Introduction: How to Build a Simple Security Camera Safe
Cameras, they seem to be everywhere these days. They are so ubiquitous that the eye sometimes simply fails to notice them. I pass by at least one or two cameras every time I walk the hallways from one class to another. Big Brother is always watching. Some people chose to become invisible or fail to do so, but why not take advantage of these ever present cameras? In this Instructable, I will show you how to modify a Dummy Security Camera with Blinking LED into a secret safe for your valuables. Not only will this deter crime on your property, but what criminal will search a security camera for valuables? As an additional bonus, simply add a logbook and you'll have geocachers scratching their heads in no time!
Step 1: Materials.
While you are waiting for the camera to arrive, drive down to the local hardware store and pick up these supplies:
- A few 5mm and 4mm screws; it never hurts to have some extra just in case. You will need two 4mm and one 5mm screw for this project.
- Two 4mm nuts.
- One 5mm nut.
- Two 4mm washers.
- A metal baseplate.
- 5 and 4mm taps.
- A #30 and #19 drill bit.
- Optional- Velcro.
- Optional- additional screws.
Step 2: Attaching the Baseplate.
Using a pen or a pencil, trace the two holes on the bottom of the mount where you want to attach it to the baseplate. Using your #19 drill bit, drill a 4mm hole through each marking. Thread the newly drilled holes with the 4mm tap. Be sure to thread on the way in and out. Firmly screw the mount onto the baseplate using the 4mm screws.
Step 3: Moving the Mount.
You will need to move the mount from underneath the camera to the back, freeing up the pre-existing threaded hole. This allows the thumbscrew to secure both the inner and outer casing of the camera. To move the mount, remove the original screw and trace the hole where you want the mount to be attached. Drill through this mark using the #30 drill bit, taking care when you are close to punching through. Thread the newly formed hole with the 5mm tap, again remembering to thread as you pull out. Replace the original screw and firmly screw the mount onto the back of the camera.
Step 4: Finishing Up.
Secure the 5mm screw on the inside of the camera with a 5mm nut, along with the two 4mm screws on the baseplate, using 4mm nuts. Flip the baseplate over and trim off any excess length of screw using the router tool, taking extra care with the thumbscrew. Only trim off small amounts at a time, you can always reduce more length, but you can never regain what you cut off. Lastly, screw in that final thumbscrew, step back, admire your handiwork, and think of all the criminals you just fooled. Someone deserves a cookie.
*A note on placement: As a safe, this security camera is best kept indoors facing a corridor or doorway. This avoids the possibility of someone glancing your way and spotting that $25,000 diamond as you place it into the safe.
Step 5: Optional, Geocache!
- Another note on placement: As a geocache, feel free to place this cache outside. However, it would be best if the camera is sheltered from direct rainfall, etc.
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