Day 96: Electrical Wiring and Devices on Roof – Day 2

A white 2023 Ford Transit van with a DIY security camera mount on its roof, set against the Phoenix desert backdrop.

Projects

Creating DIY security camera roof mount for passenger side security camera

Project Status

Not complete

Time Spent

6 Hours

Steps Taken

Fabricate angle aluminum brackets to bind 80/20 extrusion together
Drill holes through brackets
Attach extrusion together
Mount security camera on extrusion

Materials Used

Keep in mind that prices frequently fluctuate.
It’s common for products to be delisted on Amazon. If you find a delisted product, please Email Me at steve@campervanfreedom.com and I will fix it.

Tools Used

Notes

Working with the aluminum extrusion can be time consuming due to the small pieces and the imperfect design of the T Nuts, when it comes to positioning them and screwing into them.
I’m bringing my drill press out tomorrow to speed up the drilling of holes into the DIY aluminum brackets.
I’m buying shorter 1/4-20 bolts so I don’t have to grind down every one to fit.
Grinded into my finger with the grinder but thankfully I did not cut it off.

Pictures

80/20 aluminum extrusion mounted to roof rack on camper van

DIY aluminum brackets attaching 80/20 aluminum extrusion

80/20 aluminum extrusion DIY mount for camper van security camera

measuring distance for security camera mount

camper van desert conversion work setup

DIY aluminum brackets for 80/20 extrusion

bolts and t nuts for aluminum extrusion

bolts and washers for aluminum extrusion

Short Video

Plans For Tomorrow

Continue work on mounting small LED lights and security cameras

Long-Form Article

In an era where protecting your home is as important as beautifying it, setting up a robust security camera system has become a priority for many homeowners. For those who prefer the DIY route over opting to professionally install, crafting a custom security solution offers not only a sense of accomplishment but also a tailored fit for your specific needs. This guide dives deep into how I embarked on my journey to enhance my camper van’s security with a DIY security camera mount, leveraging tools like aluminum extrusion and the trusty drill press to achieve professional-quality installation.

Camper Van Build Diary Day 96: Electrical Wiring and LED Lights on Roof - Day 2

Why Choose DIY for Your Security Camera System?

Opting to DIY your security camera installation comes with the freedom to customize your security system down to the finest detail. From selecting the best outdoor security camera that fits your aesthetic to integrating advanced features like motion detection, the DIY path allows for a personalized setup that can rival any professionally installed system. Among my top picks for this project was the Reolink IP security camera for its balance of quality, affordability, and ease of integration into a broader security ecosystem.

Materials and Tools: The Foundation of DIY Success

The cornerstone of any successful DIY security camera installation is the choice of materials and tools. Aluminum extrusion and aluminum angle brackets formed the backbone of my camera mount, chosen for their durability and ease of customization. Securing these components together required precise tools, notably the Dewalt Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set for drilling through metal with ease and the Security Bit Set for fastening everything securely.

The Heart of the System: Cameras and Features

Outdoor Security Camera: My choice fell on the Reolink IP security camera for its robust build and excellent video quality. An outdoor security camera needs to withstand the elements while providing clear footage, which Reolink accomplishes splendidly.
Indoor Security Camera: For interior surveillance, a wireless security camera like Google Nest offers convenience and quality. These cameras easily integrate into your home’s Wi-Fi network, offering peace of mind through live feeds accessible from anywhere.
Motion Sensor and Detection: A key feature in modern security systems, motion detection allows cameras to only record when there’s activity, conserving storage space on the video recorder and ensuring you’re only alerted when necessary.
Arm and Disarm Functionality: Advanced systems, such as the Ring Alarm Pro, provide options to arm and disarm your security setup either manually or through automated schedules, adding an extra layer of convenience.

Power Solutions and Connectivity

One of the challenges in setting up a security camera system is ensuring it remains operational even during power outages. My solution incorporated a combination of wireless camera models with built-in battery backup and a robust power system designed to keep critical components running. Connectivity plays a crucial role, especially for wireless security cameras that depend on a stable Wi-Fi network to transmit footage.

Inside a camper van, a workshop space is illuminated by LED lights, showcasing a drill press, Dewalt drill bit set, and tools for installing a Reolink IP security camera.

Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Approach

Planning Your System: Before drilling the first hole, plan your camera placement considering coverage areas, motion sensor positioning, and how your cameras mount to various surfaces.
Assembling the Mount: Using the aluminum extrusion and aluminum angle, I fabricated a mount designed to offer flexibility in camera positioning while ensuring stability against the elements.
Mounting and Wiring: With the help of my drill press and Dewalt drill bit set, mounting the security cameras was a breeze. Special attention was given to routing wires in a way that protected them from weather and tampering.
Setting Up the Network: Integrating the cameras into my Wi-Fi network was straightforward. The real magic happens in the configuration, where setting up motion detection zones and connecting to additional features like the video recorder ensures a seamless security experience.
Testing and Adjusting: After installation, I spent time testing the system, adjusting the motion sensor sensitivity, and ensuring the video recorder captured footage as intended.

Embracing the DIY Spirit

This project was more than just about installing security cameras; it was a testament to the DIY spirit. Easy to install and offering additional features that can be customized to fit any need, this setup proves you don’t have to compromise on security to achieve a system that’s uniquely yours.

From wireless camera options that offer flexibility without the mess of cables to integrating top picks like the Google Nest indoor security camera for interior surveillance, the possibilities are endless. The satisfaction of pressing the arm and disarm button on a system you’ve built yourself is unmatched, providing not just security but a deep sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re protecting your home or, in my case, a camper van, the journey to a more secure space is well worth the effort.