Wireless Solar Security Cameras
Solar powered security cameras use a built-in rechargeable battery that provides power when the sun is out. Most models include a remote live view feature on smartphones, tablets and PCs.
Make sure your camera is positioned in direct sunlight and avoid shading it with trees, overhangs or structures. Many batteries store enough energy to continue working over multiple gray sunless days.
Solar Panel
Powered by solar energy, a solar-powered camera uses high-grade solar panels (sometimes built wireless solar camera directly into the device’s exterior) to gather and convert sunlight into electricity. The accumulated power is then fed into the camera’s battery, providing a sustainable source of energy that keeps it operational at night.
The best solar-powered security cameras have a battery that holds at least enough charge to last for days, and can continue recording even if the weather is bad. You can also maximize the battery life by adjusting the various settings on the device such as motion detection, video resolution, frame rate, and recording length.
Most solar security cameras use a charge controller to regulate the voltage coming from the solar panel and ensure that it is charged at an appropriate level. The charge controller should be connected between the solar panel and the battery and connects the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the battery.
While you can buy standalone solar-powered cameras, many brands offer bundled deals that include both the camera and the solar panel together. For example, Ring’s popular spotlight cam is available in a package with the solar panel for $140. This bundle includes the camera, battery pack, and solar charge controller as well as mounts for installing both. The price is a little higher than some alternatives, but the quality and featureset of this camera are worth it.
Battery
Most solar cameras feature built-in rechargeable batteries that store power generated by the solar panel during daylight hours. The battery also powers the camera during the night, providing uninterrupted video surveillance. The battery capacity determines how long the camera can run without sunlight. Choose one with a longer runtime if your location gets cloudy weather for a significant portion of the year.
The battery also plays a role in the price of a solar security camera, with more expensive models typically featuring higher-capacity batteries. The type of battery used also affects the camera’s durability and performance. The most reliable models feature lithium-ion batteries that can withstand drops and extreme temperatures, as well as features like motion detection and two-way audio to greet guests and scare off intruders.
Some solar security cameras have removable batteries, allowing you to replace the included battery as it wears down or loses charge. For example, the Ring Stick Up Cam Solar HD doorbell offers a separate battery and wireless solar camera solar panel that can be replaced easily. This setup makes the device more durable and improves its battery life, compared to competing wireless video doorbells that require complex wiring. Another option is the Eufy SoloCam S40, which combines the camera with the solar panel in an all-in-one device that eliminates the need for wires and reduces the cost.
Power Supply
Unlike regular wired cameras, solar-powered camera systems don’t require cables for power or video transmission. Instead, they run on a battery and use Wi-Fi to send data to your home. They can be integrated into existing NVRs or purchased as standalone units. Most offer motion detection and a view of the area around the camera, while some feature a built-in microphone to capture sounds.
To get the most out of your solar-powered camera, make sure it’s in a place that gets plenty of sunlight. The best place is a south-facing wall or atop a high spot with an unhindered view. The solar panel also needs to be within 10 feet of the camera. Some models allow you to install the solar panel and camera in different locations by using a long cable between them.
The wattage of the solar panel paired with the camera determines how much electric power it can generate from sunlight. A higher wattage panel produces more power and charges the included battery faster. Some brands even include features like smartphone alerts and remote monitoring so you can keep tabs on your camera from your phone or tablet.
Another key consideration is whether the solar-powered camera has enough storage memory to record videos. Many brands store captured footage to a micro SD card, while others have cloud-based storage that you can access through the brand’s website or app.
Connectivity
A solar security camera needs to be connected to your WiFi or a cellular network to send instant alerts to your smartphone and for remote monitoring. Wireless transmission also leaves the camera vulnerable to hacking or data breaches, which is why proper encryption and cybersecurity measures are important.
When selecting a solar-powered camera, keep in mind its resolution, field of view, and night vision to help you protect your property with a high-quality video feed. The number of SD card slots is another important factor, especially if you want to record more videos on your device. In addition, look for a model that supports two-way audio and motion detection to better protect your property.
Lastly, it’s crucial to choose a location for your camera that can get maximum sunlight daily. The best place to install a solar security camera is a south-facing wall or atop an elevated position with an unhindered view. However, if you need to put your camera in an area that gets less sunlight, then you can always mount the solar charger panel next to it or on the roof above.
The length of the cable between the camera and the solar panel is also an important consideration. If the distance between them is too long, it will take longer to recharge the battery.
