Home Security Systems?

[Ashcan Bill]

Hey gang, anyone have any opinions on home security systems?

I'm mulling over installing a system, but not sure if I'd want to do it myself or just sign up with a service. The goal would be to secure the homestead when I'm not around, both the interior of the house as well as maybe a couple of outdoor cameras to watch the yard.

Having the ability to log in remotely and check the cameras would be good. Having the ability to record any outside activity would be even nicer. Since video memory is finite, I would think cameras linked to motion sensors that would activate the recording mode when tripped would make the most sense.

I'm not sure what the typical range on a camera is either, but I'd guess a fixed camera should cover at least fifty feet?

I haven't seriously looked into it yet, and was curious if anyone has any opinions or advice on what to look for (or look out for).

Anyone got a system they love, or don't love?

[sanfrantreat]

if you want a video system x10 sells a fairly cheap system. They were the biggest spammers back in the day but they have a decent system. I like the idea of being able to remotely log in and check your cameras.. But im the paranoid type what happens if someone else some how some way hacks in and is watching you every day, all day, all the time. I doub't it'll happen but.. theres always a but...

[Blueface]

I had mine professionally installed.
I have 8 cameras around the house, color, with 12 IR for seeing at night.
The cameras record onto a hardrive that holds a bit over two weeks of daily, non stop recording. If I need to, I can modify it to record more but there will be less frames per minute.
If I want to, I can access the system remotely on any computer.
If need be, I can record any event onto a DVD recorder.

Best thing I ever did as it definitely provides piece of mind.
Came in handy to catch a vandal.

[tfar]

If you are not really good at this, have it professionally installed. I know almost nothing about the camera side but have quite a good alarm system. I did a ton of research and bought the components myself, then had a pro install it because I was too lazy and had no time. I was very glad I had it done by a pro because once I saw how involved it was and what a good job he did, I recognized I could have never done it this well and this quickly myself.

Till