How can I install a camera when there’s no power socket nearby?

Hi everyone… I want to set up a smart camera on my ceiling at the end of the corridor. The nearest power socket is way on the other side. What’s the best way to handle this? Is using a long extension cable my only option, or is there a better and safer way to power it? A power bank doesn’t seem realistic for this situation.

Power over Ethernet is a great solution for this

Smart said:
Power over Ethernet is a great solution for this

Why is PoE the better choice? I’m guessing the person who posted this probably doesn’t have an ethernet port close to the camera location, so a long cable would still be necessary.

@Trent
PoE uses low voltage, so it’s not covered by electrical codes that restrict using extension cords for permanent setups. Plus, PoE is inexpensive and easy to install, needing just a small hole through walls. It also carries data, so you only need one cable instead of two. Even if the camera has WiFi, a wired connection is more stable. Running an ethernet cable along the corner of the ceiling and painting it to match is way less noticeable than a bulky extension cord.

@Bodhi
I wasn’t thinking about using an AC extension cord as an alternative to PoE. I meant using a DC power cable, which is small and can be hidden easily. If we put aside the data transfer benefits, what would be the advantages of PoE over using a DC cable?

@Trent
Your idea might work for you. I don’t think PoE offers many advantages for home use besides what I’ve mentioned. It’s just cleaner and can be run in the ceiling. Ignoring the data transfer and security benefits of PoE, the only technical edge it has is the voltage drop, especially if the camera uses IR lights, which require more power. You’d have to use thicker cables depending on the distance and the power the camera needs. PoE can run longer distances at the same gauge and load since it operates at higher voltage and lower current. This is usually not a concern until you reach around 20 feet or more, depending on the camera’s specs.

@Bodhi
Thanks for explaining, that makes sense.

@Trent
The problem with DC power is the drop in power over long distances. If you plan to run a wire, PoE is the way to go.

@Trent
How else will you reliably get data from the camera? Plus, how do you stop sophisticated thieves from jamming your WiFi?

securetheperimeter said:
@Trent
How else will you reliably get data from the camera? Plus, how do you stop sophisticated thieves from jamming your WiFi?

  1. WiFi… 2. The person who posted this may not even have ethernet available in that room.

@Trent

  1. From my experience, WiFi isn’t reliable and can be jammed. 2. Installing ethernet should be considered if possible.

Another option is to have an outlet installed. You could also use a PoE camera.

My Eufy cameras can last for months on a single charge. It’s not the perfect setup, but if I had the time, I’d definitely run a dedicated PoE system.

Do you have any ceiling lights nearby? There are adapters available that can draw USB or AC power from an Edison socket.

frank said:
Do you have any ceiling lights nearby? There are adapters available that can draw USB or AC power from an Edison socket.

That’s how I power a camera by my driveway. One of my garage lights was replaced with a socket adapter.

I have a camera that comes with a small solar panel.

Sometimes you have to make do with less ideal solutions. I have a 100-foot extension cord running around my house because I had no other choice. If you own your home, you could drill a hole in the ceiling for the power cord. However, PoE might be your best option, so try to find a cable that matches the ceiling color.

Here are some options for you, whether or not you want to do any wiring…