Network cameras

[ecross]

This morning I was informed by our neighbors that they saw some supicious activity outside. Apparently, the suspicious individuals were trying to break into our garage. I have been looking for a security camera for outdoor use to install back where my garage sits. The garage is about 50 ft from the house. I have not delt with cameras but I think a wireless camera might be what I need. Possibly a network camera might be the way to go, too.

If anybody has any experience or has suggestions regarding security cameras, it would be much appreciated.

[jdc2000]

How much light will be available in the area to be covered by the camers(s)? You may need to look at low light performance of any camera(s) you are considering. Also, what price range are you looking at? Do you want to be alerted in some way when motion is detected?

[ua549]

I've always used Axis cameras. They have cameras to fit your needs including IR and low light models.

In the past I used IR cameras around the perimeter of my house, but they are not suited to identifying an intruder. They are good at detecting an intruder in total darkness and sounding an alarm.

IMO you are better off staying away from wireless cameras since they can be defeated easily. I used wired power over Ethernet. It saved having to run electrical circuits to each camera location around the eaves.

[ecross]

Lighting may not be a problem. There is a motion senser light the comes on when you come so many feet from the garage. I just want to view recorded video is what I'm really after. Sounding alarm isn't that important.

The budget would be $200.00 or less.

[ua549]

You may want to consider an 850nm or 940nm led floodlight (ir illuminator) to use with a b/w camera. Most will turn on automatically at dark. The light can't be seen by human eyes but the camera is sensitive to it. It makes cameras perform as if in daylight. That's an advantage with low end cameras.

[ecross]

Any models from Axis you recommend?

[ua549]

I've never used an Axis camera that is within your budget, but the M10 series may suit your needs. Newegg has at least one model within your budget.

[Train]

Might want to spend a little more and get a version where you can read license plates and see faces clearly.

[ecross]

The Loftek 543 Outdoor Wireless/Wired camera might suit my needs. This one might be the one I'll purchase.

http://www.amazon.com/Loftek-Nexus-5.../dp/B004Y9OPC2

[ua549]

That 40° viewing angle is quite narrow versus the 84° view from the M10. You may want to check it from your proposed mounting place. That said, the price for the Loftek is quite low.