Easiest way to install a camera without power outlets

[VoltVibes]

My parents want to install a single camera to watch their parking lot and send the video back to their PC. We need the cheapest and easiest way to do this without running 120V power out to the camera. What’s the best setup that doesn't involve a professional electrician?

 

[dmildram]

My parents want to install a single camera to watch their parking lot and send the video back to their PC. We need the cheapest and easiest way to do this without running 120V power out to the camera. What’s the best setup that doesn't involve a professional electrician?

Power over Ethernet. I think most fixed cameras use it, and come with a POE injector which needs a mini power brick but the injector can be near the network switch/source. But it's cooler (especially if you have other wired network devices wanting an Ethernet jack near the switch/source) to buy a mini switch with a couple POE ports....under $100 depending on the #ports and POE budget (overall watts the switch can deliver)...50w can run 3 cameras! With a POE switch you can put aside the injector (an inline Ethernet device) and have less of an ugly mess of Ethernet wires.

But choosing the "webcam" is another huge decision, most?some are cloud based meaning you could view the camera from anywhere (eg cellphone while traveling) but for that you must pay per month. Simpler solution for only in-home viewing means you can browse to the IPaddr of the camera (LAN IPaddr eg 192.168.x.x) from any in-home device on the same network (including a cellphone connected to home wifi.

 

[PGB1]

Hello VoltVibes & Welcome!

Many solar security cameras with WiFi are on the market for around 100.00 USD. Most have battery on board which is charged by the on-board solar panel so that the camera operates at night.

TP-Link and Eufy are highly rated by customers. If you happen to have Roku, it is possible that they have a solar one as well which you can watch on the television. (Never checked Roku for a solar one.)

Here is a link to Best Buy page of WiFi cameras. I'd imagine they are cheaper elsewhere. https://www.bestbuy.com/site/shop/wireless-solar-security-cameras

And here is a link to a Costco Two for 100.00: https://www.costco.com/p/-/arlo-ess...s-2-solar-panel-chargers/4000400022?langId=-1

Hope one of these makes the job easier!
Paul