Without permanent power on a jobsite, it can be difficult to set up reliable construction monitoring cameras. Moving cameras around to capture progress in specific areas can create issues, too.
But that’s when solar jobsite monitoring cameras enter the picture.
Solar-compatible cameras can be placed anywhere. Move them to wherever they’re needed without worrying about losing power or connection. They can be slightly repositioned at any time, or they can be completely relocated from one corner of a jobsite to another without having to find a nearby outlet or power source to plug into. Just set up the camera anywhere and start recording!
Because solar cameras run on sunlight, you can deploy them from Day One to monitor everything from clearing and grading the site to foundation and framing work — long before permanent power is established. Installing jobsite monitoring cameras this early allows you to document the project from the very start so you can keep it on track and drive accountability.
Picking the Right Solar Jobsite Camera
Not all solar cameras are created equal. If you want a reliable, high-performance jobsite monitoring camera system, there are a few features you should look for.
Even though solar technology hasn’t changed much over the years, some solar jobsite monitoring cameras have continued to improve performance while also consuming very little power to enhance energy efficiency.
OxBlue’s Cobalt solar-compatible camera, for example, is one of the world’s most energy-efficient solar cameras. It features a unique power-saving mode that enables the camera to make decisions about when to turn on and off. This saves power and maximizes efficiency and financial investments without missing critical jobsite activity. When the feature is turned on, it utilizes less than 1W of power. Even when the feature is off, the camera uses less than 3W of power — much less than a lightbulb!
It’s also important to consider solar panels, which will transform sunlight into electricity for the cameras. Look for panels designed to be lighter in weight and easier to carry while still providing the amount of power you need. When cameras are installed overhead, this allows a single installer to comfortably carry the panel up a ladder without using a lift or requiring assistance.
Finally, think about battery options. Solar jobsite monitoring cameras rely on batteries to store sunlight so that footage can be captured overnight and on cloudy days. Look for lightweight batteries that allow cameras to operate without sun for at least a few days at a time.
Where Solar-Compatible Cameras Work Best
Are solar jobsite monitoring cameras right for your upcoming project? If you face one of these situations, then solar-compatible cameras may be the right fit:
- 120V power is not easily accessible on the jobsite or the site lacks power sources close
- You don't want to trap into existing power on the jobsite
- The only source of power on the jobsite is a temporary generator
- The camera will be placed in a location that could accidentally be unplugged
- Plenty of southern exposure is available without obstructions from shade
Because energy efficiency continues to be a priority across jobsites, and construction companies continue to find value in deploying jobsite management cameras, solar-compatible camera systems are on the rise. Today, nearly half of the jobsite monitoring cameras deployed by OxBlue are solar-compatible. Learn more about our solar cameras.
