‎SimpliSafe Camera USB outlet instead of plug | SimpliSafe Help Center
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sterumbelow

21 Messages

Tuesday, May 5th, 2020 7:54 PM

SimpliSafe Camera USB outlet instead of plug

Hi,

I've just installed a second SimpliSafe camera outside my garage. I actually joined two cables together (indoor and outdoor) because the outdoor alone wasn't quite long enough.

My question is around powering the camera. The plug (UK) is 5v and 1.5amps. I have a USB port on a plug which is 5V 3amps. The camera runs perfectly but will there be any issue running it long-term on this plug, or will it just draw 1.5amps instead of the maximum of 3?


Thanks for your help,

Ste.

Question

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Updated 

3 years ago

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customer1001

56 Messages

3 years ago

I've been running one of my cameras directly off a USB plug (that I have in some of my wall outlets) instead of using the wall adapter and have had no issues.

also- FWIW, I've been told (but am no expert) any time you attach two (or more) cables you run risk of additional resistance and possible issues.

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sterumbelow

21 Messages

Eek! I guess we'll find out!!

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3 years ago

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simplistuckon

232 Messages

3 years ago

You'll be fine.  I've measured the current draw, and it's a maximum of 0.360 Amps.  That happens during active viewing in darkness (so the IR illuminator turns on).   At that current draw, you likely won't have any problem with both cables put together.  Test it:  If the camera works fine in all ways, you're good.

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sevensiamesecats

Advocate

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2.2K Messages

3 years ago

The 3A rating is the MAXIMUM it an provide.  Actual draw is controlled by what you plug in.  In fact, it is a "law" (Ohms).

I (current) = E (voltage) / R (resistance)  = 5v / R  So the smaller the resistance (impedance) of the device, the greater the current draw.

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sterumbelow

21 Messages

3 years ago

Thank you, everyone. I've had it running from the USB for 3 days and it's absolutely fine. Joined cable seems equally fine!

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