Tuesday, March 8, 2011

How to set up Spy Cameras

By Pete Phaedrus


I am often asked, in my line of work, how to set up spy / hidden surveillance. I am posting here a quick primer that should get you up and running quickly. Enjoy!

1. Decide what type of camera you want to use.

Sometimes all of the options can be a little daunting. There are a number of things to keep in mind here.

What kind of hiding do you plan on doing? We sell pin hole cameras which are wired but very small, camera boards which can be integrated into all sorts of stuff but require wiring as well, and tiny wireless camera setups. A major part of the hiding process is dealing with the wires. If you decide to use a wired camera you will have two wires to deal with. First is the data cable which can be either BNC or RCA.

BNC is pretty much a cable TV Cable wire with the exception of the end which is modified into a spring loaded twist lock which prevents it from coming apart. RCA is the Red Yellow and White TV cabled that commonly connects from your VCR to your TV. Radio Shack sells the RCA Cables if you need one. Second is the power cable. All of our cameras come with an AC to DC converter, but depending on where your camera is hidden you may need a power cable extender.

Using a wireless camera is a good option. Just be aware that no data wire often means you will be hiding a big bulky transmitter, and a 9 volt battery will only last a couple of hours. So choose well.

2. Hiding in Plain View

We have a number of devices that are designed to look like items that you probably already have in your home or business.

A motion detector style unit is a great option here. It's function as a motion detector has been disabled, it is a great way to hide without arousing suspicion.

Another option is a fake smoke detector. It will let you camouflage your black and white or color camera, and if you have a drop ceiling, it is easy to install.

The only issue with these options is that the additional device may be noticed by whoever you may be spying on. For Instance, If you use our fake smoke detector and put it over the cash register in your restaurant to find out who is stealing from you, your employees may very well see the new smoke detector and figure out that it's a camera.

3. Where does the Video Go?

Getting the video Data to a PC: Most Cameras are set up to send the output to either a TV or VCR. This is why they are BNC and RCA.

One of the best ways to to watch what hapens time is to connect your computer via our USB Camera Cable and DiGiCam Software. This will allow you to record the video directly to your PC and monitor what is happening over time.

We sell boards that can accommodate up to 16 cameras at one on one PC

That's what I have for you,! As always, we welcome your suggestions. Go out there and record what goes bump in the night!




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