Reolink NVR Security Camera Install in a Business - Things to Know

[@dale_ch]

HUGE thanks for your great channel and its content. I've just installed a full home Reolink system based on your invaluable advice for all the different cameras, combinations etc. I would have really struggled to find the right solution without your help 👍💯

[@YukonHawk1]

I appreciate your honesty and integrity.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you.

[@TheJonchihuahua]

Nice install! Usually i install the vandal proof on the arm first then the arm to the wall. Then open to adjust and close up. Also silicone the holes, and then the outside perimeter.

[@LifeHackster]

LOL.. I didn't think of that and that is definitely a better and safer option because I can do all of that while I'm still on the ground. Thank you.

[@ArabsRus]

Mates asked me to do his cameras for his shop and managed to get good tips on this. Thank you

[@LifeHackster]

No problem 👍 Thanks for watching!

[@netstar5950]

Excellent installation! Doing a drop-ceiling install is a lot easier when you can gain access above the ceiling. When I installed my 6-camera POE Reolink NVR system, I had the same issue trying to find the correct CAT6 connectors for my CAT6 ethernet cables. I used a cable tester to make sure my connectors were probably wired before installing the cameras. I would also advise to the DIY installers to not use CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) cables since they are of poor quality and will cause signal problems especially with POE setups. Use twisted copper cable only.

[@LifeHackster]

True on the CCA cables. Thanks for watching!

[@CHADAB34]

Recently swapped over to a Reolink NVR from a LaView NVR. The Reolink has worked great. I just wish the Reolink system was more compatible with other cameras so I would not need to replace all of the existing cameras. Great video.

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks for watching!

[@jcm9698]

Nice job, though I'd use rubber grommets to protect the network cable from rubbing on the metal studs/siding. Love to see more videos like this.

[@LifeHackster]

I was thinking about it initially but after the install, there should be no movement on the wiring anyways...but we will see. Thanks for watching!

[@alwaysgrateful6337]

That's all I need to know. You are protecting your wife with this. Roger that! Great information here.

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks for watching!

[@RobertFrancis-ir6rh]

I love your videos and the ringing spotlight cam and I bought a Blink outdoor for two pack and they were great thank you for the suggestions on your other videos

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks for watching!

[@clekin]

Great video. I am actually planning the exact same thing, physical therapy clinic and home install.. Great to know u did it before and suggest a DIY install. Cheers

[@Moore_Jono]

Thanks for this video, useful as I am looking to jump into the Reolink ecosystem now. Also it’s good to see the limitations of the Klein Tools crimper.

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks for watching!

[@Aaronproductions]

6:43 the o-ring goes on the ethernet connector side. the thick gasket does all the sealing around the cable. The RJ45 connector side (where you twist it on) NEEDS that seal, i’m not sure how you got it to twist on without it as the pressure from the o-ring is usually the thing putting the pressure on to keep it in place. Please see the reolink site for instructions on the waterproof lid.

[@LifeHackster]

The thing is though, the ethernet port on the Reolink cameras have the O-ring already installed. Doubling it doesn't make any sense. So, I guess the O-ring included is a spare one?

[@Aaronproductions]

@@LifeHackster Thats interesting, must be a new thing. If it was already installed then you’re good, that’s how you were able to twist it on. They are probably sending them with premade packets that contain an O-ring since you used to have to put them on yourself, so in this case, it is an extra due to the packaging not being made specifically for reolink’s new pigtails with the O-ring pre installed

[@LifeHackster]

@@Aaronproductions I checked my old Reolink Cameras and they don't have the gasket..so it is a new thing for them and other brands doesn't have this included. I'll mention this in my part 2 video on this...also the O-ring on the other side I guess it is not needed and that is why it looks mushed when I tightened it.

[@LtKernelPanic]

One tip for anyone running cable. Whenever possible leave an extra loop of cable of a couple feet (or more) long where you drop your cables down to the cameras or NVR. Future you will think you if you need to say reterminate a connection. ;)

[@LifeHackster]

Yup, I agree. Now, because she changed her mind as to the desk, my options are limited...thinking wall install now for both the NVR and monitor.

[@RobotMowerTricks]

​@@LifeHacksteryou can use couplings, or a poe switch above the ceiling and a new ethernet to the nvr

[@danielbroadwell1463]

Great video! I was really hoping after the 842A only had 2-axis rotation they would make the next generation of vandal proof cameras like the 843a, 840a, and the 540a a 3-axis rotation so it would have the same capabilities as the 833a. The limitations of this simple feature is what keeps me from being able to install these vandal proof cameras on many installs.

[@aodflash]

the only video that works and guide. super thanks

[@sbggxnzo]

Awesome in depth video! I’ve been working for adt for a few years and have just started to dig into the world of NVR. I’ve been considering starting my own installation company or atleast working as a freelancer. What does the business side of this installation look like? How would you price an installation like this? Also, how much profit was made how much did you have to spend on equipment and time spent, travel etc. What does this cost look like for the customer?

[@WayneLiu945]

Very nice vid! I wish I can become you for my family and friends for all installation needs someday 😂

[@LifeHackster]

Thanks for watching!

[@balla2172]

Over coverage of front door i would have changed the locations of the lobby and hall cameras. But that's just like my opinion Edit: couple tips/options. Use a piece of drywall/plywood to pit on backside of drop ceiling tile for support Keep cables up off the drop ceiling with j hooks or other wire holders just best practice

[@A166-b7x]

Great install lessons learned video. Have you considered another subscription based business to offer hourly teacher lessons on these jobs? I know dozens of skills based contractors who do live hourly video lessons or walk-through buddy calls while the DIY'r does their install. Anyways, love your videos. Another suggestion for teaching product post install tweaks & tips, features such as Reolink 823A auto and patrol modes, benefits and busts. God bless you and your family's new business venture.

[@LifeHackster]

I haven’t done that and I don’t think I’m qualified to teach. I might do your other suggestion though..which once in a while I already do.. thanks for watching!

[@PhotoDude801]

Loved it! Thanks for sharing!

[@LifeHackster]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@HollisJamison]

Looks good other then I always terminate to keystone jacks or a punchdown patch panel because crimping just always goes wrong.

[@whatevah666]

Always use a cable tester BEFORE doing work that's a pita to undo, live and learn ;)

[@LifeHackster]

Yup. I now have bought a tester... Thanks.

[@electronron1]

As I watched this I glanced up at my security cam monitor and saw a flock of turkeys stroll into my back yard. Just glad my dogs are with me in my office or they would be going ballistic right now and wake up my wife.

[@pepemau5]

8:17 u cant rotate lens itself? I can on my 1240a so left right up down and also horizont I believe u can becouse there are visible lines for better grip when u rotating :)

[@EsperienzaMobile]

Hi, I want to use this system for a padel center. Not for security but for record the matches. I want to put 1 camera for each court. I've 4 courts. Is possible to start the recording manually only before the match that i want to record? If yes where is saved the file? Can i download immidiatly after che match the file (from nvr?) and give it to the player? Thanks and sorry for english mistake;)

[@pauledwards9493]

The only thing about vandal proof cams, if they get wet at night due to the rain, so water on the bubble, the IR light blurs everything and you can't see anything until it's dry. That's any bracket/orientation I've found.

[@DionTsaiSioe-f5q]

That's why I moved to turret cameras. Unless you go up and clean it, even when dry the smudges will stay.

[@BrandonDoyleMN]

Agreed, I replaced one here at our house with the turret style for that reason. They seem to be best suited for ceiling mount indoors or in dry outdoor spaces. I also like the led spotlights more than IR

[@LifeHackster]

It would be nice if they put a low light sensor on it and just get rid of IR like the CX410..but those glass domes though needs some maintenance cleaning.

[@hornetbad]

100% Agreed 👌

[@Google_Does_Evil_Now]

Maybe you can put a simple water protector above it.

[@arabatlianh]

Do they know have a mounting bracket for there new vandal cameras now?

[@blackcobolt1520]

Just a quick question. Can you connect Reolink cameras into the POE ports of something like a Unifi managed switch, and then connect the Reolink NVR to another non-POE port on the same switch or another switch in the same LAN? Will the NVR pick up the cameras through the switch or do they have to be connected physically into the NVR? On a related question, if you do as above can a NAS like a QNAP pick up the switch connected cameras as well? I'm wondering if i can use a NAS with its inbuilt smarter surveillance software and the NVR at the same time for the same cameras? Love all your content. Clear, concise and helpful.

[@LifeHackster]

As to your first 2 questions, Yes. -> kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWS7d3iIfpiqabM As to your last question, it can but it will depend on the model of Reolink camera that you have.

[@blackcobolt1520]

Ah perfect. Is there a list or another resource that let's you know which Reolink cameras can be used simultaneously with its NVR and NAS boxes using Onvif? This would determine which cameras I would choose.

[@bkaza]

Any update on a video review for the 833A, please?

[@chrisdestroy]

Are you using a hammer drill with an SDS mansory drill bit? Also, what length mansory drill bit would you recommend for residential installs? Thanks for doing what u do!

[@Sparky-joystick.1308]

need a NVR lock box or hiding no one stealing NVR. UPS power backup

[@LifeHackster]

Might be an upgrade that I'll do in the near future for the lock box. The cheaper option for now that I can think of is setting up 1 camera that monitors where the NVR is to record to the microSD card (just need plug it in a PoE injector). Also, a PC back up would be another option when everything in the business is setup.

[@Sparky-joystick.1308]

@LifeHackster you can't do that the PC backup video. I made my own Steel lock box for NVR protected and bolted table or the wall

[@LifeHackster]

@@Sparky-joystick.1308 Yes, you can. Run the Reolink Client app in your windows PC, run it in the background.

[@Lakaguama]

Hi, a question, if i have a nvr for 8 channels but have 10 plus cameras plug on a poe switch to the nvr, only 8 cameras can be watch and record? Or can i have more cameras and still watching them on the nvr but recording on the micro sd?😅

[@hermankamps8051]

Does all cables fit into the vandal proof bracket? I would like to use this vandal proof bracket without any extra junction box.

[@Codadams]

Need to add the Moisture Absorbing Dry-Packs packet for keeping moisture out of the dome cameras especially outside use.

[@killacups]

Could you provide the links for drill bits, waterproof cover, wire fish, or etc for those of us who are starting from complete scratch Thank you 🙏

[@LifeHackster]

I'll see if I can add it but the drill bits I got them from Home Depot, waterproof ethernet lid comes with the Reolink camera, Wire rods from Harbor Freight and I had them for a while now.

[@tuantran7494]

Some type of building may require you to fill out a Blue Stake form before you drill through walls. You may check with the building managers!

[@LifeHackster]

We got permission from the landlord.

[@reggie2803]

Wow a great job. Professional grade.

[@LifeHackster]

Thank you! 😊

[@LuisElyonArmy]

Great channel

[@jimbovankooten4027]

Nice ! Recept

[@ivanmogollon6553]

Is there another camera from reolink that is more budget friendly than the RCL-833A? Also for a business such as a restaurant?

[@venom5809]

Question for you since no one seems to know. I have a property out of state and just want to hook up some cameras there when I go there for a few days next week and no time to setup internet. Can I just run a hotspot and run the cameras off that? If so, what company and hotspot do you recommend? I just want to run a Ring doorbell and some Wyze cameras. Thanks.

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, you can. Check with whoever cellular company you are already using and see how much for a hotspot device and the plan.

[@venom5809]

@@LifeHacksterThanks

[@rikosmokesFPV]

any up coming review for RLC833?? Thanks!

[@DionTsaiSioe-f5q]

I have been trying to move towards more turret installs due to maintenance of dome cameras. Even a bit of rain or dust makes the picture unusable due to the IR reflecting back in the lens if there is dirt or smudges on the lens. I have not encountered this issue with turret cameras at all.

[@LifeHackster]

That is the issue with these glass covered cams. If they just use a low light sensor like on the CX410 and remove IR, there will be less maintenance.

[@DionTsaiSioe-f5q]

@@LifeHackster not remove. An option is to place the IR on the outside casing, but might bring in another point of failure if not done correctly.

[@chrisb9960]

LifeHackster, It’s almost time to upgrade my home security system NVR. Have you logged into the Reolink NVR from a computer on the same network? I am curious about the built in interface. Using the internal IP address and system admin login you should be able to access all features from the workstation. Older systems required Java. Newer systems shouldn’t. Can you let us know how well logging in across the network works?

[@chrisb9960]

Disregard. The Reolink video showed a clip of the web browser interface.

[@CraigMullins1]

8:40 doen't the lens have a set screw so you can fix the orientation?

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, you can but what I was saying in the video is that when I have everything setup and I can see what the camera is seeing in the monitor or in my phone... I did have to go back up to re-adjust the lens.

[@girydoank]

After watching your reviews, I decided to install reolink 410cx with nvr. I installed the app on my phone, scanned QR code using the app, but can't get connection when using wifi. However , I can get connection using cellular (5G) data only. Do you have work round for this?

[@v12tommy]

So I've never done anything PoE, but I've run miles of Cat 5e and Cat 6 back in the day. I have a tool that is dirt cheap, I've had for 15+ years that is great for testing anything with RJ45, if you do a ton of ethernet terminations. Not sure what it's called, but it literally just goes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, repeat. You plug it in on one end, and then plug in the other half on the other end, and see that the lights still go in sequence. If you have a fancy tester like a Fluke, it'll have something similar built in, but for someone planning on running a bunch of ethernet, it's like $20 well spent. I actually bought mine off a coworker for $5 when he retired.

[@Franksey180]

@lifehackster have you done a review video for the RLC-833A? I'll have a search.

[@dale_ch]

I'm a little mystified? If you research Cat 5, Cat 5e and Cat 6 cabling - they all specify and share the same RJ45 through wire crimp connectors - there is no difference? So I'm wondering why you had this problem?

[@LifeHackster]

Cat 6 have thicker 23 AWG while Cat 5's are 24 AWG.

[@dale_ch]

@@LifeHackster That is correct

[@SteveK99Sub]

Hi.. What is the low light image quality of those 833A's? You think it's any better than the 811A? Video's you posted here with the lights on with the 833A looks really good. Trying to decide if I should change out my 811A for 833A's. Thanks!

[@droidhacking]

What did you go for?

[@AussBassTony40]

Just buy a cheap continuity cable tester also. Nice video

[@LifeHackster]

I know. I bought one now after this... Thanks.

[@juniorrivera1680]

What monitor/tv are you using yourself at your home in the background? Debating what to get for myself

[@LifeHackster]

Just get a cheap TV...720P is fine..this one is ONN from Walmart..

[@did4u2b69]

very nice and detailed video, thx for sharing

[@LifeHackster]

Glad you liked it!

[@fastmamajama]

is it possible to use one of these cameras as a usb 4k camera? is there a usb adapter to convert from poe to usb cam? i am working on a ai detection script for outdoor.

[@troys.9188]

Have you had any issues with pass through connectors? I was looking at Infitit Cables to spec out wiring for my setup and they said pass through should not be used for POE.

[@LifeHackster]

No issues. I have used this in my home setup around 3 years and without the waterproof lid and no issues.

[@Jason-id8nc]

How did you get the one camera view to be bigger on the tv and the other cameras the normal size boxes.

[@LifeHackster]

You can choose that option in the view screen on the NVR. With this setup though, it will only show 8 cams.

[@Jason-id8nc]

Thanks! I enjoy watching your channel. It has helped with my Reolink setup. I’m running the nvr 36 channel, 6 811a with 256 sd cards, and just got the new 823s2 not sure how I feel about it yet. I wish the field of view was wider.

[@BrandonDoyleMN]

It’d be interesting to do a cost/time comparison of the DIY route to a quote for a similar system done by a professional installer. in our home we are using the Reolink NVR & cameras (thanks for the recommendation) prior to that we had a different store bought NVR system and had paid a contractor to run the Ethernet cables through the attic. It’s nice that you can just change out cameras as your needs change or new features are released such as dual lens, spot lights etc A friend is building a home, the low voltage contractor was trying to sell him on an expensive camera system, I shared your channel along with the hook up, now he’s going to have them just do the prewire and either use Reolink or unifi and install himself afterwards, it will save him thousands of dollars

[@LifeHackster]

I was initially planning to have someone give a quote but we are in a rush to get everything ready. Next time when there's more time. Pre-wiring or have some one drop cables will be the middle ground and probably the cost effective way especially if you don't have the tools needed. Thanks for watching!

[@Jensen871]

Could I measure roughly how long the Ethernet cables need to be and order them at those lengths instead of making them? I tried to make some but it took me way to long.

[@MintyElder]

Yes you can that is what I did.

[@LifeHackster]

Yes, definitely.

[@MrEddiechau]

How does human AI compare with eufy? Also any experience with ubiquiti (assuming $ not an issue)?

[@LifeHackster]

Rolnik's AI can detect farther than Eufy. Eufy is only around 30-40 feet. As to Ubiquiti, I did test them a way back when they still didn't have smart detection. Video quality is fine but not in line with how much they sell their cameras for.

[@robert.wigley]

I don't understand what the problem was with the RJ45 CAT6 connectors on CAT5e? CAT6is backwards compatible with CaT5, so I am assuming they were just junk connectors you bought?

[@LifeHackster]

The Cat6 is thicker gauge 23 AWG and the Cat5E is 24 AWG. The Klein Cat6 pass through connectors are slightly bigger on where you push in the cable and the individual wire channels and when you crimp it with Cat5E, it doesn't crimp it tight enough. Also, you will know that something is off because my Klien crimper doesn't make a clean or single cut of the wires.. I have to do it a second or third time. The connectors themselves that will connect to the ethernet port are the same... it is the crimping and the wire channels.

[@robert.wigley]

@@LifeHackster Ah, right. Thanks for explaining.

[@kolesplace]

Why don't the Cat6 connectors work on Cat5e cables? You say they look the same, I'm curious what the actual difference is?

[@LifeHackster]

Cat6 connectors have wider slots for the wires.

[@MinhTran-h8i]

How can you view the camera by the app when you not connected to LAN network?

[@LifeHackster]

As long as your phone has internet connection either data or other Wi-Fi network, you will be able to access the cameras even if you are on the other side of the globe.

[@AldoSubrotoPamudji]

What different using CAT 5 and CAT 6 , why can effected ?

[@Toelishness]

Yep, test the cabling.

[@TalOrmanda]

2 things I noticed...No ethernet cable tester to verify cables? Would have caught the issue right away. 2nd, get a UPS on that NVR!

[@LifeHackster]

Nope. I didn't have one... I have now bought one though...As to the UPS, I might or have another PC in a UPS run as a backup in the background..we will see.

[@TalOrmanda]

@@LifeHackster Cool. Something to also note that I ran into. Sometimes the ethernet crimpers that cut the wires that stick out have issues where it doesn't make a clean cut, so you have 1 or more of the tiny wires touching. Probably not your issue, but it's happened to me before.

[@abc123fhdi]

I would put cameras on the roof and above the suspended ceilings as crooks have been known to climb up and come in through the roof so you may want to hide the cables up there.

[@LifeHackster]

That's going to be too high. Thanks for watching!

[@cryengine_x]

dude i tried crimping cat and its a friggen nightmare. and each gen gets way harder (cat 7 way worse than cat 6 etc). then people said those pass through crimped cables go bad fast. i'd rather just buy pre-length cables. i think wal mart has 75 foot ethernet cables.

[@LifeHackster]

I have used pass thru for around 3 years in my setup without issues and also without the waterproof lid which you can always put this on if you are concerned about oxidation.

[@MintyElder]

I just set up a Reolink NVR system today. I went with the CX410 cameras. I mainly chose Reolink after watching tons of your reviews. I was replacing an older Wisenet system that used BNC cables so I got contractors to run the CAT6 in place of the BNC cables.

[@LifeHackster]

Nice. Thanks for watching!

[@mindshelfpro]

Why no UPS for the NVR?

[@LifeHackster]

Future plan.

[@junebugg9259]

pro tip: invest in push rods.

[@thanhchau-gc5om]

Reolink system records not good

[@LifeHackster]

You have to elaborate more than that.

[@frankm2385]

@Lifehackster If that installation was a lot of fun, come to my house for some more fun. 😂