A solar power camera is the preferred choice for users who need uninterrupted performance and maintenance-free cameras. It works in all conditions and offers reliable performance all day.
In this article, we will discuss how a solar power camera works. We will share the important features you need to consider while buying a solar power camera. Moreover, we will share some excellent solar power cameras to make your selection easier.
How Does the Solar Power Camera Work?
A solar power camera contains a built-in battery that recharges through solar energy and powers the camera. It is connected to a small solar panel that charges the battery during the day.
After recharging, the battery can power the camera during the night, and the next day, the panel starts recharging it again. This way, the camera works the whole day without needing any continuous power supply or manual recharging. It makes recharging automatic and saves the user from hassles.
Key Features of Looking For a Reliable Solar Power Camera
Battery Capacity
The battery capacity of a solar power camera should be enough to offer uninterrupted performance. It should not require manual recharging. Otherwise, it might stop working at night. The backup of the battery should be at least 3 days—the more, the better.
Solar Panel Efficiency
The connected solar panel should be of the optimal rated power according to the battery size. It should be able to completely charge the battery during the day so that the camera can work at night without any interruption.
Image Quality
The image quality of a solar power camera should be excellent. It should capture the vidoes clearly and with fine details. 4K resolution is a great option as it captures clear images of objects so that you can recognize them without any hassle. It should have night vision to capture clear and colored videos at night.
Waterproof Rating
Outdoor cameras must have a waterproof rating to work in all weather conditions. Ideally, the camera should be rated IP65 or higher. It prevents dust and water from getting inside the camera and extends its life.
AI Detection & Remote Viewing
AI detection allows the camera to detect objects and distinguish between persons, pets, and vehicles. It sends real-time and accurate alerts to the device. Moreover, remote viewing is also an essential feature to offer remote access to the users. They can view the live feed and control the camera from any location.
No Subscription
It is better if the solar power camera does not require any subscription. It should offer all features, such as remote viewing and real-time alerts, without any monthly fees. It will be a cost-effective option.
Solar Power Security Camera Recommendation
Wi-Fi Solar Power Outdoor Camera – Argus Eco Ultra
Argus Eco Ultra is a standalone 4K security camera. It has a built-in battery that can be connected to a solar panel for automatic recharging. It works on dual-band Wi-Fi to ensure fast speed and reliable connectivity. It is equipped with color night vision to offer clear and colored videos even in the darkest conditions.
Pros:
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for robust performance
- Exceptional 4K (8MP) video quality with intricate details
- Smart detection to detect persons, pets, and vehicles accurately
- Supports up to a 512GB microSD card, which is more than enough
- IP66 rating to work in all weather conditions
Cons:
- No PTZ function
No Wi-Fi Solar Power Security Camera – Reolink Go PT Ultra
Reolink Go PT Ultra is a wireless 4G LTE camera. It does not require Wi-Fi and works on the cellular network. It has a built-in battery that can be connected to a solar panel. The camera can work in any location because of 4G LTE and solar power. It records videos in 4K resolution, and due to its pan and tilt movements, it can cover a wider area.
Pros:
- Offers 360⁰ with exceptional video quality
- Dual night vision modes to capture clear videos at night
- Smartly detects persons, pets, and vehicles and sends accurate alerts
- Dual warning system with alarm and spotlights to keep intruders away
- Flexible storage options and smart home compatibility
Cons:
- Requires optimal cellular network connectivity
Solar Power Camera System – Home Hub with Argus PT Ultra
Home Hub with Argus PT Ultra is a complete Wi-Fi solar power camera system to cover a wider area. It includes two Argus PT Ultra cameras that record 4K videos. They are equipped with dual night vision for colored and clear videos at night. The Home Hub acts as the central unit and stores all the recordings. It offers exclusive anti-theft algorithms to ensure the safety and security of your data.
Pros:
- Pan and tilt movement to cover a massive area
- 1-year local storage without any monthly fees
- Excellent privacy protection through encryption
- Offers a regular security summary through the app
- Home Hub works as an alarm center
- Can connect up to 8 Reolink cameras
Cons:
- Non-removable battery in cameras
Installation Tips of Solar Power Security Camera
- Install the solar panel at a suitable location where it can receive maximum light during the day. Ensure no obstacles or shadow-casting objects are around it.
- Position the panel so that it can receive at least 4-6 hours direct sunlight. If you are in the northern hemisphere, the panel should be south-facing.
- Install the camera 8-10 ft above the ground for a better field of view and keep it out of reach. Secure it properly on the mounting.
- If there is any excess cable, coil it and keep it above the ground. And if you need an extension cable, use a compatible weatherproof cable.
- Fully charge the camera before setting up and mounting. Connect the camera and test if it is working properly. Check the Wi-Fi strength at the location.
Use Cases of Solar Power Cameras
Home Security
Solar power cameras can be used for home security. They can be placed in the front yard or backyard for monitoring and surveillance. They offer uninterrupted performance and quick alerts of the activities outside the house.
Farms and Rural Property Monitoring
Solar cameras are suitable for farms and rural property monitoring as they can recharge automatically and do not require heavy maintenance. They can help in monitoring the animals and property and ensure its safety. You can monitor the live feed and control the camera remotely.
Wildlife Observation and Trail Cams
They are ideal for observing wildlife as they can work in the wild without any issues. They recharge through solar energy and withstand all weather conditions. They help in monitoring wildlife during the day and night.
Construction Site Surveillance
At construction sites, it is difficult to set up common cameras due to power and wiring limitations. Solar power cameras offer reliable performance. They capture construction activities all day without requiring manual recharging.
RV and Campsite Security
For RV and campsite security, it is better to use solar cameras. They are made for off-road adventures. They can recharge through solar energy at any location and work seamlessly. They ensure your security in all conditions.
FAQs
Do solar power security cameras work?
Yes, solar power security cameras work well in outdoor applications. They recharge automatically, work in power outages, send real-time alerts, offer remote access, etc.
Do you need Wi-Fi for solar cameras?
Wi-Fi solar cameras are completely wireless. They are easy to install and suitable for outdoor locations where a Wi-Fi network is available. They can record even in power outages.
Do solar cameras record all the time?
It depends on the camera. Mostly, solar power cameras record when motion is detected. However, some security cameras like Reolink Altas PT Ultra can work continuously.
Conclusion
A solar power camera recharges automatically through a solar panel. It does not require manual recharging, and it can record even in power outages. It offers all the advanced features, including real-time alerts, remote monitoring, AI detection, etc. While buying a solar power camera, make sure to consider the key features we have shared. It will help you buy the perfect camera for your needs and ensure optimal performance.
