Archive for October, 2009

Rearview Hidden Camera Keeping Your Car Safe

Hidden Camera, Vehicle Surveillance | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 31 2009

Innumerable number of cars gets stolen or vandalized each year and they don’t even have to be the high-end, luxury types. If you want to minimize the risk of losing your car or paying for repairs for someone else’s damage, you might want to consider installing a rearview hidden camera to keep your car safe.

rearview hidden cameraWhat exactly is a rearview mirror camera?
It is a device that can be clipped to the rearview mirror of a car to take images. This tool then transmits signals to a receiver so they can be viewed or recorded. This type of camera is small and lightweight, so it’s safe enough to be used with a car rearview mirror without obstructing the driver’s view.

How to keep your car safe with a rearview hidden camera
The rearview hidden camera has a wide variety of features that can keep your car safe. Some of these features are standard and can be found in most cameras while others are specialized. To keep your car safe, learn what these features are and how to make the most out of them:

Digital images
Rearview hidden cameras take digital images. This type of images is easier to process and can produce clearer images when enlarged or used with a zoom feature.

Video and audio recording
Another feature of the rearview hidden camera that can help lessen the risk of its being stolen is its recording capability. It can record both videos and audio, usually onto an SD memory card or a built-in DVR. Since you have the confidence that images may be reviewed later, you do not have to be distracted and just simply allow the camera to do its job.

Viewing angle
A rearview hidden camera allows you to rotate it to 330 degrees, allowing you to increase your field of vision. This means that the camera can be rotated to provide a view outside and inside the car, helping reduce the possibility of blind spots.

Color camera
The rearview hidden camera can process color images. This feature makes it ideal for purposes of identification or differentiation later.

External camera
This type of camera usually comes with a wireless external camera which may be used to provide an extra view of the outside of the car. This external camera may be mounted onto the rear dashboard or any external part of the car. That way, one camera can monitor the front end while the other can monitor the rear end.

LCD monitor
This camera has an LCD monitor that offers an instant play or replay of activities monitored and recorded by the hidden rearview camera. The monitor can handle both front and external cameras and views can be switched using a button. The LCD monitor helps keep your car safe by allowing you to monitor the rear even while driving the car.

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Complete Surveillance System – So You Need One?

Alarm System, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 31 2009

Nowadays, having a complete surveillance system has become essential in many situations. Learn why.

CSSWhat are the Components of a Complete Surveillance System
Knowing what a complete surveillance system consists of will help you determine if such a system is appropriate for your home or workplace.

Entry Alarms
These alarms should be attached to every possible entry point within your property. This includes but isn’t limited to doors, windows, chimneys, and any other space that a person could squeeze himself into and gain access to your home.

The entry alarm is the first line of protection for your property. If any of these is triggered, all other components of your surveillance system will be activated.

Motion Alarms
These devices will sound an alarm or activate other security component of your surveillance system when it detects movement in the area it is monitoring. Barking dog alarms are particularly effective for deterring criminals. The barking noise they make increase in proportion to the shortening distance of the intruder from the alarm.

Floodlights
The best of these systems allow floodlights to automatically switch on if light levels diminish or when movement has been detected by an integrated motion-sensing alarm. These are no ordinary lights and their beams are powerful enough to provide you a clear view of your entire yard, maybe even determine the identities of your intruders if they linger long enough.

Surveillance Cameras
There is a wide variety of surveillance cameras and each and every one of them has their respective uses. Outdoor cameras are fashioned to work in all kinds of weather. Pinhole cameras may be hidden in various objects like piggy banks, pens, stuffed toys, and other things that would not have looked out of place in your home or office. Decoy cameras may be used to mislead intruders about the actual location of your real security cameras and valuables.

There are also a lot of features you can consider so it’s important that you take note of what your home or office needs to combat every possible security threat. A complete surveillance system requires surveillance cameras that can record images or footage in full color during the day and sharply defined black and white images at night. They must also come with their own IP address to allow you to watch real-time or previous footage wherever you may be.

Monitor and Recorder
Finally, the surveillance cameras must be linked to a monitor, allowing you to view what’s happening in any part of your home or workplace, as well as recorder, to obtain a hard copy of your recordings.

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Dome Security Camera – Which Type of Board Camera is Right for Your Business

Board Cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 30 2009

Dome security cameras are security devices that are gaining so much popularity. Their design allows for better flexibility and usability, making them ideal for use in business and corporate settings. If this device seems like an ideal solution for your security needs, learn more about their features and uses and find out which type of this board camera your business needs.

Infrared Day Night Armor Dome CameraDome security cameras explained
As their name implies, they are encased in a dark or tinted dome-shaped casing. They are the top choice for security systems used in many places of business such as retail stores, warehouses, hotels and restaurants.

One benefit of using this is that it’s generally difficult to determine which direction they are pointing at. Box-shaped security cameras give people an idea regarding the general direction to which they are focused. Due to its design, dome security cameras don’t give that information away so easily.

So which type of this camera is right for your business?
Businesses continuously lose millions of dollars each year due to theft, pilferage and mishandling. If security equipment is in place, it will be easier to identify who commits the violations and which areas of your business are the most vulnerable.

There are several types of this security product. Know more about their features to determine which type is best for you:

Basic dome security camera
The basic type is probably the most popular type, frequently used in many businesses, particularly retail. They are either ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted and usually feature a stationary camera or a PTZ – pan, tilt and zoom.

Stationary dome cameras are good for general purpose use and they work best in small or narrow stores. PTZ cameras are good for wider areas because they allow the user to manipulate the angle of the camera lens, change its view and move close to a subject. This is a very flexible camera to use, allowing for necessary adjustments in terms of direction and focus.

Armor dome
An armor dome is designed to be vandal-proof. Regular dome cameras have casings that are made with glass, plastic or fiberglass. The material makes it easy for vandals to destroy or break the casing and the camera.

This type of board camera is best if the risk is high that your camera could get destroyed or vandalized.

Mini dome security cameras
This is a smaller version but it packs the same power and features as bigger counterpart. They are the preferred choice for your business if you want security cameras that are out of the way and not easy to detect.

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Hidden Camera Detector – Who Needs One

Bug Detectors, Hidden Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 30 2009

hidden camera bug detectorHidden cameras have become both the boon and the bane of civilization for many years now. This technology has been used by unscrupulous individuals for their own dubious reasons – to spy on other people, steal information or even record other people’s activities to humiliate, to make fun of or even to blackmail. You can prevent these things from happening to you or your loved ones by using camera detectors to determine whether any spy gadget is present. Here are just a few individuals who will need hidden camera detectors:

Residents of rented houses or apartments
For many, living in an apartment means sharing a building with other individuals and families. Sure, not every neighbor is a threat to your security, you might have individuals living near you who might be using a hidden camera to spy on you or record your activities.

There is also the possibility that there is already a hidden camera installed prior to your transfer to the building, placed there by the former occupant or even an unscrupulous landlord. Since hidden cameras are usually too tiny to be noticed, you will need this camera detector to find its exact location. If any surveillance system is installed in your house without your knowledge, a detector will easily find it in minutes.

People handling sensitive information
Keeping data safe from prying eyes is very much important, particularly if the information you work with is too sensitive, related to finances or contains entries that may be too personal. If you suspect that someone is trying to steal personal information from you, a hidden camera detector will help you eliminate any surveillance equipment.

Frequent travelers
If you travel and stay at small roadside motels, inns or hotels and wish to ensure that no one is recording you secretly, use a hidden camera detector to seek out any spy equipment that may have been installed. Hidden camera detectors can sense electronic signals transmitted by equipment such as cameras, regardless of how tiny they are. If they are present in your room, the detector will find them.

People who use public bathrooms
Not all bathrooms, toilets or washrooms for public use present a threat to personal privacy. Those bathrooms you use at gas stations or restaurants are generally safe and private. However, there are a few that may not be as safe as you think. Use a hidden camera detector to make sure that you are, indeed, using a private facility.

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Surveillance Systems Different Types Used for Schools

School Surveillance, Security Camera, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 29 2009

School surveillance system

If you take your school’s security seriously, you need to equip it with the best surveillance system. Please read on to know what options you have.

Major Components
These types of devices for schools are slightly different from those used in other establishments because of your purpose for and the nature of the place and people you are monitoring.

Surveillance cameras are non-negotiable, but those equipped with night use are only essential if you still conduct classes in the evening or you wish to use the surveillance system to deter unauthorized entry, vandalism, and theft in your school.

Video recorders are also a must if you need to have hard copy of your footage; it will also prove to be helpful when you have an unexpected need to review past recordings.

Remote access to your surveillance system is something you can provide to your students’ parents if you are running a preschool or a daycare service. Parents have a valid reason for their concerns about their children’s welfare, considering their tender age. You can allay their worries, however, if you authorize their access to your surveillance system and allow them to see with their own eyes that their children are happy and fine.

School Levels
You may put hall monitors and other responsible students and faculty members to deter any unwanted activity from taking place in school, however, installing a security system also gives you a bird’s eye view of what’s happening in every monitored area and nip trouble in the bud.

Preschool to Middle School
These students’ age require you to be especially vigilant against danger. Besides installing surveillance cameras inside your school, you should install them outside the school as well to deter individuals with suspicious behaviour from frequenting the area.

Outdoor surveillance cameras need to be durable, weatherproof and shockproof casing in case of deliberate or accidental damage inflicted on them.

If you are going to offer remote access to the parents of your students, be sure that you do have everyone’s agreement prior to installing the system. Also, make sure that they sign a contract detailing the terms and conditions for responsible use of the access you are providing them with.

High School
Surveillance systems for high schools must be as stringent as the one mentioned above. While remote access is no longer necessary, you do need to be conscious of possibly internal threats to your students’ safety and security.

Teenage students are typically inclined to explore, and this may lead them to attempt certain undesirable habits like smoking, drinking liquor, use of recreational drugs, and other acts of juvenile delinquency. All these may happen right inside school premises so make sure that your cameras are also trained on less-frequented areas of the school.

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Professional Security Cameras – Guide to All Types

Professional Surveillance Cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 29 2009

Professional security cameras differ according to their features. Listed below are the most common types of professional security cameras used today. Read carefully to determine which ones are most appropriate to install in your home or office.

220 Day Night Zoom CameraPinhole Camera a.k.a. Bullet Camera
These cams are small in size, enough to fit in a wide variety of objects for a deceptive appearance. You can do the hiding yourself with a little help from DIY tutorials online or you can simply purchase those that are already premade.

The best thing about bullet cameras is that you can place them just about anywhere in the room and people will rarely guess that they’re being filmed. The greatest drawback, however, is its limited view, which is due to its minimal size.

Dome Cameras
This type of professional security camera is usually used in commercial and private establishments. It has great resolution and a wide view due to its form and design. Of course, its look is a dead giveaway about its purpose so it’s most likely to invite harm from potential troublemakers. Thankfully, however, most dome cameras have hard, damage-resistant casing – hopefully, it will be enough to prevent unwanted loss of footage.

Dome cameras are primarily mounted on the ceiling.

Infrared Camera a.k.a. Night Vision Camera
For surveillance after dark, your camera must be equipped with infrared or night vision. This is the only way to capture clear and sharp images or footage even in low or zero light levels. Keep in mind that everything captured will be rendered only in black and white.

Color Cameras
If you want greater detail during daytime, why not consider purchasing a color CCTV camera. Such models are sometimes equipped with infrared or night vision to allow you to monitor the area from day to night with a single camera. When the amount of light significantly decreases, the camera will automatically revert to using infrared to capture photos or videos.

Outdoor Cameras
Outdoor cameras do not have much difference compared to indoor cameras but rest assured that they have a sturdier design to ensure that they continue performing well in all kinds of weather. They are also water or moisture proof to allow them to work even when they are directly exposed to rain or snow.

Wireless Cameras
If you want to avoid giving away the location of your professional security cameras then make use of a wireless system. In most cases, wireless systems also have IP addresses to allow remote access to your surveillance system.

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CCTV LCD Video Monitor How to Find the Best One

Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 28 2009

A CCTV camera always comes hand in hand with an LCD monitor the same way a pen will never work without the appropriate paper surface to write on. TV sets may be compatible with them, but they certainly can’t work 24/7 the way LCD monitors do and has to, considering the purpose of CCTV. CRTs, the bulky monitors used for computers, may also work but they emit more radiation and consume more electricity. Thus, you’re left with the best choice of all for CCTV cameras, and that’s an LCD video monitor.

CCTV LCD Video monitorSelecting the Right CCTV LCD Video Monitor
In purchasing CCTV LCD video monitors, be sure to consider the factors listed below.

Size Matters
It is important to consider this size, especially if you have limited space to work with. A large LCD monitor, however, is preferable if you expect a frequent need to review real-time or previous footage.

Brand Consciousness
Heed this advice – If you can afford it, try not to buy LCD video monitors manufactured by little-known brands. You may find its very affordable price helpful, but such low prices usually come with poor product quality and customer support. If, however, you insist on purchasing a not-so-known name then be sure at least to check for what kind of after-sales support and warranty you’ll be given.

Resolution and Quality
A very basic term for resolution is the overall quality of photos and video footage captured by the CCTV camera. If your CCTV camera is connected to a CPU as well, you’ll have to make sure that your video card specifications are compatible and at par with that of your LCD video monitor. If not, the image would have to be resized and the result won’t be favourable.

Other features you may want to take note of and which may affect the overall visual quality of your monitor are brightness, response time, pixel pitch, and contrast ratio.

Audio Feature
Not all LCD video monitors come with built-in speakers and even those that do cannot always guarantee high sound quality. The only way to find out which has the best audio capabilities is to test them yourself. Search online for previews of other users to avoid making the same mistakes they did.

How about a Secondhand CCTV LCD Video Monitor?
It’s possible to find a used CCTV LCD video monitor that’s still in good working order, but it won’t be easy. Be especially careful when shopping online for used electronic equipment as there is no way for you to test the product prior to having it delivered to your doorstep.

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Nanny Cam Top 5 Tips in Using One

Hidden Camera, Nanny Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 28 2009

Fan Hidden CameraA nanny camera should help you take care of your child and consequently contribute to your peace of mind. There could be a variety ways for you to go wrong with using this product. One is that, it may not be legal to use one in your place of residence, so you will need to check on legalities before bringing out one or using it in the courts of law. Also, such device can be expensive.

To make the most out of your hard-earned money, take note of these top five tips in using a nanny camera. For more information on how you can use this device, talk to a security expert, or look for more security information online.

Positioning Tips
Put your nanny cam in a corner so that it monitors the widest space and has the best vision of any room. The issue with a lot of nanny cameras is that being well hidden also means confining the field of vision to a narrow space. Avoid this pitfall by placing it in a corner, where you can have enough space; avoid blind spots, however, so keep the space within a reasonable limit.

You might also want to put your nanny camera in a high place, where it monitors not just width, but depth. Your child or nanny can hide from the nanny camera, so make sure that as much floor as possible is being monitored. You may need to do some testing yourself so that you do not end up with poor vision due to the poor angle of the nanny camera.

Wireless Version
You may benefit from using a wireless nanny camera. There are many brands and makes out there that will have a wire that will give away the presence of a camera. Make sure that the wireless camera is also soundless, so that the camera can be hidden without any suspicion that it is there, monitoring the nanny’s every move.

Frequency Interference
Do not forget to keep the camera away from anything that can interfere with its frequency, such as a computer or a radiator. A computer, moreover, can start bleeping, or its monitor can start flickering when in the presence of a camera, especially a wireless one. This can give away the presence of a camera, so make sure that the camera is far away from any interfering device!

Disguising the Nanny Cam
You might want to keep the camera in an everyday object that isn’t easy to touch, or is not suspicious. This can keep the camera successfully hidden and out of reach, so that it can continue doing its job.

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Day-Night Color Camera – Can It Make a Difference on Home or Workplace Security?

Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 27 2009

Are you are considering upgrading your home or business security system with the addition of a day-night color camera? Here is a rundown of the most important things about them. Then it’s your call whether or not to go ahead with buying this type of camera.

Day Night Color CameraColor or Black and White Cameras – What’s the Difference
To know how you can really benefit from a day-night color camera, you should first learn the basic difference between cameras that can capture images in color and those that can only produce black and white photos.

This device works by having an IR cut filter positioned on top of its imager. This filter is what allows the camera to capture colored photos, but this capability is limited to a range of 400nm to 750nm or the visible spectrum. Anything lower or higher, darker or lighter, than the light produced in that range will render the colored camera ineffective.

A black and white camera, on the other hand, can work without these limits. It can capture sharp images even in settings with low-light levels by using alternative lighting like infrared illuminators, fluorescent lighting, or incandescent lights. Of course, it’s a given that all those photos won’t be in color.

Two in One – Benefits of Using a Day-Night Color Camera
With the help of a day-night color camera, you get to enjoy the advantages of using a color and black & white camera at the same time.

Details, Details, Details
Color is not only for aesthetic purposes, they also provide greater and better details, details that can make all the difference in the world when you’re using the photo to determine the identity of a burglar or vandal that had broken into your place.

Color gives you more information about the person’s skin tone, hair and eye color -characteristics that a black & white camera won’t be able to specify.

Automatic Transition
A day-night color camera includes a removable IR cut filter. When the dark sets in, the camera will sense the decrease of light levels in the setting and this will prompt the automatic removal of the IR cut filter in order to remain useful after dark.

Do You Need a Day-Night Color Camera?
This can be best answered by another question: do you need a single security camera that can operate 24/7 on its own? If the answer’s yes then you do need a day-night color camera.

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How Nanny Cams Can Help Maintain Safety

Nanny Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 27 2009

Mirror Spy CameraIt’s apparent that nanny cams are more needed now than ever. After all, we live in an age where we have to deal with a lot of trouble every single day, and every waking hour. Why risk having trouble with the people who care for our very precious children as well? To avoid all these dilemmas, you need to monitor your nanny while he or she is taking care of your children, and one way to do this is with the help of a nanny camera.

Nowadays, a variety of styles, designs, makes, and brands of nanny cameras have popped up. Some are visible, which experts say can deter crime and can actually keep nannies well behaved. Visible cameras are also often used in places where a hidden camera would not only be illegal, but a violation of privacy rights as well; this would also mean that a hidden camera’s footage cannot be admissible in the courts of law.

Not Just for Checking on Kids
Nanny cameras, where they are invisible, can also be good tools to keep tabs on nannies. Nanny camera footage has already been used by various child protection services and agencies in prosecuting nannies who abuse their wards, who steal from their superiors, and who act lewd and indecently while on the job. These can be used by employers to nail nannies who bring boyfriends or girlfriends into the house, who neglect the children that they are supposed to care for, or who simply do not do what they are tasked to do. Nanny cameras are also useful in the courts of law when pressing charges against nannies.

Buying Tips
If you are interested in getting a nanny camera, then you have to talk to a security expert or someone who works in security retail for more information about the camera. There may be hidden cameras that you can buy stored within stuffed toys, toy cars, or even clock radios. As long as a nanny camera is stashed in a place that is not suspicious, but that can still offer a good view of the surroundings, then it is a good buy.

Legalities
It is highly important to do research on nanny cameras and ask experts about their opinions on it. You may also want to talk to a lawyer to ask if you might use the nanny camera’s feed as evidence just in case you find anything incriminating on it. If you care for your child and you have both the money and legal leeway to get a nanny camera, now would be the time to do so.

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