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Home > Turn your computer into a video surveillance center using some of the latest PC-based home security cameras available
January 11, 2011
By: Lynn Bryant
Video surveillance cameras and security systems come in
all shapes and sizes and with a varying degree of options.
Systems range from the extremely simplistic to the very
complicated, and anywhere in between. Choosing to utilize
your personal computer as the base for you entire
surveillance system can be a good way to simplify the
monitoring and management tasks that go along with
surveillance operations. In this article, we will discuss
options for PC-based home security cameras that allow you to
create your own home surveillance system by utilizing the
power of your personal computer.
The following are three basic ways to create your own
PC-based video surveillance systems.
- Utilizing a USB based web camera -- Perhaps
the simplest and fastest way to set up your own PC-based
security system is to utilize a web camera with USB
connection that you just plug right into your PC. These
cameras are very inexpensive, and can be quite
functional at performing simple surveillance tasks.
Software packages are also available that work with
these types of web cameras that can add functionality
making them more effective video surveillance tools.
- Utilizing a wired or wireless network camera -- A
network camera is designed to be connected directly to your
local area network within your home. These devices can be
networked either wirelessly or via cabling to interact
directly with your personal computer. If your network is
connected to the Internet, there are network cameras
available with built in web servers, which allow for remote
accessibility through a standard web browser. This can
greatly increase your surveillance effectiveness as well as
your viewing options.
- Utilizing PC-based hardware -- This method essentially
consists of you building your own surveillance system by
adding components to your PC. By utilizing this method, you
can create a personalized video surveillance system that is
built right into your own PC. This will give you the
greatest level of flexibility, access to the most robust
features, and the ability to easily upgrades and expand your
system should you future needs change.
If you choose to take this approach, you will need to
utilize a video capture board, which will facilitate the
capture, processing, and storage of video retrieved from
your video surveillance cameras. Video capture boards come
with built in ports, which allow you to connect your video
surveillance cameras directly to the board itself.
All of these methods are effective at providing you with
a complete video surveillance system that can be controlled
and managed directly from your personal computer. If the
idea of having this type of surveillance system appeals to
you, you should carefully assess your surveillance needs and
preferences to determine which method is most appropriate
for you.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and
contributor to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your
definitive guide to video surveillance equipment, CCTV
cameras and wireless security systems for home and business.
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