Troubleshooting Verkada Camera Mounting Issues
Verkada's enterprise-grade security cameras are engineered for robust, secure, and professional installation. Their mounting systems are designed to be tamper-resistant and permanent. If you're encountering issues during setup, it's often because of these security features. This guide will help you understand the Verkada mounting process and overcome common challenges.
### Identifying the Installation Hurdle
Your issue is likely related to one of Verkada's specific design features:
- Locked Adjustments: The camera's position seems to be locked and cannot be aimed.
- Mount Plate Confusion: You're unsure how the main camera body attaches to the mounting plate.
- Security Screws: The screws don't seem to fit a standard Phillips or flathead screwdriver.
- Cable Sealing: You're not sure how to correctly weatherproof the Ethernet cable entry point.
- Dome Cover Removal: The outer dome or cover is difficult to remove for adjustments.
A Professional's Guide to Verkada Camera Installation
Follow these steps for a secure and correct Verkada installation.
### Step 1: Use the Correct Tools - The Torx Screwdriver
This is the solution to many "locked" camera issues.
- Security by Design: Verkada uses Torx security screws in its mounts. These screws have a star-shaped head with a small pin in the centre, making them impossible to turn with standard screwdrivers. This is a deliberate security feature to prevent tampering.
- Use the Included Tool: Your Verkada camera comes with the specific T10 or T25 security Torx screwdriver required. Use this tool to loosen the set screws that lock the camera's pan, tilt, and rotation adjustments. Once you have aimed the camera, you must use this tool to re-tighten the screws to lock the position securely.
### Step 2: Understand the Mounting Plate System
The mounting plate is the foundation of the entire installation.
- Detach the Plate: First, detach the metal mounting plate from the camera body. This is often done by twisting the camera or using the Torx driver to loosen a locking screw.
- Secure the Plate: The mounting plate is the only part that gets screwed to the wall or ceiling. It has various holes designed to align with different types of junction boxes or for direct mounting to a solid surface. Use appropriate anchors for your wall type (e.g., toggle bolts for drop ceilings or plasterboard).
- Attach the Camera: Once the plate is securely fixed, the main body of the camera is attached to the plate. This is usually done by aligning specific markers and twisting the camera until it clicks and locks into place. A final security screw is often tightened to prevent the camera from being twisted off.
### Step 3: Proper Cable Management and Sealing
For outdoor or damp environments, this step is critical.
- The Cable Grommet: The mounting plate for outdoor-rated cameras includes a rubber cable grommet. You must pass your Ethernet cable through this grommet. It's designed to be a tight fit to create a waterproof seal. For cables with a large connector, you may need to feed the cable through first and then terminate it with an RJ45 connector.
- Protecting Connectors: All network connections should be made within a weatherproof junction box or inside the building. Never leave an RJ45 connection exposed to the elements.
### Step 4: Aiming and Finalising the Installation
- Adjust with Live View: With the camera powered on and added to your Verkada Command dashboard, use a mobile device to watch the live feed as you make micro-adjustments to the camera's aim.
- Lock it Down: Once you have the perfect field of view, use the security Torx driver to tighten all adjustment screws. They should be very firm to prevent any movement.
- Secure the Dome: When replacing the dome cover, ensure any gaskets are seated correctly. Tighten the security screws on the dome cover evenly to ensure a proper seal and prevent tampering.
By understanding these security-focused design principles, you can tackle any Verkada mounting issue and complete a clean, secure, and highly professional installation.