Archive for November, 2009

Window Alarms – Home Security Help

Alarm System | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 30 2009

Burglar Window AlarmIn the kind of society we have nowadays, where crimes can happen at just about any given time, the “s” in safety should take on a whole new meaning. And when it comes to your home, it stands for “security measures” – because it simply won’t do to merely put every possible entrance of your home locked.

This is the main reason why companies that produce home security equipments are thinking well beyond the box to create new technologies to ensure the safety of your residence. Such technologies include window alarms.

Windows are known to be one of the most critical points of any house. This is due to the fact that this is where trespassers and other unwanted elements are most likely to come in. Thus, the demand to have a window alarm is high – regardless how ideal your neighborhood seems to be.

Since no one can predict when situations like burglary or other similar cases will strike, it is best to protect your home by installing alarms. This way, you won’t be bothered of sleepless nights worrying that the shelter you built from hard work, a sanctuary for you and your family might not be intruder-free. Window alarms are there to provide you with a much-needed peace of mind, being at ease with the feeling that if any untoward incident would happen, you will be adequately warned.

Setting up alarms doesn’t require a lot of work. Most of it are simply mounted on the frames and will already get the job done. Also, window alarms come in a wide array of models you can choose from – depending on your needs. There are advanced ones that are keypad operated while some are hassle-free because it’s wireless.

Moreover, window alarms also serve other purposes besides its primary function of providing preemptive protection. Specialized types also cater to special children and adults with Alzheimer’s disease to keep them away from harm, particularly if they are within an area that could put them in danger. You will be immediately alerted if they are any near the swimming pool, the front door or the kitchen cabinet.

The ultimate luxury status for the home is no longer state-of-the-art appliances – it’s already the warm feeling of safety enjoyed by homeowners and their families.

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Briefcase Surveillance System – What It Contains and How It Works

Spy Cams, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 29 2009

Briefcase Surveillance SystemIt’s too usual that it’s almost often ignored. The handy briefcase has been the equipment of choice by a wide variety of professionals ranging from teachers to salesmen to detectives and yes, even spies.  The unassuming briefcase is every spy’s best friend, capable of keeping secrets, storing fascinating spy equipment and, thanks to innovations in recent years, even storing a complete surveillance system.  Thinking of buying a briefcase surveillance system?  Here is a short guide to its contents and how it works:

Camera
A briefcase surveillance system usually includes at least one camera integrated into its physical structure in order to record images.  These cameras are capable of producing high resolution images and may be played in color or black and white.

Because this is used for surveillance purpose, the cameras are capable of handling images in low lighting.  In some models, black and white cameras have the advantage of having lenses with maximum illumination of as low as .003 lux, a feature that allows it to produce good images even in near darkness.

Dependent on the model, the lenses on a briefcase camera are auto-focal lenses, although there are others that may be equipped with zoom lenses that can be manipulated remotely.

Microphone
The microphone is also included in the briefcase surveillance system so it can receive audio transmission during a video recording.

DVR
The briefcase also has a mini digital video recorder connected to the camera.  All images captured by the camera are recorded by this device and may be uploaded onto a computer or viewed through a monitor later.

Power supply
Each briefcase contains cables, battery packs and power supplies.  Because the briefcase surveillance system is essentially a wireless device, it derives its power from a battery pack.  Batteries are generally rechargeable and capable of running the briefcase for a few hours.

How it works
The briefcase surveillance system is used basically to obtain and record information.  It has been used for many years but only by professionals.  Recently, though, it has been made available to private individuals.

The most usual function of this surveillance system is for recording still and video images using cameras built into the bag.  The cameras are activated by a hidden switch or by way the bag is carried.  One model, for example, uses its side camera if it is lifted and carried by the user.  If the bag is laid on its side, it automatically switches to the camera located in its bottom panel.

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4 Channel Wired USB DVR Complete System Review – Safety on a Budget

Uncategorized | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 28 2009

You’ve checked out a variety of several surveillance systems and the one that hit your sweet spot is a 4-Channel Wired USB DVR Complete System. But the question is, do you really need it?

4 Channel Wired USB DVR Complete SystemParts of the Wired USB DVR System
Let’s start basing your needs on the different components of a 4-Channel Wired USB DVR complete system.

USB Stand-Alone 4-Channel DVR
DVRs are usually known as more efficient compared to VCR receivers. With VCR, your videos are sure to have poor image and audio quality. Moreover, a VCR can’t work with multiple cameras at the same time. You will have to switch from one real-time video to another.

The four-channel bit will sweep you off your feet. This means the system can only work with four channels and no more than that. If you have more than four cameras installed in your home or office then you might need an 8 or 16-channel system instead.

Finally, we get to the “USB stand-alone” function of this system. This means that you’ll only have to plug the device via its USB for the DVR to work. It’s as easy as that.

Wired Bullet Cameras
Bullet cameras are apparently small in size, which makes it easy for you to create hard-to-reach hiding places for them. This is a must if you don’t want thieves or vandals to destroy them right after they break inside your property.

Wired DVRs basically entail that you’ll have to connect the wires to other devices in the system to make sure they’re all interoperable. Wired systems are more physically taxing in terms of installation, but at least you won’t have to figure out network configurations for them.

Lastly, let’s check out its image recording options. Its day-night capabilities enable the cameras to automatically detect light levels and adjust accordingly. During the day, your camera would record footages in full color. When day turns into night, the camera will then switch to infrared lighting and shoot in black-and-white mode instead.

100-Foot Cables
Complete systems, of course, include cables. But if 100 feet is not enough to have everything connected, you’ll have to purchase extra.

LCD Monitor
A DVR surveillance system is incomplete without its own LCD monitor. The size varies, however, depending on the system specifications of your provider. If possible, avoid using CRT monitors with your system because they not only consume more power but their rendition of image is also less accurate.

Other optional components for your 4-channel Wired USB DVR system would be a mouse and remote control unit.

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DVR Surveillance System User Guide

Hidden Camera, Home Surveillance | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 27 2009

DVR surveillance systems do not have to cost you an arm and a leg. Security systems are not exclusive to big, beautiful homes. If you want to protect your loved ones with a DVR surveillance system, here’s what you can do.

Wall Outlet HC OUTLT DVRParts of a Basic Security System
There is no need for your home security system to consist of high-end equipment in order to be effective. Combine strategic installation with proper safety awareness and orientation for your loved ones and they’re as secure as they can be.

A basic security system usually includes motion sensors, a CCTV camera, security lights, and a multiplexer. The latter is needed if you are managing more than one security camera in your system. With a multiplexer, video input from all cameras are combined into a single channel for organized record-keeping and more effective surveillance.

A simplex multiplexer will produce one full-screen image to show you at a time while continuing to record footage from other cameras. Duplex multiplexers, on the other hand, offer split-screen options for two or more monitored areas.

If you have the budget, invest in decoy equipment not only for your cameras but for your DVR devices as well. Purchase any used VCR, wire it, and install them in plain sight.

Selecting a DVR Device
The price is understandably most people’s primary concern when it comes to DVR devices. But if you compare its performance to that of VCRs, you’ll know that DVR is truly the better choice. VCRs not only produce inferior video quality but they are also unable to produce stream-by-stream separation.

If you are shopping for DVR devices, you usually have three options.

The most costly option, but undeniably the most feature-rich as well, would be a dedicated DVR. It’s about the size of a desktop computer and comes with its own monitor. It is slightly more complicated to install compared to other DVD options but you can always contact customer service for help.

A second and more reasonably-priced option would be to install a DVR card in your CPU and turn your computer into a video recording system. If you know your way with computers, you won’t have to pay for professional installation. This is virtually the same with installing a new video or memory card.

Lastly, you can simply install a program or hardware system in your computer for a DVD interface. It’s a fraction of what a dedicated server would cost but its functions are vastly limited. With this option, you can only view and store footage. But if this is all you wish to do then it’s the best DVR device for your needs.

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Rear View Mirror Hidden Camera Review – Driving Safety Guaranteed

Hidden Camera, Vehicle Surveillance | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 26 2009

rear view mirror hidden cameraIt does not matter what type of vehicle you’re steering, the mere act of driving comes immediately with its own share of risks. Most of these – if not all – can be effectively addressed with the use of a rear view mirror hidden camera.

Rear View Mirror Hidden Camera – What’s in it for you?
As this surveillance and safety may be too costly for your budget, it’s understandable that you’d like to be completely assured of its projected benefits. Listed below are its essential features. See for yourself what you can enjoy when you purchase hidden camera for your own car.

Rear View Camera Components
This device utilizes two kinds of cameras and the first one is installed directly inside the rear view mirror of your car. It is about a quarter of an inch in size and able to capture images in digital CMOS color. This is important as you’ll be able to provide more accurate details for any photo you might need to submit to the authorities in case of theft, vandalism, or any other vehicular accident. More importantly, this camera is also capable of recording audio, allowing you to record conversations without alerting potential troublemakers or any subject under surveillance.

This system will usually include an 8GB SD card that you can use with the camera’s built-in memory card slot. If, however, that’s not enough for you then you can use a 16GB SD card.

This hidden camera is rotatable up to 360 degrees, which consequently allows you to record what is happening not only inside your car but also what’s in front or next to your car.

You need to insert your system’s SD card to your computer or any other video-playing device for image or video playback.

It’s simple to install this camera – just clip it on to your built-in rear view mirror. This camera also comes with a rechargeable battery which you can charge either by USB or plugging it to the auxiliary cigarette lighter of your vehicle.

Second Camera
You can attach the external camera outside your car – perhaps below your bumper for a less obtrusive location – or on your rear dash. Unlike this type of camera, this one allows instant playback because it comes with a 3.6 inch thin-film transistor LCD monitor. Videos may also be played back at the real-time speed of 30 FPS. You can even use it to playback videos or images caught by your rear view camera.

With the help of a rear view mirror hidden camera, you might as well have a hundred eyes working to guard your safety and your car’s!

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Counter Surveillance Equipment – How to Use One

Bug Detectors, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 25 2009

bug detectorIf you have ascertained that you are under surveillance and you wish to protect and safeguard your privacy and that of your loved ones, you need to invest in counter surveillance equipment.

Learn How to Use Common Counter Surveillance Equipment
Information management is the greatest and most important way to handle business nowadays whether in relation to your personal life or business. To do that, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the various uses of counter surveillance equipment.

Spy Cameras and Tap Detectors
Spy cameras and phone taps are the most frequently used surveillance devices so these are what you should target when shopping for counter surveillance equipment.

Phone taps function by transmitting radio signals to a remote receiver. Tap detectors use these signals to determine their presence and establish their location. After that, you’ll want to use a phone jammer next.

Camera detectors determine the presence of spy cameras in your properties by searching for a strong reflection of light coming from hidden cameras.

Types of Bug Detectors
If you need thorough “bug sweep”, you’ll need to use several types of bug detectors, with each corresponding to a different type of bug device.

Telephone line and radio spectrum analyses are the most commonly used tests, but there are many other tests and special bug-detecting devices you can use to detect the presence of bugs. All these tests are necessary to enable you to detect whatever type of radio signal the other party is using.

Simply “scanning” the area is not enough. You’ll also have to perform inspections of the telephones and other electronic equipment in your home or office. These may have been subjected to modifications that would allow an unauthorized party to eavesdrop on your conversation. Counter surveillance equipment used often for this type of inspection utilized a specialized technology referred to as time domain reflectometry.

You need to be aware that numerous surveillance devices make use of deceptive housing. This won’t be a problem if you’re using a non-linear junction detector. The latter is capable of detecting even the presence of spy cameras and transmitters planted behind ceilings and walls.

Noise Generators and Audio Jammers
If you have detected the presence of taps, you can prevent it from completing its job with the use of audio jammers and noise generators.

Noise generators operate by creating voice band noise, which then prevents the other party from receiving a clear and coherent signal. Audio jammers, on the other hand, simply produce a masking noise that prevents nearby microphones from functioning effectively.

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Video Surveillance Equipment – How to Use One

Hidden Camera, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 24 2009

4 Channel Embedded DVR with MonitorVideo surveillance equipment is not just exclusive to government private detectives, secret agents,  and potential blackmailers or even extremely wealthy families and organizations. Anyone can purchase them now and that’s both a good and bad thing. If you want to protect the safety and privacy of yourself and your loved ones, you need to beat them in their own game and invest in video surveillance yourself.

Different Types of Video Surveillance Equipment
One important consideration in using video surveillance equipment is to determine what kind of system you need. This will largely depend on the area you wish to monitor and your purpose for surveillance.

In-Car, Residential and Commercial Video Surveillance Equipment
When you factor in areas under surveillance, systems for commercial and residential use are virtually the same. They just differ in terms of quality and quantity. With in-car video surveillance equipment, there is currently only a single type of system available and which uses two kinds of cameras: a rear view mirror hidden camera and an external camera that you can mount on your rear dash or anywhere on your car’s exterior.

Crime Prevention
If subtlety is not your best skill and you want potential assailants and offenders to know that you have taken all necessary precautions for your home or office’s safety then you’ll need to use huge, in-your-face cameras that have heavy-duty, weather-proof, vandal-resistant housing.

But just to be on the safe side, you could also use hidden cameras for additional coverage.

Internal Monitoring
There is the danger of inside jobs. If you have new people working for you or with temporary access to your property, you need to be on your guard with them until they’ve sufficiently proven their trustworthiness.

In this case, you need to use completely hidden cameras —if possible, those with deceptive housing. Browse the Internet to know your options. There are cameras hidden in tissue boxes, pens, air fresheners, and radios. You just need to find something that will completely fit in with the design and function of the area being monitored.

DVR System
This is of utmost importance if you want to enjoy real-time monitoring. A DVR system may be a dedicated server or a simple program for your computer. Either way, you’ll need to configure all your cameras for the DVR to work.

If you also want to consider remote access to your surveillance system, this is possible too but only with proper network and IP configuration. After that, you can access your system online and be able to personally monitor the areas under surveillance.

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USB DVR Complete Surveillance System – A Review for First-Time Users

Business, Home Surveillance, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 23 2009

A USB DVR complete surveillance system is very important for any home or office that you want thoroughly protected from all kinds of internal and external danger.

USB DVR surveillance systemComponents of a USB DVR Complete Surveillance System
For a basic review of a USB DVR complete surveillance system, let’s assess the benefits and functions of each and every component it’s made of.

DVR System
The most efficient DVR systems are those that truly offer a “plug and play” function. With these systems, you only have to plug the system via its USB and it’s ready to go. There is no program to install!

Of course, easy installation is not the same as user-friendliness so make sure that its interface or control panel is beginner-friendly and with sufficiently descriptive buttons or icons to let you navigate your way around easily.

DVR systems must be easily configured. This will allow you to determine labelling for your data. Do you want to include time stamps and add other notes to the data recorded? What kinds of file formats does the DVR system accommodate? Which type do you want to use as default?

Factor in its built-in and external memory capabilities. External memory devices must always be available to allow you to continue recording without interruptions, if necessary.

Camera Considerations
Cameras for a USB DVR complete surveillance system should be able to produce sharply defined images and videos regardless of light settings. It must be designed for automatic light detection for the camera to switch from daytime to night time viewing whenever necessary.

Audio detection is an essential feature. If you are expecting to use your surveillance system to provide evidence of any kind, proof would be more credible and substantial if it offers visual and audio confirmation.

Weatherproof casing is also very helpful. That way, you won’t have to remember which cameras may be used outdoors and which ones have to be permanently used indoors. Weatherproof casing will also ensure continuous surveillance even in ill weather.

Reception Considerations
This has more to do with the type of receiver station antenna you are going to use rather than the length of cable you’ve consumed to have everything connected. Besides, if it’s wireless there is no need to physically connect every component.

Reception must be at least 100M in terms of open range and 7M for night vision range.

Multiplexer
Lastly, don’t forget the multiplexer. This will allow you to simultaneously view recorded or real-time footage in one screen.

If you think that all these combined will do for your home or office’s safety then go ahead and buy a USB DVR complete surveillance system!

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Keep Your Kids Safe During this Holiday Season – Top 5 Tips

Nanny Camera, Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 22 2009

The holiday season must be always fun and never dangerous for your kids. As this is the time when you and your kids will be spending most of the time outside your home, whether it’s for trick or treating or Christmas shopping, here are the top 5 tips to ensure your children’s safety.

Cordless Phone Hidden CameraHealth and Cleanliness Considerations
H1N1 virus is not the only disease you should be scared of. There are many other kinds of illnesses or disorders that your children can contract without knowing it. Are you aware that germs are able to live up to two days on any surface and even longer than that if there’s water present? Remind your children not to touch anything unless they’re sure it’s completely clean. If they have to dirty their hands, remind them to wash their hands thoroughly before eating or touching their faces in any way.

Location Safety
Wherever your destination is, do not forget to instruct your child about their limits or boundaries. In the event that you and your child get separated, your child should know the safest areas he can wait for you. He must know up until where he can explore and which areas are explicitly off-limits, such as leaving the mall or going to any place that would require him to cross the street.

Remind Them about Important Contact Information
Provide your children with a list of names and numbers to contact in case of emergency. If possible, help them memorize such contact information. Children are smarter than we often give them credit for, but they’ll fare better if we give them something helpful to use right from the start.

About Strangers
Do remind your kids that strangers must always be avoided at all costs. You can’t stress this enough to your children. It’s important that they’re aware of the dangers of accompanying strangers and how they can act deceptively kind. It’s also important to establish a routine for them to determine whether people they know are truly trustworthy. You may, for instance, tell your children that you will never forget to call and inform them about any change in plans and having someone else pick them up. If they don’t receive a call then they must not allow anyone to take them away.

Adult Supervision
Finally, avoid leaving your children unaccompanied anywhere anytime. There is no better way to ensure your children’s safety than keeping a strict eye on them! If you can not monitor them 24/7, a nanny with the help of a nanny cam might help.

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Surveillance Equipment – Tips for Proper Maintenance

Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 21 2009

Basically, there are two ways to accomplish surveillance equipment maintenance: you can either let the professionals handle it or take the DIY path.

4 Channel Wired USB DVR Complete SystemSelecting the Best Professional for Surveillance Equipment Maintenance
You need someone that can be trusted to make a professional evaluation of your surveillance equipment and perform a regular maintenance check from thereon. Such professional usually has a background in law enforcement or in the security industry. If you find professionals who can offer both then so much the better!

Ask the System Manufacturers
Usually, the most reliable professional to perform a surveillance equipment maintenance check on your system will be the guys who are sent by the system manufacturer themselves. This, however, may cost you quite some money and, depending on where you are currently located, it may take the company a bit of time before they can out their crew to your area.

Consider Years of Experience
If you do not have the time to wait for the service crew from your system manufacturer then you’ll have to rely on a third party service provider instead. The first thing you should consider is the number of years they’ve been in business. Avoid dealing with little-known and not-so-reputable companies. Remember, this is the security system of your home that you’re asking them to check. If you allow untrustworthy individuals to access your system, you might as well have given them leave to target your home for robbery or other undesirable crimes.

Also, please consider the relevance of their experience. Yes, they’re in the security business but have they had experience performing security system checks? More specifically, do they have expert knowledge of the exact type of surveillance equipment you are using at home?

Check with the Better Business Bureau
One of the ways to ensure that you are dealing with a legitimate company is to contact the Better Business Bureau.  Look for one that hasn’t been a target of criticism and suspected of malpractice.

Factor In Rates and Extra Services
If there is a wide array of companies to choose from, then of course, go with the company that offers you the most comprehensive array of services for the best rates! Remember, system checks must be done constantly so it’s best to stick with a company that you can afford to hire long-term.

DIY Surveillance Equipment Maintenance Check
If you want to maintain your surveillance equipment all by yourself, that won’t be a problem if you have the know-hows. You need to make sure, however, that you remain methodical and thorough with your job.

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