Installation Tips

Why We’re Confident in Our Extended Warranty

Selected systems installed directly by CustomLink may include an extended labour warranty, typically two to three years, depending on the project scope, installation method, and written confirmation at the time of quotation.

This confidence comes from consistently low fault rates achieved through correct system design, careful product selection, rigorous testing, and meticulous installation practices.

Over more than a decade, our direct installation work has delivered exceptionally low fault rates across installation quality, false alarms, equipment reliability, and firmware stability.

Performance still depends on correct installation, site conditions, environment, and ongoing maintenance.

Step 1 — System Setup & Bench Testing

Before installation begins, take the time to prepare and test the system properly.

Handle all products carefully and avoid touching circuit boards with bare fingers where possible
Lay out and connect all devices on a bench before installation
Read the manuals carefully so you understand the setup and configuration process
Update devices to the latest suitable firmware before final system setup
Complete the initial setup and enable the required features
Double-check all connections before powering up
Bench-test all key functions before installation

Bench testing helps identify setup, firmware, compatibility, or connection issues before the system is physically installed.

This can reduce unnecessary rework and makes final installation more predictable.

Tips

For Wireless Devices
Temporarily place devices in their intended locations to check signal strength and avoid barriers that may affect performance.

For Hardwired Devices
Estimate cable lengths and test using cables slightly longer than required so you can confirm reliable performance before installation.

For Networked Systems
Where possible, plan the network before installation begins. If the system will rely on static IP addressing, router access, or integration with other devices, that should be identified early to reduce delays later.

Step 2 — Cabling, Mounting & Termination

This stage is relatively simple for wireless devices but more involved for hardwired systems.

Whether you are installing the system yourself or using a professional, safety comes first. All installation work must be performed by appropriately licensed and insured trades where required.

Correct physical installation directly affects system performance, stability, reliability, and warranty outcomes.

Best Practices

Avoid installing devices near sources of interference
For wireless systems, keep clear of large metal barriers, dense structures, and steel sheds where possible
Do not share conduits or holes with electrical cables
Maintain safe separation from mains cabling
at least 150 mm from 240V lines
at least 350 mm from 415V lines
Where cables must cross electrical wiring, use a suitable fixed non-conductive barrier
Exercise caution in ceiling spaces, roof cavities, and crawl spaces
Check for hidden services such as electrical, gas, and water before drilling
Use ladders safely and assess fall risks before working at height
Plan device locations carefully for safe cabling, future accessibility, and better system performance
Use high-quality, correctly rated cables
Avoid unnecessary joins wherever possible
Handle cables gently and avoid stepping on them, crushing them, overstretching them, or bending them sharply
Maintain a sensible bend radius, typically around 4 times the cable diameter
For outdoor or underground runs, use outdoor-rated cable or conduit and seal joints properly to help prevent water ingress
For longer or critical runs, consider installing a spare cable as a backup
Power off devices before termination
Do not use electric drivers to tighten delicate terminals or device screws
Avoid overtightening
Mount all devices securely using suitable anchors where required
Make sure outdoor equipment is mounted and sealed properly to suit the environment

Cable Guidance

Data Cable

Cat6 preferred
Cat5e acceptable in suitable applications
Use a consistent termination standard
Test cables before final setup
Label cables where practical

Alarm & Control Cable

4-core 14/0.20 preferred
6-core 14/0.20 and Fig-8 24/0.20 may be replaced with 4-core cable where suitable
7/0.20 may be acceptable for small residential applications only

Data Bus for Ness M1 and Inception

Screened Belden cable recommended
Unscreened cable may be acceptable for short runs depending on the project

HDMI Runs
HDMI cables should be handled carefully, particularly at the connector ends, which can be damaged easily. Avoid sharp bends near the connectors and do not place strain on the ends. For hard-to-run locations, consider installing a Cat6 cable as a backup so it can be used later with HDMI-over-Cat6 converters if required. For longer distances, Cat6 with HDMI-over-Cat6 converters is often the better option.

Step 3 — Walk Testing & System Final Checks

After installation, always perform a full walk test and final system review.

Check that every device responds correctly
Confirm that all alarm, intercom, CCTV, access, or automation functions operate as intended
Adjust camera angles, sensor positions, and device settings where required
Confirm that app access, notifications, and user controls are working correctly
Verify that the system behaves consistently under real operating conditions
Check that any programmed logic, automation, or event responses operate as expected

Final setup assumes installation and cabling have been completed correctly.

If installation defects, cabling faults, network instability, or third-party configuration issues are identified during final setup, additional rectification or troubleshooting may be required before the system can be completed properly.

Network & IP Addressing Checks

For network-based systems, also confirm the following during final checks:

The correct network structure is being used
Router access is available where required
Field devices that require static IP addressing have been planned correctly
If using an NVR with internal PoE ports, cameras remain on the internal NVR network where applicable
The NVR is configured appropriately for the site network
Mobile app access and remote features are tested after the system is connected to the live network

If the network is unavailable, unstable, or changed after setup, final system behaviour may be affected and additional support may be required.

Summary of Key Points

Focus Area	What to Aim For
Products	Select tested, suitable equipment from reputable brands
Planning	Think through placement, network requirements, and installation pathway before work begins
Setup	Complete initial setup and bench testing before installation
Cabling	Use correct, high-grade cables and maintain proper separations
Mounting	Ensure devices are secure, accessible, and suitable for the environment
Termination	Secure and double-check every connection before powering on
Network	Plan IP addressing and router access early where relevant
Testing	Bench test first, then walk test and perform final checks after installation
Appearance	Keep the installation neat, labelled, and professional

Final Note

Good results depend on more than just buying the right products.

Correct planning, careful installation, proper testing, and stable network conditions all play a major role in long-term performance.

If you would like help with system selection, pre-configuration, final setup, or advanced troubleshooting, please contact CustomLink for guidance.