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Does Hikvision camera model "DS-2CD2F52F-IS" have 2-way audio, as in speaker and mic [built-in]? If not, what is the cheapest solution that would I need to get this set up? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LAPRZ9C/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza

If I were you, I'd spend just a little bit more and get PTZ as well a "well renown" name branded camera: https://www.amazon.com/Hikvsion-megapixel-DS-2CD2F52F-Security-Waterproof/dp/B01LAPRZ9C ~$175

I have this question too. Pictured replies would be helpful too.

I have this question too. Pictures would be nice.

I know, a typical post probing for the best rated camera. But, I can't find a list anywhere of good/high rated security camera's. I used the search feature but it's not very helpful. Here's what I'd like: HD IP 5MP+ (best possible) ^ @ >= 15fps 1 Bullet 1 Dome IR Color <$250 etc Thanks in advance everyone-

http://www.amazon.com/3744x1408-30FPS-Bracket-Security-Camera/dp/B011KLCO2Y/ref=sr_1_11?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1444772408&sr=1-11&keywords=%22+5mp%22+-game&refinements=p_36%3A-27500%2Cp_n_condition-type%3A2224371011 Urban Security Group 5MP Camera USGSTIP7175MH265 The specs look amazing, right? Or, am I missing something?

I'm not very good at adjusting these things, quality wise. I'll let someone else chirp in on that one. iSpy is Open Source; denoting software for which the original source code is made freely available and may be redistributed and modified. There's definitely a script that can be updated to setup email to be sent on alarm. It's not hard at all and utilizes a script feature built-in. I thought port forwarding would be just as secure with a password.. Idk, but you can let me know if you need help setting it up

ispy is not free. They charge monthly for remote viewing and alerts. The software is free (https://www.ispyconnect.com/pricing.aspx), but you're right; "remote viewing" and "alerts" aren't free. For remote viewing, use the IP of the camera, instead of the software. There is a script that can be used to allow free alerts to be sent from iSpy; bypassing the requirement of paying for it. I've used both options and the free software when I was trying it out!

Thanks @Boogieman. Any suggestion where to start? There's quite a lot that I do understand of what affects a better camera. Like distance, light, lens, compression etc. There's always more to learn. I'm looking for the best camera that has the best picture quality (used to show good detail) for my dollar while recording at 15fps or perhaps even better. Thank you much.

Sighthound is my favorite paid software (free to try), since it has object tracking capabilities. iSpy is my favorite free software.

Here's the story. I need 4 camera's and 2 camera's will need to be able to read license plates with PTZ. ~3000ft cable and a NVR/DVR. Obviously all the accessories along with this to make it work. I would be running cable in the ground and am just looking for the lowest maintenance system with the best quality. I personally am pretty tech savvy (not with surveillance systems) but would like to set something up for a friend that requires little to no maintenance. The camera's will need to be high enough quality to view license plates ++2mp or ++600lines. ||My concerns regarding the design: With Ethernet, an IP address is required, which I believe also requires software and firmware on the camera side. I see this as a potential point of failure? Do you agree? This is mostly my concern about IP based camera's. Can you tell me, do the COAX camera's have firmware/software running on the camera? I don't think they do? I am also curious about the quality of digital vs analog?... Coax is analog right? So would you recommend IP camera's or COAX? So would you recommend Analog or Digital? I also don't know what camera type to get HD-SDI, SD, HD, AHD, 960H, IP, ? ,? Please help!

I think HD-TVI or IP is the way I would go, unless someone else can point me otherwise. I know there is a point of failure with software and firmware, but even still I think I will go with IP since your advice is that IP simply isn't necessarily less reliable because of this. I will put IP on the internal network and set the nvr for internet access to limit bandwidth consumption. Is there someone I (my friends boss) can pay to design a system/layout and then I install it? Although, I must ask: What are CCTV (HD-TVI) maintenance/troubleshooting tasks?: (ie, interference, power issues, color issues? etc) What are IP maintenance/troubleshooting tasks?: (ie, IP conflict, firmare updates, camera reboots? etc)

Thanks for the feedback. What do you think about AHD? I am really just thinking about reliability and maintenance....