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The short answer
Only if the recorder, the network switch and your router are all on backup power. Cameras that draw power through the network cable stay live for as long as the switch does, so one properly sized UPS can cover the whole system. Test it by simulating an outage and timing how long everything lasts.
| Part of the system | What happens in an outage | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cameras (12V or powered over the network cable) | Stop when their power supply or switch loses power | No footage from the moment the power drops |
| Recorder (DVR or NVR) | Stops recording, and an abrupt shutdown can damage the hard drive | You lose footage and can corrupt what you already have |
| Network switch | Cuts every camera connected through it | One failure takes out all the IP cameras |
| Router, modem or fibre box | No internet, so no remote viewing or alerts | You can’t check the cameras from your phone |
Most people back up the recorder and forget the router. The cameras may be recording, but you can’t see them or get alerts.
The rule of thumb is simple. Runtime in hours is roughly the usable battery energy (watt-hours) divided by the total load (watts), minus losses in the inverter or UPS.
| Item | Illustrative load |
|---|---|
| Recorder | 25 W |
| Network switch powering 4 cameras | 40 W |
| Router and fibre box | 10 W |
| Total | about 75 W |
Say you use a 12V 100Ah battery. That is about 1,200 watt-hours. Lead-acid batteries are usually discharged only to about half, so roughly 600 watt-hours are usable. After inverter losses, call it around 500. Divide by 75 W and you get roughly 6 to 7 hours.
Some South African CCTV suppliers suggest adding roughly 20 to 30 percent to a system’s budget for backup power. Treat that as a rough guide, because a system that stops recording when the power goes is the one thing it must not do.
We install CCTV systems across Gauteng, including Sandton, Randburg, Midrand, Centurion and Pretoria East. Remote viewing also depends on your router, so read why you can’t see your cameras on your phone.
See also: IP vs analogue CCTV · the storm season checklist.
Long enough to cover your area’s load-shedding slots with a margin. Longer is better if you can afford it.
Yes, if you want remote viewing and alerts during an outage.
Often, if it has spare capacity and a safe circuit. Your installer should check the load and the wiring.
Not unless the whole chain (cameras, switch and recorder) is on backup. Night is when you most want footage.
They don’t depend on the grid, but they still need enough sun and a good connection or storage.
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