Expert Solutions for Avigilon Camera Mounting Challenges
Avigilon cameras are professional-grade security solutions known for their quality and performance. Achieving a perfect installation is key to leveraging their full capabilities. However, their robust design can sometimes present mounting challenges for both first-time installers and seasoned professionals.
This guide provides expert advice and troubleshooting steps for common Avigilon mounting issues, from managing connectors to ensuring a weatherproof seal.
### Are You Facing These Professional Installation Hurdles?
- Cable Management: The camera's pigtail with its multiple connectors is bulky and difficult to conceal neatly.
- Difficult Dome Cover: Removing or re-attaching the clear dome cover is stiff and difficult without feeling like you might break it.
- Achieving a Level View: Ensuring the camera is mounted perfectly level to avoid a skewed or tilted image, especially on uneven surfaces.
- Template Alignment: The drill hole template doesn't seem to align perfectly with the camera's mounting holes.
- Internal Condensation: After mounting an outdoor camera, you notice moisture or fog forming on the inside of the dome.
- Adapter Plate Confusion: You're unsure how to correctly use a pole mount or corner mount adapter for a secure fit.
A Professional's Guide to a Perfect Avigilon Installation
Let's tackle these issues to ensure your installation is secure, weatherproof, and aesthetically pleasing.
1. Managing the Pigtail and Connectors
This is often the first and biggest challenge. A dangling set of wires is unprofessional and a security risk.
- Use a Junction Box: The best practice is to use a compatible Avigilon mounting box or a third-party weatherproof junction box. Mount the box to the wall, drill a hole to run the main cable into the box, and make all your connections inside it. The camera then mounts directly onto the junction box, completely concealing all wiring.
- Wall Cavity: If mounting on a plasterboard wall, you can drill a larger hole (e.g., 20-25mm) behind the camera mount to pass the entire pigtail into the wall cavity. This provides a very clean finish.
- Utilise the Mount's Channels: Some mounting bases have built-in channels. While these may not hide everything, they can help route the cables neatly to one side.
2. Handling the Dome Cover
Avigilon dome covers are precision-made and can be tight.
- Check for Set Screws: Before trying to twist, carefully inspect the base of the dome for small set screws. These are often tamper-resistant (e.g., Torx head) and must be loosened first.
- Even Pressure and Correct Direction: Once any screws are loosened, apply even pressure with both hands and twist counter-clockwise. It may be stiff, but it should move smoothly. When re-attaching, ensure it's seated correctly before twisting it clockwise to lock. Don't overtighten the set screws.
3. Ensuring a Level and Secure Mount
A tilted horizon in your security footage looks unprofessional.
- Level the Base: Use a small spirit level on the mounting base itself before you fully tighten the screws. Don't rely on leveling the camera later.
- Gimbal Adjustment: Inside the dome, the camera lens is on a 3-axis gimbal. Once the base is mounted, you can pan, tilt, and rotate (azimuth) the lens assembly to get the perfect field of view and a level image, even if the camera is mounted on an angled soffit.
- Use the Right Anchors: For drywall, use toggle bolts for a secure hold. For concrete or brick, use sleeve anchors. This prevents the camera from sagging over time.
4. Preventing Internal Condensation
Moisture inside the camera is a serious problem.
- Install in Dry Weather: Avoid installing cameras in the rain or in highly humid conditions, as this traps moisture inside.
- Don't Remove the Desiccant Pack: The small silica gel pack inside the camera housing is there for a reason. Leave it in to absorb any trace amounts of moisture.
- Check All Seals: Before closing the dome, ensure the rubber O-ring or gasket is clean, undamaged, and properly seated in its groove. This is your primary defence against moisture ingress.
By following these professional techniques, you can overcome any Avigilon mounting challenge and achieve an installation that is as reliable and high-quality as the camera itself.