Posted on 06/28/2025 10:44:32 AM PDT by Chickensoup
I want a recommendation for a high definition camera that I can mount on my window, plug in, and use to stream my bird feeders on line. Because I'm that dull!
I have 10 feeders and would love to share them with friends in real time. So it has to go to the internet and I have to figure out how to get it there. I expect it is not a you tube thing.
All advice appreciated!
A while back you asked about security cameras.
I posted a fairly long reply to you in that thread.
If you had followed any of those recommendations you would be over 1/2 way to this goal.
Much of that post can be applied here.
I recommend you just get any inexpensive camera and get it working on/with your computer.
I use Amcrest.
Reolink is also popular and has inexpensive models.
I recommend a 4 megapixel camera for starters.
4MP is better than 1080p HD for resolution BUT NOT FRAMERATE!
I recommend a wired IP camera NOT WiFi but just get something going so you can look at your computer and see birds. WiFi is OK but NOT SECURE.
The most important question you should answer for yourself is who will support/train you. Find that person/group and follow their guidance. I am not that person!!!
Just start somewhere and begin. If you really want it done you will make it happen.
Once you get a camera on your computer screen get “OBS”.
OBS stands for Open Broadcast Studio.
It is FREE!
It is popular and you can find answers online.
You ‘could’ start with OBS and ask them what 4 megapixel camera to get.
I know you probably just glaze over when you think of learning this stuff. Just get any camera and begin and the glaze will flake off.
If you start with a security cam (less expensive) it may be ok for the bird feeders.
and an inexpensive WiFi(NOT SECURE) example is ~US$73 at Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-SmartHome-Security-Separately-ASH43-W/dp/B0964G2X8B
There are also many youtube videos explaining all this stuff.
Or just pay someone to show up do everything and live with the results.
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