Re: Small system for community docks

[G. Morgan <G_Morgan@xxxxxxxx>]

paulaner Wrote:

>On Mon, 30 Jul 2012 23:18:12 -0500, G. Morgan <G_Morgan@xxxxxxxx>
>wrote:
>
>>paulaner Wrote:
>>
>>>Any opinions on the Lorex system from Costco?
>>
>>Junk
>
>Hmm..  Is there any way to buy a good DVR and 3-4 cameras for around
>$1000?

Yeah, kinda.  I like at least 500 TV lines minimum in a camera.  If you
can get a WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) model with 550 TVL for $200 and lux
rating of .01 or less you're going to get a nice picture.  The DVR
should be able to at least record 30 frames/second or better for each
channel.

There are a slew of things to consider.  Lighting (at all hours), and if
you need a weatherproof housing.  It sounds like you need outdoor rated
ones, even if it is covered under a patio.  Also, unless you feel like
doing calculations to get the exact lens ahead of time, I would just get
a varifocal lens so you can adjust the zoom.  Here is one that adjusts
from 5mm all the way to 50mm, that is a huge range to play with.

http://www.supercircuits.com/Security-Cameras/Bullet-Security-Cameras/PC214ZWPH2
There is a lot that goes into planning the system before you even
consider placing an order.  The site above has plenty of FAQ's to help
you ask the right questions.  Planning is everything - you don't want to
be stuck with poor equipment choices because it comes bundled.

Personally, I use Cat5 for cameras now.  You will need a video balun on
each side of the cable to convert to BNC for termination.  It's so much
easier running one Cat5 than a Coax and power cables.  The video uses
one pair, the power is on another, and you still have 2 pair left in the
cable (you could run 2 cams on one cable in a jam, but do run a separate
cable for each).  This also 'future proofs' the design should you come
back in a year or two and want to replace them with IP cams.

There are lots of stuff to learn before you buy equipment, luckily you
asked first.  I can't remember how many times I've replaced a DIY job
with those cheap bundles into a professional grade system.  It does not
have to cost that much more if you know what you need.

Is this something you can give a Google Map view to and show me the area
you are protecting?