(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best security cameras

Hello Everyone!

I am looking to get a nice pair of headphones to use with my turntable, a B&O Beogram 1700. The preamp is a TCC TC-750LC (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000A36XZS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
And I will probably be getting a Schiit Magni 2 for the amp (http://schiit.com/products/magni-2).

I don't really need isolation since I live in a relatively quiet home and am not planning on taking these headphones anywhere because they are for vinyl and possibly some gaming, but mostly for my own personal turntable activities.
I've never really had any headphones before, other than the apple earpods which came with my iphone and various cheap headsets for gaming. I would like to try full-sized headphones. Ideally something comfortable for long listening periods.

I tend to listen to a lot of industrial and atmospheric/ambient music. So bands like The Legendary Pink Dots (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpXGeUy2ddE), Nine Inch Nails (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ao-Sahfy7Hg), Swans (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jSdTBGhDSg), Tim Hecker (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NkZVWXK5jM), Oneohtrix Pointnever (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wg6g3uScbqw). To name a few. Theres some variation.

I'm not sure what I'm looking for as far as tonal balance is concerned. I don't know what would make for the best listening experience for these genres or bands.

My budget is $350

Thanks in advance! :)

Hey! I've been working this same problem myself and have tried a few different things.

Since you already have the cameras you want to use, I definitely recommend iSpy -- it's pretty straightforward to add multiple webcams of mismatched brands. You can set it up to record on motion detection, save timelapse images, etc. See here for setting up remote streaming.

Lazy Person Pro Tip: Once, when I was about to head out the door for a trip and couldn't get the web server to work properly for some reason, I set it up to save timelapse images to my Google Drive folder every few minutes. It's not glamorous, but if you just want to make sure your print is still going / house hasn't burned down, it'll do the trick.

I also have a Foscam C1-Lite which is nice to plug in and set up anywhere. It's another option that's great for when you forgot to set something up, but you're about to head out the door and you just want to point a camera at something. The Foscam C1 has IR LEDs/night vision.

The other thing I've been playing with is a Raspberry Pi with this mini camera attached to my print bed for timelapses, but I haven't been able to find a streaming solution that I like. I tried Motioneyeos and another MMAL version of Motion, but anything that I got to work had a pretty terrible lag. Works great for timelapses though.

TT: Technics SL-1300 mk I

Cartridge: Shure M97xe

Phono: TCC TC-750LC

Receiver: Pioneer VSX-1020-K

Speakers: A pair of Pioneer 3-way speakers from the 1970s. Not sure what model.

Headphones: Sennheiser HD555s



I really like the SL-1300. You don't get the equalizer abilities of the 1200, but I'd never use those anyways. I upgraded from a Technics QX-200, which did the job, but this is much better.

My preamp, which I heard at the time was one of the better new pre-amps in the sub $200 catagory. It works very well with my receiver.

Contrary to many people here, I use a modern 7.1 receiver with my turntable. It sounds amazing, and I love having everything tied into one system. I use my fronts from my 7.1 as my turntable speakers, but the Pioneer does a nice job mixing sound into the other speakers if I play with the settings.


edit* Botched the URL. You get it, though...

Those cameras are nice but so expensive and then add to that the cloud subscription and you are adding even more expensive

I recently ordered 2 of these (see link below), after having owned the C1 lite and being really happy with it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T7NX6SY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_tE9oyb4R29R41

Having had up to 5 foscams inside my home over the last 5 years, I have been really happy. These new cameras however have built in micro SD ports allowing me to basically set them up and leave them alone. No need for a cloud, no need for a dvr box or blue iris. If there is ever an incident at home all I have to do is pull the SD card or login to the camera and pull that specific video. Effortless and cheap. I know I know, a lot of people have complained about security issues with the foscams but I keep a pretty good eye on my network traffic and have yet to notice any threats. I also make sure to have latest firmware installed.

My point and personal opinion is, look for cameras with built in SD card port. You will save on cloud cost and maintenence and to live view on your phone all you need is a free dns account and a little bit of Port forwarding on your router. Good to go.

Thank you for your response!

As far as re-capping the speakers, I am confident re-capping them would be pretty cheap, however I do not know if it worth it, as the drivers and design of the speakers may not be very good to begin with. I have played a lot with the placement of the speakers, however the way my room is, the only possible location for them is pushed into the corners (I know, worst placement), due to their size. Part of the reason I am looking at these smaller studio monitors and bookshelf speakers is because I will have greater freedom to move them around.

I would love to piece together my set up with used vintage equipment, but I live in a smallish college town where craigslist and thrift stores are flooded with shitty iphone docks and black plastic crap.

As far as the turntable goes, I am pretty happy with my set-up. I have a debut carbon with a separate mini phono preamp (I know it's not the best, If i could find an amp with a better phono stage it would be nice). My current amp has a phono stage as well, but I doubt it is any good, considering how cheap the equipment is, so i opted for an external one.

If I got the the studio monitors, my setup would go: Turntable > Preamp > simple passive switcher (PC would be on other input) > studio monitors

I may get a passive pre-amp down the road that has volume control as well.

DropCam is good but over priced IMO.

Imogen Studio cameras w/ iSecurity+ service work in similar fashion & you can use them without a subscription to check in on video even listen in & talk through the camera, but you can pay monthly to record video. And both can record in HD though Dropcam does seem to have better resolution, not so much more as to make me pay what they ask for it. Also Dropcam wont let you record on your own device, while Imogen cameras can be recorded while on live view to your smartphone

iSecurity + is $9.99 for a month of storage per camera or $99 for a year
http://www.isecurityplus.com/pricing

Dropcam is $29.99 a month of storage per camera or $299 a year
https://www.dropcam.com/cloud-recording

ImogenStudio +Cam Pro on amazon is 59.39 per camera
http://www.amazon.com/ImogenStudio-Wireless-Video-Monitoring-Camera/dp/B00DV84FYA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416169193&sr=8-1&keywords=imogen+studio


Dropcam Pro $197.85 per camera.
http://www.amazon.com/Dropcam-Wi-Fi-Wireless-Monitoring-Camera/dp/B00F9FCW7K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416169665&sr=8-1&keywords=dropcam+pro

The way I look at it is DropCam & app is like Apple, good design but you are going to pay for it. With ImogenStudio +Cam Pro like android; not as slick looking but just a functional but better price.

I would recommend something like this. It is not exactly inconspicuous (should be easy to hide) but it support local recording via an SD card and should be able to view through a phone app. Dlink is a good company so support should be easy to come by.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PVD13KC This one has a 180 degree field of view and 720p recording resolution.

If you want to same some more money but sacrifice field of view and resolution then here is a cheaper option. Still supports local recording and wifi.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0061MU0A6/ref=twister_B00YUAT8PO?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I would highly recommend this camera from this seller if the area is ever somewhat dark. It has the starlight sensor that is one of the very best for low light conditions. I use these with BI and they work great. if it’s always well lit, you can go with a higher resolution camera and not worry about the starlight sensor like this one. Both of these cameras have adjustable focal length - meaning you can set them wider or narrower depending on the area you want to cover. Ipcamtalk.com forums are very helpful also - they have a BlueIris machine guide showing what older PC’s to look for on ebay that will run BI fine.

Try this Restore File System and this PS3 Rebuild Database.

About the HDD, this one works great for me Seagate 1TB Solid State Hybrid Drive SATA 6Gbps 64MB . You would think it wouldn't work so much with games that are constantly streaming from the HDD like GTA but I think it knows which files are used the most because there's definitely some good improvement, and for other kind of games that load more rarely and mostly the same data it's much better.

If you have the PS3 12GB Model you'll also need a PS3 HDD Mounting Bracket (for around $5 on Amazon) or check this video Upgrade PS3 to 500GB Hard Drive without using HDD Caddy.

Also about Turning it off via the Power Button, I've never had any problem doing that, no corrupt File System or anything. Just don't hold down the Power Button until it turn off because that's forcing it off, just press the button once and let it turn off on his own, it'll take a few seconds but it will.

I have this one, it's been working great for a while now: Tenvis JPT3815W

I've had a few issues here and there, mostly with the proxy setup, but the customer service is pretty good and they've now set their proxy accounts to expire every 3 years instead of every year (all that means if you'll have to contact them in 3 years to get a new one set up).

Oh, and I use the CamViewer app, it's the best one I've found so far. Worth paying for the pro version too (IAP I think), so you can use the 2-way audio.

LOL! Oh that. I bought a little D-link webcam - this one here, although there is a nice model on sale right now at Amazon without the SD card. It is pointed out a window at my car. The software allowed me to tell it what zone in particular to alert to. I eliminated the street so that I don't get alerts every time someone drives by or walks their dog, but if you come up the driveway that's the zone.

It is hooked up to my wi-fi and it emails me and the D-link software sends me an alert on my phone whenever anyone gets near my car. I'm lucky there is a window that has full view of the driveway.

I think I need a webcam, though. A mini van almost took me out on the beltway a few weeks ago - apparently the driver had a heart attack - it was a near miss, but it would have been handy to have that to hand to the state cops instead of having a witness statement taken a day or so later. I was thinking of getting the Garmin GPS/Cam, but apparently those in the know look down on it.

I can't comment as a owner, but I've heard quite a lot of discussion regarding the Amcrest and Amcrest Pro, 720P and 1080P respectively. I have three pro's sitting in my wish list at the moment. Seem to be a great value.

I have several of these cheap ip cameras set up to check on my chickens: https://www.amazon.com/Wansview-Wireless-Security-Surveillance-Monitor/dp/B01JGBIFGO/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1526926522&sr=8-5&keywords=wansview+ip+camera

The motion detection is pretty useless, but it has an audio detection that I've found useful. I get an alert on my phone and then I can check the camera to see what the fuss is about.

My case is obviously different since I'm more concerned with things breaking in rather than out, but they are cheap enough that I have total surveillance on my pens and I can check with my phone anytime to count my chickens and make sure they are all there. They go on sale for $20 pretty regularly and I have a few mounted outside under eaves that have been holding up just fine even though they are indoor cameras.

Just wanted to add my .02, hope I'm not too late.

I use this camera from Amazon ($45 with prime)

and this app (free, $3 for the ad-free version)

I've used it for two years and just purchased a second one for baby #2. It has night vision, and a speaker and mic which I've rarely used but are nice to have. You can control the pan/tilt from whatever device you are using, and probably my favorite thing about it is that I can view both cams side by side at the same time, a lot of systems make you choose one or the other.

Important: These cameras can only be used from your own wifi network, which means I can only view them from my phone or tablet inside the house, my husband can't watch them from work. With a little technical know-how someone could set up a proxy server to be able to view them, but that's beyond my capabilities. You also want to make sure to change the default password on the cameras so they can't be hacked.

This is the one I use, seems to work pretty well! A few of my friends have it too. Not sure about the noise alerts but you can set alerts if motion is detected. I’m not sure I’d want bark alerts if my dog barks at random things lol but worth sharing: TENVIS Security Camera- Wireless Camera, IP Camera with Night Vision/ Two-way Audio, 2.4Ghz Wifi Indoor Home Dome Camera for Pet Baby, Remote Surveillance Monitor with MicroSD Slot, Android, iOS App https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DDBT7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OrD3DbBG5J4PP

If you go to GameStop and get a 12GB PS3 for $100, it'll have far less wear than a normal PS3 console because it can only play a fraction of the games and no one wants to spend the time to upgrade it (or knows how). That's where we're different. Smell the vents for condition and check the laser eye. If it looks good and smells new, and not like tobacco or pets we have a winner.

Grab a hard drive caddy like this one, then get a hard drive like this one.

That drive runs cool, is tougher, installs games faster, and has a 5-year warranty. I've done this very process and it works flawlessly. When you put the drive in the caddy and slide it into the system, the PS3 will automatically recognize it and ask if you want to copy everything to the new drive. You will have a lightly-used 750GB PS3 for $163.

If it's not possible to save up for...See if you can fire up the other system first. High fan speeds mean clogged dust, and many bugbears can be eliminated with a new hard drive. Play a game like Uncharted 2 in it to push the system. If it sounds good after 10-15 minutes of being in game, I don't think anything else is going to challenge it much. The hard drive test will be Yakuza 5. BTW, money is the reason why there's no physical release... Damn mainstream gamers.

Here's the deets...

Record player: Pro-ject Debut Carbon. Fantastic upgrade to the Debut line that is, IMO, well worth the extra $100. After having various record players in the past, I am happy with this one.

Pre-amp: TCC TC-750LC. For a low price magnetic pre-amp, I can't complain. Could it be better? Certainly... Would it cost a lot more? Definitely. For $50, I'd say this is one of the best buys you can get.

Speakers: Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf speakers. Again, a great buy on the low end of price. I believe the set is around $150 retail, although you can probably snag them as low as $100. Nice range in sound, especially on the low end. I am using these as the 2.0 part of a 5.1 surround sound. When playing records, I only run through these speakers, as opposed to a 2.1 setup with my subwoofer. The sound is much cleaner that way.

Receiver: Sony STR-DH800. Nothing to note here. Just passed the sound to the speakers... I'd like to eventually get the record player onto it's own receiver, but my house isn't large enough to warrant a separate system.

Furniture: Ikea, Ikea, Ikea. Expedit, Expedit, Expedit. I have tweaked some of the pieces with some add-ons... But yea, the pictures are self-explanatory there.

Side note, I post some records from time to time on my Instagram account, @hopsandwax.

Thanks for the reply. I agree a PowerShell script would work perfectly for that scenario. I think the 5231 fits perfectly for what I'm looking for. Is this the model you are referring to? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B7K1P28/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kEezCb3P7Q1N5

Thank you for the clarification but your still not being specific. Anytime you are dealing with a dome cam, especially outdoors, you will always have IR feedback off of the dome itself. Alot of people will use a turret or eyeball cam instead of dome while still getting the same form factor and you will not get any IR feedback at all. You still are not clear on what type of application this will be placed on but I will assume its residential and I will assume your able to place a cam under a eve of the home. Most people who are using Dahuas love the starlight cams and the most reasonable is IPC-HDW5231R-ZE 2MP. Once again I dont know what setting the camera will be in or if you even have the need for a starlight cam but this vendor is the best for any Dahua product.
EmpireTech IP Camera IPC-HDW5231R-ZE 2MP Starlight WDR IR Eyeball Starlight Network IP Camera English Version https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B7K1P28/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9oaECbNSCQ600

I bought a reolink cam and spun up Blue Iris demo in a VM to experiment myself. The camera quality and function seems great. I'm piosting up because I did indeed discover a problem that I never would have thought of.

Blue Iris has fantastic functionalities, one of which is highly customizable motion detection and whatnot. I originally had excellent results tunign the detection setup so it didnt catch passing cars etc etc but would catch people in my driveway etc. As a result I even ordered a tp link outdoor AP to beam wifi link to a wifi reolink across the yard too (might be returning it though if I can't figure out the issue with the first one).

The thing I did not think about- BUGS. and not the software kind.

Apparently, once we have a warm night, all the bugs in the neighborhood like to gather around the IR LEDs beaming off the Reolink cam. Not only does it record all night as a motion result, but the camera doesnt know whats going on and tends to go down the impossible road of focusing on all the bugs. If something were to happen in the middle of this, I don't know if it would be visible/usable.


I'm told the answer to this, is to get a camera that allows for the IR to be turned off and use an external IR source for night, so the bugs dont gather at the camera... but of course the reolink cant be turned off... just my luck.

Does anyone know a good cam that does allow for IR to be turned off in the same price range?

Also one more gripe- the reolink android app wants permissions to all your fucking data... grubby bastards. ...not that you have to use it.

If you don't want to spend a lot, these Yi cameras are an amazing value and work really well. No cloud subscription is required (though it is an a available option), data can be stored locally on an SD card, and live and past footage can be pulled up at any time from the app. I have setup many of these over the past 2 years. Essentially a Nest Cam at 1/6 the cost. I continue to be pleasantly surprised by how well they work.

They also make an outdoor version that I have been meaning to try as well.

The sensors on these are so small and the FOV so wide that what you ask is going to be unlikely. I have 4 megapixel security cams at home as well and still cannot make out license plates. The only camera I have that can resolve license plates is this one: https://www.amazon.com/Optical-Outdoor-Camera-Security-601-D20X/dp/B01HTYW2Q4/

This site kind of goes over what you can expect from various resolutions:

https://reolink.com/4k-security-cameras-top-things-to-consider/

​

To see plates, you need 4K or 8MP cameras.

​

This link gives you the math to determine what you should be able to see:

https://reolink.com/can-1080p-ip-security-cameras-identify-license-plate-and-people/

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You would need to calculate the FOV determine what you should see.

The deal with these is the wide FOV. And it looks like we need the lens specifics and sensor size to convert the FOV to a ft. measurement. I wonder if even support knows any of that?

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My Ring Pro can only see plates within a few feet. I actually could test this and see how far away I can get from it.

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Another useful link: https://kintronics.com/calculating-can-see-ip-camera/

"First understand that the number of pixels per ft. (or per m) determines the detail we can see. The higher the resolution of the IP camera, the wider the area we can see at a specific pixel/ft. When there are enough pixels covering a person’s face, we can recognize the person. The lens allows us to frame our field of view. We can select a lens that allows us to see an area 10 ft. (3 m) away or a different lens that magnifies an area that’s over 10,000 ft. (3048 m) away.

​

The lens controls how wide our field of view will be. The wider our field of view the less pixels per ft (or meter) we will get."

Sure. Outdoors I have used their 3MP dome camera (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E7QMFIM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IfwEzbD27N7W7), indoors I have used their slightly cheaper rotating camera (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0145OQXCK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7gwEzbVZHZ8CN). Note that the indoor model I chose doesn't run on POE, but you can run POE to it and then pick up a splitter that separates out the Ethernet and the power at the camera. It can go over WiFi...but I wouldn't recommend that.

I appreciate Amcrest's US tech support, and I've been running them for two years now without issue. They even go so far as to claim Blue Iris support. There's definitely other options, but they're a sound option.

I haven't tried their outdoor bullet cameras, but I'd assume they are solid as well.

Like others mentioned Arduino probably isn't the right tools for the job

Why not one of theses? Probably cheaper than you can build anything and they have apps for remote viewing

YI Home Camera, Wireless IP Video Suveillance System with Night Vision for Indoor Security, Nursery, Pet Monitor, Remote Control with iOS, Android App - Cloud Service Available (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019MMRV1M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.jiKAbVVS8JKQ

Foscam C1 HD 720P WiFi Security IP Camera with iOS/Android App, Super Wide 115° Viewing Angle, Night Vision Up to 26ft, PIR Motion Detection, and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00T7NX6SY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_VjiKAbNHKNQP5

I'd also like to recommend the new "smart" camera systems that are getting very popular. Many of them have the same constant monitoring, cloud backups and they can even notify you on your phone if they detect motion in a certain area.

Many of these have night vision and audio pickup. Some, like the doorbell even have two-way communication so you can talk to someone at your door. you'd get notified on your phone when someone rings the doorbell.

https://www.amazon.com/Nest-Cam-Outdoor-Security-Camera/dp/B01I3I9L8M/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1493922214&sr=1-4&keywords=nest+camera

https://www.amazon.com/Ring-88LP000CH000-Video-Doorbell-Pro/dp/B01DM6BDA4/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1493922243&sr=1-1&keywords=ring+home+doorbell+pro

https://www.amazon.com/Arlo-Security-System-Wire-Free-Cameras/dp/B00P7EVST6/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1493922286&sr=1-1&keywords=arlo+camera

I like Amcrest. These are what I use with Blue Iris. The quality is good. Easy to install and setup.

But... you won't need a PoE switch if you're going to install the wireless cameras. They'll come with a power supply and you'll have to figure out how to plug that in near wherever you install your camera.

Personally, I used wired cameras with a PoE switch so I didn't have to worry about getting power close to my camera locations. Also, wired is easier to work with and configure. And I didn't want to worry about wireless interference messing with my camera's connection to the network.

Here is what I used for PoE:

https://www.amazon.ca/Netgear-GS305P-Gigabit-Ethernet-GS305P-100NAS/dp/B01MRO4M73/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1526650105&sr=1-4&keywords=network+poe

And here is the camera (couldn't find it on amazon.ca, so you're choices may vary):

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01E7QMFIM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

>https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB/ref=ods\_vicc\_blink\_xt2\_compchart

Thank you, my friend, I will consider it. It becomes quite expensive when you add the Alexa too, I currently have Android mobile devices and a Mac, so would need this too.

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I don't know if it's also worth mentioning that something more discreet would be good. So if someone breaks in, they don't know that it's there.

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Again, this is very appreciated.

I just picked up a cam for something similar, this was $30.

https://www.amazon.com/Wansview-Wireless-Security-Surveillance-Monitor/dp/B01JGBIFGO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495137768&sr=8-1&keywords=wansview

The video quality is fantastic, the audio from the camera to you is great, the quality of the "speaking through the phone to the camera" is kinda meh. It doesn't sound like you're necessarily looking for that though, so this should work well for your use case. The wide angle is great, I can see my entire room from the camera on the edge of my nightstand.

I've had to force stop the app for it a couple times but it's worked as soon as I rebooted it. I'm very happy with it for the price.

Here's a before and after from amazon:

Before:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB/ref=ods_gw_ha_vicc_blnk_xt2_dcard_announce?pf_rd_p=1e264819-2dde-4c38-83e6-c26549b2d615&pf_rd_r=68HKG3TFZ4W0TDSTJ4W

After:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB

I love it. Thanks for the recommendation. FYI I have no interest in that product, it was just the first thing I clicked on form the home page.

https://www.amazon.com/Nest-Cam-Outdoor-Security-Camera/dp/B01I3I9L8M

Super easy to install and use, and their cloud recording is the best on the market.

I just installed a Yi Outdoor camera on my front porch. I couldn't find a door bell I liked for pretty much the same reasons. I felt this gave me the least amount of compromises. I have had 2 of their indoor cameras for 9 months and have been very happy with them. Their cameras are basically the Nest cameras with local storage so you can skip the subscription.

The motion alerts work well, the clips always start before the motion. The playback is fast and smooth despite being outside and on the other end of my 3500 sq ft home from my router. I don't know yet how long a 32 GB card will retain, but the indoor camera in my kitchen gets over a week on the card, as the most active room in my house. I expect the outdoor cam to double that.

The Skybell HD was my preferred choice before I found this camera. But anything that is cloud only makes me hesitant because they have a reputation of clipping some of the motion off the recording. (Primary concern with Arlo to begin with) Ring Pro was supposed to be slightly better because it's on full time, not on a battery. But the subscription costs were too high.

Ok so here is the breakdown of what I am doing and a couple more photos of the UI and videos of it in action.

Here is the configuration.yaml and ui-lovelace.yaml files on Github.

The main components that are currently being used on the front end are:

• TP-Link/Kasa WiFi switches/outlets
  
  • HS100, HS105, HS200, HS210, HS220
    
• TP-Link/Kasa WiFi bulbs
  
  • LB130, LB200, LB230
    
• Ecobee 4 with 4 remote sensors
  
• August Lock and Connect
  
• Automatic
  
• Harmony Hub
  
• Foscam cameras
  
  • C1, R2e, FI9928P, FI9900PR
    
• Abode security system
  
• Darksky forecast
  
• Speedtest
  
  I intend for the UI to be displayed on a few Fire HD8 tablets. One that will be centrally located on the main floor of the house. Two others will be used as nightstand clocks in the master bedroom.
  
  At a high level, all I have done is drawn the floor plan and layouts in Sketch and exported individual assets as pngs and position them within a picture-elements card mostly utilizing image and its state_image. I would basically just plop down the button or icon or whatever with style: "top":50% "left":50%. Once the asset was in the UI I would inspect it via Chrome's dev tools inspector and select the parent container that the style was being set on. I would then manually adjust the top and left percentages until I was satisfied. I would then update ui-lovelace.yaml to include the new values and double check them in the browser.
  
  For the buttons, currently the button background and button text are baked into the image but I intend to change that soon. Basically the indicator light is actually the same size as the whole button its just 95% of it is transparent.
  
  Here are some screen caps (since i just posted photos from my phone last night)
  
  Here are a couple videos of it in action:
  
  
• Flipping a couple switches
  
• Switching between tabs
  
  Thats all I can think of for now to answer the basics... I am more than happy to go deeper into anything anyone has any questions about

honestly, PoE IP cams are not expensive anymore, and do not need to be tied to an expensive DVR. If you have a PC that is always running, you can run blue iris with most of these as the DVR software.

these are similar to what I have, and honestly for their price, they make my homeowners insurance cheaper, and they produce a great picture I hope I never have to use. You don't need a stupid fancy system or a high cost system anymore to get a good picture, and what good is a 240p or shitty low res pixelated image going to do you if someone really breaks into your house? can't ID a person if all you can see are a block of pixels.

ReoLink camera with a 16GB SD card built in. They make wired (POE) and wireless if you don't want to buy a POE hub. I just have one right now but I went wired with the hub since I want 4 whenever I have some extra cash. Image is great, app is good and it practically sets itself up.
http://www.amazon.com/Reolink-RLC-410S-4-Megapixel-2560x1440-Waterproof/dp/B016UCNPEE/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1457727439&sr=8-12&keywords=Reolink

Terrifying.

Wanted to drop by and recommend a DLink DCS-942L. It connects to your home network via WiFi or Ethernet (no computer needed), you can use the MyDlink web site and iOS app to monitor it in real-time, and you can program it to record pictures or video triggered by motion detection (saved to a micro SD card -- sold separately). Sees in the dark, too.

I'm currently using one to monitor an outdoor cat shelter. Here's an example of the video quality in IR (night vision) recording from earlier today. If you require higher quality/HD image, you're gonna have to spring for a DropCam Pro, which is well-reviewed but I personally have no experience with.

I know time is a factor so you can't wait on shipping; Best Buy's website claims "most stores" stock the DropCam Pro (but not lesser models/the DLink).

Good luck to you.

I live in an apartment as well and was unsure about how to add things to make the place more secure while not breaching anything in the lease.

• First thing I decided on was the Skylink SC1000. It's completely wireless except for the main panel, and everything goes up with Double Sided foam tape. You can add sensors on, add an additional siren (I have a second one in my bedroom window cutout so I hear it in the middle of the night, and its also audible outside for passerby's to hear). I also have a second panel in the bedroom for arming/unarming. It also has "home" and "away" modes so you can set a 0 second delay on the siren and not include motion detectors when home or locking up for the night. Super affordable and very easy to install and use. They also offer a remote dialer but check with your local 911 PSAP to see if they are ok for use. (in my area they are not, but the dialer calls a relative). I've given the code to my landlord although with 24 hours notice required for non-emergency 'drop-ins', it hasn't been needed.
  
  
• Number 2: I spoke to the landlord and changed the locks and upgraded to a Schlage deadbolt and knob. You know they aren't changing the locks when people move out so there is no telling who has a key still. I just had to give one to my landlord. Schlage also gives you the tool to 're-key' a lock if you key should become lost.
  
  
• Number 3: I put a Brinks outdoor locking lever on my bedroom door. I wanted to ensure a safe place to retreat in the event of a home invasion and I sleep sounder knowing the door is locked and there's a barrier creating a delay between the alarm sounding and someone being in my face.
  
  
• Number 4: A relatively inexpensive IP Camera with Pan/Tilt/Zoom in the living room that covers the bedroom door and main door depending on angle, and another inside my living room window pointed at the walk up for the building.
  
  The last thing that is still on my wish list is a Peephole camera. For now I just throw a hat over the peephole to keep the light from showing whether i'm home or not or if my face just got right against the door.
  
  
  My last piece of advice is that if there is a landline phone, call your 911 center's non-emergency line and ask to test the information received by their system when 911 is dialed. With VOIP, the information could be totally wrong and even misdirected to the incorrect agency. If cell phones are the only thing in use at the house, make sure the cell phone company has the correct address on file. If a cell phone calls 911 and it sounds like there is an obvious emergency (eg: someone screaming) but the person on the line is unable to give clear information or an address, they can contact the cell provider and get a billing address. If the bill is sent elsewhere, an alternative address can usually be added to the account.

the mounts are standard camera mounts and you can them for next to nothing in the states from amazon. I bought these cheapos and they work great, i actually like them better than the ones that came with the lighthouse 2.0's. These were 11 dollars for 4.

​

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0776RVX64/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

​

I got this wifi cam. Yeah I had tested the second cam with cat5 and it worked fine. When I moved it into place, the 720p couldn't hold up over wifi. But I couldn't even get it to connect at any resolution. So I just figured I'd rather have cat5 there anyway as it's a media PC to stream to anyway. I am very impressed with iSpy for setting up a floor plan and positioning the cams. Great program.

Thanks for all the replies here, after reading reviews of the suggested cams and going down the Amazon rabbit hole I think I'm going to try the Amcrest HDSeries (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B017L1JOX4). Will report back with how it works - it appears to be everything I want plus some and the reviews look stellar.

I almost went with the Foscam, but lots of reviews stating the latest firmware update causes issues with the motion sensing. That simply won't do.

Also, SanDisk SD cards on sale on Amazon today. Great timing, me.

Go with a Dropcam - records to cloud, so even if they stole the camera, you have the footage. It's dead simple to setup, has night vision, and has a mic/speaker. It can notify your phone when it sees movement, and if you see someone in your place when you're not there, you can yell at them remotely :)

Google bought them last year, and they're now part of Google's Nest division. It's not super cheap, but it's good quality and easy to use.

Amazon Link for reviews. Good luck, it's a shitty situation.

I do use an app! Here is the camera I have. It's a little spotty at times if it's not connected with an ethernet cord and it doesn't work if the internet goes out obviously, but it's been excellent for the price and for just everyday peace of mind. If you put in an SD card you can even look back at the last couple of days (to check if he ate something weird, etc.).

Put up a security cam, so many great options available now, the BLINK XT2 is one I use and it works great, actually I have the earlier version XT1 but this is the newest one coming out. the Ring Doorbell is also a great camera.

I've tried a few IP cameras but this one is the most recent and I love it.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JGBIFGO/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_OOdwzbV51AN60

Also have used Dahua and Foscam cameras and they have worked well.

Thanks, pal. I'm running a TCC MM Preamp that I've been using for a decade now. I'm not unhappy with my setup, I just tried out the Grados on a hi-setup in the store and have never heard drums punch like that. I figured that the preamp is the weak link in my chain right now.

I was hoping to have something that wouldn't rely on the receiver to sound good. Perhaps this is an unnecessary concern? I'd probably be fine using the receiver.

Easiest setup will probably be a Dropcam

They're a little bit pricier than regular cameras, and you're paying for the convenience of simple setup.

Otherwise, most IP cameras come with software that will record the footage to your computer, like this Foscam or this D-Link

With the wireless ones, you can just plug it into an outlet without having to worry about the network cable stuff, which helps with flexibility of placement.

Probably something like this

IP Camera, Reolink 4-Megapixel 1440P POE Security IP Camera Outdoor Bullet, Built-in 16GB Micro SD Card, Night Vision 65-100ft ,Viewing Angle 80° 2560x1440, E-mail Alert, Motion Detection(RLC-410S) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016UCNPEE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_KgYPybD93RBPP

Normally I wouldn't recommend local recording only because someone can just spot the camera and steal the SD card, but if it's in a balcony you might be ok

FYI night vision at that distance might be dicey. Look up IR floods if you have issues

Check these out: https://www.amazon.ca/YI-Security-Wireless-Waterproof-Surveillance/dp/B01CW49AGG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526159934&sr=8-3&keywords=yi+camera+outdoor

Good price, has night vision and two-way voice. Bought one a few months ago after someone here recommended them and I'm very happy with it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01I3I9L8M/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1524420042&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=nest+outdoor&dpPl=1&dpID=31LqyKxEZnL&ref=plSrch

Would do the trick for you easy setup you mention not being too handy so this may be your best bet.
But maybe you have not considered that maybe you just need a deterrent try getting one of

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00UKV5YDW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1524420161&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=fake+cameras+for+security&dpPl=1&dpID=41IGVrgU0XL&ref=plSrch

Cheap at least sometimes letting them know they are being watched will be all you need get a sign as well
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00YHGJSUQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524420313&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=camera+surveillance+sign&dpPl=1&dpID=51Ur1onvPDL&ref=plSrch

Less then 20 dollars for a deterrent

I got this one
https://www.amazon.com/LeFun-Wireless-Surveillance-Recording-Infrared/dp/B00W9B1GT2
I love it. And later we can use it for security or nanny cam etc. Easy to use and I have it connected to our phones, tablet, my kindle.

I'm a noob as well learning so take what I say accordingly. the best cams for value/quality/night performance are the
https://www.amazon.com/EmpireTech-IPC-HDW5231R-ZE-Starlight-Eyeball-Network/dp/B07B7K1P28

motion flood lights and security cams normally don't play nicely because the camera has to compensate for the suddenly much brighter conditions, which takes it a second to auto focus/change settings , and you can miss important stuff when that happens.

seems most people keep ambient always on lights and/or IR illuminators.

check ipcamtalk for lot more info. Google the model # + ipcamtalk.

D-link cloud based camera with SD card support. I have one and it works great. Plug and play.


http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0061MU0A6/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_30.Stb0YM6Z4Y

I'm all for what this project involves (mcu, spi camera, jpeg encoding, spi wifi, smtp, logging, battery & conservation, etc) but by the time you integrate it all you'll have spent over $150 and all your koi will be gone.

amcrest makes an amazing camera that does all this reliably (sans battery), and also costs less than you'd spend on a DIY solution.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B017L1JOX4/

OK, thanks.

I'll do the same. You mind replying or PMing me if you find a good one?

Edit: What do you think of these?

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01CW49AGG/

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B072JWBJTY/

This is one area related to Smarthome devices where I always implore people to not take the cheapest option. Even if it means delaying the purchase for a little while.
I would recommend something like the Arlo Pro or the Nest outdoor option. It will be worth the wait and you'll be happier with the purchase in the long run.

I use those cameras every now and then. They have DWDR which is Digital Wide Dynamic Range. Its still really good and the majority of the cameras that i install have this type of WDR. Ive imported chinese Hikvision and imported straight from alibaba so any place you get them is fine its more just about the price. You might get a dud one here and there but that happens to everyone, so any supplier is fine.

I usually prefer [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Hikvision-DS-2CD2332-I-Turret-Network-Camera/dp/B00GYHEG0S/ref=sr_1_10?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1452922370&sr=1-10&keywords=hikvision+3mp) style of camera as the IR is focused on the center of the image and it wont reflect off the plastic shell.

I've had really good luck with the Reolink RLC-410S. I have three. They are on sale right now for $60, and there's a $5 coupon on one.

I run mine at 1080P, and the picture is very clear. And if my PVR goes offline for any reason, the camera itself also detects and records motion to the internal SD card.

Amazon Cloud Cam Security Camera, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C4UY0JK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_U7B8BbSSYQB0P

It's great for that! My little one eats 3 times a night!

Indoor 15x15 = wide-angle turret camera. Something like this , which is cheaper than what you listed in your post. Dahua also has some relatively inexpensive ones that I like. Panasonic has their 360-degree offerings you can also take a look at, but they're very pricey.

Driveway + backyard = bullet-style camera. Something like this. I don't know how cold it gets where you're at, but get something that can hack cold temps if it gets chilly.

If you're setting up PoE on an ONVIF-compatible system, you can take advantage of any ONVIF-capable camera (Dahua, Hik, Lorex, HDCam, etc.).

For about $10 you can get sturdy mounts that fit perfectly and you don't run the risk of the sensors suddenly dropping and breaking on you.

https://www.amazon.com/Bracket-Outdoor-Security-Housing-Suvellicance/dp/B0776RVX64/ref=sr_1_18?crid=1NBDUORGF5BSL&keywords=camera+ceiling+mount&qid=1550256485&s=gateway&sprefix=Laptop+TPM+ch%2Caps%2C152&sr=8-18

​

$3895 is a lot too much.

I would go with the 2MP Starlights. These (x6 = 1061.94) are what I would recommend. The seller is extremely reputable, and I've bought a significant amount from him over the years.

I would go with this NVR, with a large WD Purple hard drive. $500-520 Go with the 16 channel, as you can always add more cameras, and not need to get a new NVR.

You can get a 8 Port POE switch for around $160.

I'd go with a bigger screen, 32" minimum.

https://www.amazon.com/LeFun-Wireless-Monitor-Surveillance-Recording/dp/B00W9B1GT2/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1485890242&sr=8-9&keywords=video+baby+monitor+phone

This is what I have and I love it! I can talk through it and I like to use it when my baby is sleeping and I am at work so I can see him some during the day. You can hook up as many as you want. It works with Andriod or Apple phones.

Pretty sure actual security camera mounts are cheaper than the money spent on the materials for those african-engineering mounts.

https://www.amazon.com/Bracket-Outdoor-Security-Housing-Suvellicance/dp/B0776RVX64/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1549053449&sr=8-3&keywords=security+camera+mounts

I use really thin nails and it works fine. The holes are so small that spackle will work great, or toothpaste. There's no way you could find them without a microscope

I mounted these https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0776RVX64/

My friend got these though and they just stick https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XRFVHXJ/

This isn't the most amazing camera, but it's pretty cool. Check it out:

http://www.amazon.com/TENVIS-Wireless-Surveillance-Microphone-monitoring/dp/B006I0KL6Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1376199816&sr=8-3&keywords=Night+Vision+HD+WIreless+Camera

As others have stated, don't worry too much, filter should just run dry and hopefully shut off.

I would highly suggest grabbing a cheap Wi-Fi camera to set up though. I keep one in my fish room for peace of mind. I will link the one I have below.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B071DDBT7M?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

I have a Stack-On Tactical bolted to the floor and studs of a closet. Since I know it is not a safe, I also have a web camera mounted in the back of the closet ceiling. Whenever the closet door is opened I immediately get an email and text alert with links to snapshots and videos. Even if someone disabled the camera I would have already received the alerts. The camera also has night vision. I can also log into it remotely. It's a great additional piece of mind.

If you are comfortable doing a little tinkering I'd recommend checking out your local Craigslist (or eBay). Any used turntable you get would benefit from, or require, a new needle and/or cartridge. On the lowest end you'd want to go it'll be around $30. If it's belt-driven it may also need a new belt depending on how old or abused it was. Those are only about $10-20 so it's not a huge investment if needed. I'd even recommend just getting a new one anyway.

Craigslist would be a good place to get a receiver as well. Check out all of the inputs and outputs if you can, there's a lot that can go wrong and you wouldn't want to be left with a receiver that only has three working speaker outputs. Another option is an integrated amplifier. If you really don't want to go used there's this on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/A1-2x14W-Class-D-Digital-Amplifier/dp/B004FSXON8/ref=sr_1_22?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1382558045&sr=1-22&keywords=integrated+amplifier[1] It seems to get decent reviews and would be great if space is a concern.

If your turntable and receiver don't have an internal preamp or phono out you'll need an external one. My old receiver died and my new one didn't have a phono out so I recently bought this one to hold me over for a few years: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000A36XZS/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1[2] I really recommend it and you wouldn't want to get one that was any cheaper than that.

Buying new, the you can't really beat the two links above as far as price and size go. You'll be able to buy something better used if you are willing to do some digging and risk the potential of it being secretly abused if the seller is sketchy.

Take a look at nestcam if you have a power outlet at the location and wifi reach. It will be your cheapest option. Super easy to set up, just plug in and connect to wifi. Can store 10-30 days worth of video in the cloud, depending on your subscription, and has a portal you could give members access to. I use it at my work and it does the job. We have several set up.

https://www.amazon.com/Nest-NC2100ES-Outdoor-Security-Camera/dp/B01I3I9L8M/ref=sr_1_1/158-5281193-7860732?ie=UTF8&qid=1473898810&sr=8-1&keywords=nest+camera+outdoor

If no wifi is available, it is going to be $$.

This seems like an inefficient and wasteful way to strain isp customer service for people who have an actual issue. If you really care that much, just get one of those internet cameras that Amazon or Google sell.

https://store.google.com/us/product/nest_cam?hl=en-US

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C4UY0JK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_RRqVAb9JPAST4

You could also get an old cellphone buy $5 of prepaid minutes for it, pull the battery out and plug it in to the charger. There are endless macro apps that can send you a text back or just one every 6 hours ect. You could probably find one that tells you if it's charging if you can't do the whole battery thing.

I just saw the articles about Amazon's Blink XT2 today. I am considering to buy it myself.


From their product page:

• No contracts or monthly fees – Free cloud storage for hundreds of clips stored up to a year.
  
• Extended battery life – 2 year battery life on two AA lithium batteries with a combination of two-way talk, live view, and motion recording. Double the usage of the XT on a single set of batteries when recording video.
  
• 2-way audio – Talk to visitors through the Blink app on your smartphone or tablet.
  
• Customizable motion detection – Use activity zones to choose where motion is detected so you receive the alerts that matter.
  
• Works with Alexa – View live streams, motion clips, or arm and disarm your camera through select Alexa-enabled devices.
  
• Day and night coverage – Record and view in up to 1080p HD video during the day and with infrared HD night vision after dark.
  
• Use indoors/outdoors – Blink XT2 stands up to the elements. Place or mount it inside or outside for whole home security.
  
• Easy setup – No tools, wiring, or professional installation required.
  
  
  
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB

This is the one we bought. As long as you set your WiFi passwords to something secure, and make the password on the camera secure also it won't be a problem. People don't just drive around spending their time "hacking" into baby monitors. It's when settings are left default or unsecured that it's easy to mess with people.

Baby Monitor, LeFun™ Wireless WiFi IP Surveillance Camera HD 720P Nanny Cam Video Recording Play/Plug Pan Tilt Remote Motion Detect Alert with Two-Way Audio and Night Vision https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00W9B1GT2/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_vAWNwbTK239Y7

I have this nanny cam. You can set parameters for when it records, it has night vision, you can control it from your phone and move around to see the whole room, and it has a 2 way speaker on it so you can actually talk to your dogs or just listen in on what they're doing. I love it and it's relatively cheap too. Oh and it's wifi enabled so you can move it around your house, you don't have to have confined to one specific area of the house.

FWIW:

​

One of the users on here had recommended Dahua 5231 which I bought from "Empire Andy" (he's popular on IPCamTalk forum) which has 1-way audio - like you, I'm still looking for that "perfect" 2-way audio to use with Blue Iris.

​

Initially, I bought a single 5231 to replace Nest in my garage, and it's been perfect, so I just bought another to replace Ring's subscription on my porch (I'll still use Ring for "calls" and 2-way like what you're trying to accomplish,) but going to just record locally until I can find similar to what you're trying to find.

Posted once before:

• $35 PoE switch - https://www.amazon.com/BV-Tech-Switch-Ethernet-Uplink-Function/dp/B075G2PM17/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1535259448&sr=1-5&keywords=poe+switch
  
  
• (2) $175 Dahua 5231 ZE 2MP Starlight Turret camera - https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B07B7K1P28/ref=dp_olp_0?ie=UTF8&condition=all&qid=1535259602&sr=8-1
  
  
• $60 Blue Iris - http://blueirissoftware.com/purchase/
  
  

• $10 Blue Iris Mobile App - iOS - https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/blue-iris/id585350145
  
• $10 Blue Iris Mobile App - Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.blueirissoftware.blueiris&hl=en
  
  

• $380 Dell OptiPlex 7040 from eBay - https://www.ebay.com/itm/Dell-OptiPlex-7040-Desktop-Intel-6th-Gen-i5-6500-1TB-HDD-8GB-RAM-Windows-7-Pro/223117631628?hash=item33f2d8e08c:g:YEAAAOSwfZta91xQ
  

• Don't need graphics card, just use Intel HW acceleration
  
  

• $118 Western Digital Purple 4TB Surveillance HDD - https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822231535&cm_re=surveillance_hard_drive-_-22-231-535-_-Product
  
  
• $230 Bulk Cat6 Solid Ethernet Bulk Cable - https://www.monoprice.com/product?c_id=102&cp_id=10234&cs_id=1023403&p_id=9482&seq=1&format=2
  
  Total = $1,183
  
  You can either get more cameras, save some money, or spend the rest on misc installation stuff.
  
  
  
  
  

If you don't need all the bells and whistles of a foscam(tilt/pan,wifi) then I highly recommend a hikvision for around the same price. It does 3 megapixel (2048 x 1536) resolution with h264 compression and can power over ethernet. I got a few of them for a business and I'll never go back to the other ip cams. A few of those with a PoE switch and blue iris and you've got a pretty high end system(for a house) for not much.

For a video monitor, I got a cheap-ass security camera that I can access from my phone. Haven't tried i with the baby, because she is still sleeping in our room, but the night vision can clearly see someone walking through the door with no lights available anywhere. It also has audio and talkback. I don't trust WiFi, so the LAN cable access was a huge plus.

I have a mix of different Foscam models. The image is good. Setup is fairly easy and I can access the Pan/Tilt controls via the app also.

Since our family room is at the back of the house, yes! I use the PTZ quite often. It's on a corner mount, on the garage, about 14 feet up, out front. It covers quite well, and is very noticeable to others (which I like). One day, I could hear what turned out to be a pickup truck idling in front of my house, but off to the side, which made no sense. I tapped the PTZ preset for that position. As soon as I did, he sped off. It records 24/7 to a Synology NAS. Mine is this one, without the audio feature:

SUNBA 601-D20X IP PoE+ High Speed PTZ Outdoor Security Camera, 20x Optical Zoom HD 1080P ONVIF with Audio and Night Vision up to 800ft https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HTYW2Q4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_gmSZzb0SC2JH0

Wife bought the amazon camera for ~100 Amazon Cloud Cam Security Camera, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C4UY0JK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PgvvDb3GEYFRM

It’s solid, has sound and you can talk through it

The Hikvisions may not work with them, unless you can confirm that it will, I would stick to Lorex cameras. Looking at the Lorex cameras, most Hikvision models seem to have a Lorex equivalent.

A good general purpose PoE camera is the turret-style Hikvision 2332-I. The closest Lorex model seems to be this one.
What features would you like in the camera, and where are you going to install it. As mentioned in my guide, these factors affect the model you should choose.

Daniel

I got a $30 IP camera and use it for exactly this. Anyone can access it from their phone/tablet/computer with the camera ID and password. If you want it on a bigger display, you can just plug a laptop/tablet into a TV and set it up.

I got this one and it’s been working great: https://www.amazon.com/Wansview-Wireless-Security-Surveillance-Monitor/dp/B01JGBIFGO

This is the one I have: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071DDBT7M/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It is inexpensive, works well and was very easy to set up. You can also talk to them through the camera and the app.

I got 2 of these cheapos {$29.99}, and love them...

40 dollars on amazon will get you what you need. Look for TENVIS HD IP Camera - Wireless IP Camera with Two-way Audio, Night Vision Camera, 2.4GHz & 720P Camera for Pet Baby Monitor, Home Security Camera Motion Detection Indoor Camera with Micro SD Card Slot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DDBT7M?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA0U00R37239

http://www.amazon.com/TENVIS-JPT3815W-Surveillance-Microphone-monitoring/dp/B006I0KL6Y

Cheaper than a Pi/Cam setup. I own one, plan to buy another. I use it for my 20 month old Daughters room. Pan & Tilt lets me see every corner of her room. Took me 10 minutes to setup and that included mounting it on the wall. Works on any system (iOS, Android, but for Linux, OSX and Windows, its web based). Built in WiFi, but I prefer to hardwired it. Port forwarding lets me check in when im at work.

The only real benefit to the Pi/Cam setup is its higher resolution, which is far cheaper than current 1080p CCTVs.

I strongly suggest you get camera mounts like these ( https://www.amazon.com/Bracket-Outdoor-Security-Housing-Suvellicance/dp/B0776RVX64/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1543318104&sr=8-8&keywords=camera+mounts ) so you can mount the cameras high up pointing downward. Otherwise the desk will get in the way.

Nest hasn't sold a Dropcam branded product in a while, it was likely a 3rd party seller, although on the Amazon site it can be confusing about the manufacturer vs the seller.

For example: https://www.amazon.com/Dropcam-Wireless-Monitoring-Security-Camera/dp/B00F9FCW7K

The title says: Dropcam Pro Wifi Wireless Video Monitoring Security Camera by Nest

but if you look at the small print, it says "sold by AG LLC".

I think your best course of action is to file a complaint with the Amazon seller that they sold an unsupported version of the product and ask for a refund.

If it's the super slim you'll probably need a HDD mount thingy since it doesn't come with one by default (you're not replacing a HDD, the 12gb is flash memory).

https://www.amazon.com/Nest-Cam-Outdoor-Security-Camera/dp/B01I3I9L8M/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1483586112&sr=1-2&keywords=nest+outdoor+camera

Problem solved. I use this and absolutely love it, for my packages, when i'm home, everything. 30 days storage and a slick phone app.

42" - Here is the exact x-pen I got off Amazon. It's very heavy, but you can tell it's high quality. Looks like it went down in price too ($70 now).

Here is the wireless internet webcam I bought You have to be a little tech savvy to set it up, but it has really come in handy sometimes.

Wyze probably because its cheap. You also have Amazons own camera, Amazon Cloud Cam Security Camera

Dont have this one so I cant tell you if its good or bad but reviews seems ok.

EDIT: you wanted pan and tilt...
https://www.amazon.com/Security-Compatible-720P-Surveillance-Detection/dp/B075NF3F95/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1541715530&sr=8-14&keywords=alexa+camera

>or you could go with the 12g model for $200 since you already have a HDD.

For anybody considering going this route, you will need a hard drive bracket, as the 12GB Super Slim does not come with one.

He gets that question a lot. Here's the link:

SUNBA 1080P HD, PoE+, 20X Optical Zoom, Night Vision up to 350m, Audio, Outdoor Waterproof, High Speed IP Network Security PTZ Dome Camera ONVIF(601-D20X) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HTYW2Q4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_KDymzb8R88F45

FS: TENVIS Wireless IP Camera Got this and never even took it out of the box because I got another wireless camera as a hand me down. $30.

You can also shorten most Amazon product URLs even further: "https://amzn.com/B07MMZ2LTB" — you just can't do that with Smile.

Yup, really pleased with this Dropcam Pro so far.

Well an old iPod is about $100, and probably doesn't have an image sensor as good as this one. Plus, how do you get the iPod to do motion detection and be weather resistant? All of a sudden, the price makes a bit more sense.

Go for a $180, lesser quality turret camera and the ipod makes no sense

Spectrum TV aside.. the ONE thing that I haven't found in the Linux community is a DECENT camera software.


My brother installed a NEST camera... holy shit.. this thing is amazing. But you have to have the iphone/apple app... to watch the video.


I'm still searching for decent applications like this one... but I hear you... "keep on trucking."

I use Amcrest cameras. There's 2-way audio, pan/tilt with great range, night-vision, and motion detection notifications. Technically there's storage/replay as well but I haven't gotten that set up yet.

the bracket is $7 delivered. Right now the 12GB model is the way to go, since it can be had with a game for $170 delivered from amazon. a 500GB bundle is $250. You can get a 500GB drive for $45 delivered easily. adding a $7 bracket still leaves you below the $80 price difference. I suppose if you prefer the games that come with the 500GB (Batman 3: Beyond Gotham & The Sly Collection Bundle) that might make enough of a difference to get the 500GB. But the 500GB will not run without a hard drive, whereas the 12GB will. Something else to consider.

What is the consensus on Reolink cameras?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016UCNPEE/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A22EYB2OIILVQA

and

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019MMABCI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A22EYB2OIILVQA

might fit the bill

I heard good things about wanveiw https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01JGBIFGO/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1524014856&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=wifi+camera&dpPl=1&dpID=41LfjLyj7KL&ref=plSrch

I'm looking at buying a 12GB PS3 because I have a 750GB laptop drive I was going to put in there. I didn't realize it didn't have a drive bracket. So I need to also get something like this?

Here's a link to the Amazon page for it: https://www.amazon.com/TENVIS-HD-IP-Camera-Detection/dp/B071DDBT7M

From what I saw in the settings UPnP seems to be turned off as well.

I wanted a full PTZ camera that could do license plates as well. Live on a dead end street and have people driving through my yard. I went with this SUNBA: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HTYW2Q4

I have had no issues with it and never use the IR mode because the street and parking lot lights are enough where I am at. Here are some night time shots https://imgur.com/a/3nxBWdU It's really hard to get a moving plate, but with this camera there is a much greater chance then most.

> Obviously we need to make going in there regularly a thing

You might also want to consider a motion activated security camera. I installed one of these the other day and all it requires is wifi and a wall plug.

http://www.amazon.com/TENVIS-JPT3815W-Surveillance-Microphone-monitoring/dp/B006I0KL6Y/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1405896597&sr=8-6&keywords=Ip+cam+ptz

Anything that looks like this, there's a bunch of them they're all cheap they're all essentially the same with slightly different software.

All of them have motion detection that will send an email to. That is to say you don't need any other software.

I love the camera I got and I’ve recommended it to two other people who also bought it and love it. I travel for business so it gives me so much peace of mind to be able to see my house and cats when I’m out of town.

This is the camera I got: TENVIS HD IP Camera - Wireless IP Camera with Two-way Audio, Night Vision Camera, 2.4GHz & 720P Camera for Pet Baby Monitor, Home Security Camera Motion Detection Indoor Camera with Micro SD Card Slot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DDBT7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_rJbKBb16RNGXQ

You could point it at the front door or a point of entry and use the app to be able to see when you hear a noise. I also have monitored security because it just makes me feel a lot safer. Sometimes I’m alone at night and I want to get drunk and smoke a little weed and not get freaked out or feel scare when I hear a noise. The security system makes me feel like I have security guards at every door and window. I pay $40 a month but they make you sign a contract and that sucks a lot.

Next I’m going to get mace or pepper spray. I’m not a paranoid person but I am a moderately attractive female, and I travel for work so I’m often alone, in strange places, I just don’t want to live in fear.

Yi Outdoor camera for $120 from Amazon. It's 1080p and records to micro SD card. Notifies you when it senses movement, and doesn't require a paid subscription. You can sign up for a subscription, but it works totally fine without it. Has infrared LEDs for night vision. https://www.amazon.ca/YI-Security-Wireless-Waterproof-Surveillance/dp/B01CW49AGG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1521083704&sr=8-7&keywords=yi+camera

I installed it overlooking the driveway, and tucked the power cable to the edge of the garage door. The facade of my garage is all thick ass brick, and I'm not about to try to drill through it. The cable is only about 10 feet long, but you can extend it with a USB extender, which is what I had to do to reach the power outlet inside the garage. Pic of my install https://i.imgur.com/BA3KP5R.png

I've shown family members my camera, and they all want one now.

If you're just looking to make the stream public... I stream (rtsp) my weather cam through OBS to youtube when there is something worth streaming.

If you actually want to give public control to a cam... I got nothing for you.

You don't need a fancy security camera. Point something like [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Foscam-Indoor-Wireless-Viewing-Detection/dp/B00T7NX6SY) out your window.

Amazon just discounted the Nest Cam Outdoor to $135. I think Nest themselves is doing it at $149: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I3I9L8M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

4 of those cameras (3 outdoor, 1 indoor) plugged into a PoE switch.

Everything is recorded with motion detection on a Blue Iris Windows VM supported by my FreeNAS system.

Pictures snapshots during motion detection are uploaded to Google Drive.

My only gripe with Blue Iris is the lack of Unix support and the web interface is really cheap, but at least it works reliably.

Do you have a computer lying around that you can leave running 24/7? An IP camera with POE would only require 1 wire or you could buy one of the 2.4ghz wireless cameras.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006I0KL6Y?cache=3667ce998dd932cebdb1fa65ba077691&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&qid=1404399667&sr=8-4#ref=mp_s_a_1_4

I have two of these overlooking my back yard. They work great but aren't exactly a hidden camera.

I don't trust the adhesive strip mounts, so I got these and screwed them in. Works great.

Get this amazon branded security camera; it records any movement and notifies you real-time while movement occurs. Even if they were to steal your camera, footage is automatically uploaded to the cloud immediately. There are no required monthly fees.

Amazon Cloud Cam Security Camera, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C4UY0JK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_n61RCb26R1ED4

Deal of the day Blink XT-2 indoor/outdoor camera

I remember using one of these before. An old coworker lent me this when he gave me an old turntable, when I had to get my own setup I purchased this guy.

http://www.amazon.com/TC-750LC-BLACK-Professional-Moving-Magnet/dp/B000A36XZS/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1410671938&sr=1-2&keywords=tcc+phono+preamp

Anyone happen to have an opinion on my current preamp vs the ART one?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB/ref=ods_vicc_blink_xt2_compchart

Yi makes an outdoor camera.

https://www.amazon.com/YI-Security-Wireless-Waterproof-Surveillance/dp/B01CW49AGG

Though, I would install a rated out door ip camera that way you can add to it as you build your system.

I used the wired version, but check this out and see if it'll do it....
https://www.amazon.com/Reolink-4-Megapixel-2560x1440-Detection-RLC-410S/dp/B016UCNPEE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487361249&sr=8-2&keywords=reolink+4mp+sd

New outdoor blink camera was just released today, double the battery life and talk back. Out may 22nd.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB

These are not IP rated so not waterproof in case of rain. You can set them up beside windows from inside.

Else get this: https://www.amazon.in/dp/B01CW49AGG/

Yi is a brand working under Xiaomi.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MMZ2LTB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_QWZunKxMqEo4A
2 year battery life apparently, noice

They do! https://www.amazon.com/Amcrest-HDSeries-Wireless-Surveillance-IPM-721S/dp/B017L1JOX4/ref=br_lf_m_jywmdeywusa73t8_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&s=hi

It is the Nest Outdoor Camera. https://www.amazon.com/Nest-Cam-Outdoor-Security-Camera/dp/B01I3I9L8M/

You could get one of these, and monitor it via any web browser:

http://www.amazon.com/Foscam-Indoor-Wireless-Viewing-Detection/dp/B00T7NX6SY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454111636&sr=8-1&keywords=Foscam+indoor+wireless

62 bucks, not prohibitive at all.

https://store.nest.com/product/camera?selectedVariantId=NC1102ES&utm_campaign=product-listing-ad&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=NC1102ES&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_OiynMam2wIVheNkCh1UhwfEEAQYASABEgLaN_D_BwE&dclid=CMjdpZ7GptsCFY64yAodHL0KrQ

or
https://www.amazon.com/Introducing-Amazon-Cloud-Cam/dp/B01C4UY0JK

Thoughts on these ?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B016UCNPEE/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8#nav-search-keywords

Forgot I also need long network cables.

I have a gigabit switch now but the ports are mostly used for my network already so I think it makes more sense to get an additional POE switch vs the injector.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B071DDBT7M/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1520223032&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=home+security+camera+system&dpPl=1&dpID=41mPbcBE%2B0L&ref=plSrch

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0776RVX64/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526002175&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=oculus+mount&dpPl=1&dpID=51jrBIvIo6L&ref=plSrch

I'm a bit paranoid so I have my car on watch 24x7. For street parking you can get a dash cam with Buffered parking mode, after testing a few I have determined the Blackvue DR900s is pretty awesome feature wise and also mounts cleanly in the challenger. It has time lapse parking mode with buffered event recording (rolls back a few seconds and records in real time) when motion or shock is detected.

​

I have a nest outdoor camera on my parking spot with their 10 day storage package. It's got person identification so I get notified when a person walks in the zone I mapped out around my car. T

​

Both will catch footage of the act in progress, which is good enough for me at this time. I don't generally park where the car can be damaged, but if it becomes a need an alarm with shock and proximity sensors would be my next step.

No referral, just a link to Andy who has these cameras, and they have been reported as being very good at light with little or no light.

Regarding the firewall, just put all your cams on a vpn, R u using a nvr or doing Blue Iris?

https://www.amazon.com/EmpireTech-IPC-HDW5231R-ZE-Starlight-Eyeball-Network/dp/B07B7K1P28/ref=sr_1_1?m=A329YQ83EBQGJF&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1537974972&sr=1-1

Just google those and ya can see alot of people doing day and night testing with them. If ya buy the U.S. version you will pay around 500-600 each, these are all English cameras, I am mounting 3 of them for starters on the front of my house.

I can post a jpg showing who makes which camera also if ya wanna stay away from Hik, since alot of store cameras here are made by them...

Cameras are so cheap now it's worth getting real ones for peace of mind. You can get a Blint XT2 2-camera kit for $180 regular price but I've seen them as low as $100 for two on sale. They're completely wireless so you just screw them in, set up the app, and call it a day.

​

Edit: Pedanticity

> https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B016UCNPEE/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8#nav-search-keywords

you read my mind, imao, you cant go wrong with those, i regret my self having spent 30 on cheap chinese cameras and not having gone with this, i mean, quiality (2k), field of view, auto focus, u name it.

Dude restraining order NOW. that is some psycho shit. You and your gf are in extreme danger. Get some security cameras and put them at your shop and your home. Here is what I am planning to get.

TENVIS HD IP Camera - Wireless IP Camera with Two-way Audio, Night Vision Camera, 2.4GHz & 720P Camera for Pet Baby Monitor, Home Security Camera Motion Detection Indoor Camera with Micro SD Card Slot https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DDBT7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ifCLzbJ23JZX7

As another mentioned, infrared LEDs placed in your window (facing out) would ruin any video he would try to take at night and a cloud-based security camera put up (like the Nest cam) would work to record the bursts of audio in the middle of the night.

The amp isn't super loud, it's 3.5W-5W. My phono preamp is one of these http://www.amazon.ca/TC-750LC-BLACK-Professional-Moving-Magnet/dp/B000A36XZS which I've modified slightly (better components and switches for resistive and capacitive loading).

Is 89dBs low for what I am doing? I do think my amp is undersized perhaps...

I'm looking at my first set-up too and was looking at the TC 750-LC

But I'm an idiot and don't know anything, so don't take anything from what I have to say.

Then may I suggest this:

>http://www.amazon.com/TENVIS-JPT3815W-Surveillance-Microphone-monitoring/dp/B006I0KL6Y

Basically you run it off 12v, connected to http://www.amazon.com/Hawking-HiGain-Directional-Corner-Antenna/dp/B0000DIET2 if you're only running say less than 1km. It (the camera) has a servo controller and you can just run it directly off a 12v supply, so a single http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__18788__12V_4_5A_UBEC_2_5S_Lipoly_7_2_21V_.html can give you the power you need. You can add as many batteries as you need, and for the other end just take the cheap adapter the comes with the camera and cut the wire for splicing.

I just think jumping to and from 120vac is a bit of a waste and will cost you 3+ times as much money.

No worries! Those are outdoor Nest cams, not the newest 4k version though.

I think this one (I hate the new editing, but to the left of the parentheses is a link)

Same for the ad copy itself.

Reminds me of the Foscam C1 Camera, which is pretty good in terms of hardware, but a nightmare to work with because everything from the manual to the configuration web pages to the warning dialogs are in such terrible english it's nearly impossible to figure out. I bet all Foscams have this problem.

I use this. Admittedly, I don't have a ton of experience with cameras, but this one works just fine (esp for the price). My only other camera experience was with the Furbo, which was a terrible product. I don't use the two-way audio b/c I think it just scared my dog to hear a disembodied voice, but it comes with that feature.