Hidden Cameras and VCR’s should be Compatible

Hidden Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Jan 03 2010

Cordless Phone Hidden CameraIn this day and age, where fast-paced lifestyle meets a laid back culture, people just want to have fun without being worried of their safety. With the hectic schedule of people, trying to live their every day away from crimes, what can they do to have an honest to goodness, stress-free feeling of security?

Is hiring security guards their only option? What if they can not afford an extra employee just yet?

If you’re someone who has developed an obsession with safety, then you are not alone. Thousands of people are just like you, they also find ways in keeping themselves and their loved ones safe and secured to avoid any possibilities of crimes and untoward incidents – especially at home or in the workplace.

So why don’t you, once and for all, have a taste of the worry-free living by having a security system installed?

Often seen being used in retails stores and other establishments, security equipments like hidden cameras are a hit these days. Owning such technologies on safety has gone a long way from being just a special privilege. They can now be purchased by anyone who’ll need it – be it personal of for business purposes.

With security cameras moving towards more effective operation, most of its models are designed to record discreetly. These are what we know as hidden cameras, a kind of surveillance tool that films activities on a specific area without the knowledge of its subjects. Hidden cameras are widely used nowadays as a means of protecting families and property.

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Hidden Camera Pranks – a Legal Offense

Hidden Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Jan 02 2010

When hidden cameras were invented in just about the same era as the advent of photography, its primary use is just for investigative purposes. It serves as a spy tool for detectives. Today, however, it has surpassed such limits. This technological innovation in security has soared to new heights.

Button Hidden CameraHidden cameras aren’t just a safety staple these days. From being security equipments for offices to serving as equally effective and dependable surveillance tools at home, hidden cameras carry an instant feeling of control over a situation. Unfortunately, this said control is being used by some in wayward purposes of fun. Worse, this notion of fun usually comes in the form of pranks.

Pranks using this camera said to have started in South London through what was known then as “Slap TV”. This is an act of unprovoked attacks, from minor pranks to more vicious assaults while being discreetly recorded on camera. Nowadays, it is popularly known as “Happy Slapping”

Some people might consider it a harmless fad, but filming pranks like these by using video technology such as hidden cameras and the likes is tantamount to bullying, or on more severe cases, harassment. Truth is, to be clear about it – these activities are punishable by law.

Due to the media attention gained by pranks being intentionally caught using digital media equipments, hidden cameras for example, countries like Denmark, France and the United Kingdom emphasized on the legal consequences of such acts.

Meanwhile, under federal laws, pranks using hidden cameras, or any kind of pranks, for that matter, are listed under the category of a misdemeanor. Generally, it could serve offenders up to one year in jail. This doesn’t mean though, that it will not go beyond being a misdemeanor. If the prank, regardless of the agenda, goes terrible wrong and people got hurt or worse, there were casualties, then other existing laws will come into play.

If you know anyone who, with the help of video cameras, think he or she can enjoy the thrill of playing pranks and eventually get away with it, give him a pat in the back and make him realize the consequences. You’re actually doing him a big favor.

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IP Dome Camera – Understanding How It Works

Uncategorized | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Jan 01 2010

An IP dome camera may be more costly than other security surveillance alternatives but if you understand how it works, you’ll realize it’s one investment that’s worth every penny you’ve paid for.

Auto Iris Varifocal DomeThe Distinction
Let’s get to the appearance first. Dome cameras are generally considered more professional and attractive-looking than other surveillance cameras because its dark-tinted spherical casing is sleek, subtle, and professional – perfect for whatever home or business setting you may have!

In terms of features, IP dome cameras may have virtually all the blings offered by any other type of surveillance camera. But one thing it has that others may not possess is an IP address or a web server all on its own and which allows you to remotely control the unit and monitor the area under surveillance with high-speed Internet connection.

How Exactly Does an IP Dome Camera Work?
An IP dome camera is built to have basic computing functions necessary for it to operate within a given network. It’s basically a camera and a vastly simplified computer combined. Its IP address, on the other hand, is what allows its users to access its data. Think of it as the address you need to post a letter to another person.

For communication purposes, it also has the required programs to work with Web and FTP servers as well as email and FTP clients. The more advanced models may even be combined with motion detection sensors.

When the camera takes an image or video footage, it converts the various light wavelengths that the image or video is made of into analog data. From there, it undergoes another conversion and into digital format this time. The resulting data is then compressed by its built-in computer before sent to the designated network channels.

Transfer and Storage of Data
Depending on your connection preferences, your IP door camera can transfer data using all sorts of modems, Ethernet or T1 connections, or even mobile phone modems.

In terms of data storage, most IP dome cameras have built-in storage drives which, if full, may be programmed to automatically delete the oldest files to make space for new data.

Requirements for Using IP Dome Camera
The basic thing you need is a router. It may be wireless or not, depending on your needs. The router enables your camera to connect with your preferred network.

A static IP address is also very important. Dynamic addresses are okay, but if you want permanent and quick access to your surveillance camera then you’ll need to pay a monthly fee for the use of a static IP address. You will have to contact your Internet service provider for this.

Finally, you’ll need a computer to configure your IP dome camera and to access its stored or real-time data.

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Warehouse Security Tips to Keep Your Business Afloat

Alarm System, Business, Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 31 2009

The ideal warehouse security deals both with internal and external security threats with a combined use of surveillance and security employees. You’ve heard, seen, or read in news how numerous companies are constantly victimized by well-planned ambushes and burglaries. And off media records, companies also suffer from employee theft & fraud. If you want to enjoy peace of mind over your warehouse security, consider the tips below.

4 Channel Wired Digital Video Recording SystemHiring the Best Security Employees
While security technology allows for automated operation, there are still components of your warehouse security plan that would have to manually supervised and thus require careful screening and selection of your security personnel.

Whether direct hiring or outsourcing your security needs to an agency, it’s important to establish the qualifications you require from security personnel. First and foremost, security employees must be familiar with how warehouses work.

With a wide variety of people and products coming and going all the time, it’s understandably hard to keep track of them. You can help them by giving them strategic base points and delegating their responsibilities to ensure that all areas are sufficiently covered.

Give them the best training whenever needed. If you are updating your security system, make sure that all of them are properly educated and trained for it. If you are changing your security policies, be sure that they are oriented regarding the changes.

How to Make Surveillance Efficient
Surveillance–even the most expensive kind–can only be effective if they are professionally installed at the right places.

Installation Concerns
Most of the time, surveillance simply doesn’t work because they aren’t installed properly. If you are strictly against hiring a professional team to install your system then make sure the security system you purchase offers DIY, user-friendly installation.

Complete Surveillance
Complete surveillance system entails that all areas are properly covered and threats are identified ahead of time to allow your security team to take pre-emptive action.

All locations must be equipped with weatherproof and vandalproof hidden cameras. Decoys must be installed as well. These cameras must have high image resolution capabilities, day and night function, and motion-detecting sensors. If possible, integrate them with security floodlights and door and window alarms.

Telephone conversations must also be placed under surveillance. Consider installing a phone line alarm as well. This will give you a means to contact the outside world even if your main phone lines have been cut off deliberately or accidentally.

By implementing these suggestions, you can be sure that your warehouse security will be virtually impenetrable.

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Surveillance Systems – Top Security Device Without Installation Required

Alarm System, Home Surveillance, Nanny Camera, Security Camera, Self Recording | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 30 2009

Surveillance is the act of keeping a subject under close observation usually for security purposes or investigation. If you have any urgent need to place your own home under surveillance, here’s what you can do.

Emergency Light Hidden CameraNanny Cameras
These devices come in all shapes and sizes but one thing they have in common is their zero need for installation. Nanny cams often come with built-in memory space to store recorded images and footages. They may be hidden within stuffed toys or other objects that would not look out of the ordinary when displayed in a prominent position in your room. Whichever the case may be, you just need to find a good location for your nanny cam, turn it on, and it will get to work immediately.

Afterwards, you may retrieve the nanny camera and play the file in a connected monitor or computer.

Barking Dog Alarms
These are one of the most ingenious designs for security technology used today. A barking dog alarm is composed of two units: there’s the motion-detecting sensor that you just have to mount outside your home to establish the range of area it will monitor. The other component is the alarm—you need to mount it in some place you’ll be able to hear it immediately whenever it’s triggered.

Now, if you’re  clueless on how the barking dog alarm works, it’s quite easy. The first time motion is detected by your sensors, it will emit a barking sound akin to a dog warning intruders away. The closer the intruder gets, the fiercer and louder the barking sounds will be.

Wireless Alarm Systems
Other alarms are just as easy as the barking dog alarm to use. Just mount them next to doors, windows, fireplaces, and other possible entries to your home. As these are battery operated, you need not worry about having them wired properly to ensure that the system is working. It will work as soon as you have them mounted and activated.

During daytime, you can turn this alarm system into your home’s ringer system. Rather than a noisy, warning siren-like alarm, it will play off a melodious chime whenever a visitor comes in.

Phone Recorders
Surveillance doesn’t have to be confined to visual observation and recording. Even phone conversations may also be recorded as part of your surveillance. You just need to connect a phone recorder to your line.

Most of the time, you’ll need just one phone recorder per line regardless of the number of extensions you have. You may also configure it to automatically record phone conversations and have it stored directly into your system’s built-in disk drive.

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Outdoor Dome Camera – Home and Business Owners Protection Guide

Business, Security Camera, dome cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 29 2009

To prevent and apprehend intruders from trespassing on your residential or business property, ever considered installing an outdoor dome camera? Read on and find out how these small but powerful security tools are able to protect your loved ones and assets.

Day Night Infrared Dome CameraWhat exactly is an Outdoor Dome Camera?
Basically, this type of security camera is no different from an indoor dome camera with the exception of its more durable, weatherproof casing. Its dome structure provides not only protection for its camera and lens but also lends it a professional appearance for a perfect fit in any environment.

Outdoor Dome Camera’s Features
Don’t let its compact frame deceive you. As long as it’s properly installed in the best possible location, this tiny camera is more than enough to deter most external threats you might encounter.

Full Frame Rate
The full frame rate of this device refers to the number of complete images a camera’s able to capture per second. This type of security cameras is capable of taking 25 or 30 frames per second while maintaining high image resolution.

Day-Night Camera
Instead of getting two cameras, one for day and another for night use, a lot of dome cameras offer continuous, 24/7 use with its day-night function. The camera is designed to automatically detect changes in light levels and adjust accordingly.

Zooming Capacity
The best cameras are those types that offer both digital and optical zoom options, hopefully combined with auto focus. Zooming options are important because it allows you to zero in on a subject without reducing image quality or clarity.

Video and Motion Detection
This camera is capable of recording video footage as well. Simultaneous streams of MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG may also be offered. The more advanced models can function as a motion sensor as well but only to a certain extent. Some cameras, for instance, automatically have this feature disabled when the camera is on zoom, tilt, or pan.

Alarm
When it comes to outdoor dome cameras, how about looking into those that offer at least four alarm inputs and outputs? Alarm configuration must allow both triggered and scheduled settings including automatic notifications via email, HTTP, and TCP. The more advanced models might also be designed to automatically upload images via the same methods.

Secured Online Access
Finally, for those outdoor dome cameras that may be accessed online, be sure to look for those secured with password protection, multiple levels for user access, IP address filtering, and encrypted communication via HTTPS.

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Retail Store Security Tips – Get Rid of Business Worries

Business, Security Camera, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 28 2009

You need to know the best retail store security tips to ensure you enjoy lower inventory losses, higher profit margins, and constant peace of mind.

Retail Store Security Equipment
Here is a list of security equipment designed to limit access to restricted areas.

Wire Partitions and Security Cages
If you have a separate unit or storage area for inventory, this may be secured with security cages and wire partitions. Generally, these are used for properties with complete or partial outdoor areas.

Folding Security Gates
An ordinary door can be easily broken so you need to fortify it with additional barriers. Consider, for instance, the use of folding security gates.

The next set of security equipment you need is those that may deter pilferage, theft, and vandalism without the use of surveillance systems. That’s a different category altogether and shall be discussed later.

Security Mirrors
Attach these above locations leading into hallways, around corners, and those that aren’t completely visible from your location. Security mirrors come in a variety of shapes and sizes and come with vandal-proof designs.
Locks

8 Channel Wired Digital Video Recording System

Normally, nothing would beat the security of locks. Compared to all security tools, locks are one of the most affordable. Buy the best you can get your hands on. The bigger and thicker they are the better as they can’t be broken with a few thuds from a hammer.

Last, we come to security equipment that offers surveillance for remote and real-time monitoring and immediate detection of threat.

Security Cameras
There is a wide variety of security cameras sold today and each and every one of them serves a special purpose. Pinhole cameras are smaller than most security cameras, allowing you to hide them inside other objects like tissue boxes and stuffed toys. Of course, many of these are sold with predesigned casings for covert use such as cameras hidden in soda cans, air purifiers, and even desktop speakers.

Outdoor cameras are more expensive than indoor cameras because of their weatherproof design. This will allow them to continue recording footage even during snow and rainstorms.

Motion-Detecting Sensors
If incorporated with your security system, motion detecting sensors will trigger cameras into zooming to the area where movement has been detected. You can also have your security floodlights activated when your sensors detect movement. It all depends on your configuration.

Monitor and DVR
Finally, and this will depend on your security system, you can use a single monitor and have its screens divided according to the number of areas under surveillance, consequently allowing simultaneous surveillance.

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Built-in DVR Security System – One of Your Best Bets

Hidden Camera, Home Surveillance, Self Recording | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 27 2009

A built-in DVR security system is a cost-effective, all-in-one tool that will give your home or business all the protection it needs from theft, vandalism, and other unwanted threats to your property.

Tower Fan DVREasy to Install
Contrary to popular belief, having this type of system will usually render professional installation service unnecessary. Its installation procedure is designed for DIY use, allowing you to set up this system in a short period of time.

Your DVR and monitor are rolled into one unit so there’s no need to worry about which wires should be connected to which port. Thus, all you need to do is find the best location for your system and you immediately have a virtual security guard on call 24/7.

Web-Ready
A built-in DVR security system will lessen your network configuration problems. Its web-ready function will launch itself automatically so any time you need to access it online, you just have to key in the necessary details for login and you’ll be able to view stored or real-time footage over the World Wide Web.

Easy Viewing
Built-in security systems may also come with monitors as wide as nineteen inches, allowing you to enjoy complete range of vision on monitored areas. With this kind of monitor, there’s no need to squint and stick your face to the screen just to determine exactly what the subject is doing.

Also, this type of system will also offer viewing options. You can switch viewing from one camera to another with a push of a button.

Large Hard Disk Space
A built-in security system won’t make you worry about running out of disk space when you’re involved in an all-important surveillance operation. With as much as 320GB hard disk space available for your use, you can look forward to continuous recording for up to 480 days. That’s practically one year and three months’ worth of recording!

Instant Notification
This type of system would immediately send you email notifications if your system is suffering from video loss or motion detection. Instant updates on any malfunction or recognition of possible threats to your property would give you more than enough time to take the necessary action and ensure everyone’s safety.

Best Customer Support
Best of all, the most updated models of built-in DVR security systems come with a guarantee of round the clock lifetime customer support. No matter where you are and when you need it, you can be sure that your built-in DVR security system will always be ready to protect you, your loved ones, and your property.

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Hotel Security – Business Travelers Beware

Alarm System, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 26 2009

Travelling comes with its own risks even if you’re staying at a five-star hotel. Here are several hotel security tips you should keep in mind the next time you go out of town.

Surveillance Concerns
Don’t rely solely on the security system of the hotel. Who knows if the management is in cahoots with potential intruders of your room? Set up your own surveillance system in your room.

Start by performing a bug sweep. This may seem paranoid, but if you believe that there is great interest in what you have stored in your hotel room then there’s nothing to lose and everything to gain with this action. There are also other detectors that can be used to determine presence and location of hidden cameras.

If you are completely assured that your hotel room is secured, the next thing to do is putting it under surveillance. Install wireless, battery-operated hidden cameras in strategic locations. Toss in a dummy camera or two to mislead potential intruders.

16 Channel Wired Digital Video Recording System

Ensure your cameras are web-ready to allow remote and online access your surveillance system. Do not set up your DVR system in your hotel room as this will obviously give you away. Set it up somewhere else and make sure that you will never run out of disk space.

Install alarms and other security devices to prevent unauthorized access and break-ins to your room. Besides doors and windows, vents in your ceiling may also be another way to get into your room so be sure to fortify these as well.

Hotel Security Tips against Employees with Bad Intent
Again, you need to be always on your guard against even the individuals in the hotel’s employ. Hotel-issued keys are not enough. Use manual locks and practice common sense. Consider the tips below.

Do not allow housekeeping or any other hotel employee inside your room if you are not present. Inform hotel management about this to ensure that your room remains safe and secure.

Never leave your room unattended nor unlocked. It only takes a few seconds to create a huge amount of trouble if you know what you’re doing.

If someone requests entry to your room and identifies himself as an employee of the hotel, make sure to double check their identity with hotel management. If you have not made any request for their services, chances are hotels won’t take the initiative to send an employee to your quarters as they are entirely too busy for such fuss. Last but not the least, remember that a uniform does not an official employee make.

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Mobile Home Security Tips for Round the Clock Safety

Alarm System, Hidden Camera, Home Surveillance, Professional Surveillance Cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 25 2009

If you are travelling or residing in a mobile home, security is definitely one of your major concerns. As mobile homes are easier to access, once your property has been breached, you will have a harder time avoiding direct confrontation. Use the tips below to secure the safety of your loved ones or whichever valuable assets you have stored in your mobile home.

56 Infrared LED Day Night Professional CameraWired Meshes and Grills
Stock windows and doors of mobile homes are ordinary and thus easy to break into. You can fortify this, however, by installing wired meshes or even grills. Even if intruders were to smash the glass of your doors and windows, they would still have to contend with the additional security tools you have taken.

Security Alarms
You need at least two kinds of security alarms for your mobile home. Firstly, attach alarms to windows, doors, and any other possible area that intruders could use to obtain access to your mobile home. If you’ve subscribed for security coverage, authorities will respond whenever the alarm in your home has been triggered.

Another alarm you probably need to install is a barking dog alarm. For this to work, you will need to set up an area that would create the impression you own a guard or security dog. Under the cover of darkness, intruders would have a hard time of visually verifying whether or not you do own one but with the barking dog alarm, they’re sure to be convinced.

Barking dog alarms sound off when they detect motion. In this way, they work like motion sensors but with barking alarms to serve as a deterrent against potential troublemakers.

Surveillance Cameras
When strategically positioned, a single surveillance camera would be able to cover the entire area of your mobile home. Partially obscured areas may still be under surveillance with the use of security mirrors.
The outside perimeters of your home may also be under surveillance if you see the need for it. But you’ll need surveillance cameras designed for outdoor use this time around. They are slightly more expensive but work the same way indoor cameras do.

To give intruders a false sense of security, you may also install dummy cameras. Destroying these might make them more lax, not knowing that their actions are still being monitored.

DVR
Also, you need to use a DVR system so that all images or video footages recorded by your cameras will be directly stored in a secure drive. The ideal DVR system must have sufficient disk space to allow continuous recording.

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