight connectors or junction boxes to prevent moisture ingress

Some setups use Siamese cable that combines coax (video) with power conductors in one sheath; IP cameras can use Power over Ethernet (PoE) to deliver data and power over a single Cat5e/Cat6 cable

Common connectors include BNC for coax, RCA for some legacy video, and RJ45 for Ethernet; you may also need BNC-to-RCA adapters, BNC crimp or compression connectors, RJ45 boots, and PoE injectors or splitters depending on your system

Use a cable tester for continuity and signal testers for video feed and PoE voltage; inspect outdoor runs periodically for chafing, moisture, or connector corrosion and reseal or replace damaged sections promptly

Cables vary: basic coax or Cat5e bulk cable is commonly available under $50 for short or standard lengths, while specialty outdoor, direct-burial, shielded, or pre-terminated assemblies can cost more; overall category averages reflect a wide range of options