Security
 

Any recommendations out there on the best complete home security/video surveillance systems to safeguard your DV investments?

Dog.

I use one of these.
http://www.pyroglyphfilms.com/galler...n_blur%20b.jpg

And one of these:
http://www.pyroglyphfilms.com/galler...oting_test.mov

:)

A home security system that you own (not lease), and that the monitoring service does not require a contract, is UL certified, and about $15 a month. See/Listen to Clark Howard for details.

The cost for the monitoring will vary by geographical location services provided. Shop around, many of the service providers are getting competitive and will negotiate the fees and monthly rates. I was first quoted $35 a month then are declining the service and entering into negotiations, the final price became $25 a month.

There is also computer software that can monitor a room if you
have a webcam (for example) hooked up to your computer. It
can then send you a message to your phone or an e-mail that it
has detected some changes and it can then automatically start
recording as well.

Rob,

That's more along the lines of what I'm looking for...products... not necessarily security services. Basically, I'd like to find an install-it-yourself home security system that includes the usual window and door security, motion detectors, and then also the video cam surveillance similar to what you're saying. I've seen some that have wireless cameras that activate when motion is detected, and start uploading shots to the web, as well as sending you an e-mail or calling you.

Prices for those that I've found online are really pretty cheap, but I'm not familiar with any of the companies that make them.

So, I was hoping for URLs or brand name recommendations.

If you want to control motion sensors etc. you will want to get an
X9 (I think that is the name) network of gear. There are boards
for computers that can control a lot of gear in that fashion.

Does it need to run on Mac or PC?

Guys, ahhmm... the guy is in Tokyo.

I thought the only "crimes" there are people going nuts (and going bezark) and those committed by the Yakuzi, which BTW IMHO is the real ruler of modern Japan.

Soon, these gangsters will raise up as the new version of the old Imperial Army and take on the world w/o their old buddies the Germans... OK, it's me that's going nuts, least for a second there.

silent but deadly
 

Law, he also has to worry about the ninja too.

I have a mix of security tools:

1. Full-motion detectors in every room plus smoke detectors and temperature rate-of-rise sensors in the studio. Phone line plus a radio backup to the security company. Wall- and battery-powered system.

2. 120 Lb. Rotweiller. BIG bark

3. Friendly but snoopy neighbors

4. I am a contractor for the local PD so they respond very quickly to a call on my studio. After all, their footage may be at risk! (#4 is pure humor. )

Hmmm... ten responses and two address the question seriously. No wonder there's so much burglary going on in North America. I'll be stopping by all your houses, with some prime rib for your dogs, and a gas company uniform to satisfy your neighbors and then I'm gonna increase my inventory. ;)

Just planning on living in a rather isolated area... no nosey neighbors within sight to keep an eye on things...and having had a dog poisoned in the past I don't see that as a valid option ("Babe"...best dog in the world).

That's why I'm thinking about the web camera/motion detector/upload to internet option. If an alarm goes off, no one will be around to hear it. But if I have some cameras clicking away and uploading automatically to the internet... including one outside the house to photograph vehicle and license plate number... I may at least be able to get some stolen stuff back.

Sound paranoid? Systems like that are only a few hundred dollars. I can't imagine people with the amount of equipment we all have NOT investing in some sort of security.

Rob... I'll check out the option you mentioned (I'm looking for Mac solutions).

John,
I think Rob meant to reference the "X-10" system of gizmos. It's been around a very long time and greatly expanded through the years.

Smart Home is kind of a home security and automation gadget lovers heaven.

Here is Mac software that interfaces with the X-10 products. It is pretty cool and can even be operated remotely. If you forgot to turn off the coffee pot you can use a laptop etc. remotely to turn off appliances, lights, furnace, A/C etc.

Now we're talking... the X-10 stuff at Smart Home is what I'm looking for.

And the software you mentioned, Jeff, looks good, too. I liked the sample announcement they have on the site..."Someone is in the stairwell"... imagine hearing your computer say that in the middle of the night. Eek!

I'll get myself hooked up...and then throw in a dog, but mainly just for frisbee and fetching beers out of the fridge.