Using Electric Metal Tubing (EMT) with SCW Security Cameras
1/2 inch EMT conduit
Pros
Widely available at most hardware stores.
Offers the best protection from vandalism or accidental damage.
Professional and attractive
Lines are straight
Challenges
Requires specialty tools to install such as pipe bender, metal saw, deburring tool.
Rigid design won’t allow tight bends.
Will require additional hardware such as inline couplers, 90 degree elbows, various adaptors.
Anything other than straight cable runs will require you to run additional slack in the cable after each section, the cable will not “pull” through.
When to use Electrical Metal Tubing (EMT)
Exterior/Interior applications where mounting to the surface of a wall is necessary and the risk of the cable being damaged is high
When the most secure level of cable protection is necessary
When vandalism is a serious concern
Tools/supplies needed
Drill driver
Electricians conduit scoring tool or sawzaw
Proper fasteners based on the surface you will be mounting to
Pipe bender
Philips screwdriver
One or two hole strap brackets
Conduit fitting and reaming tool
Step by Step Installation Instructions
Determine length of cable run. Typically EMT comes in 5’ or 10’ lengths.
Run cable(s) through first piece of conduit
Using the straps and fasteners secure conduit to surface. Next you will need to run your cable through a coupler in order to connect your next piece of conduit. Note: attaching coupler to the emt prior to running the cable will save you the extra step.
When encountering obstructions or corners you may need to make a bend or attach a 90 degree coupler. You may also need to make cuts. Note: when pulling cable through a 90 degree bend or junction box, pull excess cable as it is difficult to pull through and might compromise your Cable. Wire Lubricant is available to assist in pulling cable through conduit, be careful not to snag or tear the protective shielding when pulling cable through metal conduit.
When either separating or conjoining cable runs, you will need to use a junction box. They are sold in various shapes and sizes. When connecting to either a junction box or wall mount you will need to use a threaded connection coupler.
