Talk to me about home security cameras.

I have some suspicious activity going on at my home. An unknown individual did break into my vehicle which was parked on the street and I suspect I have a mail thief. I’ve just ordered a robustly constructed locking mail box and I would like to install 2-4 camera to monitor the area. Any suggestions regarding simple to install systems would be appreciated.

I don’t object to optional cloud data storage but all video data must be stored on a local, dedicated hard drive.

I would like at least one of the cameras mounted inside a window and aimed at where I’m installing the new mailbox. This camera will be looking through two panes of glass. Will that cause a problem for motion detectors? Should I re-think this installation? For this camera, a hardwired data connection to the DVR would be convenient. Wireless/not wireless doesn’t matter here. This camera and the DVR itself must also run on household power equipped with a UPS. I don’t want to have to remember to change the batteries.

Other camera options are up for debate and I welcome you input. Some general ground rules apply though.

  • The less hardware installed outside the home, the better. It likely will be stolen, vandalized or succumb to neglect.
  • Batteries bad, household power good. I don’t mind stringing cables inside the house. With that being said though, it’s probably smart to retain the option of wirelessly connecting battery powered cameras as a future upgrade.
  • I don’t currently use a smartphone but I’m hoping that will change in the nearish future. Security system compatibility with a smartphone isn’t a high priority for me but I’m prepared to be educated why I’m wrong.

What are your thoughts? Please share your inputs, well wishes, sources for land mines.

A couple of thoughts:

Setting up a IP (Internet Protocol) camera indoors to monitor and record outside activity through a glass window generally doesn’t work well. You’d instead want an outdoor mount not readily accessible to miscreants.

You can get security cameras that have a power connection to an outlet, or connect to your router via an Ethernet cable (Power Over Ethernet/POE cameras).

It’s a lot more convenient for viewing when away from home to have a cellphone app. Most every IP camera sold these days has a cellphone app you can download.

There are lots of relatively inexpensive (i.e. $70 or less) security cameras on the market currently. Check reviews to gauge ease of setup and how helpful tech support is.