New to ip cameras, Looking for Advice/ Few Basic Questions

[WirelessIpCam 0]

Hi All,

 

I'm completely new to the security camera/Dvr, and wireless market. I've searched the web trying to get information on different setups, reviews and such, with very little success.

 

It seems there are thousands of products and the reviews out there are lacking details.

I've looked into a D1/ Dvr combo, as well as ip cam/nvr combo information. There is just too much noise online and not enough clear information for someone that has no experience with any of that.

 

I have a few questions, maybe someone can share their experience and expertise:

 

- I was hoping to find information about how to set up an ip wireless camera, and use a tablet with an app to record when needed. As i understand, i could also use a wired ip camera with a wireless router or port/switch and also use a tablet with a dvr app.

 

The idea is to avoid spending money on a dvr- that only offers limited resolution, and the operating and set up learning curve is pretty steep. Also wireless dvr options out there offer very poor fps performance.

 

Of course what i'm describing is entry level/ consumer products from lorex, swan, night owl, and such.

 

As i understand it, right now, an inexpensive ip wireless camera would offer great picture quality, and the wifi bandwith would be a nice fit together with a tablet, but i cannot find any information on the limitations of such a combination.

 

I'm imagining such a system would have a few advantages, such as:

-each component can be exchanged in case of failure, ( such as a router, camera, and tablet)

-wireless camera can be placed anywhere, and moved around

-with a tablet app dvr set up, the whole system could be turned on and off when needed, and would be super easy to use and operate by a person not technically inclined (once properly set up- of course).

-wireless range could be adjusted/improved via wireless extenders.

-viewing the recorded footage from a wifi tablet would be easier and more convenient than having a stand alone dvr/nvr location.

 

I have read that wifi tablets have a very limited range when it comes to their wireless bandwidth performance, but i would like to know if that would be a problem, since from what i've read ip cameras do not need a lot of bandwidth. ( I would not be using full hd resolution, more like 720p at most- also this would be a one camera setup).

 

Please feel free to share your knowledge on these variables, and what is possible and what is a problem in such a setup. (if i missed specifics that affect this setup, please let me know and i will clarify my priories and goals for this setup)

 

Thanks in advance.

[Don Stephens 0]

My first piece of advice would be to stop looking for something cheap. Ten years of dealing with wireless setups has taught me that when you try and save money by buying inferior products, you end up paying for it in the end anyway when you have to start replacing the hardware within a year or two.

 

People who start with systems from companies like Lorex almost always end up upgrading with a couple years of that purchase. Skip the middle man and go with a system that's built to last.

 

I also wouldn't put too much stock in reviews that you find. This industry has become littered with dirty sales techniques involving the creation of fake reviews as a way to upsell their own products. You need to be going by recommendations from trusted sources as to who a reputable dealer might be.

 

As far as how to set things up, that's usually more complicated than anyone is going to be able to put into works for you on this forum (especially with wireless systems). If you're fairly comfortable with networking, it's probably something you can get through on your own, but more than likely, you're going to need some professional help when you get passed the cheaper commercial systems.

 

I'm aware of applications that you can record video segments with, but it's going to eat up storage on a tablet pretty fast if you're doing it often. Also, if you're do this from outside of the network, you'll usually have to record it at it's substream because of bandwidth limitations so you can kiss your resolution goodbye. An NVR would be the way to go if you can afford the extra expense.

 

Hardwired, for now, is always going to be cheaper and better when compared to wireless. Running cable isn't everyone's favorite thing to do, but it's well worth the time investment. I always tell people not to go wireless unless they absolutely have to.

 

You can PM me if you have any questions.

[ride525 0]

 

People who start with systems from companies like Lorex almost always end up upgrading with a couple years of that purchase. Skip the middle man and go with a system that's built to last.

 

What is the problem with Lorex (who is made by Hikvision, or at least some are)?