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.

What do real time channels mean on a 16 ch DVR card pertaining to video surveillance cameras?

Emberlin

I am installing a security system with a 16 ch DVR card. I found a few cards online within my price range. Could you please explain to me what it means for a 16 ch DVR card to have only 4 real-time channels? Does this mean I can only view 4 cameras at a time? Will all 16 channels be able to record simultaneously? Also what are output channels for? I would assume that only input channels would be able to record information from video surveillance cameras. Is this assumption correct?

Answer
Hello

Real time is term that means 30FPS (frames per second) or IPS (images per second) per channle.

So 4ch will be 120 frame 8ch 240 frame 16ch 480 and 64ch 1920 frame

Some cheap DVR manufactures advertise real timer performance but only offer real time display not record.

Here is a good manufacture who has a large dealer network for installations and of they don't have a dealer in your area you can buy direct.

Ascendent Technology Group
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.

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, Q-see, Swan and Lorex are only used in residential applications because they are sold by Tiger Direct, Spytown, 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.

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

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

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Surveillance cameras?

betternyou

Can I use non-network surveillance cameras and somehow display and record the videos on a computer? Is there a way it can connect to a network? Also, the wires used to connect the cameras to the tv look like phone cables, only a bit larger, but not as large as ethernet cables. Any ideas?

Answer
You can connect analogue cameras to a PC using a capture device (or sometimes called a DVR card). You either fit these cards inside your computer, or use cheaper USB versions like the one from Grandtec http://www.grandtec.com/products/surveillance/xguardusb.html which is easier to install. This will allow you to watch & record video on your PC as well as give remote access.

For genuine network based solutions, you would need a video server which converts analogue video source to IP video stream, like the Axis video server. You can use this with CCTV surveillance software like EyeSoft from BiKal IP CCTV http://www.bikal.co.uk/network-surveillance/ip-software.html which allows you to connect analogue and IP cameras to your computer.

It sounds like you have RJ11 connectors on your cables. You can convert these to standard CCTV connections. Type in RJ11 to BNC in your favourite search engine to find your nearest dealer.

Cheap surveillance cameras?

Lauren

I want to put up some small, easy to hide/be hidden cameras around my property and house. Preferably ones that let me stream the live video feed to my laptop. The cheaper the better. Post everything you find. Thanks.

Answer
"Cheap" generally denotes poorly made and fast to break requiring replacement.

A better suggestion is to buy the value and "less expensive". Generally, you get what you pay for.

Before we go too far... there are basically two different technologies and both work fine.

1) Analog cameras connected to a security DVR that is connected to the local area network. The DVR generally has a hard drive and embedded operating system that records the video and the network connectivity provides for computer or smartphone access.

2) IP based cameras connected directly to the local area network. If video is to be stored, generally, some sort of network device is needed to record the video. Sometimes this is a "network attached" storage device. Sometimes this is a computer dedicated to do nothing else but record/store the video. The cameras are contacted directly by your laptop (or smartphone.

In either case, we assume you have a need for night vision. Even if you don't, the cameras still need some sort of power. We assume there is power available to these "hidden" areas where you want to install the cameras.

Your requirement of "cameras around my property" tells me that you need outdoor rated cameras. These are generally more expensive than "indoor only" cameras.

"Wireless" is deceiving... we already know that the camera needs power - so that is basically one wire. With an IP based camera system, then the wifi at your house needs to be on and the cameras all need to be on that network - and when you add the network attached storage device or computer for recording the video, then all that configuration and attention is needed. And wires. If the cameras are analog connecting to a network connected DVR, then the cameras send only the video wirelessly to a base station "mate". Each camera has its own base station. The base station needs power (another wire) and the base station video connection plugs into the DVR (another wire) and the DVR plugs onto the network (another wire).

I strongly suggest using known, decent quality gear. I've learned the hard way that when you go "cheap" you pay for it 3-4 times more than if you target decent quality for a few more dollars.

For residential, consumer grade, equipment, I like/use/own/installed on my property, equipment from Swann and Lorex. The analog cameras are usually wired and start at around $140 each (outdoor rated and night vision). The cameras included with the DVR kits will get replaced pretty quickly, but are a good place to start and learn how everything works. Getting an 8-camera or 16 camera network enabled DVR allows you to grow the system with other cameras as you identify the need and you don't make the entire investment upfront. The DVR also has a video output so if you want, you can attach that to TVs throughout the house (with a spare AV-input) and computer connection is available (through the computer network) but not required for monitoring.

D-link makes decent IP network based cameras. You can use whatever windows based computer to be the storage computer - assuming it has enough available hard drive space to store the amount of video you want stored. Network Attached storage devices are cool - but have their own maintenance and administration issues to deal with. Getting this video on non-computer or non-smartphone monitors (like a TV) is difficult.

In either case, accessing the video when you are connected to the local area network (wired or wireless) is generally relatively easy to do - if you need to access the video from a remote location, then you need to be sure the access to the home network through the router is secured and that takes a different skill-set...

At the pro-level, Pelco makes good gear. It is by no means "cheap", but is robust...

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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.

What do real time channels mean on a 16 ch DVR card pertaining to video surveillance cameras?

Emberlin

I am installing a security system with a 16 ch DVR card. I found a few cards online within my price range. Could you please explain to me what it means for a 16 ch DVR card to have only 4 real-time channels? Does this mean I can only view 4 cameras at a time? Will all 16 channels be able to record simultaneously? Also what are output channels for? I would assume that only input channels would be able to record information from video surveillance cameras. Is this assumption correct?

Answer
Hello

Real time is term that means 30FPS (frames per second) or IPS (images per second) per channle.

So 4ch will be 120 frame 8ch 240 frame 16ch 480 and 64ch 1920 frame

Some cheap DVR manufactures advertise real timer performance but only offer real time display not record.

Here is a good manufacture who has a large dealer network for installations and of they don't have a dealer in your area you can buy direct.

Ascendent Technology Group
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.

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, Q-see, Swan and Lorex are only used in residential applications because they are sold by Tiger Direct, Spytown, 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.

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

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

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how to install a outdoor surveillance video camera?

martin.net

can someone tell me how to install surveillance video camera for the front and back of my home i would like to put camera at the frount and back doors i thank you for any help that you may be able to give me nettie

Answer
It would depend on what type of closed circuit cameras you are using. Is they are web cameras, the instructions for hooking them up will come with the software. If you are using true CCTV, then you will need to buy a separate monitor and recorder to hook up your cameras. You will also need to run coaxial cable (RG-6) plus 2 conductor wire (usually 18-2) for power supply. It really depends on how you want to use your system. If you want to keep an eye on your place via the web while you are at work then web cameras will work. If it is for when you are home then CCTV is best. You can install that without a recorder if you wish. Either way you will have to drill holes through your outside wall for the wires.

remote camera for video surveillance?

Nebrom

i want to monitoring my home using remote camera from my office.now i am looking for a product that gives email or phone alert when there is new motion in my home and that should have the ability to record the data, so where can get the camera and its software?

Answer
Hi,

There are a number of options for you.

1) A DVR like the AVC760. You can connect 1 to 4 cameras, the recorder itself is pretty cheap. It connects to the Internet for live viewing & playback over the Internet and has great motion detection settings that can record on a remote PC or send an e-mail with photos. You can set you e-mail account to send a SMS message if you wish.

2) An IP camera would be a single camera that connects to the Internet. A model like the DCS2120 from D-Link can give remote video to any PC or a mobile phone with 3G. Other models have a Flash card slot to record on a memory stick (like from Sony) or you can use a PC at home or the office to record.

See http://www.securicorp.com/remote-cctv-demo.html for a demo of remote CCTV using an IP camera or a DVR.

See http://www.bikal.co.uk to download a free trial of IP surveillance software that also has some links to let you try a few IP cameras and TV streams. The BiKal Eyesoft can transmit Hi-Def cameras streams to

See http://www.securicorp.com for remote CCTV in UK

See http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/Search.do?c=1&searchType=user&keyword=cctv&searchSection=All for CCTV in the USA

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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.

What do real time channels mean on a 16 ch DVR card pertaining to video surveillance cameras?

Emberlin

I am installing a security system with a 16 ch DVR card. I found a few cards online within my price range. Could you please explain to me what it means for a 16 ch DVR card to have only 4 real-time channels? Does this mean I can only view 4 cameras at a time? Will all 16 channels be able to record simultaneously? Also what are output channels for? I would assume that only input channels would be able to record information from video surveillance cameras. Is this assumption correct?

Answer
Hello

Real time is term that means 30FPS (frames per second) or IPS (images per second) per channle.

So 4ch will be 120 frame 8ch 240 frame 16ch 480 and 64ch 1920 frame

Some cheap DVR manufactures advertise real timer performance but only offer real time display not record.

Here is a good manufacture who has a large dealer network for installations and of they don't have a dealer in your area you can buy direct.

Ascendent Technology Group
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.

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, Q-see, Swan and Lorex are only used in residential applications because they are sold by Tiger Direct, Spytown, 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.

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

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

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Surveillance cameras?

Abigail D

I'm all thumbs when it comes to installing gadgets. Are surveillance cameras easy to install?

Answer
In order to effectively stop crimes from happening, you should both home security camera systems and alarm systems installed in your home. Video surveillance systems can help you catch the perpetrator but it may not be as effective as alarm systems when it comes to alerting authorities or stopping the perpetrator from vandalizing your house. An alarm system, on the other hand, will not provide you with the evidence that you need to catch the criminal. If you want more info on surveilance camera systems, check out: http://www.video-surveillance-guide.com/home-security-cameras-systems.htm

Surveillance cameras?

betternyou

Can I use non-network surveillance cameras and somehow display and record the videos on a computer? Is there a way it can connect to a network? Also, the wires used to connect the cameras to the tv look like phone cables, only a bit larger, but not as large as ethernet cables. Any ideas?

Answer
You can connect analogue cameras to a PC using a capture device (or sometimes called a DVR card). You either fit these cards inside your computer, or use cheaper USB versions like the one from Grandtec http://www.grandtec.com/products/surveillance/xguardusb.html which is easier to install. This will allow you to watch & record video on your PC as well as give remote access.

For genuine network based solutions, you would need a video server which converts analogue video source to IP video stream, like the Axis video server. You can use this with CCTV surveillance software like EyeSoft from BiKal IP CCTV http://www.bikal.co.uk/network-surveillance/ip-software.html which allows you to connect analogue and IP cameras to your computer.

It sounds like you have RJ11 connectors on your cables. You can convert these to standard CCTV connections. Type in RJ11 to BNC in your favourite search engine to find your nearest dealer.

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What is a good usb camera for video surveillance?

eHappy

or anything that i can hook up to a computer

Answer
I would not use a USB camera for a surveillance/security camera.

You might be in a different position, but generally, I have found that the camera needs to be pretty far away from the video monitor - in this case, your computer.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usb#Maximum_useful_distance tells us that USB cables cannot be very long. As well, most web cams do not have "night vision".

Contrast that to the 70+ foot CAT5 or coax cable runs I have connecting different analog surveillance cameras feeding into a security DVR that is on the computer network so I can see what they see through my computer...

If you can't use a security DVR, you can get cards to install in your computer that can use that video, too. Check Frys.com... Electronic Components: Security: Closed Circuit Television: recorders: there are standalone recorders for single or multiple cameras and PCI cards for computers with available expansion slots.

Since you did not tell us which computer, we don't know if this will resolve your issue.

Is video surveillance camera technology stable?

Tim C

Strange question but I want to buy a video camera detector. Even stranger huh... I found out about these devices recently. It is a device that detects wireless video cameras that are monitoring you like in elevators, gas stations, banks and (I want to find out where else). These detectors have a video display [cool] and actually show you the vision of the surveillance cameras so you can find out where they are mounted. The trouble is, these detectors cost about 500 bucks so if the frequency range of the wireless monitors changes the detector will be obsolete and worthless. NOTE> This is not going to be used for terrorist activity so don't go thinking you will be a hero to report me to the feds. You may wonder why i would want such a toy but i am just extremely curious who is watching me and then i might wonder why. I remember speaking freely at gas station pumps and the cashier would be listening in on the conversation which i do think is totally illegal to do if not related to gas.

Answer
It would not be worth buying the equipment you are talking about at the price mentioned.


1) Most important institutions such as banks, gas stations etc.. do not use wireless cameras because of the costs, reliability & security problems. Where wireless cameras are used at important locations, these video signals are most likely encrypted, therefore a viewer would not work.

2) Most wireless cameras available to consumer market operate in the 1.3 or 2.4Ghz frequency range. In general, there are only four channels available. So if you buy a cheap wireless receiver for a wireless camera with switchable 4 channels, then you would be able to receive the wireless signal from most general wireless cameras. And this should cost you less than $80 for the whole kit including a camera.


3) Dont forget that newer IP cameras can be wireless which are used in important places, but the video from these cameras can only be seen on a PC within the network that the camera is connected to.



4) IF you really want to be able to connect to any wireless audio or video device and it means that much to you, then try the expensive device but I dont think it will deliver what you expect .

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Is it legal for feed from video surveillance cameras in my apartment to be viewable by all apartment owners?

best surveillance video cameras image

Janet

I live in an apartment building where each apartment is individually owned. Video surveillance cameras were recently installed to monitor the halls and public spaces. The feed is available on the internet (with login) to all apartment owners. Is this legal?

Answer
I would think it is because it's not violating private space and I'm sure that the apartment owners would just like to let you see like what's going on. I would love to have something like that in my condos haha

is there software that records people stealing near my computer?

nashphyl

I suspect some is stealing stuff from my desk. Is there any software that enables me to use my webcam as a surveillance video camera? Possibly motion activated? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1858581,00.asp

probably costs more than what they are stealing though...

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Is it legal for feed from video surveillance cameras in my apartment to be viewable by all apartment owners?

best surveillance video cameras image

Janet

I live in an apartment building where each apartment is individually owned. Video surveillance cameras were recently installed to monitor the halls and public spaces. The feed is available on the internet (with login) to all apartment owners. Is this legal?

Answer
I would think it is because it's not violating private space and I'm sure that the apartment owners would just like to let you see like what's going on. I would love to have something like that in my condos haha

is there software that records people stealing near my computer?

nashphyl

I suspect some is stealing stuff from my desk. Is there any software that enables me to use my webcam as a surveillance video camera? Possibly motion activated? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1858581,00.asp

probably costs more than what they are stealing though...

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Is it legal for feed from video surveillance cameras in my apartment to be viewable by all apartment owners?

best surveillance video cameras image

Janet

I live in an apartment building where each apartment is individually owned. Video surveillance cameras were recently installed to monitor the halls and public spaces. The feed is available on the internet (with login) to all apartment owners. Is this legal?

Answer
I would think it is because it's not violating private space and I'm sure that the apartment owners would just like to let you see like what's going on. I would love to have something like that in my condos haha

is there software that records people stealing near my computer?

nashphyl

I suspect some is stealing stuff from my desk. Is there any software that enables me to use my webcam as a surveillance video camera? Possibly motion activated? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1858581,00.asp

probably costs more than what they are stealing though...

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Is it legal for feed from video surveillance cameras in my apartment to be viewable by all apartment owners?

best surveillance video cameras image

Janet

I live in an apartment building where each apartment is individually owned. Video surveillance cameras were recently installed to monitor the halls and public spaces. The feed is available on the internet (with login) to all apartment owners. Is this legal?

Answer
I would think it is because it's not violating private space and I'm sure that the apartment owners would just like to let you see like what's going on. I would love to have something like that in my condos haha

is there software that records people stealing near my computer?

nashphyl

I suspect some is stealing stuff from my desk. Is there any software that enables me to use my webcam as a surveillance video camera? Possibly motion activated? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1858581,00.asp

probably costs more than what they are stealing though...

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Is it legal in New York state to have a video surveillance camera pointed in my backyard?

best surveillance video cameras image

Stephanie

My backyard neighbor started by putting a flood light up that "flooded" my entire backyard and into my windows that face their house. That has gotten really annoying. Since then she's clearly mounted a surveillance video camera outside of her third story window. I'm assuming, as it's very high up, that it can clearly see into my backyard and possibly some of the windows of my house. My question is, is it legal for her to do this?

Answer
Yes. If she can see it from her yard, she can film it. You have no right to privacy if you can be seen from another property.

Her light MIGHT violate city lighting laws.

Close your blinds.

How did the hijackers open the locked cockpit door on 9/11?

JellyBean

Also, are there surveillance video cameras on the plane so the pilots can see what's going and land the plane quicker?

Answer
Prior to 9/11, cockpit doors were not that secure. In addition, the universal policy was to fully cooperate with hijackers to get the plane on the ground as quickly as possible, then let the local SWAT and/or FBI agents deal with the situation.

So when the hijackers said "open the doors or we'll start killing passengers" the pilots opened the doors.

The idea that a hijacker would attack the pilots and fly the plane themselves was totally unheard of.

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