What software can use my webcam like a security camera?

best security camera for mac image

Jason

I think someone has been going through my stuff in my room, and I want to use my webcam to record when it detects motion. I've had software to do this before, but it was for mac and I don't remember what it's called (I have PC now).

Basically I want an application that'll record when it detects motion on the webcam, preferably free/opensource or really cheap.

Answer
WebcamXP is free for private use with a single camera. I think it does all the things you want the application to do :)

http://www.webcamxp.com/home.aspx

How do I unblock the camera application on mac computers?

smwild2

My school has the camera blocked on the mac computers. So we can't use applications like photobooth and ichat.

Is there a way to unblock it?

Answer
NO - they have it blocked for safety and security reasons so unless you want to lose the privilege of using their computers do NOT try to get around the blocks. They take their security very seriously and you will get caught because they probably also have a hidden tracking program logging everything you do.

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Why don't the ships in danger of hi jacking have security cameras to watch for pirates?

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jon

We have mega technology available in security Cameras. You would think the Insurance companies insuring the ships would be screaming for security like this.
Would it not be a simple idea to mount the camra on a water cannon that the ships have and drown the pirates. If you put armed guards on the ships it will Increase prices.Plus the armed guards will cause the pirates to increase thier firepower. The days of USA super power is fadding fast if we don't get it right. We are not as strong as in 1959. George seen too that. $$$$$$$$$ To China

Answer
I don't know if you've noticed, but it is taking DAYS for the Navy to get in position. Security cameras only document what's going on. You still need someone to respond to the situation, or you need to have armed guards on the ships.

How can i moniter a security camera somewhere else from home?

Justin

im looking to buy a system that i can moniter a security camera at my lakehouse in a different state. I want to have the camera there monitering the driveway and i want to be able to see this on my computer screen. Does anyone know where i can buy a system that i can setup to do this. Please post links if possible. Thanks!

Answer
most home security company's sell equipment as such.. you monitor things over the internet. Just call and ask

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How can I use my webcam as a security camera?

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profound_0

I've ths idea of using my webcam as a security camera which will record the videos in the hard disk while I'm not at home. To do so, I need a video recorder software which'll take the video feed input frm the webcam and save it into the hard disk. Am I right?
If I'm thn which software can I use?
If I'm not thn how to do it?
...I'm sure it's possible but don't exactly knw how.

Answer
I have a creative webcam, and it came with software that turns your pc into a security system with a program that came with the camera called Webcam Monitor. In this program you can set up your camera to start recording a clip when it detects motion, and then it will send an e-mail to a specified e-mail address. I wasn't able to set it up correctly though and I don't know what I was doing wrong.

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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can i use an ipad has a security camera dvr?

best security camera dvr iphone image

Kevin

i have three remote cameras [security type] on my airplane. i would like to record using an ipad, rather than buying a separate dvr. it this possible?

Answer
Yes, iPad has a security cam app with which you can turn it into a surveillance or monitoring. But the key is not just apps but how you set the whole thing up so that it monitors and records everything seamlessly -- be it in your home or outside. Here are two sites that should give you details into how this can be done (using your iPad on its own or with a cell phone -- including iPhone -- or web cam)
â http://homesurveillance.annics.com
â http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/icam-webcam-video-streaming/id296273730?mt=8

I need a security camera that can be viewed over the Internet AND that will record remotely. ?

thoseofus

I don't know if this setup exist, but I'm trying to keep an eye on some property and I'm worried about theft and/or vandalism, and need video to be recorded remotely when motion is detected so I can identify the theif. A DVR won't work because the camera will likely be taken. Anyone have any suggestions?

Answer
I don't know what you mean by "record remotely". If you want a security camera to watch your property, you have to mount the camera somewhere. If you are concerned about vandalism and it's an outdoor camera, either you can mount it up high enough so that vandals can't get to it or you can get a hidden camera.

There are many types of hidden cameras available. You can get hidden as well as regular cameras with a "built in DVR", so that you don't have to run wires.

The cameras with built in DVR's can record at least a few hours, depending on the size of SD card you use, and if they have motion detection, there won't be a lot of wasted footage.

There are also cameras that will send a wireless signal (when motion is detected), as well as alerts to your computer, iphone, etc.

All of these types of cameras as well as other information is described on the site below.

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What is the point of outdoor home security cameras?

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Kayla

I desperately need security cameras because I don't feel save at my neighborhood but

there is this bunch of kids of questionable characters hanging next door and

how do I know that they won't use some stick or rocks to knock down my outdoor security camera?

What about wireless camera? How do I replace batteries? Should I use landwire instead?

Answer
Isn't that the point of a security camera? If they use sticks or rocks to knock down your camera, won't you know who has been damaging your property?

I've bought a fake security camera that has a red light flashing inside the lense. And my question is this?

Del Boy

Do real security cameras have a red light continually flashing?

Answer
Del Boy,
Those cameras are sold at so many place that a thief would know the difference. Even someone who is not a thief could probably tell. I could and I am not that familiar with security cameras.
I bought one and the first night I put it up someone ripped it right down and left it sitting by my front door so it didn't fool anybody much. Mine even moved when the person moved and they still ripped it down!

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What is th best security system for video survalence?

best 8 camera dvr security system image

Anthony R

want a 8 or 4 to start camera,motion detection, and 8 channel dvr system for my business that I can check with my smartphone via internet? Good cameras. Looking $550 or lower

Answer
You cant get a good 8ch system for under a $1000

Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for. Most retailers and sellers make about a 40-80% profit margin, this is after costs like shipping and overhead. That means when you buy a product that costs $100.00 the manufacturer usually has only spent $30 to build it which simply means itâs not a good product and will probably have a working life of about 2 months. Cheap products are like disposable razors they are NOT designed to last for a long time and you will end up replacing them every 2 months.

DVRs need to be good quality as they run 24/7 (20X more than the average electronic device) and process anywhere from 30-480 frames per second which in a year is over 15 billion images, and a good DVR should last 3-5 years.

Lorex, Qsee, tech-CCTV, amazon, ebay, samsclub and other online retails sell complete junk and are extremely low end systems, there is no such thing as a good or high resolution camera under $200. I would recommend dummy cameras they will be just as effective as lorex and you wont be as disappointed by them.

These stores and "brands" take advantage of end users who don't know how to effectively judge CCTV camera and never sell to any profession security installer. They market to end-user who don't know better because anyone knowledgeable about CCTV cameras and surveillance systems wont even consider these type of systems.

Always buy DVR and security equipment from a good brand name manufacturer like Pleco, Bosch, Honeywell Ascendent: http://www.ascendentgroup.com


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.


Unfortunately many people buy very low end systems which have poor frame rate and bad image quality because they buy from Amazon, "spy stores" Lorex, Q-see, NCIX, new-egg, and other online retailers who sell cheap products for china there were never intended to be anything more then a nany cam and should never be used to provide security.

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.

If you are only going to spend 70$ on cameras then you should buy 15 dummy cameras they will be just as effective and cheaper hen swan cameras.

Also as far as night vision or IR cameras go most do not give good images in the dark. Many companies claim good night vision but there are only a handful of brands who give night vision over 30 feet out doors. normally if a cameras is rated 150 feet of IR it will give you ok images at 30 feet at night and good images at about 20 if rated for 60 feet you might get 15 indoors and will be useless outdoors.

2 Great IR outdoor cameras
http://ascendentdvr.com/ascentseries2/52⦠($95)

http://ascendentdvr.com/vistaseries2/vis⦠($235.00)

Some good CCTV brands that I recommend are Bosch, Pelco, Honeywell and Ascendent.

http://www.ascendentgroup.com (best price/ performance)
www.honeywell.com
www.pelco.com/
http://www.bosch.com

Economical DVR's
Two good economical DVRs I would recommend are Ascendent's AVP-4120 DVR or Pelco's DX-400. They will allow you to view all your cameras instantly from anywhere in the world using either IE, or a client software. The AVP-4120 uses the latest H.264 codec to improve streaming and recording time, and will allow PCs and smart phones to remotely view and control your cameras. These are the DVRs I would recommend that are good quality and affordable from companies who stand behind there products.

Again if you are going to buy no name products save money and get dummy cameras they are just as affective and you will be less disappointed.

Hope this Helps,
williammorales93@ymail.com

How to, internet based surveillance camera system?

Joe

I want to make a surveillance system so that I am able to have a camera or two at my house and one or two at my office (about 1 mile away). They need to be able to see at night and perform well outside as thats where the majority of them will be.

I would like to be able to have them all tie in together so that I can view them remotely from one place, or preferably my cellphone or a laptop.

Thank you in advance for any help!

Answer
Start with a budget. Is this worth $1,000, $5,000 or more to you?

Also, since you don't seem to have any specific data network or security camera experience, you might consider hiring this out or contacting a reputable security company to do the work for you.

Being a mile apart tells me you will need two different systems. One home, one office. The biggest reason is the two different local area networks (LAN) used that will connect to the internet.

There are essentially two ways to do this.

1) Analog cameras connect to a DVR, the DVR connects to the LAN.
In this scenario, there are two options. One has the DVR being accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. The other has the video being sent to a "service" - most of the manufacturers have this - and to see what your cameras see, you log into their network.

2) IP network based cameras are on a LAN. The camera views are accessed remotely so there are data network security and segmentation issues to deal with otherwise the video data could easily overwhelm a poorly designed network. If video is to be stored, then add in a computer of appropriate horsepower and hard drive size to store the video.

In all cases, be sure to add a battery back up system that powers the cameras, DVR, router, hubs switches, computer and whatever else is associated with the security camera system. It would be silly to have a "power outage" cause a security camera outage.

Cameras rated for outdoors, with night vision (infrared emitters) will cost a little more than small indoor type cameras. At the consumer grade level for analog cameras (that connect to a DVR), plan to spend at least $150 per camera. Lorex and Swann make decent ones. If you need "vandal resistant" or decide to go with IP based cameras, expect to spend around $2,000 per camera. Pelco makes good ones. If Pan-Tilt-Zoom functionality is required, the camera price increases to around $3,000.

The DVRs at the consumer level start at about $400 for a decent 4-channel system. You may need to add a hard disc drive if the one included is not large enough. An 8 or 9-channel DVR weighs in at around $650. A good Pelco DVR will be in the $5,000 range.

There are several more permutations, but the gist of this explanation is that your simple question does not necessarily have a simple answer.

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Does anyone know where to get an infrared light bulb that looks like a regular light bulb that emits no light?

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stitch5320

For home security, with the use of my camera, you can see the night vision red LEDs on the camera.

Answer
You do not need a "light bulb" but rather a better IR LED illuminator.

The area you are "painting" will decide on what kind of IR you will need. Painting is the term that is used to describe the application of large swaths of ultra-covert infrared lighting to any indoor or outdoor surveillance area.

The majority of today's IR sensitive surveillance cameras are sensitive up to 820 nanometers. If your application is as simple as your home driveway and your distance is not further then about 15 feet, there are literally dozens of great IR illuminators to choose from that are small, covert, and totally invisible to the human eye. Your best option would be to go with a ruggedized integrated camera with IR illuminator. The package can be installed in any indoor/outdoor application, has vandal proof construction, certified NEMA-4 rating (splashproof, windproof, dustproof, low temp/high temp), and is very affordable.

what kind of signal does a BNC camera output?

David H

A security camera outputs a high resolution image through a BNC connector. What kind of signal is it? What can read that signal? Using an adapter to make the BNC into an RCA jack won't work will it?

Answer
I would suggest going direct to a DVR or monitor.

but you can buy adapters but like all adapters you will lose image quality.

If you are looking at CCTV equipment here is an earlier post.

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.

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


Ascendent Technology Group 's has a really good 4 camera package for around $500.00 and will sell direct if they don't have a dealer in your area.

http://ascendentdvr.com/cctvpackages/avpâ¦


Not all CCTV equipment is created equal, in fact there are many options that offer varying performance take cars for example. In the world of CCTV you can find the equivalent of a $2,000 golf cart and a $350,000 Ferrari and everything in between. Both have 4 wheels but that's where the similarities end, itâs under the hood that counts.

95% of all wireless cameras are compete junk and any wireless camera under $400 run on 1.2, 2.4GHZ or 5.8GHZ and wont offer encryption. This is bad for 2 reasons one the signal can easy be jammed, with a laptop you can actually hacked video feeds so a criminal can use it to spy and know a good time to target your business or home.

Just like any other consumer electronic in the end you get what you pay for. Most retailers and sellers make about a 40-80% profit margin, this is after costs like shipping and overhead. That means when you buy a product that costs $100.00 the manufacturer usually has only spent $30 to build it which simply means itâs not a good product and will probably have a working life of about 2 months. There is a reason these products are 1/10 of the price of good and reliable DVR brand names. The type of seller these products attract are online sellers (ebay) and will make profits margins as low as 3% which means they canât afford to offer good service or allow for RMAs (returns). Cheap products are like disposable razors they are NOT designed to last for a long time and you will end up replacing them every 2 months.

Now some products can be made cheaply like ipod cases, screen protectors, and other simple products with no moving parts or electronics. DVRs need to be good quality as they run 24/7 (20X more than the average electronic device) and process anywhere from 30-480 frames per second which in a year is over 15 billion images, and a good DVR should last 3-5 years.

A true DVR and camera require 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 and are one of the few products that canât be made both well and cheaply. Cheap and inexpensive products like Q-see, X10, Swan, Lorex, and other low grade DVRâs and cameras sold by Tiger Direct, Newegg, radio shack Sams Club, are not used by any security professional and should only be used by hobbyists.

To be honest the "frys" productsare Garbage and are not used by anyone who has worked with CCTV or security products. I They are poor quality especially for IR cameras, due to low quality material, low S/N ratio, and low grade CCD image chips.

Also as far as night vision or IR cameras go most do not give good images in the dark. Many companies claim good night vision but there are only a handful of brands who give night vision over 30 feet out doors. normally if a cameras is rated 150 feet of IR it will give you ok images at 30 feet at night and good images at about 20 if rated for 60 feet you might get 15 indoors and will be useless outdoors.

Now one option for wireless is using commercial IP radios which are basically wireless routers on steroids and can offer distances up to 40km of wireless with military encryption, this is not a cheap solution but neither is digging a trench. using these radios not only give you a security infrastructure but also communications infrastructures as well for internet and other purposes (LAN network)

Good radio company
http://www.tranzeo.com/

now in order to use this wireless network to distribute video you need to buy IP cameras which are similar to IP cameras only they transmit video over networks instead of a cable.

The company I recommend for CCTV products is Ascendent Technology Group they have a large product line and offer better products then Pelco Honeywell and Bosch and are about %20 cheaper and in my opinion have the best IR outdoor camera line up.

For an IP I recommend uses Ascendent`s IP servers that have a hard rive built in which does 3 things. Allows you use any analog camera and convert it into an IP addressable server. Allows you to distribute video over the network and has an HDD in it so that if the network goes don't or your NRV (network video recorder) goes down or gets stolen you have data redundancy. some companies use SD

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What if i am told to turn on my laptop with a broken screen in security?

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Liam

I am flying to another state tomorrow, and im bringing a laptop with a cracked screen. (When turned on, the screen has lots of random colors and black lines and you cannot see what should be on screen) What will security do if i am told to turn it on, but they can't see the OS because the screen is messed up?
Also, how likely is it they will tell me to turn it on?

Answer
The security officers will not tell you to turn the machine on. Just place the laptop in a bin by itself with nothing on top or underneath and send it through the x-ray. The cracked screen may or may not flag it for further inspection. But this is doubtful.


From http://www.tsa.gov ("Can I Bring My.." search tool.)
---
Search Results For: laptop

Check or Carry-on

Please carefully pack your electronics items, making sure all cords are wrapped and any DVDs, CDs, or cassettes are removed from their devices. While you can pack expensive, fragile electronics items in checked or carry-on bags, we recommend packing them in your carry-on.

Laptop computers, full-size video game consoles, CPAP machines, full-size DVD players, and video cameras that use video cassettes must be removed from their carrying cases and submitted separately for x-ray screening. Small and portable electronic items (smart phones, tablets, portable games, etc.) do not need to be removed from their carrying cases or carry on bags.

For items you wish to carry-on, you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. The final decision rests with TSA on whether to allow any items on the plane.
---

What charges can you face for running butt naked across a football field during a game?

Tyler

I'm thinking of running butt naked across the field of a college football game and would like to know how much trouble I'd be in.

Answer
Where you are makes a big difference. In most places it is not indecent exposure as many people think. Some lewd behavior or intent would be required for that. Many places have public nudity laws which are less severe than indecent exposure, and there are a few places that have no nudity law.

However that does not mean it is a good idea as there are other laws that can apply. I worked at a soccer game where a girl tried to streak across the field to advertise a web site. When she went over the rail, security caught her before she touched the ground and she was charged with trespassing. She ended up in a holding cell, and since she didn't make it on camera, didn't get paid so her legal fees were out of pocket. She didn't look very happy

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how much mbps is required to watch my security cameras from home?

best security camera for office image

Mike

I need internet at my business for my security cameras so i can watch the live stream while away from my office. What internet service would be the best choice for my situation, and how much MBPS is required?

Answer
There are many factors to consider like what type of camera do you have an analog or IP?

An analog camera with a viewing resolution of 528x320 will require 0.56Mbps of bandwidth.
An IP camera with a viewing resolution of 640x480 will require 5.28Mpbs of bandwidth.

The other thing to consider is that if you are going to watch the video while away from the office then you will need Wi-Fi internet access at your home or any where else in order to see the video feed from your office. Just having internet at your office doesn't mean you will be able to see the video away from the office.

I hope this helps.

Can I use a junction box above a drop-down ceiling for an outlet?

Nick

I am trying to install a couple of security cameras at my office. The cameras are wireless and will connect to my domain so all I need is power to plug them in. I have a drop-down ceiling with four bulb florescent fixtures. When I look above the drop-down ceil there is a junction box for each fixture.

What I am wondering is if I can use these junction boxes to put an outlet on the faceplate, or something along those lines so that I can plug in the cameras. Of course, I want to use a qualified electrician to do this but am trying to find out if it is even possible before I waste his time and/or the service call.

Thanks!

Answer
It is more than likely that those lights are powered from a 277/480 volt panel, and may only have power when the lights are turned on. You could check in your electrical rooms to see if you can find any transformers, if you got em, you got 277v lights.

There may still be boxes that have 120/208 volt in them, please be aware the electrician may need to shut down multiple circuits at a time to tap into the neutral without risking damage to your equipment.

You may have code issues if your ceiling is a "return air plenum", no equipment or cord that can cause poisonous smoke will be allowed, you can identify if your ceiling is a return air plenum by grates in the ceiling that are not connected to ductwork.

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Someone wrote racist statements on my driveway, what should I do?

best security camera for driveway image

Frogger

I got out this morning and noticed some one spray painted "Fuck Chinks" on my driveway. I saw some cars in my neighborhood with the rebel flag stickers so it might be one of them. I'm thinking of installing a security camera and getting a firearm. What else can I do to protect myself and my property?

Answer
Wash them off.

Will turning left in front of a stopped school bus get me a ticket in this case?

Big D

Today I was leaving the gas station in town and the driveway to the gas station is across the street from this one house, but the next driveway down. I was turning left and the school bus was letting off kids. There are no houses across the street from those houses, just businesses and that gas station. I was in front of the school bus stop arm and the bus, but the next driveway down. I made a left turn. Technically I did not pass the school bus, but I was thinking in my head that one of the kids could go get a snack after school from the gas station and walk around the front of the bus and towards the gas station. I wasn't thinking clearly, and I turned left. Never have been in this situation before. I always stop behind school buses. Do most buses have security cameras on the stop arm now days, and will they send me a ticket in the mail?

Answer
How close were you to the bus? Like 50ft? 100ft? 500? If you were 50ft away from it, you might get ticketed.

Also, it depends on how many lanes the road has. Because this road sounds like it was in the city (there were businesses all around), I'm assuming that it was a four-lane road (2 lanes on each side). If the road has 3 or more lanes, traffic does not have to stop for the bus unless it's behind it (at least in Ohio).

And I doubt that buses have cameras on them. I've never heard of it before. Usually if a driver does disobey busing laws, the bus driver will honk. Very loud. If the driver didn't honk at you, you're probably okay.

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How to protect a PC without an internet connection from viruses ?

best security camera 2013 image

s

The PC has no access to internet
The virus infections are in most probability from USB flash drives
Will this work - put a windows login password (win xp) to restrict access
My question is, If you are not logged in - and someone inserts an infected USB flash drive, does the virus still travel to the hard drive

Another route I am planning is disable the USB ports
But I need one USB connection, which I plan on connecting from motherboard internally - not sure how it will work out
Disinfecting the system is not an issue
Issue is now to prevent future infections.
I do not have control over who is pushing what usb flash drive into the PC

Answer
Just so you know:
From TechSpot (March 13, 2013); http://www.techspot.com/news/51929-critical-windows-usb-exploit-allows-flash-drives-to-grant-root-access-patch-issued.html
"Microsoft's Patch Tuesday yielded an interesting security fix for a glaring vulnerability in how the Windows kernel handles USB device enumeration. The critical vulnerability allowed potential hackers with physical access to a Windows PC to run arbitrary code with system user privileges -- even while Windows was locked and users logged off."

So if you don't have this MS-patch, then you may very well get nailed.

Some iT's fill the external ports with epoxy...the only fool-proof idea I've tried.
If you believe this is intentional, hide a pinhole camera (running independently of the target PC) to capture the room/PC and get evidence.

HELP Using an external camera in a portable DVR?

Johnny

I'm using spy camera glasses with a portable DVR unit that I bought, but when I try to record all I get is a black screen. I am pretty sure I am connecting it up right, but there is no audio or video.

I tried updating the firmware for the DVR unit, but that just messed up the aspect ratio for the screen.
In case you were wondering no the glasses were not cheap, and neither was the DVR unit, the setup costed me $700 altogether.
The glasses were from brickhouse security, really expensive $300 ones, but the assholes don't even have a forum so far as I can tell.

I don't think the glasses are broken, but I am not sure what else it could be.

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/74754638/2013-01-26%2015-37-0345.081.jpg

Here is a picture of the setup and everything. Sorry about the large picture size. I crammed several of them in there.

Answer
First thing to do is check the camera on a normal TV that has composite A/V in, and a normal composite A/V source into the DVR.

The N/P switch selects NTSC or PAL video. High/Low might set IRE (video black) or audio level.

The reason they just don't plug and play, is that they are two separate things, and there probably is no plug in standard for that.

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Mac to PC intriguing question?

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Q. I have a MacBook Pro and I sometimes like to run Windows on my Mac to take advantage of all the software out there. When I am using the Windows on my Mac, does this open my MacBook to viruses that otherwise wouldn't be a problem?

Answer
Same as any other computer using Windows...
FREE Windows Stufff
http://www.comodo.com/products/free_products.html
http://www.iobit.com/
http://www.ccleaner.com/
ANTI-VIRUS
Avira Antivir (FREE) for 2009 personal edition is free (there is a paid version) the free version was rated the best by consumer reports 2009.
http://www.free-av.com/ Avast (Free- Click under Free Software and download Avast Home Edition) http://www.avast.com/

ANTI-MALWARE
Windows Defender (FREE)
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/defender/default.mspx
Malware Bytes (FREE) Limitation - No Realtime protection on free version.
http://download.cnet.com/Malwarebytes-Anti-Malware/3000-8022_4-10804572.html?tag=mncol
Super Anti-Spyware (FREE)
http://download.cnet.com/SuperAntiSpyware-Free-Edition/3000-8022_4-10523889.html?tag=mncol

But warning... Mac OS X is not as secure as you think

SECURITY
Mac OS X was hacked in 2006 less than 30 minutes, and within 2 minutes in a contest in 2008, and within 10 seconds in 2009. In 2008, Linux and Vista were not hacked until another day when restrictions were lowered. Vista was next, and then Linux. In 2009 Windows 7 fell shortly after the Mac but Linux was unscathed.
Macs are standardized with Cameras, if your Mac gets hacked, the hacker can turn on your camera with more ease.
Please Note: All OS's have vulnerabilities.
http://www.zdnet.com.au/news/security/soa/Mac-OS-X-hacked-under-30-minutes/0,130061744,139241748,00.htm
http://www.infoworld.com/article/08/03/27/Gone-in-2-minutes-Mac-gets-hacked-first-in-contest_1.html
http://www.infoworld.com/article/09/03/19/Researcher_cracks_Mac_in_10_seconds_1.html
http://news.softpedia.com/news/Microsoft-Finds-Irony-in-Mac-OS-X-Getting-Hacked-Before-Vista-SP1-82135.shtml

VIRUSES
Mac OS X has viruses (and significantly on the rise), a friend of mine has a virused Mac. As more users use Macs, more viruses will come out for it. Especially when users think "they are safe".
http://infosecurity.us/?p=4005
http://blogs.chron.com/techblog/archives/2008/07/malware_authors_take_aim_at_growing_number_of_1.html
http://www.macsimumnews.com/index.php/archive/poll_have_you_noticed_an_increase_in_malware_viruses_etc_on_your_mac/

Surveillance Motion Detection Software?

PRB

Is there a software that I can use that has motion detection for web came and sends me an alert or report by email?

Answer
The free, Easy Method: webcam motion detector software
Webcam Motion Detector is designed for motion detection and webcam monitoring. It features video surveillance with multiple IP cameras and video capture devices. For each video frame, if motion is detected, the Alarm event occurs, that returns a global motion ratio, depending of the number of cells in which motion has been detected, and the level of motion in each cell. A sensitivity grid is applied on video frames. You can adjust the sensitivity of the detection, and mask out areas of the camera view to avoid false alarms. When the camera captures video frames in a dark environment, it is possible that the electrical background noise of the CCD video cell creates fake motion detection events. It is possible to reduce the sensitivity of to the video noise by enabling the Reduce Video Noise option. When an alarm condition is detected, the program can sound an audible alarm, or send you an email with a photo. Automatically capture photos, or record video in compressed files. Webcam Motion Detector includes an advanced player that allows playing video clips, capturing video frames, and performing frame overlay. Each camera has its own individual monitoring and recording settings.
download site : http://download.cnet.com/Webcam-Motion-Detector/3000-2348_4-75609375.html

The Cheap, Easy Method: iCam

Previously mentioned iCam is undoubtedly the simplest of the bunch, and at only $5, it's a steal for how many features it gives you. Set up iCam with any webcam and you can view an ongoing stream from your iPhone, Android phone, or even a web browser. It can also send a push notification to your phone whenever it detects motion, and take a number of quick snapshots so you can see what was moving around.

The best part about iCam is that it couldn't be simpler to set up. You just install the iCamSource app on your Windows PC or Mac, download the app to your iPhone or Android device, and select your camera from iCamSource's menu. Give it a username and password (so no one but you can access it), edit the motion detection sensitivity if need be, and get on with your day. You can even set up multiple cameras if you have a number of different areas to monitor. Check out the video above for a demonstration on how it works, and see our previous tutorial on iCam for more info on setting it up.

The More Expensive, Bells & Whistles Method: WebcamXP
The only real downside of iCam is that you can't record and save video. You can watch it live, but if you see that someone's entered your home, you can only save snapshots of it on your phone. If you want a few more features (like saving video, uploading saved video to the web, or only monitoring certain parts of the frame for motion), WebcamXP is the most user-friendly program we tested. The basics are pretty easy to set upâjust start up the program, right-click in the video frame to choose your webcam, and tell it to alert you via the Security tab. You can also set up more complex schedules, telling it when to record, when to monitor for motion, and when to upload videos to the web.

The main downsides to WebcamXP are its price ($60 for single-camera use), its Windows-only availability, and the few extra steps it takes to forward the necessary ports and set up DHCP reservations. You don't need to do any of that in iCam, but if you want to view WebcamXP's stream from the internet, you'll need to fiddle with a few router settings. Neither is especially hard to do, it's just an annoyance you have to deal with when you first set it up. For more information on setting up and using WebcamXP, check out its very thorough documentation.

Note that WebcamXP does have a free version, but it doesn't offer the ability to alert you when motion's detected, making iCam a better choice than WebcamXP Free. Grab the Pro version if you want the full set of features; otherwise, iCam's probably fine.

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What is a good home security camera system?

best security camera dvr system image

Gary

I am looking for an home security camera sytem that I could link with my tv on it's own channel.

Any suggestions?
Trying to stay below $400, I could do any wiring myself. I live in South Florida so it gets to be around 90 degrees on average. Just a standard resolution in color. Night vision would be a big plus but not needed. If it could be directed to the video input on a receiver that could work also. Would want it to store recordings.

Answer
Analog, composite video? There are lots.

On its own channel? Some RF modulators can be expensive, especially if you want to select the channel. Easier if you just use one of the other video inputs that are not in use.

What is your budget?
What resolution are you looking for?
Will the video need to be recorded and stored? If yes, what surveillance DVR are you looking at?
Only one camera?
Is night vision required? If yes, how far does the camera need to see in darkness?
Does the camera need to be outdoor rated?
Does it snow where you live? If yes, you may need a housing with a heater unit.
Does it get REALLY hot where you live? If yes, you might need a housing with a cooling system.
Is the video signal to be wired or wireless?
Is there power available where you plan to install the camera?
Is the camera going to stay in one position or is pan/tilt/zoom control required?

You have not provided enough information for anyone to provide you a good recommendation.

I need a good surveillance system- 16 cameras, that's hooked up to two monitors showing two different views?

I need someone's help finding the right surveillance system. It should have 12-16 cameras, about 500tvl or better cameras. A DVR system that is digitally watermarked. And it should be able to display 8 views on one monitor, and 16 views on the other. This is for a business. Please help if you're educated in this field. Thank you!

Answer
Hello

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. 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.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 cheaper then bosch and pelco and offer better performance but any of these 3 brands will work well.


http://www.ascendentgroup.com/ (Go here and click view x4 power point to view the DVR im talking about)

Also Ascendent has live chat on there website and can help you design a system.

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Is it illegal to put a hidden camera in a hotel room?

best security camera recording software image

Jason

I am not talking about the hotel itself doing it because I know that ls illegal. Okay so I have found out that by connecting a webcam to your computer and using simple recording software you can turn that webcam into a basic security camera. If I was to use that same setup in my own hotel room to record what goes on when I am not in there, say the maids cleaning the room, could I get into trouble.

Answer
I don't think you can get in trouble.

You could argue that you paid for the room and its yours for the allotted time.

Its close to the same as renting a apt. You sign something like a lease when you rent the room.
You can have a camera on your valuables to keep an eye on them in a room you paid for, no one can stop you from doing that.

How can I use my webcam as a security camera?

profound_0

I've ths idea of using my webcam as a security camera which will record the videos in the hard disk while I'm not at home. To do so, I need a video recorder software which'll take the video feed input frm the webcam and save it into the hard disk. Am I right?
If I'm thn which software can I use?
If I'm not thn how to do it?
...I'm sure it's possible but don't exactly knw how.

Answer
I have a creative webcam, and it came with software that turns your pc into a security system with a program that came with the camera called Webcam Monitor. In this program you can set up your camera to start recording a clip when it detects motion, and then it will send an e-mail to a specified e-mail address. I wasn't able to set it up correctly though and I don't know what I was doing wrong.

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How to make my iphone 3g a security camera?

best security camera for iphone image

Nick

Hello i have a iphone 3g and kindle fire I came up with a cool idea that i could use my iphone as a security camera type thing so i can see whats going on in the house when im gone but i need an app that can do that. I already have a webcamapp that uses my network on the computer to make itself a webcam but i dont know how I can get my kindle fire to view thestream anyone have any ideas? thanks!

Answer
You don't need to buy some high-tech things to make your iPhone a security camera.
Just download skype and make an email ID for skype
Add your contact to the new skype email
Video chat with the new email and hang the iPhone where you want.
Done.
This is not you wanted to hear but it still works
DIDN'T UNDERSTOOD ME?
JUST VIDEO CHAT AND PUT YOUR IPHONE WHERE YOU WANT THAN SEE AROUND THROUGH THE VIDEO.
I think nothing will get lost but your iPhone

How does live monitoring from security camera's work?

Metal

We need a security camera for our home. When away, how does live monerting work through your iPhone or Android ? We live our little dog alone all day and would like to be able to check on him by this security camera too. Do you have to have a internet hookup, or phone hook up, how does it work to be able to broadcast that video to your iPhone or Droid?

Answer
Hi "Metal":

The most important thing to have, when setting up an internet-based camera (called an IP camera), is to have a good broadband (non-dialup, always on) internet connection at your house. It doesn't have to be high-speed cable modem (from your cable company) or fiber-optic (like Verizon FiOS or ATT U-verse), but at least a DSL-line from your phone company.

The IP cameras (or even a webcam connected to one of your computers) need to be connected to a home "network" or LAN (Local Area Network) via either WiFi --for wireless cams-- or using regular Ethernet (Cat5 or Cat6) cables to an internet router. If you just plan on having one camera connected to your PC, then you could use the computer as the "router", but routers are cheap ($20-$40 if you shop wisely) and simple to set up.

Your iPhone or Android device would simply use a web browser to log onto your home network, using an IP address & password, and you would watch your camera just like watching a YouTube feed, except that it would be "live".

Here's a YouTube demo of this using an iPhone, by a good security camera company: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnP_Dbqn1Cw&feature=related

There are plenty of other YouTube demos and tutorials, if you search around. I added a link to Swann cameras' website tutorials (they're the largest seller of DIY security systems) in my Sources below, as another good information resource.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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I'm looking for a good office camera security system. Any recommendations?

best security camera dvr review image

actefft

I would prefer the cameras to be wireless and to have a DVR. It would be nice if there was an app I could access the system from my phone. I would probably need at least 12 cameras.

Answer
I like Swann and Lorex systems for these (or smaller) systems.

There may be valu in getting two systems so if one fails, all the cameras are not down - but that is up to you.

Since we do not know the office layout, we do not know how the "wireless" part will work going through walls made of various materials.

Quick review:

Wired security cameras have a single "bundled" cable that contains the video feed and power. There are two plugs at the camera - one for power and one for video. At the DVR there is a connection for the video and the power plug connects to a power source - usually a "wall wart" or some sort. You can locate a battery back-up system at the DVR to power the DVR and the camera in the event of a power outage.

Wireless security cameras send only the video wirelessly. The camera still needs power (wire #1). If battery backup is needed, then some sort of local UPS is needed. The video is transmitted wirelessly to its base station mate. The base station needs power (wire #2). The base station connects with wire (#3) to the DVR.

You will also want to invest in a couple of monitors that connect to the DVR. 16 channels is a lot to watch. For the monitor at the DVR, a low priced, VGA-connected computer monitor is fine. There may be a need to have auxilliary monitors around the rest of the property. Use of the composite video out makes that easy.

Connecting the DVR to the computer network is easy enough - be sure the network is segmented using a network switch (not just a hub) so the video traffic and be isolated from the rest of the network. Use of PnP is easy, but a network admin with half a clue will know how to set the IP address and security properly. Also, for the remote access you want, setting up the router to allow your access while maintaining network security is needed. Again, any half skilled network admin who understands IP networks and router configuration can do this. This works best if your internet provider gives you a static IP address, but can still work if a dynamic address is used - there are some work-arounds and compromises you'll make is you go this route.

I would suggest sizing the system with more ports for cameras than you think you need - in case you decide to add cameras. In this case, two 8-channel systems gives you decent coverage. And a composite security camera will work on any manufacturer's system. I have installed Swann DVRs with Swann, Lorex and other manufacturer's analog, composite video, security cameras...

You did not tell us if the cameras will all be indoors or if there will be any out door (parking lot, alley, etc) in which case you may want outdoor-rated night-vision cameras in addition to the indoor versions.

security camera tampering?

destun.200

I work at our local school district which is equipped with security cameras. Recently, a theft occurred which may have involved a supervisor/night time security. When the employee asked for cameras to be checked, the supervisor claimed she "did not see anyone" going into a locked closet where the employees keys were taken out of. Also, when asked to view the footage along with the supervisor, the supervisor said, "No.You don't need to see." My question is, can frames of footage be edited out or deleted out. The security system is loaded into the supervisors computer that is equipped for real-time viewing and archive viewing.

Answer
Hi "Destun":

If it's an "inside job", someone besides the supervisor in question needs to see and review the original video files. Most CCTV systems have to be installed & maintained by licensed professionals, and have data security measures (time stamping, log files, file encryption & backup measures) to prevent tampering or to show when tampering has been attempted.

But on simple DVR-based (digital hard-drive video recorders), a skilled person could attempt to modify or delete certain scenes. As I said, attempts like that by anyone but the most-skilled data hacker would leave a "trail" on some data log or file-change log, in a well-designed system.

Someone at the School District level (District Superintendant or School Board rank) should intervene in the matter, since civil employee theft and fraud has become commonplace in many School Districts (especially at the maintenance & purchasing department levels).

If you need to, do an anonymous "whistleblower" report to the District higher-ups and/or whatever County Commissioners or overseeing tax body handles the budget money. They'll tend to get beneath the suspicious veneer of "You don't need to see...".

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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How do I take kittens away from their feral mother?

best security camera for baby monitor image

Sophia Sim

Recently we've noticed a young looking tuxedo cat that goes underneath our shed a lot. My mom suggested that she was eating baby possums but I just told her to let the cat be. But lo and behold after about a month of this behavior two tabby kittens join the mother outside the shed. Our shed is in it's own separate location with fencing surrounding it so the kittens can't leave yet but the mother can. Anyway once we discovered that she had kittens underneath the shed we began to feed her and monitor them with a security camera, over the past few weeks we've been dedicated to the kittens. They are about 5-6 weeks old. Now on to the question. We really would like to take these kittens in but the mother is obviously too feral to domesticate but the kittens have potential. So what I'm asking is if it's okay to take the kittens without the mother? I would feel awful but then again I feel like the kittens would survive and thrive with us. The kittens are weaned because they eat the dry good we leave out for the mother. PLEASE ANSWER ASAP THEY ARE SOON OLD ENOUGH TO LEAVE THE ENCLOSURE. :(

Answer
Feral born kittens are not like kittens born to friendly house cats. The sooner you can get them away from mom, the better your chances of socializing them. By the time they are past 6 weeks or so, it becomes much harder as they are learning mom's wild ways. What you need to do though is borrow a humane trap from your local shelter, and trap mom, so that she can be spayed. Other wise she is going to present you with another litter in another couple of months, and one cat will soon turn into 20, then 40 - and then what?

Any product that can be a good baby video monitor and later a security camera? $150-$200 range...?

snape4good

I want a good baby video monitor and my husband wants to use it later... Any ideas? Thanks!

Answer
Look here:
http://www.supercircuits.com

Plenty of cameras you and your husband can use.

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