How do I go about setting up a computer security camera?

best home security camera package image

RB

Could a novice person be able to set up a computer wired/wireless security camera device?

I want to set up several cameras in my house wirelessly connected to my computer that can record and I can watch if I want to "off site" with another computer.

Can I do it myself or should I have someone come and set it up?

If I can do it myself, can you give me any advise on a book or video on how to do it?

Answer
Wireless system packages may be the way to go here...a bit pricey any way you look @ it.
Google for 'home security/video cams' or similar.
After acquisition & deployment, try this application to tie it all together for remote viewing:
V-CamShow
enables you to watch your favorite web cams as a slide show or a screen saver. You can add as many web cam images to the slideshow as you want, automatically disable or reduce the refresh rate for inactive cams and more. The program comes with a large list of international locations and new web cam locations are added regularly which can be imported into your list. You can also add your own webcam to the list.
Freeware; other webcam utilities in the general heading here also.
http://www.snapfiles.com/Freeware/gmm/fwwebcamviewers.html

Do you ever think of home security systems?

DOERR

have you ever think of best home security systems?

Answer
I have thought about home security and here are is the conversation I have to myself about it all:

A home alarm system is for when people break into your house and even though it will notify you and the police that someone has broken in the bad guys still have plenty of time to make off with your stuff. In the end you can get your home insurance to replace most of the stuff and any home repairs but it will be difficult for the police to catch the criminals.

Why not check out a home surviellance system instead? With actual cameras around your property you can literally catch any one in the act if you have the cameras positioned around the exterior of the house. Video is a lot more likely to catch a criminal than just hoping they get caught selling your computer. Even with the cameras in plain site they act as a deterant more so than the little sign on the window saying ADT protects my house. The other thing to think of is the monthly fee for a security system whereas a surveillance system is a one-time fee.

I linked to a home package that I am considering that contains everything you need to get up and running out of the box. It has 4 outdoor rated cameras, a 1TB DVR for recording up to a month of video, the ability to check the feed from my smartphone and all the cables and power supplies needed hook everything up. At a one-time fee of $399 my money is on the surveillance system.

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Where can I buy a wireless security camera system for exterior use?

best quality security camera systems image

Billy

I am interested in buying a wireless security camera system but I don't know where I can find one. It's not something I can just find at walmart. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Answer
WOW bad avice

You can take your advice from people who Google or a security professional who specializes in CCTV.

Peter Brissette: there is nothing new about the products on your website in fact there are many misleading statements. many offer 3G and IE connection.

On your website you claim:
4GB Micro SD Card for video storage (7 to 10 days)

Truth: a high resolution camera with the smallest file size will use over 15GB-30GB a day (with 40% motion) a 4GB card will give you hours not days.

There is nothing new about the products you offer they are lower then the average product out there.
There good for nany cameras but not for a security system.

the products you sell (except for PTZ) only fixed cameras which will almost never work as you cant adjust the view.

there is nothing bad about your products but they are not high end please don't claim them to be.
They should mainly be used for nany cameras not for people who are interested in security (I don't think you even have watermark so images wont hold up in court though cant confirm as your website has very little information and even less specs.)

Hello sorry about that

You don't want to record 24 hours a day you want to record on motion so if there is no moment you don't records this will increase your storage a and decrease the amount of video you need to look for.

Very few cameras offer true day night performance mainly companies claim but rarely deliver.

For night operation you need IR cameras or very good lighting I suggest the latter.

You want to stick with a brand for day night cameras such as Bosch, Ascendent, Pelco and honeywell


A good outdoor Camera will have

High resolution (520TVL or higher)
Good signal to noise ratio (S/N 49DB or 50DB)
A true Sony CCD (not Chinese knockoff)
Rugged enclosure to handle vandals and environments
At least IP 66 and a suitable temperature rating for you region
IR LED's to see in pitch dark: active IR rating not projected IR as projected IR has no coloration with how far the camera can see.
2 or 3 different sized LED;s 1 size LED one type of illumination means you either wont get distance or wide angle and you want both.

I would go with the VIS-56IR-2910
http://dealer.ascendentgroup.com//dvr-irâ¦

this camera will give you 110 feet of clear vision in complete darkness and great images by day its the on I recommend for budget customer who need outdoor IR camera.


Cameras that have high resolution, and great signal to noise ratio can reducing file size on DVR's up to 50% and offer better images.

Low budget Economical
ASC-520B21IR-36
Economical Infrared Bullet Camera
520TVL
see 25 feet outdoors
Fixed 3.6mm lens
35~-25C IP 66
MSRP $110.00

http://dealer.ascendentgroup.com//ascentâ¦

Cheap option would never suggest a camera lower then this one
(still much higher quality then Costco, Lorex, Swann, Qsee, and other no name products imported from china)

ASC-380B24IR-36
Infrared Bullet Camera
380TVL
see 25 feet outdoors
Fixed 3.6mm lens
35~-25C IP 66
MSRP $75.00

here is a write up I did on CCTV a while ago hope it helps

Not all DVRs are created equal, in fact there are many options that offer varying performance much like the automobile industry. In the world of DVRs you can find the equivalent of a $10,000 Kia and a $350,000 Ferrari and everything in between. Both have 4 wheels and windshield but that where the similarities end, itâs under the hood that counts. Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for.

I suggest you buy a PC based DVR has they have more processing power and normally have a much smaller file size and offer more features then Standalone DVR's. I know many people buy a cheap standalone DVR, only to upgrade to a PC based in 6 months especially when they are using it to manage a store remotely. Also PC based allows you to record up to 64 cameras where a standalone will have a limit of 16.

Many people have the misconception that a PC-Based DVR is simply an off-the-shelf PC with video capture (encoder) cards, display (decoder) cards and some generic OEM software. A true DVR requires years of research and development to facilitate the seamless integration of both the hardware and software. DVRs are highly complex systems that must run 24/7, processing millions of images per day. This makes consumer-level hardware inadequate for DVRs which is why Ascendent uses custom-built PCs with performance-level hardware.

My personal favorite DVR is Ascendent X4 series: Ascendentâs Tri-Fusion Hybrid Platform allows for the creation of a true hybrid surveillance system by utilizing the advantages of Analog, Megapixel, and IP technologies for unparalleled customization and expandability. I am working on government projects and use Ascendent cameras and DVR because the offer superior performance and cost less then comparable brands like bosh, Honeywell and pelco.

The X4 also uses the latest H.

A good security camera system that i can view with my ipad wifi?

William

I need to hook up an outdoor security camera system but one that is also wireless. I would need to view it on my ipad as I am going away on vacation so something that doesnt need recharging would be the best

Answer
Hello

Here is a DVR that will work perfectly for you.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com/x4s.htm


Most DVR's and cameras don't have the ability to view from your i-phone, and you cant just download generic software all DVR's and cameras uses different encryption , software, and compression so you cant use another companies software to view another manufactures DVR.

You want a DVR that has an app specifically designed to work with it like the one I am suggesting below.

What you want is a DVR a DVR converts analog cameras and as well as storing images on site allows you to distribute video over LAN and WAN networks. (internet and network) this way you have both on site storage and recording at your house.

A good Analog DVR will do what you are looking for and not only display them but record them as well they will also allow you to view them over the internet from a Iphone or laptop.

X4S Remote Accessibility
View all your cameras instantly and remotely, and configure the DVR through internet using eitherbusiness in real time from anywhere in the world. MAC or PC platforms (smart phones too). This allows you to manage your

Many people have a misconception that IP has Superior scalability then Analog but with the advancements with DVR's this simply isn't true, you cn do up to 16,000 cameras each camera could even be from a different DVR and a different site.

And when you are using the internet to connect multiple sites together analog transmits over the internet faster with less latency using less bandwidth allowing you not only to view and monitor a situation real time but also effective control PTZ cameras.

What is the Advantage of IP?
Many of the so called advantages of IP simply don't hold water in the real world, IP is mainly Hype and marketing and outside of a few niche applications such as 1 or 2 camera installs, where MP cameras are needed or large scale wireless projects which represent about 2% of the total CCTV market, IP has very few advantages compared to analog based on performance, cost and reliability. (yet all companies touting IP will often use MP cameras to demonstrate the advantages of IP)

IP video is more about marketing then it is about performance as larger companies like Bosch pelco Honeywell axis can change for both hardware and software and once you use there cameras you have to keep using there cameras unlike analog.

Also IP sounds great, plug and play, Better image quality, use existing infrastructure, who wouldnât want that unfortunately this is often not the case.

IP cameras are based on CMOS
Analog cameras are based on CCD (usually)

A CMOS sensor is constructed using a array of pixels, but unlike CCDâs CMOS do not have a capacitor to store the charge for each pixel.The rows of pixels are activated sequentially rather then individually

In short unless you have perfect lighting a good CCD camera will outperform an equivalent CMOS camera.

File Size:
The smaller the files size the more images that are able to be sent and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities as it also determines the recoding storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video.

IP cameras have up to a 5X larger file size then analog cameras. (at same resolution) I have seen MP cameras that on 2MP resolution are over 300X (%3000) larger then our X3 DVR on a CIF image. This is an extreme case but generally speaking IP cameras have a much larger file size.

Most routers and switches are not designed to handle IP cameras they have enough bandwidth but they are not able to process the amounts of commands. (9 IP cameras 30FP is 230 instructions per second) standard routers have enough bandwidth (up to 1GB) but cant handle the amount of tasks (instructions) so frames get dropped latency is introduced and the effectiveness of other devices such as POS, printers and dats storage can be affected and compromised.


Donât get me wrong there are some brutal analog cameras and DVR out there but If you see a good D1 resolution image such as Ascendents Hardware compressed you will not be so quick to join the IP bandwagon.

IP is a young and emerging technology and I have no doubt that in the future it will outperform analog cameras but its not a mature technology yet. Once we start to get standard IP platforms, get rid of license feesâ and existing networks have larger bandwidths then IP video will be a good solution, but until then analog is the way to go.

Make sure you get good cameras as well, Ascendent has the best IR outdoor cameras on the market and are about %50 less then Bosch while offering triple the distance.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

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See Security camera through an iPhone or iPod touch?

best security camera app image

kuro

So someone I know can see into our viewsonic security camera by using an app on their iPhone. How do you do that and what app is there that you can get? Also can you do this on an iPod touch aswell?

Answer
try teamviewer

How to remotely connect to a DVR security camera?

Christophe

Hello. I want to be able to access my security cameras at work from home. I got an app on my phone called "i-smart" to do this. I was able to access the cameras through this app while I was at work on the wi-fi at work, but once I switch to my phone's 3G or used the wi-fi at my house it told me connection failed and it would no longer connect. How can I fix this as to where I am able to connect remotely to the security cameras regardless of what internet connection I am using? Thanks!

Answer
The outputs on your standalone DVR conjointly use a configurable NO or Tar Heel State circuit which might be used for causative relays that may be accustomed trigger motors, door locks, activate lights, arm alarm systems, sound sirens and additional. just about any form of lightweight, buzzer, alarm, magnet or motor are often controlled directly or indirectly through NO or Tar Heel State alarm outputs from the standalone DVR. These outputs will then be controlled pass from home employing a laptop, permitting you extra management of your home through your security camera system.

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Is there an iPod touch app that can view security cameras?

best security camera in the world image

Daniel

I want an app that can view security cameras using the ip adress from the Internet. So I can see scurity cameras in my school and stuff.

Answer
You cant view cameras unless you are give permission CCTV Closed Circuit TV (note the closed circuit)

95% of cameras and DVR will not allow you to view them with the I phone or other smart phones.
And even then you need permission and password.


One of the few manufactures that allow you to do this is Ascendent Technology Group.
http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

The AVP Series is an intelligent, cost-effective CCTV management solution, integrating the latest technology and the most advanced features while maintaining a simple, intuitive and user friendly interface. The AVP Series is a complete 24/7 turn key solution that meets the demanding security needs of todayâs business and home owners.

Key Features:
⢠4CH Real time DVR
⢠Cost effective turn key CCTV solution
⢠True Plug and play operation
⢠Ultra High Resolution D1 Images
⢠H.264 reduces file size to 40% of Mpeg4 and 200% of MPEG2.
⢠USB 2.0 Smart backup automatically includes software on backup medium
⢠Built-in 1600x1200 V G A display
⢠5 year warranty on HDD
⢠Remote connectivity; view and configure DVR from anywhere using Internet Explorer, Firefox or Safari, and I phone (free)

For an online demo:
Open an internet browser (ie: Internet Explorer, Firefox)
Type 24.66.224.223:92 into the address bar.
Type in the username and password:
( Username: admin Password: admin)

(I phone app provided when you purchase a DVR)

Smart Backup Backup has never been easier or faster once you have found the video by either time or search. Simply input the time and cameras you wish and backup via USB 2.0 drive. When you backup video the playback software is automatically installed on the flash drive eliminating the need for codecs or special programs saving both time and money.

Remote Connectivity The AVP Series has industry-leading remote connectivity allowing you to connect and view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either PC or MAC platforms. The AVP also allows for remote setup giving installers and integrators the ability to quickly and cost-effectively support their customers with sufficient privileges to do so.

VGA Display (1600X1200) The AVP Series has an embedded High resolution (Super extended Graphics Array) allowing you to view your cameras on high definition displays such as LCD, DLP and Plasma (up to1600X1200 resolution).This eliminates the stretching, pixelation and distortion that normally occurs, leaving you with vivid crystal-clear images.

Plug and Play Operation While the features and technology are highly advanced they are designed around a user-friendly graphical interface for simple and quick operation. The AVP Series professional DVR system is now as easy to use as a VCR with search, backup, display and remote connections that are easily set up in less than fifteen minutes from start to finish. The AVP Series automatically rewrites the oldest image with the newest, providing effective maintenance-free operation.

Longevity and Reliability The AVP Series is comprised of high quality components precision engineered for unparalleled performance and real ability for flawless 24/7 operation. We use only the finest Seagate HDDs designed for continuous operation and backed by a 5-year warranty directly from Seagate.

Aesthetic Low-Profile Design All these features integrated into a rugged and stylish aluminum chassis allow it to be used in the most upscale installations making the AV Series the choice for professional security integrators worldwide.


The AVP comes in a 4, 8, and 16ch and offers real time performance for both display and record.

Manufacturer: Ascendent Technology Group
http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

What is the best wireless camera surveillance system out there?

acuraboy19

I need help. I want to set up a wireless security camera in my business in the Philippines and view activity here in the United States. Can someone out there guide me on what I need? (e.g. cameras, software, computers, etc..) I want to set up at least 4-8 wireless camera throughout the building. I want something not too fancy and not to pricey.. Let me know?

Answer
Since you are going to have to supply power to your surveillance camera, you may as well hard wire it, since WiFi cameras can be hacked, so there goes your security.

Buy a moderately priced IP camera with good weatherproofing and securely attach it where no one can vandalize or steal it.

Then set up your server attached to the internet and open a port on your firewall to allow you to address the IP address from anywhere in the world .. You will want to password access to the camera

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A good security camera system that i can view with my ipad wifi?

best security camera app for mac image

William

I need to hook up an outdoor security camera system but one that is also wireless. I would need to view it on my ipad as I am going away on vacation so something that doesnt need recharging would be the best

Answer
Hello

Here is a DVR that will work perfectly for you.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com/x4s.htm


Most DVR's and cameras don't have the ability to view from your i-phone, and you cant just download generic software all DVR's and cameras uses different encryption , software, and compression so you cant use another companies software to view another manufactures DVR.

You want a DVR that has an app specifically designed to work with it like the one I am suggesting below.

What you want is a DVR a DVR converts analog cameras and as well as storing images on site allows you to distribute video over LAN and WAN networks. (internet and network) this way you have both on site storage and recording at your house.

A good Analog DVR will do what you are looking for and not only display them but record them as well they will also allow you to view them over the internet from a Iphone or laptop.

X4S Remote Accessibility
View all your cameras instantly and remotely, and configure the DVR through internet using eitherbusiness in real time from anywhere in the world. MAC or PC platforms (smart phones too). This allows you to manage your

Many people have a misconception that IP has Superior scalability then Analog but with the advancements with DVR's this simply isn't true, you cn do up to 16,000 cameras each camera could even be from a different DVR and a different site.

And when you are using the internet to connect multiple sites together analog transmits over the internet faster with less latency using less bandwidth allowing you not only to view and monitor a situation real time but also effective control PTZ cameras.

What is the Advantage of IP?
Many of the so called advantages of IP simply don't hold water in the real world, IP is mainly Hype and marketing and outside of a few niche applications such as 1 or 2 camera installs, where MP cameras are needed or large scale wireless projects which represent about 2% of the total CCTV market, IP has very few advantages compared to analog based on performance, cost and reliability. (yet all companies touting IP will often use MP cameras to demonstrate the advantages of IP)

IP video is more about marketing then it is about performance as larger companies like Bosch pelco Honeywell axis can change for both hardware and software and once you use there cameras you have to keep using there cameras unlike analog.

Also IP sounds great, plug and play, Better image quality, use existing infrastructure, who wouldnât want that unfortunately this is often not the case.

IP cameras are based on CMOS
Analog cameras are based on CCD (usually)

A CMOS sensor is constructed using a array of pixels, but unlike CCDâs CMOS do not have a capacitor to store the charge for each pixel.The rows of pixels are activated sequentially rather then individually

In short unless you have perfect lighting a good CCD camera will outperform an equivalent CMOS camera.

File Size:
The smaller the files size the more images that are able to be sent and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities as it also determines the recoding storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video.

IP cameras have up to a 5X larger file size then analog cameras. (at same resolution) I have seen MP cameras that on 2MP resolution are over 300X (%3000) larger then our X3 DVR on a CIF image. This is an extreme case but generally speaking IP cameras have a much larger file size.

Most routers and switches are not designed to handle IP cameras they have enough bandwidth but they are not able to process the amounts of commands. (9 IP cameras 30FP is 230 instructions per second) standard routers have enough bandwidth (up to 1GB) but cant handle the amount of tasks (instructions) so frames get dropped latency is introduced and the effectiveness of other devices such as POS, printers and dats storage can be affected and compromised.


Donât get me wrong there are some brutal analog cameras and DVR out there but If you see a good D1 resolution image such as Ascendents Hardware compressed you will not be so quick to join the IP bandwagon.

IP is a young and emerging technology and I have no doubt that in the future it will outperform analog cameras but its not a mature technology yet. Once we start to get standard IP platforms, get rid of license feesâ and existing networks have larger bandwidths then IP video will be a good solution, but until then analog is the way to go.

Make sure you get good cameras as well, Ascendent has the best IR outdoor cameras on the market and are about %50 less then Bosch while offering triple the distance.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com/

How to use a webcam as a security camera to view on your ipad and iphone?

Sofrito

Hi,
I would like to know if there is a way that I can use a webcam and whats a good app that i can view the video on my iphone or ipad. I have a Mac. Thank you :-)

Answer
Download and install a remote-viewing program on the iMac. The LogMeIn Ignition program is one suitable option (see Resources). Launch the remote-viewing program by double-clicking its icon inside of the "Applications" folder that is inside the main hard drive.

Go to the remote-viewing program's website. Click on the "Registration" button. Fill in the required registration information in the appropriate text fields. Enter a user name and password in the appropriate text fields. Press the "Register" button to complete the registration process. Quit the Web browser.

Click once on the remote viewing program's window to make it active. Select "Registration" from the "File" drop-down menu. Enter the user name and password you had created at the Web page earlier into the text fields of the window that appears. Press the "OK" button to exit the window.


Click the "Sleep/Wake" button at the top of the Apple device, for example, an iPad, that will view the iMac's camera remotely. Swipe the slider on the screen to go to the Home menu. Tap the "App Store" icon to launch the program.

Tap the "Search" icon to bring up a text field. Enter the name of the remote viewing program that is installed on the iMac in the text field using the onscreen keyboard. Tap the remote viewing program's name when it appears in a column beneath the text field.

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How much to install 16 camera security system?

best 8 camera security systems image

Connor

I was just wondering about how much ONLY an installation would cost for 8 outdoor cameras? This includes wiring and mounting and all that. Thanks!
I'm saying like if we had a professional come and install it, we all ready bought the system.

Answer
Well over a grand unless you install it yourself. About 700 bucks if you do a little comparative shopping and install it yourself.

Where can I find a good camera security system?

Joey Tatum

I have been looking... I know i can get a system at SAM'S for 500 dollars but it only has 4 cameras... i haven't found one that is reasonable that may have 8+ cameras without paying thousands... I am visually impaired and we've been having some "snoopers" lately and want to beef up the security around the house (visual security with taping capabilities)... if you know of something good AND inexpensive, please tell me...

Answer
Good an inexpesive is a relative term. If you think 500 bucks for a DVR with 4 camera's is too expensive then forget about 8. - Personally, I would never buy the system you are looking at. My customers tend to expect quality and reliability as do I.

Typically speaking, retail camera's, like the type you are looking at, are fairly substandard when compared in quality to those on a professional level.

Your best bet is to go at it with some knowledge of the technology, I wrote an article on the subject awhile back but most of the info still applies. I have pasted some of it here. You can find more information on security related topics on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca

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The starting point of any C.C.T.V. system is the camera. Simply stated, a camera is a light sensitive device that converts particles of light into electrical impulses, however, there is a vast difference in the quality of cameras available to the consumer. Factors that differentiate the various cameras include whether they are color, black and white, light sensitivity, image resolution and image transfer technology. The consumer must also consider the inherent advantages and disadvantages in each of these different camera technologies and decide which features best fit their individual needs and goals.

In the past, color cameras have been both very expensive and lack-luster in their image performance, when compared to black and white cameras. New technology is now bringing the innovative technologies closer together in both the price and performance scale. The current differences between the two technologies are almost entirely limited to light sensitivity and light reactivity.

Light sensitivity is measured in LUX. The lower the LUX rating, the higher the sensitivity to light. It is important to keep in mind that even the best-rated cameras are limited by the technology of the day, as well as the visibility conditions present at the time of the surveillance. Although great advancements in low light surveillance continue to be ongoing, the image quality in a low light situation will rarely be up to the standards of daylight surveillance.

Color cameras, although much more appealing on the outside when compared to their black and white counterparts, generally offer less low light sensitivity than a black and white camera. The other advantage of black and white cameras over color cameras is its ability to "see" infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. You can test this by aiming a standard television remote at a black and white camera while watching the monitor, the flashes you see are bursts of infrared light. The advantage of this becomes apparent in the ability to light up a dark area with infrared light, thus making images visible in almost pure darkness. With the color camera the area will appear unlit, however, to a black and white camera, the area will appear almost like daylight.

The black and white cameraâs reactivity to the invisible light spectrum can also pose a disadvantage in certain applications. Infrared light, although not visible to the human eye, is found in abundance in many everyday situations. For example, when aiming a black and white camera at hot pavement, it will "confuse" the camera resulting in an unbalanced image. Professional grade black and white cameras often incorporate infrared cut-filters. These cut-filters inhibit the infrared light spectrum in turn decreasing the cameras low light sensitivity.

The C.C.T.V. Industry measures image resolution in horizontal lines. The higher the line rating, the clearer the image will appear. With this fact in mind, consider that all electronic components within a C.C.T.V. System, from the camera, to the VCR, to the monitor. These items are all rated in the same way. The actual resolution of the entire system will only be as high as the lowest rated item. For example, if you have a camera rated at 450 lines and a monitor rated at 300 lines, then the result will be 300 visible lines of resolution because the monitor is the lowest rated item in this example. Another point to keep in mind is that the line rating is "Total lines" not lines per inch. Therefore a 12" monitor with a 300 line rating has a far better clarity than a 17" monitor with the same line rating.

The most recent and predominant advances in the C.C.T.V. Industry are the changes in image transfer technology. This technology deals with how the camera takes light particles and converts them into electronic images. Without going into too much detail, image transfer technologies include the following:

Phosphorus Tube Cameras - This camera has low quality, old technology and is susceptible to "image burn". Image burn is when intense light sources will burn themselves into the cameraâs light receptor resulting in the image appearing "memorized". Although this is not a problem with modern day cameras, image burn can still occur on monitors. Tube cameras are also known for poor low light sensitivity.

C.C.D - Also known as "Chip cameras". This camera is the most standard of cameras in the professional realm. C.C.D. cameras do not suffer from the problem of image burn and can incorporate various methods of signal processing, which offers a high level of flexibility to the installer.

CMOS Transfer Cameras - These cameras are very small and continue to get smaller as the technology advances. Although very attractive in their size, CMOS cameras generally do not offer the signal processing, image quality or low light sensitivity of the higher priced C.C.D. camera models. However, the technologies are slowly growing closer together to the point where CMOS cameras may eventually take over the Surveillance Industry.

The Surveillance Industry has continued to move towards the implementation of color cameras that switch to black and white, or even infrared in low light conditions. Although there are some models currently available on the market, the technology is not at a point where it is affordable enough to be manufactured on a large scale.

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What is the best brand to go with for a home security survailance system?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

mja_bengal

I am looking to purchase a home security survailance system, I would like to get a system with very clear camera views and good color. Any recommendations?

Answer
For high quality images and color, I would recommend going with an FD series DVR package found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1251-4-channel-dvr-system-with-dvd-r.aspx

This is our complete 4 channel FD package solution. If you need more cameras, we have a 9 and a 16 channel system available as well.

We also have our 600 series DVR package which is also a great choice, at a lower price point. This package can be purchased in 4, 8, 16, and 32 channel configurations.

http://www.apexcctv.com/p-1006-4-camera-complete-security-system.aspx

Additionally, you can also go with a PC based system running IP cameras for even higher quality which can be found here.

http://www.apexcctv.com/c-77-4-channel-dvr.aspx

With any of these systems, you will have the ability to view the cameras using an iPhone or Android phone. This is especially handy if you will not always be at a computer and want to view your cameras.

Where can I find a good camera security system?

Joey Tatum

I have been looking... I know i can get a system at SAM'S for 500 dollars but it only has 4 cameras... i haven't found one that is reasonable that may have 8+ cameras without paying thousands... I am visually impaired and we've been having some "snoopers" lately and want to beef up the security around the house (visual security with taping capabilities)... if you know of something good AND inexpensive, please tell me...

Answer
Good an inexpesive is a relative term. If you think 500 bucks for a DVR with 4 camera's is too expensive then forget about 8. - Personally, I would never buy the system you are looking at. My customers tend to expect quality and reliability as do I.

Typically speaking, retail camera's, like the type you are looking at, are fairly substandard when compared in quality to those on a professional level.

Your best bet is to go at it with some knowledge of the technology, I wrote an article on the subject awhile back but most of the info still applies. I have pasted some of it here. You can find more information on security related topics on my website at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca

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The starting point of any C.C.T.V. system is the camera. Simply stated, a camera is a light sensitive device that converts particles of light into electrical impulses, however, there is a vast difference in the quality of cameras available to the consumer. Factors that differentiate the various cameras include whether they are color, black and white, light sensitivity, image resolution and image transfer technology. The consumer must also consider the inherent advantages and disadvantages in each of these different camera technologies and decide which features best fit their individual needs and goals.

In the past, color cameras have been both very expensive and lack-luster in their image performance, when compared to black and white cameras. New technology is now bringing the innovative technologies closer together in both the price and performance scale. The current differences between the two technologies are almost entirely limited to light sensitivity and light reactivity.

Light sensitivity is measured in LUX. The lower the LUX rating, the higher the sensitivity to light. It is important to keep in mind that even the best-rated cameras are limited by the technology of the day, as well as the visibility conditions present at the time of the surveillance. Although great advancements in low light surveillance continue to be ongoing, the image quality in a low light situation will rarely be up to the standards of daylight surveillance.

Color cameras, although much more appealing on the outside when compared to their black and white counterparts, generally offer less low light sensitivity than a black and white camera. The other advantage of black and white cameras over color cameras is its ability to "see" infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. You can test this by aiming a standard television remote at a black and white camera while watching the monitor, the flashes you see are bursts of infrared light. The advantage of this becomes apparent in the ability to light up a dark area with infrared light, thus making images visible in almost pure darkness. With the color camera the area will appear unlit, however, to a black and white camera, the area will appear almost like daylight.

The black and white cameraâs reactivity to the invisible light spectrum can also pose a disadvantage in certain applications. Infrared light, although not visible to the human eye, is found in abundance in many everyday situations. For example, when aiming a black and white camera at hot pavement, it will "confuse" the camera resulting in an unbalanced image. Professional grade black and white cameras often incorporate infrared cut-filters. These cut-filters inhibit the infrared light spectrum in turn decreasing the cameras low light sensitivity.

The C.C.T.V. Industry measures image resolution in horizontal lines. The higher the line rating, the clearer the image will appear. With this fact in mind, consider that all electronic components within a C.C.T.V. System, from the camera, to the VCR, to the monitor. These items are all rated in the same way. The actual resolution of the entire system will only be as high as the lowest rated item. For example, if you have a camera rated at 450 lines and a monitor rated at 300 lines, then the result will be 300 visible lines of resolution because the monitor is the lowest rated item in this example. Another point to keep in mind is that the line rating is "Total lines" not lines per inch. Therefore a 12" monitor with a 300 line rating has a far better clarity than a 17" monitor with the same line rating.

The most recent and predominant advances in the C.C.T.V. Industry are the changes in image transfer technology. This technology deals with how the camera takes light particles and converts them into electronic images. Without going into too much detail, image transfer technologies include the following:

Phosphorus Tube Cameras - This camera has low quality, old technology and is susceptible to "image burn". Image burn is when intense light sources will burn themselves into the cameraâs light receptor resulting in the image appearing "memorized". Although this is not a problem with modern day cameras, image burn can still occur on monitors. Tube cameras are also known for poor low light sensitivity.

C.C.D - Also known as "Chip cameras". This camera is the most standard of cameras in the professional realm. C.C.D. cameras do not suffer from the problem of image burn and can incorporate various methods of signal processing, which offers a high level of flexibility to the installer.

CMOS Transfer Cameras - These cameras are very small and continue to get smaller as the technology advances. Although very attractive in their size, CMOS cameras generally do not offer the signal processing, image quality or low light sensitivity of the higher priced C.C.D. camera models. However, the technologies are slowly growing closer together to the point where CMOS cameras may eventually take over the Surveillance Industry.

The Surveillance Industry has continued to move towards the implementation of color cameras that switch to black and white, or even infrared in low light conditions. Although there are some models currently available on the market, the technology is not at a point where it is affordable enough to be manufactured on a large scale.

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Anyone know pricing on security camera install?

best buy security camera mount image

MAKAVELI

I want to have 4 security cameras installed in a store but am not sure how much to pay someone to do it does anyone know what a decent amount to pay is? Its a 4 camera system that is wired and a computer that needs to be installed and setup any prices will be helpful. Thanks,
Well thanks for the thorough answer but what I meant was how much is a decent amount to pay for the installation of a four camera wired system? I already have the cameras I just want them installed but dont want to low ball the person he is charging me $250 right now but i told him i was shopping around still i think hell do it for $200?

Answer
With camera and survelience systems, you get what you pay for. Generally, the more you pay, the better features you get, and the more reliability. I would expect to pay at least $3k for a basic system. Here are some pointers:

1. Unless you just want the cameras for show, don't go with an off the shelf system like you can get at Costco or Sam's Club.

2. Don't do business with any company that hasn't been selling/installing cameras for at least four years. Ask for references.

3. Don't buy a Windows based camera system. Get one that is optimized for Camera usage. Many camera systems these days are based on custom implementations of Linux - a far better solution than Windows.

4. Don't cheap out on camera's. Good cameras + good recorder = better results. A camera system won't do you any good if you can't identify the people/cars/etc that your trying to record.

5. Buy a system that can handle at least 4 camera's more than you need right now. It is easier and less expensive in the long run to grow a system by just adding camera's than it is to replace the recorder.

6. Don't pay for your system and installation all at once. Have your purchase and installation contract broken down into stages - something like 25% deposit with order, 25% on delivery, 25% on installation and 25% due within 30 days of commissioning. Otherwise you could run into a situation where the camera company closes it's doors, or runs off with your money. I've seen this happen more than once.

I spent four years with a company that sold camera's and recording equipment as a side line. We were rather expensive compared to some of our competitors, because our main focus was another product line. However, on more than one occasion, people who went with the lowest bid often ended up coming to us for help upgrading or replacing their systems because of their good experiences with our other equipment. I saw more than one customer have the camera guy do a partial installation, then take off with the rest of the money, leaving the customer with no camera system. I also saw several customers get disgusted with their Windows based systems and either replace them entirely, or just stop using them at all.

Addressing your clarification: in my mind, $250 for installing the cameras is not only reasonable, it's extremely cheap. Most installers I'm aware of charge an average of between $50 and $125 an hour (depending upon your area). Depending upon the layout of the cameras and construction details of your building, I would figure an hour or two per camera, plus an hour or two to set up the recorder. My old company would have charged a minimum of $500 for the install, our typical install fee was $1500. Remember that iinstalling the cameras is more than just running the wires and mounting the cameras. It is also making sure they're pointed in the right directions, focused well, etc. Good luck.

What kind of camera can switch to nightvision easily and is good for ghost hunting?

Kevin

I want to buy a night vision camera that I can use in any low light application but also ghost hunting but I've never seen an IR camera at Best Buy or any other retailer.

Answer
The professionals use either Sony HDR-HC1 or HVR-A1 camcorders (when they are not using IR/nightvision security cameras mounted to tripods.

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Can a security camera work behind glass?

best security camera deals image

The Cult o

I want to install a security camera to see if/who is continously going through my terrace and ripping holes into my gate.

The problem is, I have no where to install the camera. The door leading outside is entirely made of glass, so I was thinking of installing it near there and pointing the camera outside.

Would that work? Or would there be glare problems and such?

Answer
Yes it would, In the top LEFT hand corner of your door point it directly at the gate and when you see those punks I suggest you call the cops FAST and see if you can stop them yourself.

Good luck with your problem. I have recently dealt with the same thing. My son's bike was stolen by a punk kid from the projects with some bolt cutters to cut through 2 steel gates and 1 steel lock with 4,000 strings of steel.

Where can I find security cameras for my yard?

Bp1066

I want to put 1 or more security cameras in my yard for many reasons. I want to know how much this will cost and where i can buy this. I want something that records and stores footage so when i go on vacation I could view the footage when i arrive home. Any tips or sugestions?
Thanks.
I want this to be as cheap as possible so i don't think running a cord through my yard would work.
I want this to be as cheap as possible.

Answer
To recorder the video you need a computer with lot of hard drive space or a video recorder - this can be digital or analog.

I use a DVR similar to this one:
http://shop3.frys.com/product/5264307;jsessionid=LUbMxK4-T8mXlplSCVHxJQ**.node1?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
You need to add a hard drive. One of these is probably good enough for around 30 days of recording:
http://shop3.frys.com/product/4570717;jsessionid=LUbMxK4-T8mXlplSCVHxJQ**.node1?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
but a 500 gig is probably a better idea. Set the image capture so when nothing is going on, there is only 1 still every 4 or more seconds, then set motion detection areas to trigger the recording to go to real time - that will revert to the 1 per four seconds (or whatever you choose) after about 15 seconds of no motion in the detection area.

Then comes the cameras... Higher resolution or night vision or wireless or rated for outdoor add to the cost. Remember - wireless is only wireless for the video signal - you still need power for the camera. If wired, the low-res are probably the cheapest cameras you will find with decent resolution.
This is probably as cheap as it gets - the night vision "throw" is not very far...
http://shop3.frys.com/product/4748899?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
If you only need it for a one-time deal and install the camera under the roof-eve, you can use a indoor camera - but just so you know, it won't last as long as a camera rated for outdoor use.

I use these:
http://shop3.frys.com/product/5080315?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
good resolution and long throw on the night vision.

I am not aware of single channel DVRs... since you have 4 channels, you can use up to 4 cameras - but you do not need to fill all the channels.

If you are that paranoid, you might also consider a battery back up - the cameras and the DVR need to plug into it.
Since we don't know the cameras you want to use, we don't know the power they draw - but this
http://shop3.frys.com/product/4775399?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG
should last a couple of hours with just the DVR.

Be sure to install the DVR in a place that is (1) difficult to find and (2) attached to something solid so it cannot be easily removed.

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How to make a night vision light?

best security camera night vision image

I have a security camera, but it does not have night vision. Is there anyway I can make one, or get one under $10, to makw it easier for my security camera at night? (The lights can not be seen by the human eye)

Answer
use ordinary lighting for security at night. it ups the bar for anyone trying to do wrong if clearly visible, so that is as much a deterrent as cameras. ordinary lighting will give more detail and color which are important clues to making an ID. IR is monochrome and blurry and in some cases not admissable as evidence.

the cheap IR illuminators simply use LED's. they provide enough IR to be useful at about 2 meters (6 feet) maximum distance, great for camcorders at parties. totally useless for surveilence. you need the military type IR lamps, about the size of a small refrigerator to cover a parking lot.

not seen by human? get real, all a crook has to do is use a pocket digital camera to find IR illumination sources. doh.

I have a wireless security camera, is there a computer program so I can record it onto my computer as a video?

lax24freak

SVAT WSE201 Wireless Indoor/Outdoor Color Night Vision Security Camera System with Audio

I don't want to go buy a VCR and record it onto tape. Is there a way to record the video directly to my computer...i.e. a program that will record from the camera?

Answer
go to www.techcctv.com or give them a call they helped with my security system

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How can I catch the expert shoplifters ?

best security camera placement image

i really l

I've been hired to be an undercover cop in a retailer to catch shoplifters.
Recently it has been hard for me to catch people in the act.

What are some of the techniques which make them successful and that they usually get away with ?

Please and Thank you in advance.
PELASE HELP

Answer
It's a trade secret and I'm obligated to the (IUES)"International Union of Expert Shoplifters" to never divulge that information...

But seriously, first you need to check the inventory records to determine what types of items are most commonly being stolen, then verify what kind of security devices like (RF-tags/ink dyes) are being used to prevent & track theft of those items, learn what you can about the stores security camera placement and the security schedule's...

Basically successful shoplifters are the ones who study the stores security... Successful Deer Hunters are successful because they think like the Deer... You just need to start thinking like a thief...

Happy Hunting!

Where do I get a wireless security camera with audio that can hook to my computer with a video card?

Carrie S

Okay what I need to be able to do is record my neighbor when she is having her out bursts shouting and yelling at me and throwing stuff at my cars aparently the way I look sets her off. That is a whole different story though I need the audio and the video to work preferably through my computer or some reasonably priced system we don't have a vcr and I want it to record over longer periods of time and to be able to make replay these things to the police when she lies about what she did. The police have gotten somewhat wise to her since they actually asked her what she meant by things the last time and she told the police that the dog was loose if he was on a leash! and that the curb was the street and that was where she was going to put the garbage she also told them that if she couldn't make me move my car from the public road that she would park on the street blocking the drive way so we couldn't get out once i have documentation of her threatining me I will file a restraining order

Answer
Both D-link and Linksys sell wireless web cameras

http://www.pronto.com/search.do?query=wireless+web+cam&SEM=true&adid=papi1-34552-0_ys&ref={keyword}&creativeid={creative}&site={placement}&OVRAW=wireless%20webcam&OVKEY=wireless%20web%20cam&OVMTC=standard&OVADID=6498943512&OVKWID=78493521512&loadingComplete=true

Good luck with your neighbor

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Is there a wireless security camera like this?

best wireless security cameras home image

Heather B

i want to set up a wireless internet security camera at another home where there is no internet available. Is there a self contained camera that I can just plug in and it either sends the signals to a monitor 30 miles away or can send signals to the internet so I can watch over the net?

Answer
The technology exists, I am sure, but will be very expensive. You're talking professional security gear. The lack of Internet at the other home increases the cost significantly - otherwise you could just use a waterproofed webcam. 30 miles is a long range also. Is there another house nearby with Internet that would be prepared to allow you to set up some gear and use their connection?
The more I think about it, I am convinced that it is going to be cheaper to pay for an Internet service at your other house!

How do I go about setting up a computer security camera?

RB

Could a novice person be able to set up a computer wired/wireless security camera device?

I want to set up several cameras in my house wirelessly connected to my computer that can record and I can watch if I want to "off site" with another computer.

Can I do it myself or should I have someone come and set it up?

If I can do it myself, can you give me any advise on a book or video on how to do it?

Answer
Wireless system packages may be the way to go here...a bit pricey any way you look @ it.
Google for 'home security/video cams' or similar.
After acquisition & deployment, try this application to tie it all together for remote viewing:
V-CamShow
enables you to watch your favorite web cams as a slide show or a screen saver. You can add as many web cam images to the slideshow as you want, automatically disable or reduce the refresh rate for inactive cams and more. The program comes with a large list of international locations and new web cam locations are added regularly which can be imported into your list. You can also add your own webcam to the list.
Freeware; other webcam utilities in the general heading here also.
http://www.snapfiles.com/Freeware/gmm/fwwebcamviewers.html

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How to skip school and not get caught?

best 16 camera security system image

RoJoFilipi

Okay I know that school just started but i already need a break. My parents won't ever let me stay home, and one time I told my mom i was walking but i just went to the mall with my girl and some friends. The school ended up calling my mom and I got my ass beat at home and ended up having to serve a one day in school suspension. I can't ditch in the middle of the day because my school has cameras and a security system to tell them when a outside door is opened without a teacher having scanned out. Seriously it's not like it affects my grades or anything. I get all A's in advanced classes and i sleep through them. I'm 16 if that means anything lol

Answer
Hi,It is not good to skip the school.Now in this age you are not able to understand but in future you will realize.So be a good boy.

Is there such thing as a video security system I can buy and install myself that transmits to my PC at home?

BlairLuvr

Can this be done WITHOUT paying a subscription to a security company? The purpose of the video security system is to keep an eye out on the business after hours. Any info, links or suggestions will be appreciated.Thanks.

Answer
Hello

You do not need to subscribe to any service as long as you have internet and know the user name and password of your DVR you should be able to connect to from anywhere.

I suggest you buy a PC based DVR has they have more processing power and normally have a much smaller file size and offer more features then Standalone DVR's. I know many people buy a cheap standalone DVR, only to upgrade to a PC based in 6 months especially when they are using it to manage a store remotely. Also PC based allows you to record up to 64 cameras where a standalone will have a limit of 16.

File size is crucial to streaming because most DVRâs on the market record at real time performance (30FPS per channel) so on a 4CH is trying to send 120, 8CH 240, and a 16CH 480 images per second which requires way too much bandwidth even for the most extreme internet connections.

The smaller the files size the more images are able to be sent, and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities, as it also determines the recording storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video. The file size of a DVR impacts the performance of the DVR in just about every aspect from speed to longevity and is often the most important spec of any DVR.

If you are buying a DVR and streaming is a high priority I suggest you ask for a demo and connect to the DVR to make sure it is able to stream fast enough for your needs. Most DVRs say they have remote viewing but it is often too slow and laggy to be of any use especially if it is a standalone. Some good DVR brands that I recommend are Bosch, Pelco, Honeywell and Ascendent. These brands are what security professionals use, Q-see, Swan and Lorex are only used in residential applications because they are sold by Tiger Direct, Newegg, Sams Club, Costco and other retail outlets but are not used by any security professionals also their tech support rarely speaks English as their first language...

These brand manufacturers also have a complete line of CCTV cameras for any application from residential to military.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com (Recommend)
http://www.honeywell.com
http://www.pelco.com/
http://www.bosch.com

I have done projects that required cameras to stream over satellite and cellular networks and the only DVR that could provide the video streaming was Ascendent Technology Groupâs X3 DVR. To give you an example of what a good DVR should stream like, below are instructions on how to connect to Ascendent's X3 DVR using Internet Explorer.

This makes a great demo as it is up 24/7 and camera 1 is a PTZ camera which allows you to Pan Tilt and Zoom in real-time over the internet using the controls located to the right.

Instructions on how to connect to Ascendentâs DVR with Internet Explorer:

1) http://connect.ascendentgroup.com/ (Must be Internet explorer)
2) Install active X control
3) Hit âConnect)
4) DVR type PC
5) DVR code SITE-100
6) User ID Demo (case sensitive capital D)
7) Password demo (all lower case)
8) Hit extend config
9) IP address: 24.66.224.223
10) And hit connect

Again I recommend going with a PC based DVR but if you don't want to spend the money I suggest Ascendent's AVP-4120 DVR or Pelco's DX-4000 as they will allow you to view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either IE. The AVP-4120 will also allow MAC platforms as well as PC to remotely view cameras and it uses the new H.264 codec but no standalone will offer the video streaming or performance a good PC based DVR will.


Hope this helps

If you have any questions feel free to email me at
williammorales93@ymail.com

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Is it legal to use a trail can to photograph a public area for suspected criminal activity?

best security trail camera image

krzylove

Can a security company use this technology without informing everyone that it's in use? I'm talking about areas outside like parking lots and stairwells.

Answer
All they need is the property owners permission. The law states that a person cannot reasonably expect privacy in a public place (obviously not including bathrooms, dressing rooms etc where the reasonable expectation of privacy IS expected), therefore putting cameras - and recording the public - in a public place is lawful.

Signs put up to inform people that they are being recorded is only done as a courtesy and crime deterrent.

Is there an inexpensive car camera that would be fully functional while I'm away from my vehicle?

.

People have been chipping my paint. I've also had people mess with my tires. I'd like to install a security camera in my car that will record the entire time that I'm at work or school. Is that even possible? Are there any affordable options?

Answer
Sure just use a trail cam like hunters use. it dosent recored till it detects motion.

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How much does a typical small business or business security system worth?

best security camera system small business image

AG

I need help related to a project I am working on(creating my own business) and I'd like to know if anyone knows roughly how much a security system for a small business is worth?

Answer
A basic system (all doors, a few motions, maybe a couple heats or smokes) would cost anywhere from $700-$1000. And about $40-$80 a month in Monitoring costs.

It really depends what you want on the system... things that would make the installation cost more: additional keypads, additional smoke or heat detectors, glassbreak detectors, a camera/surveillance system, etc. And too it depends which company does it. I know the company I work for installs for less then ADT. We also charge less for monitoring of the system.

Hope this helps! Feel free to e-mail me from my profile page if you have any questions.

business question "antique mall owner needing security camera system" which is the best to buy?

sbarber

Just trying to get input from someone that has an antique mall of similar business. I want to purchase a camera system that I can set up in "EACH" booth or atleast every other booth. Some can be dummies but I would like for atleast half of them to be the real deal. I ahve heard of dealers using globes and dummy cameras to deter thieves; does this work?
What system would you recommend and please don't say a 10,000 one, I cant afford that at the moment.

Answer
Hello

Dummy cameras are the worst possible they don't provide security and if someone is injured or claims to be injured in your store they can sue for providing a false sense of security. No professional security installer uses dummy cameras.

Here is a DVR that will work perfectly for you.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com/x4s.htm

I would recommend a Standalone DVR as they are more reliable and since they are linux based they are virus ans spy ware free.

The X4S Series DVR is an intelligent and professional CCTV management solution, integrating the latest technology and the most advanced features while maintaining a simple, intuitive, and graphical interface. The X4S Series DVR is a 24/7 turn key solution that meets demanding security needs to suit industrial and commercial applications. The X4S DVR is compatible with the X4 platform, allowing it to act as an IP server, while still remaining a standalone solution and allows you to view your cameras instantly over the internet with a PC or cell phone like the I-phone.

also here is some information on DVR and cameras you may want to read before buying a CCTV system.

Not all DVRs and security equipment are created equal, in fact there are many options that offer varying performance much like the automobile industry. In the world of DVRs you can find the equivalent of a $10,000 Kia and a $350,000 Ferrari and everything in between. Both have 4 wheels and windshield but that where the similarities end, itâs under the hood that counts. Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for.

I suggest you buy a PC based DVR has they have more processing power and normally have a much smaller file size and offer more features then Standalone DVR's. I know many people buy a cheap standalone DVR, only to upgrade to a PC based in 6 months especially when they are using it to manage a store remotely. Also PC based allows you to record up to 64 cameras where a standalone will have a limit of 16.

Many people have the misconception that a PC-Based DVR is simply an off-the-shelf PC with video capture (encoder) cards, display (decoder) cards and some generic OEM software. A true DVR requires years of research and development to facilitate the seamless integration of both the hardware and software. DVRs are highly complex systems that must run 24/7, processing millions of images per day. This makes consumer-level hardware inadequate for DVRs which is why Ascendent uses custom-built PCs with performance-level hardware.

My personal favorite DVR is Ascendent X4 series: Ascendentâs Tri-Fusion Hybrid Platform allows for the creation of a true hybrid surveillance system by utilizing the advantages of Analog, Megapixel, and IP technologies for unparalleled customization and expandability.

The X4 also uses the latest H.264/SVC codec offer video substantially better quality,. While its file size sizes is 30% smaller than MPEG-4, 60% smaller than MPEG-2, and exponentially smaller than MJPEG.

File size is crucial to streaming because most DVRâs on the market record at real time performance (30FPS per channel) so on a 4CH is trying to send 120, 8CH 240, and a 16CH 480 images per second which requires way too much bandwidth even for the most extreme internet connections.

The smaller the files size the more images are able to be sent, and the faster they can be processed improving both FPS and speed. File size is the heart of any DVR and goes far beyond just its streaming capabilities, as it also determines the recording storage time, how much you can back up at once, how fast it renders and searches video. The file size of a DVR impacts the performance of the DVR in just about every aspect from speed to longevity and is often the most important spec of any DVR.

If you are buying a DVR and streaming is a high priority I suggest you ask for a demo and connect to the DVR to make sure it is able to stream fast enough for your needs. Most DVRs say they have remote viewing but it is often too slow and laggy to be of any use especially if it is a standalone. Some good DVR brands that I recommend are Bosch, Pelco, Honeywell and Ascendent. These brands are what security professionals use.

I recommend Ascendent as they are less expensive because they cameras for companies like Bosch and Pelco and offer better performance but any of these 3 brands will work well.


These brand manufacturers also have a complete line of CCTV cameras and DVR for any application from residential to military and stand behind there warranties. You want to get a good bran name otherwise you will likely buy a product that work and cant be returned.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com (Recommend)
http://www.honeywell.com
http://www.pleco.com/
http://www.bosch.com

Hope this Helps
Will

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Where is the cheapest/best place to purchase home security stuff?

best security camera system small business image

grannywink

I am broke but need a security camera and a recorder that will be able to record things in the next room(when the door is closed). Any ideas what kind of stuff to get and where to purchase?

Answer
There are several camera systems like that at http://www.staffpatrol.com/store5/agora.cgi Staff Patrol also has many small recording devices that are not listed. Some of the smaller units are wireless and cost under $75. Some of the self-contained units are a bit more. They are in the security business and can adapt a solution that works for you and fits your budget. If you can't find what you need on the site, shoot them a note and you will get more advice. Good Luck!

What is the best Digital Surveillance System for a small business?

mwarrenmt

Well I own a veterinary clinic and we have been broken into 2 times.

We already have locks and everything, but I want a digital Surveillance System that has 4 Cameras to it and that I can access the video from HOME...

What are some price ranges? Links to websites?
Whats the best for me?

Answer
I suggest getting a wireless camera. Because there are no wires attached to it, it's discreet and people wont think you even have a security camera attached in you shop. Check this out http://www.video-surveillance-guide.com/3021-wireless-spy-cam.htm

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Help finding a good set of security cameras for community entrance without electricity?

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AlanIAM

I need advice on security cameras. We have two entrances to our Colorado mountain community neither of which has electricity. We want to post cameras at both entrances and maybe one or two other locations. I am thinking we'd have to go with battery operated cameras and even better if the cameras allow the batteries to be solar recharged. To save us having to climb trees, removing memory cards, etc., we would like cameras we could drive next to with a laptop in the vehicle, download the pictures, delete the pictures from the camera, be on our way. Would be even better if we could transmit the pictures via the internet but nothing electronic out there, like a router, and transmitting pictures via satellite would like be too expensive, I think. Might someone here know of a good camera or a kit that would fit this need? Our budget is $500 max and that will be a bit of a stretch.

Answer
Check out wildlife/trail cameras with GSM connectivity - if you've got some sort of cellphone reception in that area.
Can't recommend any brands or even websites, though. Most of them seem to come from China anyway.
What I can see from here, the prices for the GSM models seem a bit overrated, though (around 350$) - a German supermarket chain is regularly selling the cheapest no-GSM-model for 99 â¬.

If you don't have GSM connectivity in that area, you might check if an Eye fi card works in the cameras that might be suitable for you: http://www.eye.fi, those look like ordinary SD cards, but provide WiFi connection in addition.

Oh, and perhaps run a cord down to a battery compartment at ground level. Saves you climbing that tree to change batteries unless some a**hole rips out said battery compartment (won't do them any good with the batteries inside the camera still operational...)

Have you ever used a trail camera?

dr. agon

I'm looking for some outside security cameras, how well do these cameras work?, and do you have any recommendations?

Answer
I have used a few different brands and models of security cameras and have some that I would recommend. First of all, I recommend staying away from X10 cameras. Although they are inexpensive, the poor quality doesn't make X10's worth buying. X10 cameras also don't operate over a wireless network which is something I prefer.

I feel that wireless network cameras are some of the most secure, high quality and easy to manage options available. Most people already have a wireless network for computer and internet sharing at home, so adding a network camera makes sense.

My first experience with network cameras was with the Panasonic brand. Although the quality was good in day light, the night vision was poor. Within a year the camera had burned out. This was the case for two different models of Panasonic cameras.

Then I finally discovered the Axis brand of network cameras. I have been running several Axis 207w models for more than two years and have not had any hardware issues. They work so well that I almost forget I have them installed. Now these are not necessarily considered outdoor cameras but I have them installed in my window ledges (inside) and they are facing outdoors to monitor sidewalks and door ways. They have very good quality in the daytime and even night images are good with minimal light sources. 30 frames per second video capabilities is very good for a camera in this price range.

The setup on the software side is easy and you are able to view live video over an internet connection using a web browser. It has motion activated functionality and good settings and options for custom surveillance needs. Recorded video can be played back using the included software. I like to watch what happened while I was away on business or vacation. It definitely gives me some piece of mind when I'm not around my house.

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