How do hidden cameras work?
A small board camera is built into an everyday item. The camera can be wired which means it is connected to the DVR or VCR using a cable. The camera can also be wireless, in this case the camera transmits a signal to a receiver that is connected to the DVR or VCR.
Can I get audio in my hidden camera?
No, nanny cams with audio are not available. US Code Title 18, Section 2512 prohibits the manufacturing and sales of devices whose design renders it primarily useful for intercepting oral communication in a surreptitious manner (such as a hidden camera), with exception to law enforcement agencies. Some "body worn" cameras (pen cameras, sunglasses cameras, etc.) can be exempt in "single consent" states, whereas the item is worn and so the wearer is considered a consenting party to the audio recording (although some states require consent of all parties). However, this doesn't apply to the types of cameras sold as "nanny cameras."
What is the difference between a wired and a wireless camera?
Wired cameras have a video cable that runs from the camera to your recording or viewing device such as a DVR, VCR or monitor. Wireless cameras have a built-in transmitter that sends the video signal to a receiver. The receiver connects to your recording or viewing device.
How far can a wireless hidden camera transmit?
Standard wireless hidden cameras can transmit up to 1000 feet and high-powered wireless hidden cameras can transmit up to 2500 feet.
How many wireless cameras can you have in one location?
You can have up to four wireless cameras in one location. You can view all cameras at once using four receivers or you can use one receiver and switch to each camera. You will only be able to view one camera at a time if you only use one receiver. If you want to install multiple wireless cameras in one location it's best to order them at the same time so that we can put them on different channels.
Will a cordless phone interfere with wireless cameras?
Cordless phones that operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency will cause interference with 2.4 GHz cameras. Interference should be minimal and usually occurs if the phone is between the camera and receiver. Wireless Internet, networks and Wifi can cause interference too.
What is a Quad?
A Quad is used with a VCR or other single channel recording device that splits your monitor into 4 sections allowing you to view 4 cameras at once.
What is a 2.4 GHz wireless frequency?
A frequency is used to transmit a signal or data like video. 2.4GHz is the specific wireless frequency that our tranmitters use to send video signal to a receiver. All of our wireless cameras operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency. Range varies from 200' to 700' depending on environmental conditions. These units are FCC approved.
Are the transmitters FCC approved?
The transmitters used in all of our wireless systems are FCC and Industry Canada Certified.
What is CCD?
CCD is used in professional cameras because of it's high resolution quality and it's ability to record in low-light situations. CCD is basically a small silicon chip that receives light and turns it into voltage variations which makes up an image. It's usually measured in inches with 1/3" CCD being the standard. They are higher priced but are great for cameras that may require vision in near darkness.
Will a Quad allow four cameras to record at the same time?
Yes, you can record all four cameras at the same time. You can also record using a switching monitor, which will record the camera that is showing at that moment.
Do the receivers work through walls up to two feet thick?
Yes, as long as there isn't excessive amount of metal in the wall.
Do the plug and play connections require extra wire to run the signal back to the VCR or TV?
Yes, you need to buy the length of cable you need. We offer the CA-25, CA-50, CA-100 and CA-150.
What is the difference between a PC based DVR and a Embedded(stand alone) DVR?
A PC based DVR has all the functions of a computer. An embedded DVR functions only as a DVR.
How many hours will a DVR record?
The amount of time a DVR will record for is based on the size of the DVRs hard drive, the number of cameras recording and the number of frames per second it is recording at. Our stand alone DVRs uses 3.4GB per camera per day. 4 camera stand alone on 250GB hard drive will record for 18 days. 8 camera stand alone on 250GB hard drive will record for 9 days. 16 camera stand alone on 500GB hard drive will record for 9 days.
What is a Plug and Play connection camera?
It is an RCA Video plug and a power plug on the camera for easy connection to VCR or TV. This is done by running the RCA (Aux) line into the VIDEO IN of the VCR or TV. The TV or VCR must be set on the correct channel to view the VIDEO IN picture.
How many cameras can I hook up to one TV?
You can hook up as many cameras as your TV has inputs. Most TVs have 2 inputs but when using a quad you can hook up four cameras.
Between what temperatures is it safe for cameras to operate in?
It is safe for B/W cameras to operate between -23°C to + 50°C or -10ºF to +122ºF
It is safe for color cameras to oeperate between -23º C to +40ºC or -10ºF to +104ºF
It is safe to store cameras between -30ºC to +70ºC or -22ºF to +158ºF
What is the operating voltage of a camera?
Our cameras range from 9 volts (CMOS) to 12volts, and also 24 volt professional models.
What is a varifocal lens?
A varifocal lens is one where the focal length of the lens can be varied. This is a fancy way of saying it is a zoom lens. Most varifocal lenses have, and in almost all circumstances should have, an auto iris feature.
What is a fixed lens?
A fixed focal length lens cannot zoom. The focus is fixed. A fixed focal length lens usually allows more light to pass through the lens at a given focal length than a varifocal, or zoom lens. This can be important in low light situations.
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