Any of you guys run a DVR security system? | Page 2 | Homestead Security | Forums

Thanks for the info. It is impressive that it is sending that image quality over the same BNC cables.

Hah -- the drive way alert was DOA on arrival. I followed the instructions for pairing the base station and remote sensor but it would never work. Called the company and they are sending me out a new unit.

KVR -- are your dogs ever outside? Just feed them a little less and let them get hungry -- the next guy that comes in your yard is toast!

I am thinking of going this route since I already have a computer running 24/7 for solar data logging (a netbook) and I think I may be able to get higher image quality for a cheaper price.

Camera - seems like a decent camera with good reviews and a wide angle lens

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Power Over Ethernet Injectors - will allow me to run only a single 300 ft Cat6 ethernet cable out to the camera that will also carry power:

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Cat6 direct burial - 300 feet:

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TOTAL: $254 (I am hoping to use an OpenSource DVR security camera utility on the laptop)

Pro's:

- I don't need a new router or switch and the amount of power this will draw should be a minimal increase

- I don't need to buy an LCD screen and find a spot to mount a monitor dedicated for the security system (we don't have a TV)

- I think I could install this one camera quickly -- in half a day or less. The larger analog systems will take longer because there are more cameras.

Con's:

- If I want add any additional cameras, say a second camera out on the driveway -- one to get the car come and one to get the license plate (in MI we only have plates on the back) then I would need all three of these pieces again, camera, poe injector, and ethernet cable OR have an outlet close enough that I can plug the camera in (my camera locations don't have this). So adding more cameras is much more expensive than with analog CIF or D1 cameras (but maybe they are higher quality?)

- I've got to piece all of this together and hope it works, especially with the DVR software and there will be multiple pieces that will all need power and the power use will add up!

So... if I went this route I would only have 1 camera vs. 4 with another solution, but it would be installed faster and for potentially less money.

The wife wants also wants me to install some split rail fencing at the end of our driveway to make it look nicer and also alert folks that it is a private drive, the no trespassing signs I guess aren't cutting it.

I am hoping to install the camera first, if I can swing the cost of it, since I think it would be easier and have an immediate effect on security.