1. Welcome! Please take a few seconds to create your free account to post threads, make some friends, remove a few ads while surfing and much more. ClutchFans has been bringing fans together to talk Houston Sports since 1996. Join us!

  2. Watching NBA Action
    The Timberwolves are roughing up the Nuggets, can they hold on for a Game 2 win? Come join Clutch as we're watching NBA playoff action live!

    LIVE: NBA Playoffs!
    Dismiss Notice

[Home] Security Cameras - Any recommendations?

Discussion in 'BBS Hangout' started by Sajan, Apr 2, 2016.

  1. Sajan

    Sajan Member

    Joined:
    Apr 18, 2009
    Messages:
    8,348
    Likes Received:
    5,794
    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?
     
  2. Blurr#7

    Blurr#7 Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Dec 12, 2007
    Messages:
    5,276
    Likes Received:
    3,453
    Call my brother, he does this for a living. He can hook you up 281-986-7681 his name is jay
     
  3. alexcapone

    alexcapone Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Dec 10, 2004
    Messages:
    1,349
    Likes Received:
    543
    1 person likes this.
  4. BenignDMD

    BenignDMD Contributing Member

    Joined:
    May 27, 2005
    Messages:
    2,011
    Likes Received:
    104
    What about Nest Dropcam?
     
  5. Space Ghost

    Space Ghost Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Feb 14, 1999
    Messages:
    15,111
    Likes Received:
    6,268
    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.
     
  6. Sajan

    Sajan Member

    Joined:
    Apr 18, 2009
    Messages:
    8,348
    Likes Received:
    5,794
    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.
     
  7. Space Ghost

    Space Ghost Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Feb 14, 1999
    Messages:
    15,111
    Likes Received:
    6,268
    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.
     
  8. R0ckets03

    R0ckets03 Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Nov 11, 1999
    Messages:
    16,326
    Likes Received:
    2,041
    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.
     
  9. Gabe0941

    Gabe0941 Member

    Joined:
    Sep 28, 2015
    Messages:
    890
    Likes Received:
    800
  10. Xerobull

    Xerobull You son of a b!tch! I'm in!

    Joined:
    Jun 18, 2003
    Messages:
    33,448
    Likes Received:
    31,042
    Be careful with buying them from Amazon; lots of fake reviews to boost security cams.
     
  11. HR Dept

    HR Dept Contributing Member

    Joined:
    May 31, 2012
    Messages:
    6,792
    Likes Received:
    1,223
    Dropcam is going to be the easiest set it and forget it solution.
     
  12. MiddleMan

    MiddleMan Contributing Member

    Joined:
    May 20, 2005
    Messages:
    3,293
    Likes Received:
    267
    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.
     
  13. DieHard Rocket

    DieHard Rocket Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Sep 9, 2000
    Messages:
    9,386
    Likes Received:
    1,114
    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.
     
  14. Sajan

    Sajan Member

    Joined:
    Apr 18, 2009
    Messages:
    8,348
    Likes Received:
    5,794
    does dropcam support multiple cameras?

    say 1 at the rear entry and another at the front?
     
  15. Pizza_Da_Hut

    Pizza_Da_Hut I put on pants for this?

    Joined:
    Jul 16, 2003
    Messages:
    11,323
    Likes Received:
    4,118
    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.
     
  16. R0ckets03

    R0ckets03 Contributing Member

    Joined:
    Nov 11, 1999
    Messages:
    16,326
    Likes Received:
    2,041
    Yup. You just sync to your online profile/app.
     

Share This Page

  • About ClutchFans

    Since 1996, ClutchFans has been loud and proud covering the Houston Rockets, helping set an industry standard for team fan sites. The forums have been a home for Houston sports fans as well as basketball fanatics around the globe.

  • Support ClutchFans!

    If you find that ClutchFans is a valuable resource for you, please consider becoming a Supporting Member. Supporting Members can upload photos and attachments directly to their posts, customize their user title and more. Gold Supporters see zero ads!


    Upgrade Now