Posts Tagged ‘surveillance camera’

IP Dome Camera – Understanding How It Works

Uncategorized | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Jan 01 2010

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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Jewelry Store Security – How to Avoid Costly Losses

Business, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 24 2009

Jewelry stores are one of the most difficult places to secure because their valuable contents are highly portable, making them an attractive target to potential thieves. If you own a jewelry store, here are essential security tips to provide maximum protection for your merchandise regardless of where you’re currently setting shop.

4 Channel Wired Digital Video Recording SystemMind the Store Layout
Security should always be taken into utmost consideration when you are designing the layout of your store. Display counters must be as far away as possible from the main entry and exit points of the store. The distance between these two points is equivalent to the time you can buy for yourself in order to apprehend the thief or other necessary courses of action.

Never put the cash register or booth in a location that will have you facing away from the door. You must always see people coming in and going out of the store because their appearance and movement might alert you ahead of time regarding potential trouble.

Secure Entry and Exit Points
During operating hours, do ensure that your entry and exit points lead through metal detecting archways. This will discourage potential thieves from carrying the usual array of weapons with them. At night, these must be additionally secured with alarms that are connected to your security insurance provider or local police station.

Surveillance Systems
Your jewelry store will be more secure if it is armed with a surveillance system. Surveillance cameras with motion detecting sensors and floodlights must be installed not only within the store premises but outside as well to detect possible signs of trouble. The best locations for your cameras are those that can get a bird’s eye view of the area without being easily reachable and prone to attacks of vandalism.

Surveillance cameras must allow for remote control or operation as well as web-based access. It must also be connected to a DVR system for remote monitoring. The best DVR systems will have sufficient disk space for your needs and save files in formats that are easily playable in your desk PC or laptop.

Manned Security
While automated security equipment is undeniably helpful, it is never a sufficient replacement for manned security. Always have your business guarded by professional and experienced security personnel.

Access Restriction
First and foremost, make it a strict store policy to keep all jewelry display cases locked. If you are taking out a sample for a client’s perusal, be sure to lock the display case immediately. It’s a cumbersome process but it could save you thousands of dollars in terms of theft and loss.

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Board Camera – When Do You Need One

Board Cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 22 2009

It’s so tiny you can probably wear it disguised as a pendant and no one would ever know. It’s so tiny in fact that if you’re not careful, you could even use it. A board camera is one of the latest equipment to come out that’s designed to make security easier and surveillance that much more efficient. Think it’s not that much of a gadget for you? Here are the top situations when you’ll need a board camera to pump up your viewing and surveillance capabilities.

Black and White Closed Board CameraEquipment for super-covert surveillance
There’s surveillance and there’s covert surveillance. You can easily tell one from the other by their conspicuousness. If a person can detect they’re being filmed or that there’s a camera hiding behind that flower vase or picture frame, you’re not really doing a good job as a spy.

For highly surreptitious surveillance you will need a board camera. It’s thin and light enough to be mounted on just about anything — a cigarette case, a stuffed teddy bear, a cookie jar, even a key chain — and still be difficult to notice. So if you want to improve your spying abilities or just simply want a better nanny or hidden cam, a board camera is your best choice

A lightweight camera that’s unobtrusive enough to be used for your hobbies
Board cameras are also efficient to use for hobbies such as DIY security equipment and robotics. If you’re a hobbyist, this is the best type of camera you’ll want to work with because it can easily be mounted, tweaked and turned on. It also gives superb video quality, allowing you to take great footages 99% of the time.

A camera you can take to your playground and back
Whether it’s driving a motorbike through mud and dirt or going cross-country on a bicycle, it’s always a good idea to get footage from an angle no cameraman can shoot from: under the saddle or mounted on the handlebars. Kept within solid casing, spruced up and weather-proofed, a board camera can also be used for a variety of sports such as surfing, wakeboarding or even skydiving.

For home and business security
If you need a reliable camera for home or business security, the board camera is one of the most affordable and efficient cameras you can buy. Retailers frequently sell them discounted, allowing you to purchase several cameras even on a budget. Since they’re easy to mount and can pretty much work from anywhere in the house, shop or office, you can build a highly customized security/surveillance system without the usual expense.

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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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Board Camera – Why You Need One?

Board Cameras | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 17 2009

board cameraIf there’s one feature that all spy cameras should have, it’s that they should be difficult or even impossible to find or detect. Otherwise, they will not be effective as spy or surveillance gadgets. To meet the growing demand for covert surveillance, cameras have gotten smaller and smaller, so much so that they could be mounted onto a shirt button and still take pictures or footages. Easily a very popular choice among mini cameras is the board camera. It’s light, efficient and comes in a size that pretty much lets it be mounted onto a variety of objects and disguises. So what exactly is a board camera?

What is a board camera, really
This device is essentially a tiny camera that can take color or black and white photos or videos that’s affixed to a circuit board. It is so small that emerging models are about the size of a quarter, making it easy to install, mount and hide. It is also a camera that many hobbyists and photography enthusiasts use, particularly those who want to build their own cameras or customize their surveillance equipment to their liking.

Board cameras can be used on their own, hooked up to a power source, monitor and recorder or it can be mounted onto another gadget.

Its functions
The board camera is equipped with a lens, usually an auto-focus or auto-iris lens. It can take clear, sharp photos and videos of objects and activities as well as any spy camera can. Depending on the type of this type of camera you purchase, it could also be used for low-light scenarios. A board camera with a low 0.5 lux rating, for example, is capable of handling images from bright light to dim lighting.

The Board Camera’s limitations
This device is really a functional camera in miniature, although it does differ from the more traditional types of spy or surveillance cameras. It can, for example, be used to form part of a spy gadget such as a stuffed toy, a photo frame or a small purse.

Since the board camera has an auto-focus lens, its zooming capability is limited. Do not purchase a board camera thinking that you can zoom in and out of a view at will. Unless the zoom feature is indicated, all you get is a single-focus lens. This type of lens is highly functional, however and does not require a lot of tweaking. It’s also quite reliable and will take footages without requiring you to manually adjust it from time to time.

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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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Surveillance Camera – Buying Tips

Professional Surveillance Cameras, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 09 2009

220x Day Night Zoom CameraGo to any gizmo store today to ask for a surveillance camera and you will probably be directed to a shelf that’s several feet long. This gadget comes in all shapes, sizes and specifications and if you have no idea what to look for based on what you truly need, it can be very easy to get lost with the confusing choices and techie mumbo-jumbo. To make your search shorter and easier, here’s a checklist for purchasing the right security camera for your home or business:

Lens Considerations
An ordinary surveillance camera is usually equipped with an autofocus lens. This type of lens produces a sharp image with sufficient depth of field, so objects near and far are usually viewable. On the downside, this type of lens can only provide a good view of objects within effective distance. In case of live viewing, it will not be able to produce a closer image of a specific object.

A good substitute to this type of lens is a surveillance camera equipped with a zoom lens. Zoom lenses can be manipulated to produce larger images of far objects — a useful feature in case you need to focus on something that’s farther away.

Connectivity Options
There are basically two kinds of connectivity features you can expect from this type of cameras: wired systems and wireless systems. Wired systems transmit signals from cameras to another gadget, such as a monitor, a recorder or a computer. A wireless system utilizes radio frequency to do so.

Connectivity is an important factor when purchasing this product because the right choice can offer efficiency and convenience. Either type has its own list of pros and cons and should be considered carefully.

Number of cameras
An insufficient number of surveillance cameras is as unhelpful as having no cameras installed at all. Determine the areas that require a surveillance camera carefully. Otherwise, you could be spending more than you should.

Location Factors
Before buying this camera, consider whether it will be installed indoors or outdoors. Outdoor cameras are especially designed to be tougher and resistant to external conditions such as heat, rain and snow.

Budget Constraints
Last but definitely not the least item on this checklist is your budget. The prices of surveillance cameras vary greatly, depending on the brand, make and model. Built-in features, extras, warranties, accessories and installation services can also affect how much you’ll pay for a specific unit. Learn to find a balance between what the camera can offer versus what you really need.

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Self-Recording DVR Hidden Camera – Surveillance Security Gadget

Hidden Camera, Nanny Camera, Security Camera | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Dec 01 2009

HC ARFSH DVRIt’s of utmost importance:  How else do you deal with your children’s nanny when you’re not at home, your employees when you’re on a business trip, trespassers and thieves?  Of course, you want to put a premium on home and office security over and over again through different ways – constant reminders to the babysitter, updating company rules and changing the combination to your jewelry box regularly.  It doesn’t always seem to be working though, because at one time or another, there will be circumstances beyond your control.  One of the things you need to add to your list of safety measures is keeping your place, be it private or corporate, monitored.

With monitoring safety, we’re not talking about just any traditional equipment to get the job done.  Surveillance, like all other kinds of technology, should be constantly evolving.  What was considered as the gold standard in surveillance cameras a couple of years back might be looked upon as ordinary today.  While basics like recording quality, storage capabilities and dependability will be always aspired for, and will probably never change, it’s fascinating to note that a lot of upgrades have been developed for this technology.

What is now making waves among homeowners and company executives, a self recording DVR hidden camera is the latest innovation in residential and office monitoring systems.  It safeguards specific areas with its cutting-edge features, making it an ideal equipment for added security.

If you are going to compare this device to ordinary surveillance cameras, self recording DVR hidden cameras use motion detection technology.  This prevents uneventful footages and thus avoids eating up too much storage memory by operating only when a person is present in the area.  Beyond that, instead of accessing the videos with wireless interference, this equipment needs just an SD card which will enable you to view what was covered either through connecting the camera to a computer or removing the SD card so you can slip it in another media that it is compatible of.  One more convenience of using an SD card in keeping the videos is its ability to record up to the length of 20 hours.

Another great feature of this gadget is that it always has the camouflage advantage.  Self recording DVR hidden cameras can be perfectly concealed because they are available in the form of different objects.

Look at it this way – take what’s good about hiring a private investigator and fuse it with the accessibility of a gadget that you could depend on 24/7.  A self recording DVR hidden camera will be the result.

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Security System and Tips – Keeping Your Business During the Holidays

Business, Surveillance Systems | Posted by hiddencamerablogger
Nov 19 2009

You do not have to spend a huge amount of money to ensure that your business is safe from theft. As long as you remain vigilant and cautious, you and your employees, together with a basic security system, will be more than enough to keep your business safe.

16 Channel Wired Digital Video Recording System

Hire only trustworthy employees
This is one consideration that you can’t skimp on. Know who you’re hiring. Ask for all possible credentials to ensure that they’re of good, moral character. More often than not, robberies turn out to be inside jobs or crimes that have been perpetuated by people who have inside knowledge of the place targeted.

Be wary of your business routines
Many open and close their stores at the same time and they often do so alone. People around you could take note of this routine and when they’re desperate, this could tempt them into attempting to rob your place at the hours they know you are most likely to be alone.

These routines are best done inside the store and unseen by prying eyes. You can establish a system or routine, for instance, to ensure safe transfer of money from the cash register to the safety vault. If you or any other person is held at gunpoint, any deviation from the routine might as well shout that something’s wrong.

Check the efficiency of your security system
Firstly, it is common sense that to make sure you are getting the most of your security system, you install them to spots that are vulnerable to theft – all possible points of entry. These are not only limited to doors and windows but also to ventilation openings in the ceiling, chimneys, and any other opening that’s big enough for a person to wriggle into.

Use motion sensors to auto-detect movement outside your business’ premises. A barking dog alarm, for instance, will immediately alert you if any person attempts to come closer to your business site. You can then have the person identify himself and subsequently determine whether he may be allowed entry.

Additionally, use flood lights as well to shed light on any dark areas outside your business where intruders may be lurking.

Finally, do not forget to use surveillance cameras! These will help protect your business from dangers during or outside operating hours. Be sure, however, that you are using the correct types of surveillance cameras. Outdoor cameras are especially durable and come with weatherproof casing. Infrared cameras can capture sharp black-and-white photos even if they’re monitoring dark areas. And finally, don’t forget to use pinhole cameras that you only know about! They’re sure to help you catch any misfit red-handed.

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