Coaxial siamese cable

The term coaxial is synonymous with analog security camera cable. For decades, siamese cable has been used in traditional, closed-circuit analog camera systems. When you remove internet connectivity from the equation, CCTV camera wiring relies on the RG59 siamese cable to transmit raw video signal and to supply power.

What is RG59 siamese cable? RG59 refers to the cable’s thickness. The thicker the coaxial cable, the further it can carry video signal – but it becomes very bulky and difficult to work with. The thinner the cable, the easier it is to install, but you compromise on signal quality. RG59 siamese cable is thick enough to carry signal over most sites, but thin enough to install easily, making it the most popular analog camera cable choice.

Coaxial siamese cable advantages

RG59 siamese cable is highly durable. Coaxial cable is designed to transmit video over long distances, making it the ideal choice if you want a system that is built to last.

It is always shielded. Camera coax cable has shielding built into its design, so interference is reduced. Not all ethernet camera cable types are shielded, so if minimizing crosstalk is a priority, then siamese cable could be the better option.

No need for an internet connection. If you are in an area with poor network connectivity, relying on an internet connection for your video security could be problematic. Network outages could put your video security at risk of disruption or total loss. Coaxial CCTV camera wiring is “closed circuit”, so the analog signal is transmitted to a recorder, at which point it is digitized.

Reduced cybersecurity risks. By definition, IP devices are linked to the rest of your network, increasing the number of entry points for hackers. Taking some of your video security system offline by using analog camera cable can reduce your exposure to cyberattacks.

Overall, an analog system is cheaper. Whilst RG59 siamese cable is more expensive than ethernet cable, all the associated equipment and running costs of an analog system are cheaper. This is simply because the technology for analog (vs. IP cameras) is older and less in demand than IP.

Coaxial cable for analog and HD camera systems

RG59 siamese cable is most often used with analog coax security camera systems. Combining power and transmission in one casing makes it the most convenient solution, especially with twist-on BNC connectors.

Siamese cable is easy to install when you know the basic principles. The most important things to bear in mind are:

• Make sure your cameras are set up close enough to a camera power supply. If your cameras are too far from a power outlet, then the cabling will be too long to carry the signal back to your recorder. This could lead to video signal degrading in transit.
• Run RG59 siamese cable at least 6 inches away from existing electrical wiring to avoid signal interference. Shielding should help to mitigate this, but to be on the safe side it is always best to leave some clearance between cables.

Coaxial cable for IP camera systems

It might seem counterintuitive to use RG59 siamese cable for IP camera wiring. However, it is possible, and it can work well. This type of system is known as IP over coax, or ethernet over coax.

Upgrading your camera system from analog to IP cameras can be costly. Pulling up old CCTV camera wiring and installing new cable is one of the many hidden costs involved in a large-scale upgrade. If you cannot afford to completely overhaul your system all at once, it is possible to keep your old camera coax cable for newer IP cameras such as panoramic IP cameras, with the help of converters.

Aside from financial savings, an ethernet over coax system has other advantages. Cables are run over hundreds of feet all around a site; ripping these up can be extremely disruptive. Using your existing RG59 siamese cable can save you installation time, as well as reducing disruption to your day to day operations.

Buying pre-made cable vs. bulk cable

The final decision to make when choosing which CCTV camera wiring to buy is its format: either pre-made cable, or bulk cable on a roll with separate connectors. Both security camera wire types have their advantages and disadvantages; ultimately, your decision depends on the specific needs of your site and its security.

Buying plug and play cables saves you prep time cutting and measuring, but is significantly more expensive than bulk cable. This makes it a better option for smaller projects. Also, be aware that pre-made camera cables come in set lengths, so the finished result may not look as professional compared to cables that are cut to measure. 

On the other hand, buying bulk cable is cheaper and customizable; you can reduce waste and create a much more professional-looking, tailored result by cutting wiring to measure and using the exact connectors you want. Nevertheless, making lengths of cable is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment. 

For example, if you choose BNC connectors, then you have two attachment options: crimp-on or compression. While crimp-on is quicker and cheaper, compression offers a longer-lasting result. This is because crimping the cable flattens it, causing a weak point, whereas compression applies even pressure all the way around the cable, preserving its shape. 

In short, you will need more specialist knowledge to make your own CCTV camera wiring, but if you know how, then buying in bulk is more cost-effective and more likely to give a better result.

Choosing between security camera wiring types

So, you’ve done your research – now how do you decide which of the many security camera wiring types is right for your business?

Hopefully this article has demonstrated that it is possible to adapt different security camera cables and connectors to your needs. While it is true that certain camera cable types are more compatible with particular cameras, it is also equally possible to choose security camera connections that match your budget and site specifications.

The best way to choose which commercial security camera accessories are right for your security needs is to assess your budget and your specification. Combined, these should help you to decide between security camera wire types to create a system that provides the best quality video, at the best price.