Install and Mount the Homelife Camera Outside

• The camera paired and ready to install
• The screws and anchors that are appropriate for the mounting surface
• A screwdriver
• Additional tools typically used:
  • A drill
  • A 5/8” masonry or wood drill bit.
    
    Note: The drill bit must be long enough to drill through the exterior and the interior wall to run the camera cable inside.
    
    
  • One of the following drill bits:
    • A 1/8” wood drill bit (pilot holes for included screws)
    • A 1/4” masonry or wood drill bit (holes for included anchors)
  • Silicone sealant to seal the entry hole against moisture
  • A hammer
  • A ladder or step stool depending on the height

Note: If you need to extend the camera cable, you may also need the following:

• RJ45 coupler, rated for location
• Cat5e Ethernet cable, up to 50 feet with connectors

Prepare Before You Start

• Know your local laws. Comply with all local regulations and building codes.
• Work safely. Follow the tool manufacturer's recommendations on best safety practices.
  • Don't drill in wet conditions.
  • Avoid drilling through door or window frames.
  • Don't drill into siding during sub-freezing weather as it may cause cracking.
  • Don't drill into gutters.
  • Take care to not staple through cables and wires.
  • Leave plenty of space between the camera wire and high voltage lines.
• Pair cameras prior to mounting. Plug each camera in and try streaming video before you mount.
• Power adapter must be plugged in indoors because the adapter provides the camera’s connection to wifi and is not weatherproof.
• Plan and measure the cable path from the camera to the wall outlet.
  • Windows and doors are useful reference points when measuring indoors and out.
  • Holes should be drilled at least eight inches from corners.
  • If the path is longer than 12 feet, you will need additional cable and couplers. Make sure they are rated for the location where they will be used (indoors or outdoors).

Picking an Outdoor Location

• If your home has an overhang that will provide shelter from the weather, it will minimize rain or snow sticking to the camera's lens.
• Install cameras 8-10 feet from the ground. This recommended height is low enough for detailed view but high enough to be out of easy reach of others.
• Don't point cameras directly at the sun to avoid glare and high contrast in camera footage.

Installing and Mounting your Camera

To install the camera outside, complete the following steps.

Using a 5/8” drill bit, drill at a slightly upward angle through the exterior wall until you are through the interior wall. You will still seal around the cable, but this is an extra precaution to prevent moisture from getting in your walls.

Use a hammer drill for brick, stucco or concrete and, if possible, drill through the mortar.

Thread the camera cable through the hole.

Plug the camera cable into the power adapter and wait for the camera to come online and display a solid blue light.

Using the Cox Panoramic Wifi app, confirm you can view the camera live stream.

• If yes, continue to the next step.
• If no, refer to Troubleshooting the Cox Homelife Camera Offline or Can't Connect.

Mark and drill two holes to secure the camera to a flat surface.

• If only using the included screws, use a 1/8” drill bit.
• If using the included anchors, use a 1/4” drill bit.

Mount the camera securely using the included anchors, if applicable, and screws.

Adjust camera angle as needed by checking the view in the Cox Panoramic Wifi app.

Seal the exterior hole with silicone sealant.