If you need a simple and inexpensive way to make a copy of what your security camera films, a video cassette recorder is a good way to go. Make sure you have a separate room where the VCR can be stored for secure recording and viewing via a TV monitor. Most security cameras should allow the simple analog cable connections that all VCRs use, like coaxial and RCA cables. The most difficult task will likely be how much cable you need and securely rout it between the camera and recorder.
Instructions
1. Check the output ports on the security camera before you mount it in position. Look for the best connection to make between the camera and VCR. Your options may be limited by the type of input ports on the VCR. Your basic choices will be RF coaxial, RCA composite or S-video cable.
2. Get a cable long enough to travel between the camera's mounted position and wherever the VCR is stored. If you are keeping the VCR in another room with a monitor, this will likely require a cable of 100 feet or more. You may need a double-female port adapter to connect multiple cables.
3. Connect the cable to the mounted camera and decide run the cable from there to the VCR. Mounting the cable to the ceiling or higher with brackets or tape can prevent damaging the cable. You might need to drill through the wall or ceiling and run the cable through it, especially if you want to prevent drawing attention to the camera.
4. Connect the cable to the VCR's input port. Insert a rewound, recordable cassette tape into the VCR. Make sure the camera is turned on and recording, then press "Record" on the VCR to begin the tape recording.
5. Connect the VCR's output to a TV monitor so the tape can be viewed. Make sure the VCR's channel and the TV channel are set the same. When you press the "Video" button on the VCR, you should be able to view the camera recording live on the screen while the VCR records.
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