Hidden CCTV Camera

A Hidden CCTV Camera Ensures Businesses Much-Needed Security

Closed-circuit TV (CCTV) cameras have become a familiar sight in banks, on the city streets and even in many convenience stores. Audio CCTV cameras transmit audio-visual signals to a monitoring station, either through cables or using a radio transmitter attached to the camera; digital CCTV systems use Internet Protocol (IP) cameras that transmit the signals either through a local area network, wide area network or even through the Internet.

The use of CCTV cameras in public places has triggered a heated debate over the need to protect people’s privacy versus the need for surveillance to maintain security in public places. The debate has been particularly fierce in London, where there are reportedly more cameras per person than anywhere else in the world. In the US, CCTV systems in public places are less prevalent, but the opposition to them is just as intense. However, many private businesses find a hidden CCTV camera system essential for various reasons, including deterring employee theft, to detect shoplifters and to monitor activities when a supervisor is off-site.

Total Security Warehouse offers the SecureIP line of hidden CCTV camera models which are concealed in everyday items such as lamps, clocks, VCRs and even books. The cameras are plugged into an AC outlet while the receiver is connected to your PC via USB cable and is also powered by AC. The video signal is transmitted through the power lines, eliminating any chance of the video being intercepted. You can monitor up to six cameras using just one receiver. The video signal is transmitted through the power lines and recorded on the hard disc of your PC. Special software allows the user to set up recordings on a time-scheduled, continuous or motion-activated basis. Motion-triggered controls can also be set up to give alerts via e-mail or cell phone. To avail of free remote viewing, however, you will have to register for an account at a designated website. The basic one-camera system is available for $499.

The site also offers hidden CCTV camera systems with built-in digital video recorders which record on SD cards. These Second Generation cameras only record when motion is detected in the room. There is no difficult installation process – all you have to do is place the hidden camera in your desired location and press record on the remote control. You can view the recorded footage by connecting the camera to your TV with an RCA video connector cable or removing the SD card and plugging it into your computer or an optional SD card reader. Most models go for $599, which includes the DVR, two SD cards (1GB and 512MB), RCA cable and an IP remote control.

If you need a hidden CCTV camera for outdoor use, you can go for a dome camera. These are small cameras built into a clear plastic housing. These infrared cameras take color footage in the daytime then shift to black and white at night. LEDs also allow the camera to work even in total darkness. For $149, you can get a dome camera disguised as an imitation sprinkler head. The camera is a 1/3” Sony Interline CCD that works in .05 lux low light and has a 3.6mm wide angle lens.

There are many hidden CCTV cameras that allow you to spy on your office or home when you are not away. For a small amount of money you can keep them both safe and secure.