Suggestions for a Front Door Camera Kit

[Jeffwo]

I want a cheap simple system (and cheap) so I can see who is at the front door. Just one camera that I can monitor either on a TV or on a laptop. Its about 30ft. from where I usually stay to the front door.

I would prefer a wireless setup(I have wireless router running) but I don't mind running wires. Also need night vision I guess. It can be stationary. It is completely dry where camera will be mounted. (under porch)

I appreciate any suggestions.

Thanks!

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[frowertr]

My local Sams club has some Samsung and Revo D1 cameras kits for sale that do night vision. They aren't IP addressable. Just standard old school CCTV. I would imagine Costco, if you have one, would have something similar.

I use Axis cameras in my business. I would recommend to you anything in the M10 series, however, they are not night vision capable (although 3 of the model do have an illumination LED that will light up the area in front of the camera). But so long as you used a porch light or something similar they should be fine. They are their least expensive camera that will do 720P, two way audio, wireless (if you buy the right model) and PoE (again, if you buy the right model). Some of the models will also accept an SD card so that recording can be done right to the camera and you don't need a NAS on your network to store video. You can either connect to them directly via a web browser to view their video stream or download Axis's Camera Companion software which is free of charge.

 

[Kaido]

$199, shipping this month:

http://www.getdoorbot.com/

 

[Jeffwo]

$199, shipping this month:

http://www.getdoorbot.com/

That's really cool but ~ $169 more than I want to spend...LOL.

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[Skott]

Yeah, that doorbot product looks pretty cool. Not unreasonably priced but you can take and mount a cheap internet cam or a regular video recorder outside that is wireless ( or wired) for much less. Software usually comes with camera or you can find free software online. Then its just a matter of syncing it up with your pc. I'm guessing for tv viewing you would need a tv with wireless built in (new tvs have this now) or you would sync it up with your htpc unit if your tv doesnt have built in wireless. In the ideal world you would want to be able to see who is outside via all three pc, tv, phone/tablet. I'm guessing anyway.

 

[Jeffwo]

I think I found what I was looking for...IP56 B&W Weatherproof Standard...$28.99 @Harbor Freight http://www.harborfreight.com/weatherproof-security-camera-with-night-vision-47546.html

or $37.99 for color (#69654) http://www.harborfreight.com/retailflyer/index/product?id=69654

They also have a little flatscreen monitor model (w/2 cameras) for $69.99($59.99 w/coupon) (#60565) that's neat!
http://www.harborfreight.com/retailflyer/index/product?id=60565

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[Skott]

Did you watch the video of the doorbot? When they talked about its security I did laugh at the single screw they use. Like that will stop anyone from ripping the entire unit out if they want it bad enough. LOL Still a cool product though.

 

[Doppel]

Get a half decent camera and know it will work. Dropcam is a fine camera under a porch. Not rated for outdoors but many use it there, as long as wifi signal is still strong through the exterior door.