[FLACer]

I'm looking for suggestions/experiences with a wireless type home/small business security camera system that has the ability to record activity to either a VCR or HDD.

The resolution of the cameras would have to be adequate enough to identify faces and not just a simple description of an individual such as "the person was wearing a blue sweater", etc.

The budget for this project is up to $1000.00 and ideally this system would have four cameras to start and be able to add more in the future if need be.

Thanks in advance for any and all feedback.

 

[blueroomelectro]

Some NAS devices (Synology is what I use) can also act as a DVR for WiFi security cameras, motion detection and all sorts of fancy options are available. An added bonus is you can monitor them from any web browser if desired.
Plus all the great stuff a NAS can do.
http://www.synology.com/support/faq_show.php?q_id=381&lang=us
A driveless DS110j is $189 and it's a 5 minute job to install a 2TB SATA HD.

 

[coldcanuck]

I have the same enquiry, however I have different specs and budget. I would want a DVR at least four digital camera capability and would want to use PoE, high-def digital cameras (~1.3 megapixel or higher). Including a DVR, Looking to spend $3,000.

Any suggestions?

coldcanuck

 

[danbcman]

I can say this test the camera before buying, try it in the same lighting conditions and the same distance from camera to subject print a capture make sure quality is there before you through all the setup and tweaking to be let down.

 

[ctown6412]

Blueroomelecto, are you on DSM 3.0 now? how do you find the motion capture? and what file format does the box record in? im curious if we could open the files with a different viewer. Im seriously considering the DS211 as our NVR, IF the motion works well!

Very interesting products that synology has

 

[coghlan]

I just bought a Panasonic BL-C230A as a petcam/vacation cam. It will buffer(record) images based on triggers (motion, sensor, external inputs) and can even e-mail still photos to you.

I suggest trying something like this ($200 or so) before you get into a complete system w/DVR.

It's really cool to be able to look in on your house when you're away.

 

[andrew.r]

The Panasonic cameras have a good reputation and the suggested one in the above post is an excellent starting point.

I have several wireless IP cameras and each one has its good points and shortcomings. For example my Intellinet wireless IP camera is terrible at maintaining a connection at a farther location that the others have no problem with, but it delivers and excellent picture even at night.

The less expensive cameras all come with digital zoom which definitely will not meet your stated requirement and a camera with optical zoom will demand a premium ... so $1000 is not that much if your are looking for more than one camera.

Also, do not rely on the bundled surveillance software that is included, you will have problems and limitations and there is generally precious little support that is of any use.

I have done a fair bit of research and have battled the included software packages and would strongly recommend purchasing a surveillance package called Blue Iris.

http://www.blueirissoftware.com/

 

[moonzero]

I don't actually prefer to use wireless cameras, I don't remember where I read but It was written that wireless camera signals can be captured and bypassed center unit.

IMO, this issue might be related to basic pure models.