Posted on 07/27/2023 2:08:28 PM PDT by Chickensoup
I am currently renting, and the house came with SimpliSafe. I have front door and back door and driveway cameras. They record whenever there’s motion comments on the cloud, so I have access to the recording. I can look at them real time whatever I want from my phone. You can get these at Costco or online at Amazon, plus lots of other places. Like the other choices, it’s a matter of just buying what you need, getting the coverage that you want. And a lot cheaper than ADT, which I used to have.
“You’re going to need a static IP from your internet provider in order to access your VMS over the web.”
That’s not accurate. FYI
https://www.cctvcamerapros.com/Dynamic-IP-Surveillance-System-s/280.htm
Any system you’re researching, check compatibility with DDNS services. You likely have a dynamic IP for your router/cable modem, meaning the IP address changes at the pleasure of your internet provider, preventing reliable access to your video software. A DDNS overcomes that little problem, but the system you purchase must be ‘DDNS compatible’ or ‘built-in DDNS’.
Kudos for researching before you buy, double that for posting here at FR.
Any tech geek here on FR can assist you if the instructions aren’t clear. The reference link above explains in layman’s terms.
Happy to answer any CCTV/tech questions, but on the system itself this thread is more informative than you know: References guide consumer purchases, and these devices change so often that I’ll be following this thread as well.
Thank you very much!
Ok I can call my fiberoptic provider for that information.
Fair warning:
Pulling cables requires some basic skills, including knowledge of what’s in the wall where you’re drilling. Use your ‘electrician’ and you can hide the wires under the soffits with paintable raceway such as available here
https://kablekontrol.com/products/outdoor-cable-raceway
Do not envision visible cables stapled/nailed to the outside of your house (I presume that you own, vs rent): There are numerous ways to hide the cables on any hardwired system.
But in browsing comments, there is one question you have neither given a clue nor been asked by anyone:
Is the camera system intended to be piece of mind and ‘silent witness’, or deterrent? If the latter, any cameras mounted below 12’ high are ripe targets for vandals and easy disabling. Thus if the installation cannot be at least 10-12’ high, special cameras - primarily for public accessible areas, such as porch/front of house - are referenced as ‘vandal proof/dome cameras’. Example:
https://reolink.com/blog/vandal-proof-security-cameras/
An additional feature of any system you purchase might be addition of more cameras, such as a dome camera or, for that matter, a PTZ camera. PTZ cameras, however, are susceptible to vandalism and ‘start’ in price around $3-400.
Universal connections are also a plus for any system, meaning that when (not if) a camera quits, you can replace it with any compatible camera. Some cheap systems are proprietary, meaning that you can’t just replace a dead camera with any other camera.
This is getting into the weeds and the more advice I offer, the less it makes sense without your own personal experience.
Thus my advice to you is to buy an inexpensive DDNS-supported wireless system, get some real experience, and find an online CCTV DIY forum to assist you in both expanding your knowledge and narrowing the vast field of products so your next purchase will be both more permanent and have all the features you then desire.
If I was offering a consult to you, the discussion would entail well over an hour minimum, plus additional time for logistics to prevent runaway installation costs and undesirable modifications to the structure. For example, a wired system requires forethought as to location of the DVR since all wires route back to that box. It would require power, cool air and preferably be hidden. These things take planning by a knowledgeable expert, or from someone with learned experience. That stated, any reputable security outfit - local, NOT the big names - would offer you a consultation for CCTV for a small fee. It would be money well spent to pick the brains of someone with eyes-on the structure and first-hand knowledge of your specific needs/wants.
Rechargeable batteries and a solar panel. Has USB power input also, so you can charge from a usb plug in adapter.
Addendum:
The experience and flexibility of an initial wireless system - even if wired is ultimately desired - permits you to easily locate the best mounting site for the cameras, making the transition to wired much less painless.
I spent weeks planning the layout for the last home I owned, routing all cables in the attic via j-hooks and a home run to a hidden CCTV closet I built in the attic space above a closet. But I’m a seasoned expert.
The problem today is that all but the truly stupid don’t know that they’re on camera, and experienced criminals plan on being recorded. Thus, a camera system ultimately ends up being merely a silent witness and deters diddly.
If you have something to protect - a need avoiding mention in your comments, besides just the vague ‘to see who arrives and leaves and have it recorded’ - you should definitely consult with a security expert.
Prior to the Swann we had Lorex 8 camera system for years, still have but over the years in Florida it's down to 4 cameras, still a good system even though older now, we liked the portable monitor system could bring it in different rooms and outback and watch (older technology, good night vision)
Also have a 2 camera Cobra system for RV, great night vision, alerts, audio etc
The technology and prices have been getting better over the years.
Husband is a “jack of all trades” has had no issues installing or setting up any of the systems, so far.
I have a Wyze Cam v3 Pro 2K home security cam. About $54
https://www.wyze.com/products/wyze-cam-pro?related_selling_plan=41618559008930
It has better detail then a 1k camera. Your cell phone camera and video is much better then most security cameras.
I want to get a 4k camera which has much better detail and can read license plates.
The 4k will require a separate recorder because of the amount of data.
I second and/or third some others on the following.
I will add links to examples below. I use Amcrest but many vendors have quality products.
I record locally only, never a bit out on the WAN!
Wired only, WiFi is _NOT_ secure(ity)!
Wired Internet Protocol(IP) cameras need somewhere to plug in.
If you router needs more ports you just expand with an ethernet switch. (more on the subject below)
IP cameras and Network Video Recorder(NVR) go together.
Other usually older cameras record on a DigitalVideoRecorder(DVR) . They also make recorders that do both.
IP cameras come with and without the Power Over Ethernet (POE) feature. POE devices just require 1 ethernet wire for communication and power so a technician pulling wires will have less to do!
IP cameras often can include storage right on the camera.
You can store on the camera _AND_ on an NVR.
You install a uSD card(up to 1T) inside the camera before installation.
NVRs come with and without the POE feature.
NVRs come with and without storage. If you can operate a phillips screwdriver you might choose to install your own hard drive and save money. They only hook up one way with keyed connectors. Deals on NVR with hard disk installed exist too if you are patient.
The power for POE needs to come from somewhere.
A ‘POE NVR’ supplies the power and records. And costs more.
Ethernet switches some in a few flavors.
With and without POE and/or managed/unmanaged.
Few need a managed switch outside of large networks.
A POE Switch is a local ethernet accessory that can add POE to a conventional NVR that does not have POE capability.
For cameras I do not get 4K 8 megapixel cameras because they use smaller pixels and smaller pixels have less area to gather photons during low light situations.
For me the sweet spot is 4-5 megapixel cameras.
A bit larger than 1080P HD.
More megapixels also takes more space on your NVR recordings.
I use Amcrest POE IP cameras and an Amcrest non-POE NVR.
Amcrest is made for them by Dahua and many Amcrest cameras can be ‘upgraded’ for free by installing Dahua firmware on them. This can add features like better motion detection(great) and people recognition(mediocre).
I also use a PC program called Frigate as an NVR.
I inject power to conventional ethernet with POE switches.
I have 1 Amcrest POE switch. I also have 2 other POE switches.
I suggest you might/could start out with ‘just’ a single POE IP cam if it can also be conventionally powered with a 12VDC 2A wall wart.
That way you can log onto the camera and see how stuff works.
Most IP cams and NVRs have very similar interfaces because the task is the same.
You can just point it out a window for starters. Then since you will have to learn the usage anyways, get a NVR and learn it before you decide where you want everything before you contract the installation labor.
Another benifit of starting slow is learning what lens works best in your situation. Many common IP cameras come in 2 different angles of coverage. Narrow angle(zoom) larger (8-13) mm number on the (long)lens. Wide angle shorter (2-3) mm number on the (short)lens. Zoomable cameras (2.5-14mm) exist too, just like pan/tilt can be added for a price.
The night vision capabilities have to do with how bright the installed InfraRed(IR) LightEmittingDiodes(LEDs) are.
Shorter night ‘range’ cam will run cooler in hot places and extra IR lights can be added close to the area of interest. Far north and the added heat is not gonna shorten the life of everything as fast. It’s still years but may matter because when ladders are involved less is more!
You can also make a “poor mans NVR”(my term) if your router has cifs, ftp, or NFS storage capabilities with a hard disk plugged into a routers USB port. Amcrest (and others) can store data in many places including in the storm ‘cloud’.
That is another way to experiment with just one IP camera!
Last tidbit...
Recording many cameras capturing everything will(might) take up a lot of your networks bandwidth. Many set up a whole seperate router and keep the cam stuff completely off of the internet connected router. Better performance and security.
Learn a bit and watch some video’s on YT.
Keep an open mind about brands and OPINIONS.
Some links to examples on amazon
POE switches
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=POE+switch&crid=2FYQGU6WYBJGO&sprefix=poe+switch%2Caps%2C131&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
***I have a favorite POE switch because there is no wall wart for the power, a wall cord goes straight into this one.
I have no idea if it will last but it works well.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082KM1796/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
There exists a thing called Dynamic Domain Name System(DDNS).
A host on the inside reports the IP address to an outside location. Many home routers have this feature.
An example with a free option is no-ip.com
Others exist with free options.
Look in your router and see who they ‘suggest’.
From the outside you go to yourchosenname.noip.com
If you want CHEAP.
1. Install Linux on that old computer you stored in the basement.
2. Install free and open source “Motion” from https://motion-project.github.io/index.html.
3. Buy 3 or 4 cheap wireless I.P. cams ($25 each). Stick to one model so you only have to learn one setup routine.
4. Use an old router (also in basement) to provide static IPs and DDNS for internet use. Your router manufacturer will probably have a free DDNS service.
The “Motion” software gives you everything you want. Detection, audible alerts, audio, multiple cam displays, zone management, phone interaction, snapshots, storage, etc. I have operated this on an Optiplex 980 (circa 2010) since 2018 with little maintenance.
This is a cheap way, but not an easy way. You have to learn about several things but you won’t have to rely on outsiders.
Knowledge bias: I tripped my kitchen breaker this morning, immediately recalled your post and wanted to suggest (strongly recommended) that you connect the dvr device and cameras to a battery backup. This also impacts logistics for the installation.
Free advice.
Thank you
Low voltage technician can do all the work. Running wiring is not rocket science. Let me look up the company in San Diego where we sourced our equipment for our ferries. I’ll get back to you.
You can get cameras with audio or add a mic to the standard ones (they have hookups). My cameras were positioned 25-30 feet off the ground, and I did not care about audio from them (had a ring for audio if someone came to the door). What was really cool was, from that high up, we had scum that was casing our neighborhood using drones to fly along and look in second story bedroom windows. I was able to see where they parked and launched the drones from, as well as which houses they were casing. We were able to arrest the perpetrator.
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