Clueless Newbie needs help!!

[all-eyes-open 0]

Hello all!! Wow, this will be a second forum (other is hot tubs) that I will be on!!

 

Here is my scenario--we live in a nice residential neighborhood that includes you garden variety teens that like to cause trouble--I know things could be worse--no one is getting shot at, but I also don't want anything stolen again, or my house tick tacked without proof on who did it.

 

SO, my hubby and I are looking into wireless systems--we both have decided we like the Astak wireless system for $179 on Walmart. We would like a DVR and a monitor of sorts to hook it up.

 

Me, being a chick and all--thinks that a TV/Monitor is going to show what the cables connected tell it to show--that if we want 4 channels (we do) to show up, all it depends on is cables,... Now, we have no real expert in our area to 'splain all this.

 

Nutshell--I want 4 cameras, which will include 2 receivers, a DVR and a monitor---can I just purchase ANY dvr/monitor/tv?? Will I need specific cables?? Or, do I need specific items that can show 4 channels on screen, that will be able to record each screen vs all 4 at one time?? (yes, motion activated would be nice).

 

Thanks, I will have to keep reading==I just found this forum!!

All help is super-duper appreciated---

 

eyes

 

 

addendum--I would like to purchase a monitor/tv/dvr system-whatever combo-that I can view 4 channels and record (pref motion activated) as well, for around $500 (since th cameras will run about $360) or can I just buy a general laptop (with dvr capabilites) and cables??

 

Thanx again!

[odd ballz 0]

SO, my hubby and I are looking into wireless systems--we both have decided we like the Astak wireless system for $179 on Walmart.

 

all-eyes-open,

 

Are you serious? Walmart has quality security cameras? I'll stop by tonight and check it out. Are you looking for quality video or just "video"? The difference is VCR quality or HDTV quality? Do you need to see at night? How far away? Is it pitch black, or do you have a lot of light pollution from the streets? Are you mounting cameras under the soffit, against a wall, on a tree? There are many questions you must consider before finding a solution. I'm sure a lot of us can give you "a" solution, but help us understand your situation. Is someone with mechanical savvy going to help install? We like to share information, but need to know your commitment level to this security project. How much information have you learned from reading the other posts?

 

Odd Ballz

 

p.s. $500? Buy cheap, get cheap (more or less). It'll be tough to get close to this price. 4 IR outside cameras, 4-ch MPEG-4 DVR, hard drive, cabling, power supplies, wireless tx/rx, adaptors, and tv monitor: $700-$800.

[dopalgangr 1]

Walmart?? Are you joking? I could draw a better picture than those cameras show, keep in mind if you have wireless phones at 2.4ghz they will more than likely interfere with each other.

 

I would go for the Costco package at least before I based my home security on Walmart. At least with either if they are too bad for your taste you have the no questions asked money back refund available.

 

Good Luck

[all-eyes-open 0]

Here is our basic needs, best as I can describe.

 

Again, being clueless to the brands (and I don't want to get caught up purely in brand recognition), I was hoping Astak was a decent brand--despite where it is sold--I realize many good brands make cheap models.

 

Our plans our for wireless, no one really electronically savvy here-so no routing of cables. We are hoping to place some cameras under soffit, and having the monitoring system on the main floor of our house. To answer the "wireless phone" question, our phones are 5.8 Ghz. We would prefer a wireless system.

 

Price wise--we would like to keep things under $1000 installed and ready.

 

Our basic needs are to monitor our house, we have also had some vandalism from some local teens, and would like the proof on video. In addition, I like to have the "extra eyes".

 

I am looking at night to see 30-50 feet, any further would then be onto neighbors' property. Color cameras and audio are definate pluses. We would like a 4 camera system with a 4 channel monitor (that can see all 4 cameras at once) and some sort of recording device (dvr pref.) I have a TV (LCD) but have thought about just having a laptop or regular desktop with DVR capability if that would work. I don't know if that would suffice, and what kind of cables I would need if it could work. An all-in-one system would be ideal. I have never looked at Costco==but I will scope it out. I attempted to have a link to the Walmart site, but was under 5 posts=so that failed.

 

I guess, we want a primo system for under $1000.

 

Astak CM-906D2 is the model we are looking at.

 

Thanks all!!

 

"eyes"

[all-eyes-open 0]

BTW--forgot to add, I don't neccesarily need internet monitoring while away, record time is a plus.

 

As far as reading the forum, I had to work last night, and was unable to do much reading. I will have to catch up on things.

 

Now that I have 5 posts, I will attempt to supply the link--

 

 

Oops--error message=I haven't been a member 10 days yet, my bad.

[odd ballz 0]

BTW--forgot to add, I don't neccesarily need internet monitoring while away, record time is a plus.

 

As far as reading the forum, I had to work last night, and was unable to do much reading. I will have to catch up on things.

 

Now that I have 5 posts, I will attempt to supply the link--

 

 

Oops--error message=I haven't been a member 10 days yet, my bad.

 

 

If you are "clueless", "new" or anything similar then that isn't a problem; but, you have to help us out by showing us you really are interested in this technology and to do a lot of your own research. Why? I'd imagine there have been times, when people come here for suggestions that they aren't willing to pay a company for answers to their questions. Is it a big deal? It could be. IMHO, this forum exists to offer suggestions and possible solutions, but not necessarily do the work for you (and I don't been installing it). There are many users here that own and operate there own companies. There are "brand" names we discuss, but you'll soon discover in your research that an identical item can have 4-5 "other" brand names.

 

Brand name? Everything seems to be built in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other Asian countries so I will not suggest "brand names". I believe most of us read the specifications, hence the importance of your requirements, and I'd suggest you follow that path. Doing business at Walmart, Costco, or other retail business has advantages. But you must weigh the options on savings, convenience, and quality. I'd vote you won't get them all doing business at major retail store. You will at a local security company like some of the folks here. In addition, you will get quality and timely support... my opinion, you will not get that at Walmart.

 

So here's a breakdown of your requirements:

 

a. Under $1000. You can buy a system from someone here, major retail outlet, or online. Suggest you look at specs and reputation of seller (not brand name).

 

b. 4 cameras - wireless only. The Walmart camera could work for you. I know nothing about it other than this: Link to Walmart Astak CM-906D2 . Does it allow you to distinguish camera 1 from camera 4? I don't know. Does it have special cables? I don't know. Have you googled it?

 

c. Record time is a plus: Depends on your requirements (record 4 cameras or 1 camera), at what resolution, how often record (24/7, motion sense driven, scheduled time), size of hard drive, # of hard drives DVR can handle.

 

d. No internet networking: Most ever DVR will have networking, email, and ftp capability.

 

e. Night vision at 30-50': Basic rule of thumb. If requirement is X feet, then you will need a camera able to see 2 times X feet (50' reqt = 100' spec). Night vision published distances is always 50% less for usable viewing distance. Walmart camera says 45'; usuable (you can see facial feature) is only 22.5'.

 

f. Soffit install: See other posts for suggestions or google is your friend.

 

g. Monitor viewing: TV is better resolution picture; computer monitor requires special VGA adaptor at $50.

 

h. BW or color: BW = better sensitivity, higher resolution; color: usually does both, but not always IR for night viewing. Usually powered by 12VDC w/500ma (or higher current).

 

i. 4 camera recording, DVR: MPEG-4 or H.264. Most all have networking capability whether you need it or not. Can view all 4 channels at once. Motion sensor activated in standard in most DVRs. Come in flavors of 4 ch, 8 ch, 16 ch, 32 ch, 64 ch, and higher. Cost baseline: Each channel is about $50 each WITHOUT hard drive so 4 ch = $200

 

j. Cables: Typical cable is Siamese cable (RG-59). Typical connectors: cameras: 2.1mm for power and BNC for video; DVRs: BNC. Note: Costco systems use RCA. Easy to buy adaptors are available to change connector types.

 

k. Position of camera is crucial. It's like hunting. Is there a corridor where people "must" walk because it is obstructed by bushes, fence, pond, etc. That's your target area where you will most likely capture your event.

 

 

Does this help? Again, I you'll need to know more research. This isn't an easy task or decision. And there is LOTS for you to learn. If you have the willpower, and the time, then this forum is EXCELLENT. The people here are super brilliant. But if you want this project to be easy, then it's always best to speak with a local specialty seller some of whom you will find here.

 

Hope this helps,

Odd Ballz

[all-eyes-open 0]

Odd Ballz--

 

It does help alot, thoug I won't lie, it is overwhelming. The only reason I haven't gone with a "local" company, is, there are none I can find. I tried Verizon Superpages for Pgh area--little came up. I do have appointments with ADT and Guardian, if for nothing else, a general fire/sec. system.

 

I will have to keep reading as I have time==working nights this w/e.

 

Thanx again!

eyes

[odd ballz 0]

Odd Ballz--

It does help alot, thoug I won't lie, it is overwhelming.

 

Yes, it can seem to be overwhelming. But I see you are interested in learning, so the time will go by quickly. It's better to be somewhat knowledgeable, then having no knowledge especially when having to discuss your requirements to a vendor or if you plan on doing a "do it yourself" project. If you don't have a home security system, i.e. alarmed doors and windows, then I would highly suggest you start there. The DVR camera system can integrated into it (yes, it will be more for you to learn). Do these companies (ADT, etc) have knowledge? I can't vouch for them though they are trying to get customers to install camera security in my area. I'm sure you will do great... after all, we were all there at one time... and for me, well, I continue to learn from these great people here. If you want interesting reading, check out the posts on the casino cameras... talk about high tech stuff... facial recognition, tracking cameras, etc... and expensive!

[all-eyes-open 0]

What is funny, is, the only other forum I have been on is Hot Tubs (even though I currently don't own one, have been looking to purchase) and it was just as overwhelming!! That doesn't even include the chemicals!! And when a newbie suggests they want a Walmart/Sams club/Costco spa, everyone goes nuts!!

 

So, having checked out the Costco lineup--seems there is a lot of Q See and Clover--one other post about CLover DVR's wasn't positive---

 

THus--

 

I guess a general question is--What recommended brands in general are recommended?? I haven't googled anything yet, but I will, when I can.

 

I am happy I found this forum, though,... hope I won't drive all of you nuts with my questions

 

eyes--

[all-eyes-open 0]

do you have a lot of light pollution from the streets

 

I don't believe I answered this question before-- There is not a lot of light on my street--there are no street lights, just an occasional house light/light post, and our primary landscape lighting is solar.

 

Not to keep rambling-bear with me-as far as checking "local" dealers--I haven't really found anything in my area that deal just with security systems other that ADT/Guardian (as mentined earlier). I would love to be able to walk into a dealer's store and become edubicated heehee. I have looked and walked into Radio Shack--not much there, Swann was their only wireless system and I have not read good reviews. The Astak system I am currently debating on had one review by a customer who was pleased thus far.

 

4 camera recording, DVR: MPEG-4 or H.264. Most all have networking capability whether you need it or not. Can view all 4 channels at once. Motion sensor activated in standard in most DVRs. Come in flavors of 4 ch, 8 ch, 16 ch, 32 ch, 64 ch, and higher. Cost baseline: Each channel is about $50 each WITHOUT hard drive so 4 ch = $200

 

I think 4 channel is fine for my needs-pref. Motion Sense recording, though there are 2 trees in my front lawn, and if that causes a recording to occur, well--I guess I will go through alot of memory. I know there are ways to delete prior recordings not needed--will learn as I go.

 

The people here are super brilliant

 

I have no doubt!! hee hee!! Electronically I am undereducated. ICU nursing--my cup o' tea. SO, on that note, gotta get back to work.

 

--eyes--

[Lolo Wolf 0]

As you are ICU nurse Im sure you understand the importance of using reliable field tested equipment that you can depend on as well have good insight in the use and performance of any device (be it a heart monitor or a cctv camera/dvr) that being said most products will peform based on two thoughts #1 the quality of the devices and #2 the install of the devices.... a good start before you purchase and setup any system is to first on paper work up a complete design layout, area to be covered, devices, power- specs locations and then research all methods of image retrieval for evidence in the event needed for legal action. If you are going to go the budget route before you invest a lot of time and money I would suggest you purchase only one device (start with a cam) and try it out see if you are satisfied with the image result on a local monitor before you get a complete system. A cctv system like any other electronic system can be measured by the sum of its parts with correct electrical install and attention to detail more so with outdoor applications. Beware of typical "plug and play" off the shelf setups, better to design a quality system that will fit your needs and that you can count on and maintain. There is a wealth of info on the web from basic to advanced learning curves on cctv technology and install (codes-safety etc) just be wary of retail-selling specs and hype on performance. Good luck-good health.

[odd ballz 0]

If you are going to go the budget route before you invest a lot of time and money I would suggest you purchase only one device (start with a cam) and try it out see if you are satisfied with the image result on a local monitor before you get a complete system.

 

I agree with Lolo Wolf. When I started my project, I started with a camera only (great specs, no brand name) for outdoor monitoring. I was impressed with the near zero light image (Lux 0). Wiki: Lux Defined You'll need a camera with infrared (IR) which produces it's own "light" so the camera can see. For comparison purposes, it's like being in a pitch black room at night; but you saw everything as if it wasn't dark... mind you, it was b/w, but you can see... almost as clear as day i.e. Survivor TV series at night. I used a regular VCR to record a timed event like a TV show, and played it back on my TV for viewing purposes. It was my "eyes" while I slept comfortably. I then upgraded to a basic hard drive DVR for low cost since I was new. I went with a AV760m. I guess I got lucky since it seems to be a good unit, but for now, it serves it's purpose. Since then, I've added other cameras and the system is grown to 4 cameras. Will I increase quality? Yes, but for now, I will continue to "play" with my system... always learning something new. Is it a toy? Absolutely not! It's a security tool to help me understand everything that happens when we aren't at home, at night, and just about every thing in between. I know exactly when the delivery guy comes (got it on video), and if anyone is snooping in my mailbox. Rest assured, the time and money spent in a quality system can pay big dividends when required (i.e. local vandalism, or loitering). Think of it as an insurance policy... no one wants to pay into a program that may never help you out, but one day, when you really need it, you'll be happy you did. Think quality. That is, if you think you'll need quality. 380 lines resolution is fine for TV... 600 lines resolution may be overkill... so why not choose something in the middle like 420 lines? What's the difference? Google is your friend... you'll see actual image comparisons with various lux light conditions and camera field of views.

[Smit9352 0]

What area do you live in?... I know installers all around the globe.

If you don't mind posting a town/state I may can narrow down someone for you or possibly the largest town around you/state.

 

Thanks,

John

[all-eyes-open 0]

John--

 

We are south of Pittsburgh (aka, Steeler Country). I was hoping there would be a place of business we could visit, that sold and installed security systems. If there is someone/something you know, it would be great!! I will try to do some forum reading today, as long as cleaning.

 

Thanks all of you who have replied!!