RobSteward

Now THAT looks promising. Thanks, Rory! I fired off an email to Specotec with some questions, but this may be exactly what we are looking for. In case there's more good input, here's the questions I sent them: 1. I notice that the signal can be set from 5 to 80 seconds. We intend to have a dedicated monitor for the video; is there any way to have the video always on? (And is there a way to cycle from camera to camera every few seconds... or even split off to a standard quad-viewer?) 2. We'll want four cameras. If we were to want more, is it possible to "stack", "chain" or "piggyback" two AV switchers (for a total of up to 7 cameras)? 3. Do the black-and-white cameras have built-in infrared illumination for night? 4. Do the color cameras offer any nightvision options? (Some color cameras can switch to black-and-white at night.) 5. With multiple cameras, can you view the image from any camera at any time you want, or does video *only* happen when there is motion? 6. Are the motion detectors "smart"... are they prone to false positives from blowing leaves, small animals, etc.? 7. How loud is the "chime" and can a louder (indoor) alarm be attached? Can the chime be set to repeat or stay on until disabled--or does it only chime once? 8. How well do the cameras handle temperatures from zero to 32 degrees Fahrenheit? 9. Is there a maximum cable length? 10. We have no need for recording, if that makes a difference in any of these questions. -Rob Steward

I'm definitely closing in on the issues, here. I found a system with cameras which include PIR motion detection--which would eliminate the need for two systems (motion alarm plus video). The system is a Lorex SG-14Q5381UQ. The cameras are weather resistant, and you can purchase an optional shield/housing for added protection. The manual lists an infrared illumination nightvision accessory, but these are color cameras... so the IR illumination shouldn't work, right? This system is very close to what we need in terms of features. Any thoughts, warnings, alternatives or suggestions? Thanks!

Oops. I obviously forgot to state a key detail. We want these to be external cameras, monitoring several approaches to our house. Thanks so much for the suggestion, though. I'll certainly take a closer look around that website. If at all possible, we would like to avoid needing a computer. Thanks again! -Rob

We're not opposed to being able to record, it's just not one of the fundamental requirements. Thanks!

I am looking for a self-installable home security setup of cameras and motion detectors. Preferably, the cameras themselves would include the motion detection... in their circuits or even as on-board PIR (passive infrared). We don't need any 3rd party monitoring of these cameras (we just want to view the cameras from inside and we want an audible alarm inside when motion is detected). We also don't need any recording. Wireless would be a big plus. Four cameras is probably sufficient, but 5 would be even better. We can't seem to find any off-the-shelf solution that seems to fit the bill here. Our budget is less than $2000. Is that impossible?