CCTV Power Supply Options and Requirements

No matter how advanced your cameras are, they’re useless without a reliable power source. Powering a CCTV system is more than just plugging it in – the type of supply you choose affects system stability, layout flexibility, and overall performance.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the main CCTV power supply options, how they work, and what to consider when designing or maintaining your setup.

cctv power supply

Individual Power Adapters

Many CCTV cameras, especially analog models, use individual 12V DC power adapters, typically rated at 12V 1A or 12V 2A per camera.

Strengths: Simple setup for small systems or single cameras.

Limitations: As systems grow, managing multiple adapters becomes messy and inefficient. Long cable runs (over 20 meters) can suffer from voltage drop, risking unstable camera performance.

Pro Tip: Use 18 AWG or thicker cables for longer distances to minimize voltage loss and maintain stable operation.

Centralized Power Supply Boxes

For medium to large CCTV systems, a centralized power distribution box offers a cleaner, more manageable solution.
Typical Specs:
9, 18, or 24-channel outputs at 12V DC, often protected with individual fuses or PTCs.

Strengths:

    • Simplifies wiring
    • Easier troubleshooting (individual fuse protection)
    • Cleaner installations with organized cable management

Limitations:
Requires careful cable sizing and planning to avoid voltage drops on distant runs.

Pro Tip: Choose power boxes with fused outputs to isolate and protect each camera individually in case of faults.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE technology allows a single Ethernet cable (Cat5e, Cat6) to transmit both power and data to IP cameras.

Standard: IEEE 802.3af (up to 15.4W per device)

Strengths:

    • Reduces cabling needs
    • Easier UPS integration (protect only network switches and NVR)

Limitations:
Limited to 100 meters per cable segment; cameras with high power demand may exceed standard PoE capabilities.

Pro Tip: PoE is ideal for fixed IP cameras, but verify camera and switch compatibility for proper power delivery.

PoE+ and High-Power PoE

For cameras with greater power needs, such as PTZ cameras, multi-sensor cameras, or IR-heavy models – you’ll need PoE+ or Hi-PoE:

  • PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at): Up to 30W per port
  • Hi-PoE (IEEE 802.3bt): Up to 60W–90W per port

Strengths:
Supports power-hungry devices without separate power cables.

Limitations:
Requires compatible switches or PoE injectors that meet higher standards.

Pro Tip: Always check PTZ camera specifications carefully – standard PoE may not provide sufficient power, leading to camera resets or reduced functionality.

Battery Backup (UPS)

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) provides backup power during outages, protecting your CCTV system from sudden shutdowns and potential data loss.

Strengths:

    • Keeps NVRs/DVRs and cameras operational during short power failures
    • Allows for safe shutdowns during extended outages

Limitations:
Limited runtime depending on UPS size and system load.

Pro Tip: Size your UPS based on the total wattage of your cameras, NVR, switches, and monitors.

Aim for at least 30–60 minutes of backup runtime in critical installations.

Solar and Alternative Power Sources

In remote or off-grid areas, solar-powered CCTV systems provide an independent, eco-friendly solution.

Strengths:

    • Keeps NVRs/DVRs and cameras operational during short power failures
    • Allows for safe shutdowns during extended outages

Limitations:
Limited runtime depending on UPS size and system load.

Pro Tip: Design solar setups with enough battery capacity to support at least 2–3 days of operation without sunlight to maintain reliability.

Choosing the Right Power Setup

The best power solution for your CCTV system depends on:
  • Number of cameras
  • Distance from power sources
  • Transmission method (coaxial vs IP)
  • Power consumption per device
  • Environment (indoor, outdoor, remote, temperature fluctuations)
Pro Tip: Always plan 20–30% extra capacity in your power supplies for future expansion and to prevent overloading.

Proper power planning ensures fewer failures, easier maintenance, longer component lifespan, and maximum uptime for your surveillance system.

Wrapping It Up

Power may not be the flashiest part of a CCTV system – but it’s one of the most critical.

Whether you’re plugging in a single camera or designing a full-scale PoE system with backup redundancy, a well-planned power strategy is key to reliable, 24/7 security.

Next up: Discover how real-time CCTV live monitoring improves response and security.

Security Systems Singapore