No Power on Site -- No Problem for iBEAM Camera Solutions
The summer season is in full swing and construction projects across the United States are ramping up. Everywhere you look there seems to be a new project breaking ground or topping out.
With many construction companies running multiple projects simultaneously (sometimes across multiple states), it makes sense that they turn to construction cameras to help them stay connected and up-to-date with their projects. No matter what type of project, construction cameras bring a myriad of benefits to the bottom line.
But what do contractors do when they need a construction camera and power isn’t available at the job site? Or when power will eventually be available, but only after weeks or months into construction?
Let’s take a look at the options for powering your construction cameras …
The Preferred Power Solution: 120V AC
Naturally, 120V AC power is preferred when it comes to construction cameras, as it’s stable and provides a reliable, inexpensive power source.
But we all know that in the real world not every construction project will have 120V AC power from the start -- or even at all. In instances where 120V AC won’t be available, it’s helpful to be familiar with altermative power solutions and the unique benefits of each.
When you are considering an alternative power solution for your project, keep in mind that there’s no such thing as ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to alternative power and construction cameras. After all, January in Detroit is significantly different from January in Miami, isn’t it?
The GOOD Alternative Power Solution: Rechargeable Battery Kits
The first alternative power solution for construction cameras that we will discuss is the 12V DC battery power kit. This alternative power solution is designed to get your camera online FAST!
iBEAM’s rechargeable 12V power kit consists of two deep-cycle batteries and a charger, so you can use one battery while the second battery charges. Each battery will power your camera for two to three days.
The 12V battery power kit is primarily used as a temporary solution until 120V AC power is available on site, but is versatile enough that it can be used for the duration of a project, even acting as a battery back-up once 120V AC power is available.
Keep in mind that this solution requires more involvement than generator or solar power kits (which we’ll cover next); a member of your team will need to regularly swap batteries and recharge the used battery. But this solution is fast to deploy and relatively inexpensive.
To learn more about our rechargeable 12V battery power kit contact our team of camera specialists and they’ll provide you with all of the pertinent information.
The BETTER Alternative Power Solution: 12V Generator Kits
12V generator kits provide power for iBEAM Construction Cameras using a resource that contractors often already have on site: a generator.
The 12V generator kit consists of a deep-cycle battery and charger, and provides your construction camera with clean power even when your generator is turned off (for up to three days!).
As an added benefit, if 120V power becomes available your 12V generator kit can act as a back-up power supply, so you can rest easy knowing your construction camera will always have power to capture what’s happening at your project.
If you’re in need of a generator kit for your construction camera solution, contact our team of camera specialists and they’ll be more than happy to help get one put together for you or answer any questions you may have.
The BEST Alternative Power Solution: Solar Power Kits
iBEAM solar power kits provide reliable, 24/7 autonomous power for construction cameras when 120V AC power isn’t available.
Unlike many other solar solutions, iBEAM solar power kits are tailored specifically for your project location. They provide 24/7 continuous power so your camera will always have the power required to document your job, regardless of weather conditions. This is particularly important in cold winter conditions, where a night without power can mean that your camera won't warm up to operational temperature until well into the work day.
At iBEAM, we DON’T take a ‘one-size fits all’ approach to solar solutions or our clients’ needs. Instead, we understand that each project presents unique challenges, so we listen and tailor our solutions specifically to our clients’ goals and objectives.
iBEAM solar power kits are pre-wired for easy setup, and once deployed require little to no additional oversight.
“The cameras and solar were SUPER easy to set up!""
— Jason Odegard, Swingen Construction Company
For short projects lasting less than three months, solar power kits may be cost prohibitive. However, solar power solutions can be moved from project to project, so if you plan to use a camera multiple times or install multiple cameras on a variety of projects, solar may be a viable option.
Plus, you can save up to 26% on iBEAM solar kits with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, which can help make them even more affordable!
If you have questions about our solar power solutions and how they might work for your next project, contact our team of camera specialists and they’ll be more than happy to help.
In Summary
Before deciding on an alternative power solution for your construction camera, it’s important to know what you need to accomplish and what power options will be available on the job site.
- Need to get online ASAP? The Rechargeable 12V battery power kit is probably best suited for your needs, as all it requires is a charged battery.
- Want to utilize power resources already available on site? Our 12V Generator Kit connects directly to your generator that’s already on the job site and acts as a power back-up and safe-guard.
- Need a long-term power solution? An iBEAM solar power kit provides all the power you need for continuous, long-term use.
Have questions about alternative power solutions for construction cameras? Need to get a solution ordered for your next project? Our friendly team of specialists are here to help you to find the camera and power solution that fits your project and budget.
Until next time, keep what’s really important in focus.
Vicki Robertson
Vice President
iBEAM Construction Cameras
Doing the right thing, for every client, every time.