How to Overcome Difficulties When Mounting Your Abus Camera
Abus cameras are engineered in Germany for reliability and security. This precision engineering extends to their mounting hardware, which is designed for a robust and tamper-resistant installation. However, this can sometimes make them seem harder to mount than simpler cameras. This guide will help you navigate the common challenges for a perfect installation.
### Is This Your Mounting Problem?
Let's pinpoint the issue you're facing.
- Instability: The camera mount feels wobbly, even with the screws fully tightened.
- Locked Position: The camera's angle seems fixed and is difficult or impossible to adjust.
- Hardware Issues: The provided screws and wall plugs don't seem suitable for your wall type.
- Cable Concealment: You're unsure of the best way to route and protect the camera's cables.
- Alignment: The mounting holes are difficult to mark and drill accurately.
A Step-by-Step Guide to a Rock-Solid Abus Installation
Follow these steps to mount your Abus camera like a professional.
### Step 1: Preparation and Surface Analysis
A successful installation starts with good preparation.
- Check the Surface: Before you drill, analyse your mounting surface. Is it brick, wood, metal, or plasterboard? The hardware required for each is different. The fixings included with Abus cameras are high quality but are typically intended for solid masonry or wood. For plasterboard, you must use appropriate hollow-wall anchors.
- Use the Drilling Template: Abus provides precise drilling templates. Taping this to the wall and using a spirit level to ensure it's straight is the best way to guarantee your holes will be perfectly aligned. Don't try to mark the holes by holding the heavy mount against the wall.
### Step 2: The Importance of a Solid Base
The stability of the camera depends entirely on its base.
- Flat Surface is Key: The base of an Abus mount is machined to be perfectly flat. If it's mounted on an uneven surface (like textured stucco or brick pointing), it will rock and never be fully stable. If your surface isn't flat, attach a small, flat piece of wood or durable plastic to the wall first, and then mount the camera to that.
- Secure the Fixings: When installing your chosen wall anchors, make sure they are fully seated and flush with the wall. When you drive the screws, tighten them in a criss-cross pattern to ensure the base pulls in evenly without warping. The base should be completely immovable once secured.
### Step 3: Adjusting and Locking the Camera Angle
Abus mounts are often designed to be locked in place for security.
- Find the Set Screw: Most Abus cameras do not use a simple friction joint. Look for a small grub screw or hex bolt (often called a 'set screw') on the side of the joint. You must loosen this screw with the supplied Allen key to make adjustments.
- Aim with a Live Feed: Power up the camera and watch the live video on your phone or monitor as you adjust the angle. This is the only way to frame the shot perfectly.
- Lock it in Place: Once you are satisfied with the viewing angle, it is critical that you firmly re-tighten the set screw. This locks the mechanism and ensures the camera's position is permanent and tamper-resistant. This is a key security feature.
### Step 4: Professional Cable Management
Protecting the cable is vital for reliability.
- Through the Wall: The most secure method is to drill a hole through the wall behind the camera mount, feeding the cable directly into the building.
- Using the Cable Channel: Many Abus mounts have a channel underneath to allow the cable to be routed out of the side while still allowing the mount to sit flush. Ensure the cable is seated correctly in this channel. If not, the mount will be unstable.
By taking a careful, methodical approach, you can appreciate the security-focused design of Abus mounts and achieve a truly professional and robust installation.