Parents want to install a couple of cameras for security. They want to be able to monitor via internet. I have no idea how much decent cameras cost...would it be possible to keep it around 250-400?
If you want to stay between 200-400 you will have to go with coax as opposed to PoE. I personally bought this PoE system and am very happy with it: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...&cm_mmc=TEMC-RMA-Approvel-_-Content-_-text-_- It was selling for $450 during Black Friday.
For that price range, yes it can be done a couple ways. First understand there are CCTV systems and IP based systems. CCTV is lower resolution while IP can give you true HD. There is a significant difference and I recommend the IP based system. CCTV will get you a full package, however you will sacrifice quality (both video and equipment). The DVR will be a a very low end and cumbersome to use. You can also do IP based for that price range, however you will need to provide a computer that will always be on. Ubiquity provides the NVR software for free. Cameras are about $100.00 a piece plus the purchase of Cat5e. You can also purchase Blue Iris NVR software and buy any IP camera that it support (Blue Iris support a wide variety of cameras). Again, that will run you about $100.00 a cam plus Cat5e. If you need a full IP based system (ie: you dont have a always on computer), those full packages get into the several hundred dollar range.
definitely want IP cameras. Is dropcam still good? I keep reading how it's gone to crap since google bought them. I don't need a lot of cameras..just 2-3 at the most for now. what they need is to be able to view videos/images remotely.
You're looking at $200.00 a cam plus CVR fees, which can run $300.00 a year. I recommend hard wired systems over wireless. They are more economical and you do not have to worry about them dropping out.
I have dropcams - nestcam at my place and a bunch of business locations. Does exactly what you want and below $200 I think. So easy to use.
Heard good things about these: Super easy to install since they're wireless https://www.arlo.com/en-us/
I have them for almost a year. The only problem is that you will have to switch out the batteries every 2 to 3 months. Don't used rechargable batteries they have a shorter shelf life.
Had a Dropcam at a previous apartment after there were a few break-ins and loved it...until it just flat out stopped connecting to our wifi. I don't know if it was something to do with our router, ISP, or the dropcam, but we didn't really need it anymore so just took it down. I haven't tried it at our new place. I'd still recommend it based on the features (email or app alerts for noise/motion was really nice, login online or via the app instantly to view, etc.) because I think whatever technical issue I had was probably an isolated incident. The only downside is it would get costly to add more than 1 or 2.
Arlo is great for people who want a quick and easy set up. Wireless, and the cameras operate by batteries. You have to change the batteries once and a while but it's great.
