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Security Cameras - Help

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Posted by Doug: Sat Dec 15th, 2012 21:21

1^st Post

I'm wondering if anyone has experience with security cameras, dvr and alarm panels.

I'd like to have up to 4 reasonably High Definition cameras for security and I'm a bit stuck on what to get (Apple have spoilt me and I am struggling to justify choosing technology that seems to have been designed in the last century)

I'd also like the ability to record and access the feed/recordings from everywhere.

For the uninitiated
DVR = Digital Video Recorder
PTZ = Pan Tilt Zoom
IP = Network Capable

So Far I have.

1. Purchased and experimented with an affordable 640x480 wireless IP camera with PTZ (non weatherproof, but there is a non PTZ weatherproofed camera available for a similar price)

2. Read a lot about other cameras that avaailable on their own or in a kit, but they are either too crappy (logitach, swann, uniden, most no name brands) or too expensive

3. Discovered that most affordable DVRs are crappy too

4. Thought about using wired analog cameras (wiring already in place for 4 cameras)

5. Seriously considered using a spare Mac Mini I happen to have as the DVR
(both Security Spy http://www.bensoftware.com/securityspy and VitaminD http://www.vitamindinc.com seem like good options), but how would I connect the analog cameras without too much expense
I don't want to use a PC as a DVR due to size, noise, power requirements

In addition to all of this I have installed reed switches on every door and window at time of build, but not found a control panel I am happy with - the closest is this one, but it only supports one wired zone and I don't wish to purchase/replace batteries in multiple wireless sensors)

I'm Thinking;

Perhaps I should go down the mac route and get some kind of external PCI capable firewire or thunderbolt enclosure

Maybe I should purchase a dvr kit with 4 good camera to see if I'm happy with it before I go to the trouble of buying add-ons for the Mac Mini
(perhaps a Defender branded from BHPhoto or this one from KGuard which is available locally - http://www.kguardsecurity.com/glb/products/details.php?id=898fa67b9c10ffc0dce67216ec3b3e63&c=df0bcd427f00507ad3ae0df6fec0a232&s=d84b64f88867631b642323ef4cf40c32
http://kgcdn.powerbrand.netdna-cdn.com/media/gal_120601030628xza.jpg)

One thing I really need to try and find is a weatherproof PTZ capable camera that is less than $400 - doesn't seem to exist

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Posted by Robert: Sun Dec 16th, 2012 02:20

2^nd Post

Amazing Doug, I was considering this exact conundrum before I got up this morning.

I have experience with defender and the later digital video recorders (DVR's) are quite good in comparison with earlier versions. The review methods are much easier. Although reviewing security video is a very time consuming task. Some sort of 'Activity Flag' would be very handy to save having to review hours of video with no activity.

invisible IR illumination is another thing to consider.

As for weather proof cameras I have used internal PTZ cameras externally with no ill effect in the Cumbria climate. However, if I did it again I would install them in a covert sheltered location. I have installed internal cameras in logs and builders debris right out in the open and concealed the leads.

I have no experience combining the above with a Mac, although I guess it could be done.

Will be very interested in any solutions you come up with. I will read your links later, I don't have time right now.

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Posted by steve of oxford: Sun Dec 16th, 2012 04:06

3^rd Post

Doug

Do you have a serious crime problem, or do you work in bus lane enforcement/public office?

Posted by Doug: Sun Dec 16th, 2012 05:21

4^th Post

steve of oxford wrote:
Doug

Do you have a serious crime problem, or do you work in bus lane enforcement/public office?
:rofl:

There doesn't seem to be too much of a problem At the moment), but a few weeks ago my daughter heard noises as though someone was trying doors and windows - we slep through it and then a few days ago we found out that a neighbour was broken into (home invasion style) and had property and a vehicle stolen

In the past a vehicle has been set fire to and we get occasional hoon drivers, not to mention the house that was broken in to seems to receive many more visitors than would be usual

Our cul de sac is considered the 'jewel in the crown' (fallacy) of an affluent suburb among a sea of less affluent suburbs
Our house is at the edge of the development, backing onto open fields

I think the dog is a good deterrent (though I worry about his safety), automatic lighting (which I plan to have installed) is another good deterrent and cameras might actually draw attention to us

I'd like to be able to view/record for peace of mind though, especially if I were to go away for a holiday leaving my 19yo daughter and her 17mth old at home.

It's also impossible for us to look outside at the front of our house without opening the door or installing a peephole, hence the desire to install some surveillance and finally get the long installed sensors working

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Posted by jk: Sun Dec 16th, 2012 05:46

5^th Post

Take a look at the Axis network camera. Slightly more expensive but good kit.

http://www.axis.com/products/video/camera/index.htm

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Posted by steve of oxford: Sun Dec 16th, 2012 07:07

6^th Post

Sounds like you need to turn the lights off, stay quiet and make out no one's at home, then use the tyre lever. Cheaper and more effective than CCTV.

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