Do it Yourself Video Surveillance

Basic Video Surveillance

• Traditional video surveillance uses a camera that records on a video tape, which is the simplest option for those who are not tech savvy. No need to connect it to a computer and install video surveillance software. You need a regular camcorder to set up this kind of surveillance. Hide the camcorder in the room where you want to monitor the activity. You can watch the video playback on a television.

  The biggest drawback of this kind of do-it-yourself video surveillance is that it does not allow live surveillance. The video playback also takes a lot of time even with fast forwarding. The length of the surveillance also depends on the length of the video tape used in the camcorder. Traditional surveillance is not suitable if you need to record for extended periods of time.

Computerized Surveillance

• Computerized surveillance is a popular method of home security. You can set up this type at home using inexpensive webcams, more expensive security cameras or motion sensitive cameras. Or you could purchase smaller "lipstick" cameras, which are easier to hide.

  Surveillance software is the key aspect to computerized surveillance in the home. Choose a program such as Digi Watcher, HomeCamera or Crazy Pixels. The surveillance software will capture the signals from your cameras via wireless transmission, then use the Internet to send the signal to a remote server. This means your recordings will be saved even if your cameras and computer are stolen or broken.

Camera Location

• Regardless of the type of camera used for video surveillance, the most important factor to consider is the location. Place cameras in a discreet spot where they are not easily seen by others. Position the cameras in strategic areas around the home. Set up surveillance in any room that contains valuables and external camera positions that face outward and allow you to see who is approaching the home. Many people also like to place cameras at the front door as a convenient way of knowing who is ringing the doorbell.