Archive for the ‘Home Surveillance’ Category

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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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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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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Home Security – Absolute Security Dos and Don’ts

Home Surveillance, Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 04 2009

Pro Series Dome CameraDO choose a system that will fit your security needs
Home security systems have a wide array of features, from the very basic to the latest, most sophisticated functions. While it can be tempting to purchase the meanest, newest model, keep in mind that not every feature offered by the system may be useful to you. Buy the one that will offer you sufficient protection and enough flexibility to allow you to expand it in the future, should your security needs change.

DO test the system regularly
Once you’re able to install the home security system, test if it works. Depending on the type of system you’re using, you might have to set the parameters for it. Try to check if it will work within those parameters and without, so you know what its limitations are. You can then make the proper adjustments to the settings depending on your specific requirements.

DON’T assume power will always be reliable
This device requires a source of power in order to work. Always provide a reliable source of backup power for your system to ensure constant security. A system running on AC alone might open you to vulnerability if there is a sudden power outage, so you might want to choose one that can run on battery power in case power fails.

Do check the batteries often and change them with fresh cells. Rechargeable batteries are usually longer-lasting but they should also be checked as well. Most units come with an indicator light that shows the level of battery power left. Pay attention to this indicator so your security is always reliable.

DON’T ever disclose your password or security code to anyone other than your family
The password or security code is used to configure, edit and change settings in this system. Anyone who knows the code will be able to disable it, rendering your security system worthless. Avoid passwords that are too common or easily linked to you, such as birthdays, street numbers, favorite numbers, etc. Keep the secret code in a safe place or memorize it to avoid any risks.

DON’T rely on your home security system like it’s everything you need for security
Always remember that no home is resistant to burglars. Home security systems only make buildings more difficult to get into, so it discourages crime. You could have the most sophisticated security system in the world but if you are careless and overly confident or lax about security, you could put yourself and your loved ones at risk. Use common sense and employ non-electronic techniques for extra measure to ensure your safety.

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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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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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Home Surveillance Camera Purchasing tips

Home Surveillance | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 14 2009

Security is a one top requirement for your home. You may have youngsters who could be taken from you. You could have a lot of liquid savings saved there. You could have a lot of expensive furniture and appliances. You could have a lot of things at stake that you need to keep safe from thieves. The only way for you to do this is to invest in home security; and one way for you to add to your home security is through buying and installing a home surveillance camera.

56 Infrared LED Day Night Professional CameraA home surveillance camera can be helpful in several ways: you can use it to tape the proceedings that it is picking up, and then you can review the tapes later; you can also monitor your home from afar through the internet if you are using a wireless camera. A wireless camera will allow you to record and transmit footage online, which can thus make it easier for you to view without you having to rewind and fast forward through taped footage.

Purchasing a home surveillance camera, however, can be difficult without the proper guidance. First of all, do a lot of research on what kind of surveillance you need. Do you want to watch your children, monitor your nanny, or keep an eye on the playground in your backyard? Do you want to keep watch over your expensive electronic equipment in your basement? Such needs will also require different cameras, so do research first to avoid bad purchases in the future.

Second, ask the advice of security and security retail pros. There may be brands out there that will work best for you without taking out a lot of your budget. There may also be brands out there that are too expensive for you but that you might want to invest in, considering your current needs. Look for these people in your security stores, and ask for referrals from friends who have had their own security systems installed.

Do you know if it’s legal to use a home surveillance camera where you live? Can it be used as evidence in the court of law? You need to know the legalities or you may be purchasing something that has no worth when it comes to convicting criminals. Take care that you have a camera that works within legal bounds or you could be the target of the law.

These are only a few factors to consider when buying a home surveillance camera. For more information, talk to the security experts, and do more research.

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Hidden Camera DVR – What it is and how it Works

Hidden Camera, Home Surveillance, Spy Cams | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 01 2009

Amongst many covert surveillance gadgets, the hidden camera DVR is probably one of the most commonly used. In a world that requires constant vigilance, this type of DVR has become the silent partner in the fight against crime. But what is it really and how does it work? More importantly, would you need one?

HC exits dvrThe hidden camera DVR has the best of features that are basic for covert surveillance – the ability to monitor, view and record images in a small, virtually unnoticeable package. This device consists of a miniature camera and a digital recorder. It is capable of capturing images and storing them for later viewing.

The DVR feature offers a better resolution than what the more traditional VCR has. A DVR can record digital images at high resolutions, producing high quality videos that are sharp and clear. Recording digital images also prevents degradation of quality since digital images tend to be more reliable than VHS tapes.

How it works
This DVR uses an SD memory card with which to store information – in this case, images. This memory card is a small, stamp-sized device. It can be easily slipped into the body of the hidden cam where it will remain unnoticed. To view the images, the SD card can be mounted onto a separate device and played back.

Does it work like a wireless hidden camera system?
This security gadget does not require wireless technology, so there are no issues regarding signals, transmissions and receptions. Wired connections are also not a concern since the hidden camera DVR is a stand-alone gadget.

Its Uses
This DVR is designed to look like an ordinary object to escape detection. This allows manufacturers to mount them onto items such as alarm clocks, wall clocks, picture frames, air ionizers and stuffed toys, among others. They are difficult to detect and will often require the use of an electronic device such as a hidden camera detector in order to locate them.

Hidden camera DVRs are extremely useful for security and safety purposes. They can be mounted from any area and used to monitor areas such as the front door, patio, bedroom, the living room, kitchen, den and garage. They can be used to watch over the house in your absence or record any suspicious activities in the vicinity.

These DVRs are also excellent for use as nanny cameras. Their size and design allow them to be installed anywhere in the house that is allowable by law. They not only monitor your premises, they can keep watch over your loved ones as well.

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Wireless Surveillance Camera – Why it is the Best and Safest

Home Surveillance, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 20 2009

Security continues to become a major concern for many homes and businesses.  As a means to prevent crime and ensure the safety of the occupants, security devices such as surveillance systems are often installed in many premises.  Easily a favorite among home and business owners is the wireless surveillance camera due to its convenience and a range of functions that may not always be available with wired versions.  Are you considering a security system for your home or office?  Learn the top 3 reasons why a wireless surveillance camera is the way to go:

Easy Installation
Unlike a wired system, wireless surveillance cameras do not rely on wires or cables in order to work.  The lack of wires for this type of security system means that installation is significantly less cumbersome.  This is because the usual extra tasks required to install a wired security system are eliminated, such as creating electrical leads, performing circuit testing and even wire stripping.  A wireless surveillance camera usually only requires a location.  Once installed, it can start working.

wireless surveillance cameraA wireless surveillance camera system also eliminates unsightly wires running across the wall, so for aesthetic purposes, it’s the preferred security system.

Eliminate Power Problems
Most of the available wired security systems today rely on electrical power in order to run.  Although they do utilize battery power, DC power sources are made available only as some sort of backup.  Since the batteries are used for emergency purposes, they tend to exhaust themselves unnoticed.

A wireless surveillance camera, on the other hand, does not need to be connected to a building’s power grid.  It is battery-powered, so as long as batteries are fresh, the camera will continue working.  Majority of wireless systems also come with a feature that alerts users regarding the condition of the batteries, whether they are running out and need to be recharged or replaced.

With a wireless surveillance camera, users don’t have to be concerned about power outages that will render a security system useless or power fluctuations that may affect certain physical components in the device.  Since many wireless surveillance cameras are sold with rechargeable batteries, they turn out to be relatively cost effective in the long run.

Eliminate Signal Issues
Wireless surveillance cameras used to have bad a reputation for having limited coverage.  This is true no longer.  These days, wireless surveillance cameras are rigged into a system that covers excellent range, up to several hundred feet.  In fact, a reliable wireless surveillance camera can manage signals through thick walls, giving users more confidence regarding its functions.  Connected to several transmitters, the camera can effectively monitor and provide reliable security for a very wide area.

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Security Camera Tips on How to Properly Install

Home Surveillance, Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Oct 19 2009

Motion Detector Hidden CameraMost homeowners do not feel skilled enough to install a home security system on their own.  But now that manufacturers have made home surveillance systems more affordable and easier to use, they have also successfully taken the complicated procedures out.  So would you want to DIY?  Here’s how to install a home security camera the proper way:

Getting Familiar
There are general features found in all home security cameras but certain functions differ depending on the brand and model.  Before attempting to install the device, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the equipment.

If you’re using a wired type, for example, careful planning is important to ensure the optimal placement of the camera.  Wired systems will sometimes require you to drill holes on walls and if you make a mistake, it could mean time and effort wasted, not to mention extra expense on the repairs.

Wireless ones don’t always require a lot of work, so they pretty much rely only on correct placement and location.

Where to Place
Location will dictate how effective your home security camera will be.  Before installing the camera, try to survey your home or office and decide which locations require surveillance.  In general, you might want to consider installing the camera in areas such as the front door, back door, patio or hallway.  If you have a backyard or a pool and want to monitor your children’s activities in those areas, you might want to consider placing a security camera there.

Placement is also important.  Consider the height, direction and angle of the camera.  This is a particular concern if you’ll be using a stationary unit.  If the camera automatically pans or tilts, consider only the height and direction.  Decide whether or not the area you wish to monitor is sufficiently covered.

Power Source Info
If you’ll be using a home security camera that will rely mainly on an electrical power source, you will have to install it near a power outlet.  If that is impossible, you might have to consider using an extension, provided of course that it’s safe.

Caution, Caution, Caution
If your home security camera comes with a warranty, be careful about damaging the product.  Breaking open any seal or misplacing certain components during do-it-yourself installation could void the warranty, which means you will have to pay for replacements or repairs.

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