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AT&T's video security monitoring service is an innovative pathway to remote video surveillance

May 29, 2008
By:  Lynn Bryant

AT&T has a video security monitoring service that provides customers with real-time remote video surveillance capabilities through their cellular phones. Their service, which is called, AT&T Remote Monitor, has made it easier for families to stay connected with their homes and loved ones while they are away. Small businesses would also benefit from the ability to remotely view store traffic or monitor cash register activity. During the remainder of this article, we will take a closer look at the features and benefits this security video monitoring service provides.

This relatively new service from AT&T gives customers remote access to both live and recorded video from the video surveillance cameras located within their home. Other specific features of the service include:

  • Comprehensive alert features -- The Remote Monitor service provides automated alert functionality that can be easily customized. For example, a user can program the service to send a text message alert to a specific cell phone when motion is detected. In addition to sending a text message, you can also program the system to automatically turn on specific lights within your home, or automatically trigger a surveillance camera to begin recording. Customized alerts can be sent either through email or text message.
     
  • Extensive environmental sensor options -- Most video surveillance cameras on the market today come with some type of motion sensing device. The cameras that work with AT&T's Remote Monitor service do as well. However, you have the option of incorporating several other sensing devices as well. You can purchase sensors that monitor activity at any windows or door, sensors that monitor for water leakage, and sensors that monitor for temperature changes. Incorporating this comprehensive array of sensing devices ensures you will be kept apprised of any abnormal event the moment it occurs.
     
  • Remotely control lighting in your home -- You can also purchase wireless power controls to incorporate into your monitoring system. These allow you to remotely control the lighting as well as other major appliances within your home. You can set the system up to automatically turn lights on when a sensor detects an abnormal event, or you can remotely turn the power on or off as well.

AT&T's Remote Monitor service is available to all customers that subscribe to AT&T's wireless services (formerly Cingular Wireless). The service will work with the following compatible cell phone or PDA devices.

To get started with the Remote Monitor service, you will have to pay a one-time fee of $199.00 to purchase the Basic Starter Kit. Larger and more feature-laden kits are available at higher prices. Then you will have to pay a minimum of $9.95 per month thereafter to gain access to the service. The Basic Starter Kit comes with a fixed position IP camera, two Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) modules, a wireless door/window sensor, a wireless gateway, and all necessary software and instruction manuals. You can also purchase additional cameras or sensing devices to easily expand your system if you desire. .

If you have been thinking about incorporating a video surveillance system that provides remote monitoring capabilities for your home or small business, you should consider this service from AT&T. If you are interested in learning more about this service, you can visit their website at www.attrm.com for more details.

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.

Also See:  [ Top 5 ways to maximize nanny surveillance system usage ]
[ Home surveillance with video-based personal security equipment ]
[ Advice on choosing the right DVR security systems ]

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