The PTZ Dome Camera

Let's take a look today at one of the most advanced security cameras on the market, the PTZ Dome Camera. This is the world's most silent, weatherproof day/night high speed P/T/Z (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) color dome camera. It has a 26X optical and 12X digital zoom for a total zoom capability of 312X to capture the finest details. It features RS-485 communications for remote control purposes and can be set for up to 200 preset precise target areas. This unit works with any DVR that uses the IntelliSpy DVR cards, or an optional dedicated controller is available with the unit.

This professional dome camera has a resolution of 480 horizontal TV lines. It features a built-in fan and heater and is IP66 Perfect water resistant for outdoor use in all weather conditions. It features mechanical and image stabilization for reduction of blurring in images. Pan and tilt can be controlled while zooming. It is constructed using Anodizing and Chromate Aluminum material with anti-corrosive paint for long-life use under outdoor conditions.

Power requirement is 18-32VAC at 2A, only 40VA total. This dome camera features true color day/night operation - it operates in color mode during the day when there is plenty of available light and switches to black and white mode at night when there is less available light. It features a digital slow shutter for quality image detail in low-light conditions. The unit features a high-quality 1/4” Sony Ex-view CCD image sensor for high-quality images and color balance under all lighting conditions.

This professional dome camera features 4 alarm inputs and 2 relay outputs. The built-in RS-485 communications features the Pelco-D protocol and the Pelco-P protocol is available. Remote control has a .024 degree accuracy factor for precise control. The camera weighs 11.7 pounds and includes a convenient mounting bracket at no extra cost.

Let's sum up the features we've discussed and list a few we haven't discussed:

- Size: 10”(D) X 12.1”(H) X 7.5”(bubble)
- Weight: 11.7 lbs
- Horizontal Resolution: +480 TV Lines
- 0.024° Dome System Accuracy
- Built-in Fan & Heater
- Reliable Ram-Material
- 1/8 Micro Step
- Mechanical and Image Stabilization (26X)
- Controlling Pant Tilt Speed While Zooming
- IP66 Perfect Water-Resistant
- 18 ~ 32VAC/2A
- Anodizing and Chromate Aluminum material with anti-corrosive paint
- Only 40VA Power Requirement
- Filter Changeable True Day & Night (18X,26X)
-Digital Slow Shutter (18X, 26X)
-312X (26X Optical with 12X Digital Zoom)
- 1/4” Sony Ex-view CCD
- 24 Privacy masking zones
- 8 Patterns available
- Auto Flip function
- 200 presets
- 4 Alarm Input and 2 Relay Output
- Communication Interface: RS-485
- Pelco-D
- Pelco-P Protocol Available

As you can see, this is one of the most capable color day/night remote control dome cameras available anywhere. It would be a compliment to any truly professional security camera system. The precise control over P/T/Z makes this camera one of the most accurate on the market. It features professional resolution, has all the right features for extended outdoor use in any weather conditions, and is built to last.

The built-in 26X optical and 12X digital zoom make it a breeze to zero in on any portion of the image. And the zoom can be used at the same time as the pan and tilt, making it easy to find your intended target. We give this camera the highest recommendation for professional security camera installations. More details about the PTZ Dome Camera and information on pricing and where to purchase can be found at the following link: The PTZ Dome Camera

The QD Series Video Quad Unit

You've probably seen a video quad in action before at a guard station in a business establishment. A video quad splits the image on the screen into 4 viewable sections, allowing you to view the images from 4 different cameras at the same time. A video quad makes an excellent addition to any video security system with multiple cameras.

You don't need a quad unit if you have a DVR, because DVRs have a built-in quad. But if you are using just a monitor, a VISEC, or a VCR with multiple cameras, a quad can greatly enhance your system. Let's look at some of the features of the QD series.

There are two models of video quad available in the QD series - the QD-104 black and white model and the QD-109 color version. The only difference in the two models is that one is color and the other is black and white - all the other features are the same. These quads are high resolution, real-time quads and support up to 4 security cameras. They feature the ability to playback and zoom in on recorded video. They also feature full duplex operation, which allows transfer of video and playback at the same time.







These quads can be used in 2 ways in your video surveillance system. First, if you just do monitoring and no recording, you can insert the quad between the cameras and the monitor. This will allow you to monitor all 4 cameras in real time on the same monitor. Second, if you have a VISEC or VCR, you can insert the quad between the 4 cameras and the VISEC or VCR. This will record the images of all 4 cameras onto the VISEC or VCR, and in addition you can view the output of all 4 cameras in realtime.

These video quads also feature a 2x2 zoom. And they use a 60 fps (frames per second) refresh rate for flicker-free video. They feature a realtime clock which adds the date/time to each of the images in the quad. They also feature a title generator allowing you to place a title in each of the 4 frames. For example you might label one frame "Front Entrance", and another frame "Rear Entrance", and so on describing the location of the camera for that frame. The units feature an OSD (On-Screen Display) for selecting different functions, much like you are used to on a VCR or DVD player.

The quad is displayed without a border for maximum use of the display resolution. Some quads put a border around each frame, using up valuable pixels and lessening the resolution in each quad. And these quads feature a 2H adaptive comb filters for Y/C separation. Let's sum up some of the features of these excellent video quad units:

- Full duplex allows transfer of recording and playback video at the same time.
- 2x2 zoom
- 60 frames per second
- Real time clock
- Title generator
- On-screen display
- No boarder for full quad display
- 2H adaptive comb filters for Y/C separation

As you can see, the combination of features makes these quad units a good compliment to any professional or other video security camera system. If you have an older system without a DVR, or can't afford one, the addition of a quad can greatly enhance your video security system. These units are full-featured, affordable, easy to install and use.

For more details about the QD series of quad video units and information on pricing and where to purchase, see the following link: The QD Series Video Quad Units

World's Smallest Digital Video Recorder - The DVR-9800 Mini DVR

We'll look at another marvel of technology today, the DVR-9800 Mini DVR from totalsecuritywarehouse.com. This compact, portable DVR is ideal for body worn applications, other covert situations, or for showing video to your clients. Let's look at some of the features packed into this marvel of miniaturization.

This mini DVR is completely portable and can record up to 40 hours of video or 910 hours of audio. For playback, you can use the built-in LCD screen or you can connect it to a video input on your TV or monitor. You can also transfer the video footage to a PC using the built-in High Speed USB 2.0 interface with included cable. The unit has a built-in voice recording for audio recording. And it's small enough for body worn applications and fits easily into a fanny pack.

This little DVR measures only 5" x 3 3/8" x 1 3/8" overall. It is a complete, full-featured DVR. It uses MPEG-4 compression for maximum video and audio storage on its built-in 20GB hard drive. Video can be viewed on the built-in high resolution (320x240 pixel) color LCD display. The LCD display has an LED backlight for viewing video in low light conditions. Operation is completely silent, making this an excellent unit for covert surveillance. Just add a camera, and using the included video/audio cable you have a complete video surveillance system.

This small DVR is battery operated and includes an AC/DC adapter to power the unit or to recharge the battery pack. The battery pack is a 7.4 volt 1800mAH Lithium-ion battery pack for maximum recording/playback time. The unit weighs only 12 ounces and comes with a convenient carrying case. Also included is an infrared remote control unit which can be used to control all of the DVR operations. A stereo earphone is included for audio playback as well. Power requirement for this little DVR is DC12V /100~240 via the AC adaptor.

Let's sum up some of the features of the DVR-9800 Mini DVR

Key Features
• 5" x 3 3/8" x 1 3/8"
• Ultra Small DVR
• Great for body-worn applications

Includes:
• AC/DC Adaptor
• Lithium-Ion Battery
• Carrying Case
• Stereo Earphone
• IR Remote Control
• A/V Cable x 2
• USB 2.0 Cable

Specifications:
- Video Recording: MPEG-4 Video Recorder/Player
- Resolution: 320X240 Pixels
- Power: DC12V /100~240 AC Adaptor
- Size: 5"(W) x 3 3/8"(H) x 1 3/8"(D)
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Storage Capacity: 20GB Hard Drive
Display: 3.5" LCD with LED Backlight
- Interface: High Speed USB 2.0
- Battery: 7.4 V 1800mAh rechargeable LI-Ion

As you can see, this DVR unit packs a lot of features into a very small device. Just a short time ago, devices such as this were only available to governments, corporations and other high-budget operations, yet this unit is surprisingly low in cost. Ideal for covert surveillance, the unit can record audio as well as video - add a camera and you have a complete video surveillance system. And it makes an ideal platform for quickly reviewing video that has already been recorded - you can transfer files over the USB interface in either direction. Take it to your client's office to show them the results of your surveillance work. And it can be used with a single camera or a quad to assemble a complete security camera system that will install into a very small space.

For more information about the DVR-9800 Mini DVR, and for information on price and where to purchase, see the following link: DVR-9800 Mini DVR

220x Day/Night Zoom Professional Camera

Let's look at another professional security camera today, the PC-220WC 220x Day/Night Zoom camera from totalsecuritywarehouse.com. With it's power zoom, day/night operation and high resolution, this excellent camera fits squarely in the professional category. Let's take a closer look at some of the features.

The day/night feature for this security camera switches from color to black and white operation at around 3 LUX, thus ensuring that you don't miss any details in your images due to lighting conditions. Minimum illumination in black and white mode is .01 LUX. That allows this camera to "see" in almost total darkness. This camera is an excellent candidate for adding a low-light illuminator (Infrared LEDs), allowing it to record usable images in total darkness.

If you're wondering what those LUX values for security cameras actually mean, here's a quick comparison: 1 LUX is about the amount of light available very late in the evening, around dusk. .1 LUX is about the amount of light available in a well-lit parking lot at night. And .05 LUX would actually be perceived by the human eye as total darkness. So the .01 LUX minimum for this camera is an excellent LUX value for low light conditions.

The PC-220WC security camera features an exclusive digital slow shutter to allow more light to the sensor in low-light conditions. It uses a 1/4" Sony color CCD for maximum resolution and image quality. Resolution is an outstanding 480 horizontal TV lines. This is the number of horizontal lines the image sensor uses to "paint" the image on the display or recording device.

This professional security camera is also weatherproof and waterproof. It has a built-in power zoom with a zoom factor of up to 220x. The power zoom is controlled by a set of buttons on the back of the camera. Power requirement for this camera is 12VDC and a power supply is included with the camera at no extra cost.

So let's sum up some of the features for this security camera:

- Image Sensor: 1/4” Sony Color CCD
- Resolution: 480 TV Lines
- Min. Illumination: .01 Lux
- Lens: 220x zoom
- Power Required: 12V

This security camera represents an excellent value for a color day/night zoom camera that automatically switches from color to black and white in low-light conditions. It's Super Sony HAD image sensor is designed to remove electronic "holes", which can cause noise in digital images. And the unique digital slow shutter allows more light to the lense for better images in low-light conditions.

As you can see from the specs, this security camera definitely fits in the professional category. It's weatherproof, waterproof, high resolution, day/night and highly sensitive for low-light conditions. This security camera would make an excellent addition to any professional security camera system. For more details about this camera and information on where to purchase, see the following link: 220x Day/Night Zoom Professional Camera

Auto Iris Varifocal Dome Camera

We'll look today at a high-quality dome camera, the DC-311 from totalsecuritywarehouse.com. This is one of the most flexible dome cameras on the market, and would compliment any security camera system. This dome camera is available in two versions, a color and a black and white model. Let's take a closer look at some of the specs.

The DC-311 uses a Sony Super HAD CCD chip for the highest quality images in all lighting conditions. This sensor chip is especially sensitive to light, making this dome camera a good choice for low-lighting conditions. The camera features an auto iris lens which automatically adjusts to changes in light for a better image (variable focus). The camera has a manual zoom feature, with a 4-9mm zoom lens. You set the zoom by removing the dome and adjusting the camera lens. You can perform this operation when the camera is installed and adjust it for zoom amount for the optimum field of view for the location where the camera is mounted.

Resolution for this dome camera is a respectable 420 horizontal TV lines, which provides clear, crisp images. Light sensitivity is 1 LUX for the color model and .2 LUX for the black and white model. Here's a quick comparison showing what this means in the real world - 1 LUX is about the amount of light available late in the evening, around dusk. .5 LUX is about the amount of light available in a well-lit parking lot at night. And .05 LUX would be perceived by the human eye as total darkness. So the black and white model of this security camera can see in near total darkness.

This is a wired dome camera that features Plug n Play connections. The power requirement is 12VDC at 110ma for the black and white model and 12VDC at 120 mA for the color version.

There are dip switch settings on the back of the camera for control of the following features:

• AI - Auto Iris - Automatically adjusts the size of the lens opening in response to varying lighting conditions
• AGC - Automatic Gain Control - An electronic circuit that tries to keep the video signal at a constant level (1V peak to peak) no matter what the lighting and image conditions
• AWB - Auto White Balance - An electronic circuit in color cameras that helps to maintain true colors in the image
• BLC - Balance Light Control - Adjusts for bright spots in a picture. For example can keep the headlights on a car from blurring out the license plate on the front of the car
• FL - Focal Length - Varying this value effects the depth of field (what remains in focus) in the image

Let's recap the major features of this dome camera:

- Image Sensor: 1/3” SONY HAD CCD
- Resolution: 420 TV Lines
- Min. Illumination: .1 Lux (Color Mode), .2 Lux (B&W Mode)
- Lens: 4~9mm AutoIris Vari/Focus
- Power Required: 12V
- Current Consumption: 110mA Max (B&W), 120mA Max (Color)

As you can see, this dome camera is loaded with features. It would make an ideal addition to a security camera system in a retail setting, an apartment building, a factory or warehouse. It has excellent low-light operation, and the zoom lens allows for placement in a variety of locations. For more details about the DC-311 Auto Iris Varifocal Dome Camera and information on where to purchase, see the following link: Auto Iris Varifocal Dome Camera

4 Channel Wireless DVR Complete System

Let's take a look today at a complete, ready to install video surveillance system. We'll look at a 4 channel wireless system with a DVR that is available from totalsecuritywarehouse.com. There's one big advantage to buying a complete system - the savings in cost over buying all of the parts separately. This system offers a savings of $226 over purchase of all of the individual components.

This wireless security camera system comes with 4 wireless day/night color bullet cameras, 4 wireless receivers, a PC-based DVR and a 17 inch LCD monitor. Installation is a snap because of the wireless cameras - there are no cables to run from cameras to DVR. And the DVR card and software come already installed on the PC platform. Let's take a closer look at the components of the system.

The system uses the high-quality BC30-GC color day/night security cameras. This is a professional, weatherproof bullet camera with built-in IR illumination. It features 2.4 GHz wireless operation for maximum distance and minimum interference. This security camera can see down to 1 LUX in normal mode and down to 0 LUX in IR mode - that's 0 LUX - total darkness! It features 12 large built-in infrared LEDs surrounding the lens to accomplish this. The camera uses a 1/4" digital CCD sensor with a resolution of 420 horizontal TV lines. It uses a 4.3mm f1.8 lens for maximum image quality and field of view under all lighting conditions.

This complete video surveillance system also comes with 4 TR-2.4 receivers. This receiver features a compact, sleek design, a manual channel switcher and a built-in directional antenna. Installation is a snap with the convenient RCA jacks for video and audio. The system comes complete with cables for connecting the receivers to the DVR card on the PC.

The PC-based DVR that comes with this security camera system features Windows-based VISEC software for total flexibility. You can use the computer for other Windows-based tasks if desired. The unit features a 160GB hard drive for maximum video storage. It also includes a high-speed CD burner for archiving of video footage. Here is a summary of its main features:

O/S: Windows XP
- CPU: 3000+AMD Sempron Processor
- Memory: 1GB RAM
- Hard Drive: 160 GB (can be upgraded)
- Camera Input: 4
- Audio Input: 4
- Frames per second: Real Time at 120FPS
- Resolution: 720 x 480

The DVR in this security camera system also features motion-triggered recording, a built-in quad capability, and remote playback and recording. It is networkable and allows you to view your surveillance system from anywhere in the world via the Internet. It features a quality 4-channel IntelliSpy DVR card, which has a built-in web server, giving the DVR its Internet capability. Other key features are:

• High Resolution Imaging
• Built-In Motion Detection
• Embedded PTZ Control
• Real-Time Display Card
• Built in web server
• Audio Recording and all necessary software.

As you can probably see, this is a truly professional video surveillance system. With 4 channels, 4 weatherproof IR capable cameras, 4 receivers and a PC-based DVR, there's nothing else to buy for a complete system. If you need a 4-channel system, there's no reason not to put this one at the top of your list. And it's fully expandable by adding more cameras, receivers and IntelliSpy DVR cards. For more details about this professional video security system and information on where to purchase, see the following link: 4 Channel Wireless DVR Complete System

60 Infrared LED Day-Night Professional Camera

We'll look today at another high-quality professional camera, the BC-60 60 IR LED Day/Night Professional Camera. This security camera can record quality images under any lighting conditions, thanks to its automatic day/night operation and X-vision technology. Day/night operation means that the camera operates in color during the day when there is plenty of available light, and switches to black and white at night when there is less available light. The X-vision technology assures the highest quality images under even the lowest lighting conditions.

And this professional security camera features 60 - count 'em, 60 built-in infrared LEDs arranged in a circle around the camera lens. This allows this camera to record images in total darkness. In IR mode this camera can "see" down to .05 LUX. And it can do this for a distance of 60 feet thanks to the large number of IR illuminating LEDs. If you're wondering exactly how much light that is, here's a quick comparison: 1 LUX is about the amount of light available late in the evening, around dusk. .5 LUX is about the amount of light you would expect in a well-lit parking lot at night. And .05 LUX means that the camera can record images in lighting conditions that would be perceived as total darkness by the human eye.

This day/night security camera is available in two versions - a wired and a wireless version. Use the wired version in those professional security camera systems where image quality and distance from camera to display dictate a wired system. Use the wireless version for ease of installation where distance is not a factor. The wireless version features a 2.4GZHz transmission frequency for maximum image quality and minimum interference. In addition, the wireless version comes complete with a FREE 2.4GHz wireless receiver - that's a $160 value!

The BC-60 security camera is a bullet camera with a built-in hood and is fully weatherproof. It is also designed to be tamperproof to keep thieves or vandals from trying to disable it. It features a 1/3" Sony Super HAD CCD Image Sensor for superior image quality. Resolution is a respectable 420 horizontal TV lines - that's the number of lines the sensor uses to paint the image on the display or recording device. The BC-60 uses a 6mm lense for optimum images in all lighting conditions. It requires a 12VDC power supply and consumes a meager 500mA of current.

So let's sum up some of the features of this excellent professional security camera:

Features:
• Weather/Tamperproof IR Camera
• High Sensitivity Under Total Darkness
• Free from noise, Smear and Heating
• Built-In 60 IR Illuminators & 1/3" Sony Super HAD CCD Image Sensor
• See up to 60 feet in total darkness

Specifications:
- Image Sensor: 1/3” Sony Super HAD CCD
- Resolution: 420 TV Lines
- Min. Illumination: 0.05 Lux (Infrared On)
- Lens: 6.0mm
- Power Required: DC 12V
- Current Consumption: 500mA

I think you would agree that this security camera would compliment any professional security camera system. It has some of the best IR illumination on the market, is weatherproof/tamperproof and can record quality images in almost any ligthing conditions. If you are currently putting together a security camera system, this is one professional camera that is definitely worth considering for your outdoor needs. For more details about the BC-60 60 Infrared LED Day-Night Professional Camera and information on where to purchase, see the following link: 60 Infrared LED Day-Night Professional Camera

The SA-DVR-4 4 Channel Embedded DVR

Let's take a look today at an embedded DVR (Digital Video Recorder). An embedded DVR contains a computer, video card, use interface and hard drive storage, but does not use Windows as on operating system. Instead it uses its own custom operating system specifically designed to work as a DVR. This means that an embedded DVR is as easy to use as a VCR, yet has many more features and is much more versatile.

The SA-DVR-4 converts analog video signals (NTSC or PAL) to digital images and stores them on a high capacity hard disk drive. This means that the recorded video can be accessed almost instantly, without the need to rewind or fast forward like a VCR. There is no tracking to adjust, and the quality of the images do not depend on fragile magnetic tape. Video can be transferred to CD or DVD storage for permanent archiving without degradation of the media. Another advantage of an embedded DVR is that it allows you to index video by date or time and can be instantly accesses by these parameters.

Let's look a little more closely at some of the features of this excellent embedded DVR. The SA-DVR-4 features 4 input channels with convenient audio/video connections on the back panel. There is also one video output channel on the back panel for output to a monitor (not included) or another recording device. The unit contains a 160 GB hard drive that can store up to 332 hours of video - think of the number of VCR tapes that would be required to do that!

Measuring only 7.8"X5.1"X3.2", this DVR unit is quite portable. One feature that this unit lacks which you will find on most non-imbedded DVRs is network capability. It is not networkable and thus cannot be viewed over the internet. But it's small size and ease of use make it the best choice if you do not need Internet capability in a DVR.

The video input format is NTSC or PAL, with an internal switch for choosing between the two formats. Their are four BNC video inputs and one BNC video output. The display frame rate is 120 FPS (frames per second) for seamless video images. The DVR records at a frame rate of 30 FPS, which produces and excellent quality video image. The unit feature two recording modes - continuous or timed. Timed mode allows you to conserve storage space and capture only the video that you need.

This DVR unit can also be motion triggered - another feature that saves on storage space. When in motion-triggered mode the unit will record as long as it senses motion in its field of view, capturing only what matters. The indexing features allow you to search by time, date or event and instantly go to that portion of the video.

Resolution for this high-quality DVR is 720x480 pixels. This is better than VGA quality images. The unit uses MJPEG compression. Frame size is adjustable between 12K and 20K for maximum use of the available storage - up to 332 hours.

This is an excellent embedded DVR with a host of features. It is one of the easiest to operate DVRs available, and is quite portable. With four input channels, it can be used in a wide variety of applications. For more details about the SA-DVR-4 and information on where to purchase, see the following link: SA-DVR-4 Embedded 4-channel DVR

8-Channel Portable Digital Video Recording System

Today, we'll look at another technological marvel, a complete DVR (Digital Video Recording) system in an easy to carry briefcase style case. This system includes up to 8 channels and a built-in DVR and LCD video display. It is self-contained and self-powered. Let's take a look at a few of the specific features of this amazing system.

This portable DVR system includes inputs for up to 4 wireless security cameras (2 wireless receivers with up to 4 channels each) and/or 4 wired inputs for a total of 8 possible channels. The wireless receivers use the 2.4GHz frequency for the best possible signal quality. This system works with any of the wired or wireless cameras available from totalsecuritywarehouse.com and is completely self-contained. The hard-shell briefcase type case provides protection for the sensitive electronics contained in the unit.

The DVR system also includes a high-quality 10 inch diagonal measure TFT LCD color screen for viewing images. Resolution for the monitor is an excellent 720 x 240 pixels. The software is Windows-based and can record images up to 240 FPS (Frames Per Second). There is an Ethernet port included, allowing you to plug this system into an Ethernet connection with Internet connectivity - this provides you with the ability to log on and view images from this DVR system from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection.

The DVR system also includes a built-in 250GB hard drive for maximum image storage. Images can be stored in 16KB, 21KB, 32KB or 48KB size, allowing for a huge amount of video storage. The software also features motion detection and uses MJPEG compression to maximize storage.
Let's sum up a few of the specs for this highly-capable system :

- Video System: NTSC
- Voltage: 110V AC
- Receivers Frequency: 2.4GHz
- Monitor: 10inches diagonal, TFT, Color LCD
- Power: AC Adapter
- Antenna: 4 independent units
- Video In: 8x BNC, 1Vp-p, Composite Video
- Resolution: 720x240 pixels (max.)
- Data Storage: 250G Hard Drive,
- Recording Mode: Frame Record
- Image Size: 48KB/ 32KB/ 21KB/ 16KB
- Motion Detection: Yes
- Port: Ethernet port
- Dimensions: 19 1/8 x 15 1/16x 7 9/16
- Weight: 24Lbs

As you can see from these specs, this unit is the ultimate in covert portable surveillance receiving/recording equipment. An 8-channel receiver, 10 in. display and full-featured DVR with Ethernet port all in a portable, self-powered format. And it's compatible with most any new or existing video security camera. When used with wireless cameras, this system could be installed and ready for operation in record time. And the 2.4GHz frequency provides maximum distance range for your surveillance location to be chosen. The built-in motion detection software allows you to zero in on your subject without wasting valuable storage space. And it's ideal for use as a self-contained playback unit for showing clients the results of your surveillance. Advances in technology have made systems like this available to the masses - systems like these were previously only available to governments and corporations with big budgets.

Since this unit is actually a dedicated personal computer system, future upgrades are possible without replacing the unit. It also has the advantage of a familiar interface since the software is Windows-based - the unit has a copy of Windows installed. Think of it as a laptop with a security camera receiver built-in. And it's small and light enough to be used almost anywhere.

Here's a quick feature summary:

- Windows Based
- Portable Video recording systems for field applications
- Real time recording 240FPS
- 8 channels wired / 4 channels wireless 2.4 GHz band
- 14 inch video monitor
- Compression MJPEG

For more details about the 8-channel portable digital video recording system and information on where to purchase, follow this link: 8-Channel Portable Digital Video Recording System

Infrared Day/Night Armor Dome Camera

Let's take a look today at one of the better dome cameras on the market, the DC-777 Infrared Day/Night Armor Dome Camera. Dome cameras are small board cameras mounted in a clear glass dome for protection. What sets the DC-777 apart from other dome cameras is its armor dome. The clear protective plastic housing can withstand a blow from a hammer, thwarting any attempt to disable it. It is available in both color and black and white versions.

Dome cameras are easily recognizable to criminals, so you will want to use them when you want potential burglars or vandals to know they're being watched. The color version of the DC-777 is a day/night model, meaning it operates in color when their is plenty of available light and switches to black and white mode in low-light conditions. It does this automatically, so you will never miss a situation. Also, when either the color or the black and white mode switches to low-light mode it activates the built-in infrared LEDs, allowing the camera to see in almost total darkness. The housing is fully weatherproof, making this one of the best outdoor dome cameras on the market.

This dome camera can see down to .6 LUX in color mode and .1 LUX in black and white mode. Here's a quick comparison of what those LUX values mean - 1 LUX is about the amount of light available late in the evening, around dusk. .5 LUX is about the amount of light available in a well-lit parking lot at night. And .05 LUX would be perceived as total darkness by the human eye.

Resolution for the armor dome camera is crisp 380 horizontal lines in color and 420 horizontal lines in black and white. Horizontal lines means the number of lines the image sensor in the camera uses to "paint" the image on the display or recording device. This security camera has a 3.6mm f2.5 lens for maximum image quality in all lighting conditions. And it features a 1/3" digital CCD sensor for maximum definition.

The armor dome camera requires a 12 VDC power supply and consumes a maximum of 100ma of current. It is a wired camera, for maximum signal quality and distance. A compliment to any professional security camera system.

Let's recap some of the specs for this excellent dome camera:

- Image - Sensor: 1/3” CCD
- Resolution: 380 TV Lines (Color) 420 TV Lines (B/W)
- Min Illumination: .6 Lux / F2.5 (Color) .1 Lux (B/W)
- Lens 3.6mm
- Power Required 12 Volts
- Current Consumption 100mA Max

If you need to mount a camera where it would be possible for thieves or vandals to reach it and try to disable it, this is the dome camera you need. Whether for indoor or outdoor use, it's vandal-resistant housing makes it an excellent choice.

Dome security cameras are used in many places, including restaurants, casinos, apartment buildings and retail establishments. For more details about this dome camera and information on where to purchase, see the following link: Infrared Day/Night Armor Dome Camera

2.4GHz cordless phone with hidden security camera

Let's turn our attention today to one of those little marvels of technology that has recently been made available to us. I'm talking about hidden security cameras or spy cameras. You might have heard some of them referred to as "nanny cams", designed to keep an eye on your child's caretaker whenever you are away. They also have many other uses, such as monitoring your home for burglars or vandals. Recent advances in technology have miniaturized the electronics and optics used to make cameras to the point that a video camera can be hidden in almost any object. The camera we'll examine today is actually a fully-functional 2.4GHz cordless phone that incorporates a hidden color or B&W camera.

Available in either wired or wireless versions, the camera is hidden in the base of the cordless phone. You can use the wired version if perfect signal quality is your goal, or the wireless version to simplify installation considerably. And get this - the wireless version includes a FREE 2.4GHz receiver for the camera - you won't find this with other wireless security cameras. That's a $160 value. The board camera contained in this hidden security camera uses a 1/3" Sony digital CCD for the B&W version, and a 1/4" digital CCD for the color version. Use of a digital CCD provides superior image quality.

Resolution for the camera is 400 horizontal lines for the B&W model and 380 horizontal lines for the color version. And low-light operation is excellent - the B&W model can see down to .05 LUX, while the color version operates down to 1 LUX. If you're wondering what those LUX values actually mean, here's a quick comparison - 1 LUX is about the amount of light available late in the evening, around dusk. .5 LUX is about the amount of light you would expect in a well-lit parking lot at night. And .05 LUX means the camera can actually see better than the unaided human eye - very nearly total darkness. The B&W version of this hidden security camera is available with an optional feature called X-Vision. This technology allows the camera to see down to .003 LUX - this is for all intents and purposes total darkness. And the X-Vision technology insures clear, crisp images even at this low lighting level.

The lens used in this hidden spy camera is a 3.7mm wide angle version. This gives maximum field of view for your images. The camera requires 12VDC/110VAC power to operate. As mentioned previously, the phone is fully functional. The phone includes a digital answerer with message counter and remote retrieval of messages. It also includes call waiting and caller ID. The phone can be placed on a desk or mounted on the wall, and is hearing aid compatible.

So let's sum up some of the major features that we've discussed:

1/3" or 1/4" digital CCD sensor
3.7mm wide angle lens
Resolution is 380/400 horizontal lines
Low-light operation is down to 1/.05 LUX, .003 LUX with X-Vision
Available in wired or wireless models - wireless model includes free receiver
Phone features digital answerer, call waiting, and caller ID

This hidden security camera would make an excellent addition to any security camera system. Especially if you don't want to broadcast the fact that security cameras are present (for example when used as a "nanny cam"). For more details about this security camera and information on where to purchase, follow this link: 2.4GHz wireless phone with hidden security camera