Being able to monitor your security cameras using a mobile device is undeniably fantastic for those seeking to remain updated. Better still, using a smart TV provides an additional security level and even responds to voice activation.
You can set up the smart TV to receive motion or person-activated alerts and notifications from the security camera. This way, no event in your home passes you by, allowing you to take prompt action in case of an emergency.
Regardless of how you want to set up the security cameras, there are some directives to follow to guarantee a successful outcome. So, let’s discuss a timely topic on How to View Security Cameras On Smart TV.
The first option involves connecting the security camera to the smart TV using an appropriate adapter or cable, say HDMI or RCA options.
Also, you can download a compatible viewing application on your smart television and configure it to match your preferences. If you want to remotely view camera feeds, set up remote access using safe and secure platforms, such as a VPN.
Remember, compatibility is crucial when connecting your security camera and smart television. Not all cameras and smart TVs are designed to work together. So, attempting to work with incompatible gadgets only results in time wastage and frustration.
There is so much more to consider when connecting home security cameras with a smart TV. Read this article till the end to understand how the gadgets operate individually and how to integrate them for superior home security.
What Is Security Camera?
A security camera is a gadget that records and captures footage of your homestead and property. Then, you can view these recordings on a tablet, smartphone, or computer remotely using an internet connection.
Most security cameras are motion-activated, meaning they only record after sensing movement and send you an alert. But some can record throughout, which is called continuous video recording.
Undoubtedly, a security camera is a perfect tool for delivering home safety and the much needed peace of mind. It allows homeowners to monitor their property and loved ones. They get details of particular incidents and even see persons at the front door.
We have two primary types of home security cameras: Wired and wireless. Wired cameras are physically wired to on-site video storage gadgets, either a network video recorder (NVR) or digital video recorder (DVR).
Although wired security cameras do not accommodate Wi-Fi connections, they can still provide remote viewing using an ethernet cable.
On the other hand, wireless security cameras use Wi-Fi to send surveillance footage to cloud servers. As such, you can view the recording on internet connected appliances, such as mobile phones.
Please note that wireless cameras are not fully wireless as you need a power cable to plug them into AC power. However, some use rechargeable batteries instead or as a back-up incase of a power outage.
Wireless security cameras are also called ‘smart cameras’ as you can control them with a smartphone application. Better still, they integrate perfectly with other smart home gadgets and systems like smart speakers, smart locks, smart lights, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Some wireless cameras can also analyze the recorded images and videos to provide insights. For instance, you’ll get an alert when there is a person or animal in your compound or a package at the front door.
There are different ways to approach home security cameras, either by power, connectivity, design, location, and how they record footage.
Power
It is prudent to check how the security camera gets power, from a wall outlet or a battery. But it comes down to your personal preferences and project expectations. So, critically evaluate all options to make an informed decision.
- Wired Cameras. These devices are hardwired or plugged into a home’s system, so you never need to replace their batteries. However, wiring the unit is tiresome and may not blend well with an already connected smart home.
- Wireless Cameras. These gadgets are easier to mount than their wired counterparts, but you need to factor in battery life. Moreover, even though some batteries are rechargeable, they need frequent replacement.
- Connectivity
Statistics show that not everyone can access an internet connection. Further, a 2019 research showed that ten percent of Americans do not use the internet. Thus, security camera manufacturers consider this and provide units that can work without Wi-Fi.
- Cameras That Don’t Need WiFi (Analog). These cameras are perfect for homes without Wi-Fi as they record directly onto a hard drive or a micro-SD card. Although you cannot livestream, you can view the footage in retrospect after downloading it onto a computer or mobile phone.
- WiFi-Connected Cameras (Digital or IP Camera). These cameras are Wi-Fi connected and have a corresponding application to control the device remotely, and receive motion-activated alerts, and livestream footage. You can literally see what is happening in your home from anywhere.
Design
Security cameras are also categorized based on their design, with different shapes suitable for different spaces and projects. Common camera designs include
- Pan, Tilt, or Zoom Cameras. These devices allow you to adjust their field of view for clearer images. Moreover, they pan 360 degrees to guarantee total coverage.
- Bullet Cameras. These gadgets are often wireless and perfect for securing corners for maximum coverage.
- Box Cameras. These box-like cameras are not common in smart home security systems. They were more famous in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
- Dome Cameras. These units are more challenging to install than bullet cameras. However, they are very hard to disable or steal since they are mounted on ceilings. Dome cameras also give a wider view than regular cameras.
- Hidden Cameras. These security gadgets look like other objects, such as stationery, dolls, or small cameras. But they are not recommended since they do not deter trespassers.
- Turret or Eyeball Cameras. Usually, these devices resemble dome cameras but have the best of both worlds. For instance, you can position them in any preferred angle.
Location
The security camera’s location is among the top considerations homeowners make before getting the device. In addition, you can mix and match various types to deliver optimal home security.
- Video Doorbells. These cameras are outdoor units used in front of doors and may include a chime or replace a doorbell set-up, allowing people to communicate with guests remotely.
- Indoor Cameras. These gadgets cover any easily accessible area, such as living rooms, kitchens, and front hallways, but should not be kept in private areas like bedrooms and bathrooms. They are more likely to be plugged in than their outdoor counterparts, which may not access an outlet.
- Outdoor Cameras. Interestingly, these cameras have weather-resistant cases to withstand significant temperature fluctuations and rain, snow, dust, or hail. They are also more likely to be wireless, powered by batteries due to fewer power outlets.
Recording
Lastly, homeowners consider how and where the security cameras record footage. Digital and network video recorders are popular recording alternatives. They have a physical hard drive to store videos.
The primary difference between NVRs and DVRs is that cameras using NVR technology digitize the recording before sending it to the recorder. On the other hand, cameras recording to DVRs share raw footage with the DVR, which digitizes it.
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- Network Video Recorders (NVR). Most NVR units are dependent on Wi-Fi and are also called Internet Protocol (IP) cameras. They can be wired or wireless, with wired systems using ethernet cables, instead of coaxial ones.
- Digital Video Recorders (DVR). DVR cameras are usually analog and not Wi-Fi connected. Further, they are part of a wired security unit and connect to a hard drive through a coaxial cable.
- Cloud Recording. This activity refers to off-site recording through cloud servers operated by a third party, monitoring personnel, or the camera manufacturers. Some older IP gadgets have personal cloud storage options like OneDrive and Google Drive.
What Is Smart TV?
Like smart home devices and phones, smart TVs deliver internet connectivity and accommodate various applications. As such, they open up a space of exciting entertainment options, such as checking social media, streaming videos on Hulu or Netflix, playing games, and controlling a home with connected devices.
Old ‘dumb TV’s’ only display content from HDTV antenna cables or other A/V sources. However, they are almost extinct as today’s super connected world expects smarter appliances.
With internet connectivity, easy-to-use software, and powerful processors, smart TVs are more like tablets and smartphones. Besides, newer models now accommodate voice recognition tools, such as Google’s Assistant and Amazon Alexa, for searching for programs and switching channels.
Smart TVs also work with the best smart speakers and offer the same functionality built into the system. They have more integrated smart home features and are among the best smart home appliances.
Many TVs can be integrated with other connected gadgets in smart homes, including smart locks, sensors, and smart lights. Besides, some even have a dedicated dashboard for monitoring and controlling other smart devices.
Smart TVs use the home’s internet network to deliver streaming video and services on the screen. They use either inbuilt Wi-Fi or wired Ethernet to remain connected.
Also, there are a few alternatives if your smart TV does not receive a strong wireless signal. For example, consider an upgrade with a budget friendly model or get a Wi-Fi range extender.
How Do I Display My Security Cameras On My TV?
Displaying your security cameras on a TV is possible regardless of it being standard or smart. Further, there are various ways to stream your IP camera to a TV. It’s all about picking the best solution depending on the type of devices in your home.
Below is a list of methods to connect your security camera to a TV.
- Connect an Network Video Recorder (NVR) to the TV Using HDMI
This technique is quite simple. You only need to connect the camera to the recorder, then to the TV using a standard HDMI cable. But ensure your NVR is compatible with your camera’s brand.
Alternatively, get a security camera and an NVR with the ONVIF protocol to facilitate communication.
A network video recorder does not limit you to one camera. This is a huge advantage because some NVRs come with four, eight, or even 16 channels.
Select the most appropriate HDMI input to your TV as soon as you connect the recorder. It allows you to livestream the footage from one or more cameras. You can even playback the recorder if you wish,
- Get a Camera With HDMI Output
Select security cameras with an HDMI output, power it up, and connect the HDMI cable to the TV. Consider newer IP security cameras as they guarantee high-quality footage on a server or NVR while displaying it on a TV.
- Use a Decoder
If you have an IP camera, purchase a decoder that can convert data from IP to HDMI and connect it to the TV for live footage.
These devices are very easy to use. However, ensure that the decoder and the IP camera are compatible. Double check before purchase.
- Install a CCTV App on a Smart TV and Add the Camera to It
You can install applications, such as IP camera viewer and Tiny Cam, to view footage on the TV. Install any of them on your smart TV or other portable devices, and follow the configuration instructions.
- Use a Web Browser on a Smart TV
Most IP cameras use specific plugins and a web browser to display pictures and other types of dynamic content. You often need a popular browser, such as Google Chrome, to watch live feeds from the security camera. But it’s not available on Smart TVs.
Further, you cannot install plugins in a browser on a smart TV. So, install it to the camera instead. This way, you are sure it works.
NB: This technique is only for specific security cameras with the html5 protocol
How Do I Connect My Security Cameras to My TV Without a DVR?
Most homeowners think that only a digital video recorder can connect their security camera to a TV. But this is not the case. Below are the simple methods to follow to connect the device to your TV without a DVR.
- Method One:
Here, the process needs a power adapter cord, which is usually provided with your camera. Plug the adapter to an electrical outlet and connect the camera to the TV. Once the power is on, the camera will go on automatically.
Purchase a power adapter for your security camera if you intend to use this method. However, choose a standard model since you do not want to purchase a faulty security camera.
Read the manual before using the camera. Then, turn on the TV monitor and select the video input. This way, you will see live footage from the security camera.
- Method Two
The other way is to connect a camera to your TV using an RCA adapter. Connect the adapter to your camera’s BNC cable and plug in the other adapter’s end to the TV. Further, you can buy RCA adapters in most electronic stores.
However, the downside to this technique is that you won’t view high-definition footage. But still, once the camera is on, it will start blinking and you can watch it on the television.
- Method Three
You can also connect the camera to a TV using a network video recorder. Good thing, NVRs are more reliable and convenient to mount than other surveillance and security systems. But they cost more if you install multiple units in your home.
- Method Four
Depending on your security camera type, you can connect it to the television using an RCA cable. This video cable sets up your device to broadcast live footage to the TV.
Alternatively, connect the camera to the television using a standard HDMI cable in the absence of a digital video recorder (DVR).
- Method Five
The other method involves connecting your security camera to a smart TV using an application. Besides, most units have apps that allow live footage viewing on smartphones and tablets. So, you can access the video feed while on the go.
Alternatively, use Google’s Chromecast to watch the recording. In addition, consider a network connected DVR if you do not have a DVR.
- Method Six
Finally, you can connect a camera to a TV without a DVR by using an analog unit connected to an HD television using a HDMI or BNC converter box.
These convertor boxes are available in various online stores, including Amazon. Moreover, they convert coax cables to HDMI output, allowing you to play videos on your HD television.
Can I Connect My Wireless Camera to My TV?
The simple strategy involves connecting the wireless video receiver to the main power supply. Then, run the provided RCA cable to a VCR or the television. The cables are color coded red and yellow to help you identify the correct hole.
More methods of connecting wireless cameras to a TV include
- Use The Connection Between The NVR and TV
Here, the system depends on using an HDMI cable for watching the cameras on the television. Although wireless means you have a wireless gadget, it has a provision for an HDMI cable for further connections.
- Use a NetcamViewer Monitor
The NetcamViewer monitor is a tiny gadget that helps people watch their home security cameras on screens and televisions. All you need to do is plug the cameras into this device using an Ethernet cable and you’re good to go!
This gadget can display multiple cameras, say up to nine, on the screen in a sequence or simultaneously. It is easy to configure and supports more than 600 home security camera brands.
- Get a signal Transmitter and Receiver
Wireless technology has revolutionized sending and transmitting data, so engineers use it to share images and videos from a medium source to another gadget without using VGA and HDMI cables.
Besides, we have more than one type of transmitter and receiver. Your choice depends on the ports available on your TV and the DVR or NVR.
- Streaming Apps
Download the viewing application to your smart TV from the recommended store by the camera manufacturer. It makes you view the camera’s footage as it’s from your mobile device.
Read how to view analog cameras on smart TVs in case you’re working with an analog unit.
Is a TV or Monitor Better for Security Cameras?
Generally, a monitor is better for security cameras than a TV. Monitors guarantee a superior viewing experience with more vibrant colors and a higher resolution than televisions. In addition, they have a higher refresh rate which is essential for clear camera pictures, and are smaller than televisions, making them convenient to have in tight locations.
Interestingly, when it comes to selecting displays for security cameras, homeowners are often torn between a dedicated monitor and a television.
The primary difference between the two is that a monitor is specifically designed for surveillance cameras, whereas a television is not. Hence, a monitor has more features, such as multiple outputs and superior picture quality.
On the other hand, although a TV is more affordable than a monitor it is not designed to work with security cameras and may not perform as well as a monitor.
A monitor features a unique anti-glare coating to minimize glare and reflections in direct sunlight. It also has multiple inputs, allowing you to connect multiple cameras or other CCTV-related gadgets.
However, there are so many CCTV monitors and TVs out there and it is impossible to compare them all. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of each option for better decision making.
- The pros of a TV
Affordability. This is the main advantage with using a TV for security cameras. Moreover, a television won’t cost you much. You’ll only incur cabling expenses if it’s not in a central location in the home.
Practicality. The television is in your living room and you do not need further guidance to operate it. You also don’t have to create space for another monitor.
- The Cons of a TV
It’s the Main Telly. Unfortunately, you may not have the opportunity to livestream or review your footage if other members in the house want to watch a favorite program. In addition, the screen is in your living room and watching some recordings may feel uncomfortable, say a neighbor relieving themselves on your lawn.
HDMI Connections. The television may have connectivity issues. For instance, if it has three HDMI ports and you are using them for other appliances, something will have to give. You can choose the HDMI splitter route but they are unreliable and confusing for non-tech minded individuals.
Aerial Connections. You’ll have a challenge with the footage quality if you get an older or newer camera model that’s incompatible with the television.
- The Pros of a Monitor
Image Retention. Monitors are designed to be on constantly, whereas a TV only works for a few hours a day. Further, although current televisions are advanced and can operate throughout, they may not keep up with a CCTV monitor.
Connectivity. CCTV monitors are made for the exact intention of displaying security camera images. Thus, you’ll have no connection issues even with different cabling.
- The Cons of a Monitor
Pricey. CCTV monitors are quite expensive. Besides, you do not want to spend much money on a product you potentially don’t require.
Placement. You’ll have to think of where to position the CCTV monitor. For example, do you want to display it proudly or hide it away in a cupboard?
The final decision boils down to which product is most suitable for your home safety needs. TV or monitor, each solution has its advantages and disadvantages.
Further, getting it wrong can be quite costly. So, consider a professional site survey for a full security system from a reputable company. They’ll devise and install a custom tailored solution for your specific needs.
Conclusion
Smart home security cameras come with core features, such as the ability to livestream footage on a connected gadget. But with the emergence of smart TVs, homeowners are not limited to tablets and cellphones.
Most CCTV cameras are compatible with smart televisions for users who wish to view footage on a big screen. All you need is stable Wi-Fi or cellular internet connection for both devices.
Interestingly, you can still view your home security camera on your TV without having a smart TV. There is also the alternative to hardwire the cameras to your system. But the above articles focus on users with smart TV.
How to View Security Cameras on Smart TV
This process first requires you to have a Wi-Fi enabled security camera that is compatible with smart home devices and a smart TV. This way, you’ll guarantee a more straightforward integration.
With the above, you are only steps away from streaming the camera footage on your big screen. Besides, smart TVs come with Wi-Fi abilities and hence can interpret data from your Wi-Fi enabled camera.
A streaming application comes in handy as it only involves downloading it to your smart TV and creating an account. It allows you to view the footage as if it is from your smartphone or tablet.