How to RECORD video only if MOTION exists ?

[Spiderman213]

Here is a challenge for the group that I have not seen discusses before.

Does a method exist to have a PC camera record to a PC's harddrive
ONLY WHEN motion is sensed in the frame.

The "camera" is a web-cam type of camera connected via USB port
and not a hand-held video camera.

Consider a camera used for security purposes in a rarely used hallway
or viewing a swimming pool or back yard shead.

I only want to record the video feed if someone comes into view
in the hallway, swimming pool area or back yard shead area.
I do not want hours and hours of no-activity on the recording.

The camera can (but does not have to be) setup for a webcam
or streaming video "always on" but I want the capability to
have the record-to-harddrive feature ONLY turned to "record"
ONLY when there is any motion in the frame.

Is this possible ?

System is Pentium III, 512ram, usb capable
I have an x10 "wireless" camera however I could
purchase a new camera & software for this effort
if needed

thanks for any assistance.

 

[Jeff7]

Yes, it is possible. There's a program out there called Gotcha that does just that. I'm not sure of the website anymore, but I have used it in the past, about a year ago.