CCTV & Dashcam Setup Mistakes to Avoid

Think your CCTV or dashcam is set up correctly? You might be missing key details that affect your footage.

By Ben — CEO, BennyBoom

Let’s be honest — most people install their dashcams or CCTV cameras once and forget about them. But small mistakes in how you set them up can make the difference between clear evidence and a blurry mystery.

At BennyBoom, we’ve helped thousands of drivers and homeowners set up their cameras the right way. So today, I’m sharing the most common setup mistakes people make — and how to fix them fast.


🎯 1. Mounting Too High or Too Low

The biggest issue I see is positioning.
If your dashcam is too high, it might capture too much sky — not the road. Too low, and you’re staring at the dashboard.
Pro tip: Mount your camera at eye level behind the rear-view mirror for the best angle. For CCTVs, position slightly above head height, angled down — so you capture faces, not just heads or feet.


💾 2. Using the Wrong Memory Card

Not all SD cards are created equal.
If you use a slow or generic one, your footage may freeze or fail to record properly.
Pro tip: Always choose Class 10 or UHS-I cards (or better). They’re designed for continuous video recording.


🔄 3. Forgetting to Format Your Memory Card

Yes, you need to do this.
Dashcams and CCTVs loop-record, meaning they overwrite old footage. Over time, this causes file corruption.
Pro tip: Format your card every 2–3 weeks using the camera’s settings to keep performance smooth.


☀️ 4. Ignoring Heat and Sunlight

Nigeria’s sun isn’t friendly to tech. Prolonged heat exposure can warp your camera lens or damage its internals.
Pro tip: Use heat-resistant mounts and always park in shaded areas when possible.


🔌 5. Not Updating Firmware

Just like your phone, your camera’s software needs updates too. These often improve clarity, night vision, and motion detection.
Pro tip: Check the manufacturer’s site or app every few months for new firmware.


🎥 6. Forgetting About Angles

It’s easy to set your camera once and forget it. But vibrations and bumps can shift it slightly over time.
Pro tip: Do a quick angle check every two weeks. Make sure it still covers your blind spots and key areas.


⚡ 7. Poor Power Supply Setup

CCTV and dashcam reliability depends on stable power.
Pro tip: For vehicles, use a hardwire kit with power protection. For home cameras, invest in a solar backup or surge protector to avoid power cuts ruining your footage.


Final Thoughts from Ben 💬

Your camera’s purpose is simple — to protect you when it matters most.
A few setup mistakes can cost you crucial footage, but with the right care, your BennyBoom cameras will serve you faithfully for years.

Stay safe, stay protected — and if you ever need help setting up your device, we’re just a message away.

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Ben
Ben

Ben I. is the Founder and CEO of BennyBoom, Nigeria’s leading brand for smart car accessories and everyday tech. With a passion for innovation and road safety, Ben has spent over 5 years helping over 30,000 customers upgrade their driving experience with reliable, high-performance gadgets. When he’s not testing new tech, you’ll find him sharing practical car hacks and tips to make life on (and off) the road smoother.

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