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If I have a PC with Windows XP and a few webcams, which software and hardware (wires, switches, connectors etc.) do I need to build my surveillance system for my home and most importantly how to build it? (schematics etc)

FIDELIS
2011-11-06 18:58:00
Hello, you could start by reading a previous post from this site:http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-build-a-wifi-home-surveillance-system-with-your-pc/Also, you have to take into consideration the kind of cameras you have.  If your cameras are wireless your set up would get easier.  The disadvantage with wireless setup is that most of them use the 2.4 hertz range and as you know there can be interference because the appliances like microwave ovens, cordless phones, etc, use that frequency.  If you are planning to record the surveillance during a period of time, you have to make sure to either get a DVR by itself with lots of storage or make sure to setup a good amount of storage in your computer.  Also depending on setup, a fast speed connection would be bonus.  Also if your surveillance system would be recording 24 hours a day, a infrared camera would be recommended for outside surveillance.  Mind you, it is not necessary but you would get better results at night. 
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Mjevolve
2011-11-06 14:46:00
hello , i dont think any extra hardware is required to set up multiple cameras ,except for the cameras themselves .just connect them to the computer , via USB , Network , or any other way , and what you finally need is a software that can handle and process Media Streams from Multiple Sources and access them remotely .try these webcam softwares , some free and some paid . paid especially when you want the software to capture multiple streams rather than one .Vitamin D  http://vitamindinc.com/store/pricing.phpAbelcam   http://www.abelcam.com/en/featuresWebcamXP  http://www.webcamxp.com/home.aspxYawcam  http://www.yawcam.com/index.php