Posts Tagged ‘family safety’

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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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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Nanny Cam – 5 Creative, Helpful Ways You Can Use One

Nanny Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 19 2009

The nanny cam has become ubiquitous among homes where parents rely on nannies to care for children. As a hidden camera used for general surveillance, these gadgets are cost-effective and easy to obtain. But once the children have grown up or no longer require the services of a nanny, you might be wondering what to do with that nanny cam that now lies forgotten in a drawer or closet somewhere in the house. If you can’t pass it on to someone else, consider keeping it. There are other helpful ways you can use this type of security camera. Here are just some of them:

Cordless Phone Hidden CameraAn alternative home security camera
There is a wide variety of models of nanny cams that have excellent specifications in terms of image quality. If you’re thinking of buying a home security camera, why not try using this device instead? It is, after all, a camera, designed with the same parts and purpose as other types of cameras, including those used for security. Mount it onto a box to monitor your doorway or hide it among the potted plants in the house or office. As long as it’s still working, it will be able to transmit images that you can review later.

Helpful for monitoring pets
If you have pets that you often leave on their own for several hours daily, you will find the use of this type of security camera quite helpful. This device can be turned on to monitor the activities of your pets so you will know who’s been nice and who’s been misbehaving on the carpet. A nanny cam that doubles as a pet cam can be especially important if you have a pet who’s sick, need special care or has behavioral issues. With this type of security camera installed, you will be able to keep track of them even when you’re not around.

Helpful for spying on wildlife
If you enjoy observing wild animals without them seeing you or catching your scent, you’ll find the nanny cam quite helpful. It’s an excellent gadget to use for your hobby or school assignment or if you just want to know who’s been busy with your trash bin in the middle of the night.

Helpful for monitor your car or the parking lot
This gadget can also be very helpful in helping you secure your vehicle. Put it inside the car and it will monitor the surroundings for you.

Helpful for monitoring repairs and other services performed in your absence
If you need someone to keep track of services such as repairs, cleaning and installations in your home or office, why not use this cam? With a nanny cam in place, you will be able to see if builders are using the right materials or if the cleaning lady has done a good job or if a project is being completed on schedule.

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Dome Camera – Tips on How to Maximize Its Use

dome cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 16 2009

The dome camera is easily one of the choice security systems to use with business establishments. It’s small and unobtrusive yet very effective in monitoring a room or an area. Learn to maximize the use of this security gadget to enhance and improve the security of your business. Here are ways how:

dome cameraLocate the right area prior to installation
The dome camera can be installed on a wall or on the ceiling. Before installing one, try to survey the premises first to determine where the camera should be placed for the best angles. Would you like it to monitor the doorway or the cashier’s corner or would you rather that it focuses on high-end items next to the wall? Remember that what the camera will see is ultimately what will appear on the monitor and get recorded, so choose the best location for the device.

If you will be using multiple dome cameras to cover wider spots, plan your installations carefully. Be aware of blind spots especially with single-focus lenses. If you want more flexibility, consider getting a vari-focal dome camera that can be panned a full 360 degrees. This will offer you a good view of the entire room or shop. Because the lenses can be adjusted, you can change your viewing angle from narrow to wide, depending on what you want to see.

Night surveillance considerations
If you want to secure your business at night but don’t want the extra strain to your pocketbook for keeping the lights on or spend money in hiring security personnel, consider using this type of security camera with a night vision. This type of camera will be able to capture images at low light conditions or even in total darkness. Cameras that are meant to work in day or light mode only will not do as well for this type of environment.

If you want efficient coverage for your store or office at low light, check the LUX rating of this type of camera you’re buying. The lower it is, the better it will be for capturing images in dim light or darkness.

Limitations
This device comes with an operating temperature. Always check the environment where they will be placed to ensure maximum utility. If the camera can only withstand temperatures of up to 112oF, make sure that they are not located in an area that will be exposed to temperatures higher than this limit. Otherwise, the camera lens will be damaged.

Protecting the System
If you want to keep your dome cameras safe from vandals, there are units that are especially designed with a tough outer casing. Usually referred to as armor dome or vandal-proof dome cameras, these units can withstand attacks from thieves or burglars who might attempt to break or destroy the unit.

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Nanny Cam – How to Avoid Misusing this Security Device

Hidden Camera, Nanny Camera, Security Camera, Spy Cams | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 15 2009

Clock Radio CD Player Hidden CameraBefore buying and installing a nanny camera, there are certain considerations you have to keep in mind. This gadget can record footage quite easily and very often, surreptitiously – that is, without the other party knowing that they are being recorded. Although it’s meant to ensure the safety of young children under the supervision of a nanny, nanny cams by nature are spy cams in that they are meant to monitor activities without someone’s prior knowledge. Unfortunately, this can backfire and cause you legal trouble. Avoid this situation by using these tips:

Make the nanny camera easily seen
This step may seem to contradict the very purpose of this device but it’s one of the ways you can keep the use of a nanny cam legal. If it’s visible, it can easily be noticed by the person who will be supervising or taking care of your child and they will be aware that they are being monitored.

Keeping the nanny camera visible will be of great help in deterring any acts of abuse that could occur when the nanny is around. If the nanny you happened to hire is abusive or inattentive, they will be encouraged to be at their best behavior at all times.

Install in public areas
Another method to avoid a situation where the use of a nanny cam can backfire is to use this gadget only in areas of the house or building that is accessible by most people. These include the kitchen, the living room area, garage, porch and family den. A hidden camera in these areas will be legal to use and will be least likely to record private moments.

Never, ever install a nanny cam in the closet, the toilet, the bathroom or even in the nanny’s bedroom. These are private areas and must remain so.

Inform the nanny about the camera
You could also avoid an unpleasant situation by informing the nanny beforehand that you have hidden cameras installed. If the nanny you are about to hire has had prior experience on the job, there’s a good chance they have encountered parents that used nanny cams before.

In various cases, the nanny will probably not mind that there’s a nanny cam installed, as long as they know where it is. The important thing is that you are doing the right thing by informing them and that they have the choice whether to accept the job or not.

Turn off the audio
Depending on your location, it might be considered against the law to record audio. There are 15 states where recording without express consent is illegal, 12 states that require consent from all parties involved and 37 states where the consent of one party is acceptable. Always check your state laws for these restrictions when using a nanny cam so as to avoid a major backfire.

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Motion Alarms and Their Functions

Alarm System | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 12 2009

Motion alarms are excellent for use as a component of a security system. As long as there is power available, this type of alarms will work even without direct supervision or manual intervention. They are easy to install and can be very reliable in detecting the presence of any intruder. If you’re looking for a good security device for your home or business, a motion alarm system may be the best choice for you. Learn the most common types of alarms to find out which one will be the perfect fit.

motion alarmMicrowave motion alarms and how they work
This type of alarm uses microwave energy to detect movement and trigger a signal, usually an audible alarm. The device emits microwaves within a given area, which then bounce off any obstacle that may be present and return to the source. The frequency of these returning waves is then measured and analyzed. If someone or something enters that area, it will cause a disturbance in the flow of microwaves and change the frequency. Once the sensor detects this, a signal will be transmitted to a remote device and the alarm will be set off.

Microwaves are advantageous in that they work better at covering a larger area. Microwave energy can also pass through obstacles, so this type of alarm can be comfortably placed behind walls, for example, and still work. The only drawback is that microwave motion alarms are quite sensitive and will react to electrical gadgets such as radios, wireless phones, etc.

Another issue about the sensitivity of microwave motion alarms is that they tend to react at the slightest disturbance, which can often lead to false alarms. Their sensitivity level can be adjusted, however, so they can fit the environment where they are installed.

Infrared motion alarms and how they work
This type of alarm was developed in the 80s and has since become the most popular technology used for security systems. An infrared-powered security device uses light energy that is in the frequency beyond the limit of visible light, which is red – hence the name ‘infrared’. The wavelength of infrared light is longer than lightwaves and shorter than radio waves, making it ideal for use in detecting heat.

In order for it to work as a type of alarm, an infrared device uses a sensor that detects and measures the temperature of an object that passes through the beam of light coming from the device. If it measures sufficient heat, such as that coming from a human body, the sensor will trigger an alarm.

Infrared motion alarms are cost-effective, making them a top choice as security devices. They cannot provide coverage for a full area but if installed in the right location, they can be very helpful for catching intruders in the act.

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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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Hidden Video Recorder – Is It For You?

Hidden Camera, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 03 2009

The hidden video recorder is an important component of every surveillance and security system.  Over the years, they have steadily improved, becoming more portable and better in terms of functionality and performance.  If you’re still confused which among the dozens of hidden video recorder brands and models is for you, here are some of the things you might want to consider:

HC BMBOX DVRPortable Enough
Portability is definitely a no-brainer for a device such as a hidden video recorder since for purposes of surveillance or security, the recorder has to be lightweight and small in size.  If size is a concern for you, you’ll be glad to know that hidden video recorders come in a good variety of sizes and even shape.  These days, hidden video recorders range from the clunkier types that record on VHS to the handheld types that can be disguised as key chains or mobile phones.

So which system is right for you?  The type of hidden video recorder you should choose is one that will meet your specific needs.  If you intend to use it to monitor a room, area or a building, for example, a larger yet portable unit will do.  Hidden video recorders of this type will offer better memory so you can record events running several hours and take a larger number of photographs.

If you’re looking for better flexibility in terms of placement or if you prefer a gadget you can carry or wear, smaller hidden video recorders are a better choice.  They can be placed virtually anywhere — stashed behind pots or on top of the cupboard or inserted into a stuffed toy or an everyday item such as a wall clock, a lampshade or a figurine.  They can also be carried around or worn as pens or watches.

Memory and storage capacity
This gadget uses a storage device onto which recorded images are kept.  These devices include tape, CD and DVD.  Frequently, images are stored to a detachable SD card.  Images are then uploaded onto a computer in order to be viewed.

Should it be Analog or digital?
In spite of newer technologies, analog video recorders are still available and are quite useful.  However, most users are leaning toward digital video recorders for their convenience, programmability and functionality.  Digital video recorders record on images digitally, so they do not take up too much space in terms of memory and storage.  Playback is generally easier, especially during reviews because there is no need to flashforward or rewind to view events.  Events are easier to locate and playback if they are digitally recorded.

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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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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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