Our latest technology is advancing in leaps and bounds!
So you think remote viewing from your new DVR is cool? Try an entire network for your home that allows you to completely control your home remotely! With your cell phone you can now view your security camera's current video, adjust the temperature on your thermostat, turn on or off almost anything in your house, or even preheat your oven for dinner!
These new home control networking systems are the next step up in convenience. In fact, new home constructions are adding the necessary elements to new buildings to accommodate this exciting development.
Basically, there are three major companies that are coming out with this new technology: Z-Wave Alliance, ZigBee and Insteon. What they've done is take the everyday item such as a thermostat, keyed entry, garage door, etc. and put their mark on it. What this mark means is that no matter who manufactures it (and at present there are over 150 different manufacturers involved), every product bearing it will be compatible with each other.
In computer terms, it would make Windows and Linux compatible.
So, say you have a washing machine made by LG, a thermostat made by Honeywell, a garage door by Raynor, a Schlage keyless entry, and a security camera with dvr, these products will all work together on the same home network accessed by your cell phone! You won't even have to program it!
These networks work on low-power, low speed digital radio waves and can even be routed through your home's existing AC power wires!
The great part of it is, it will save you money in the long run. Think about it.
When you leave the house in the morning, you turn the AC up to 80. Half and hour before you get home, you get on your cell phone and tell your thermostat to turn on and get the house temperature down to 75 by the time you get home!
Not to mention, if you're watching your security cameras at the office and see something suspicious, you can start turning on lights, which in most cases will scare off a burglar. You can even alert a neighbor and have them check your house. Worst case scenario...you can call the police immediately and possibly nab the intruder in the act. It may mean a window broken, but they won't run off with your great-grandmother's antique pearl ring or the big screen TV.
More next time...
http://rpc.technorati.com/rpc/ping
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Baby Security
When my daughter was first born, it was like life from another dimension kicked in.
No more sleeping all night uninterrupted, no more blissful naps, not to mention my entire body hurt in places I'd never dreamed could hurt that badly!
But, as we settled into a routine, I became the attentive, worry-wart, typical first time mother. I boiled the pacifier, I ate when I wasn't hungry just to make enough milk. I folded every burp rag after washing them in hot water.
And when I wasn't running in 50 different directions trying to take care of a newborn as well as my other typical chores, there was this little creature sleeping in the next room. I wore more holes in the carpet because I had one of those audio baby monitors. Every gurgle, sigh, or rustle, and I was in that room making sure my baby was still breathing and her airways weren't blocked. Since she was a very light sleeper who had her days and nights mixed up, I did everything I could to verify her breathing...short of touching her. This involved much squatting to see her chest at eye level and make sure it was moving. Sometimes she was in such a deep sleep I would have to try to feel the air coming out of her mouth or nose...this wasn't quite as easy as it sounds! She could get in the darndest positions with her face turned away from me, so at times I was nearly standing on my head leaning inside her crib to get a better look in the dark. Laugh all you want...you know you did the same thing with your first! And you newly-weds and moms-to-be...just wait!
What I would have given for a video baby monitor! Of course, I probably wouldn't have lost that weight quite as quickly if I hadn't been running to the nursery every 10 minutes!
For a great wireless monitor...
http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/catalog/item/7093447/7210195.htm
No more sleeping all night uninterrupted, no more blissful naps, not to mention my entire body hurt in places I'd never dreamed could hurt that badly!
But, as we settled into a routine, I became the attentive, worry-wart, typical first time mother. I boiled the pacifier, I ate when I wasn't hungry just to make enough milk. I folded every burp rag after washing them in hot water.
And when I wasn't running in 50 different directions trying to take care of a newborn as well as my other typical chores, there was this little creature sleeping in the next room. I wore more holes in the carpet because I had one of those audio baby monitors. Every gurgle, sigh, or rustle, and I was in that room making sure my baby was still breathing and her airways weren't blocked. Since she was a very light sleeper who had her days and nights mixed up, I did everything I could to verify her breathing...short of touching her. This involved much squatting to see her chest at eye level and make sure it was moving. Sometimes she was in such a deep sleep I would have to try to feel the air coming out of her mouth or nose...this wasn't quite as easy as it sounds! She could get in the darndest positions with her face turned away from me, so at times I was nearly standing on my head leaning inside her crib to get a better look in the dark. Laugh all you want...you know you did the same thing with your first! And you newly-weds and moms-to-be...just wait!
What I would have given for a video baby monitor! Of course, I probably wouldn't have lost that weight quite as quickly if I hadn't been running to the nursery every 10 minutes!
For a great wireless monitor...
http://www.premiumnannycameras.com/catalog/item/7093447/7210195.htm
Thursday, September 10, 2009
What about your Spouse??
Now I know you're all dying to discuss your spouse....
Should we spy on our spouses? I don't believe people should get married in the first place if they don't trust each other 100%. BUT, people do change over the years. When you both have jobs and you're both spending 80% of your time with other people....well, you know what can happen. I won't tell you whether you should spy on your husband/wife or not. That's your business.
What I will say is this...
If it comes down to the point where you don't know what kind of diseases they may be bringing home, I'd say more power to you. If your spouse doesn't care enough about you to protect you from that type of thing, then YOU protect yourself! Don't become a victim.
If you have kids, well that's another big part of the equation and should be factored in.
Another note...I don't believe any videos of cheating spouses have ever been admissible in divorce court, so keep that in mind.
Until next time....
Should we spy on our spouses? I don't believe people should get married in the first place if they don't trust each other 100%. BUT, people do change over the years. When you both have jobs and you're both spending 80% of your time with other people....well, you know what can happen. I won't tell you whether you should spy on your husband/wife or not. That's your business.
What I will say is this...
If it comes down to the point where you don't know what kind of diseases they may be bringing home, I'd say more power to you. If your spouse doesn't care enough about you to protect you from that type of thing, then YOU protect yourself! Don't become a victim.
If you have kids, well that's another big part of the equation and should be factored in.
Another note...I don't believe any videos of cheating spouses have ever been admissible in divorce court, so keep that in mind.
Until next time....
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Practical Applications?
You really don't think you'd use a hidden camera, right? Think again!
Some would probably still laugh at the idea...not me! With the threats of robbery, terrorism, physical attacks, rape, or home invasions of any type, it's nice to know you can know what is going on in your home while you're away. Most of us think...well, that'll never happen to me! What about the recent shortage in jobs?
Do you think those people that are now jobless aren't going to have problems paying the bills or even keeping their homes? You'd be a fool if you didn't consider that crime rates WILL go up with the economy in this endless slump!
What if your teens come home from school and there is a knock at the door? Perhaps someone pretends to sell something or give your child something.....then forces their way in! Our imaginations can run wild with that scenario for sure.
But with the latest wireless hidden cameras, this concern can be all but alleviated. There are now wireless doorbell hidden cameras among others that you can monitor from any internet connection or capable cell phone. Wouldn't it give you peace of mind to be able to check on your teens to be sure they are safe? Even a phone call can't give you 100% assurance of that.
Think about it.
Next time...computer security
Some would probably still laugh at the idea...not me! With the threats of robbery, terrorism, physical attacks, rape, or home invasions of any type, it's nice to know you can know what is going on in your home while you're away. Most of us think...well, that'll never happen to me! What about the recent shortage in jobs?
Do you think those people that are now jobless aren't going to have problems paying the bills or even keeping their homes? You'd be a fool if you didn't consider that crime rates WILL go up with the economy in this endless slump!
What if your teens come home from school and there is a knock at the door? Perhaps someone pretends to sell something or give your child something.....then forces their way in! Our imaginations can run wild with that scenario for sure.
But with the latest wireless hidden cameras, this concern can be all but alleviated. There are now wireless doorbell hidden cameras among others that you can monitor from any internet connection or capable cell phone. Wouldn't it give you peace of mind to be able to check on your teens to be sure they are safe? Even a phone call can't give you 100% assurance of that.
Think about it.
Next time...computer security
More on spying
You know, I'm not usually a cynical person, but in this day and age where everyone is out for themselves, a proactive step towards protecting your loved ones and property seems called for.
Do you really think a prospective nanny would put a bad reference on her resume'?
Could some of these "glowing" references be her friends she's asking to lie for her?
What is she really doing all day with your child? You'd like to picture someone reading stories to your child, playing on the floor, and lovingly caring for him/her, right?
What if, in reality, something far different is happening?
Now, I'm not trying to scare you, just pointing out that our greatest investment is our children! They are the greatest gift we will ever be given. Don't you think it would be a good idea to know what is happening to them while you're away before it's too late?
Do you really think a prospective nanny would put a bad reference on her resume'?
Could some of these "glowing" references be her friends she's asking to lie for her?
What is she really doing all day with your child? You'd like to picture someone reading stories to your child, playing on the floor, and lovingly caring for him/her, right?
What if, in reality, something far different is happening?
Now, I'm not trying to scare you, just pointing out that our greatest investment is our children! They are the greatest gift we will ever be given. Don't you think it would be a good idea to know what is happening to them while you're away before it's too late?
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Legalities?
I'm definitely no expert on the subject, but a simple Google search can give you a pretty good idea as to what the legal ramifications are about recording video and audio through hidden surveillance equipment.
In the home, video seems to be legal without audio as long as a camera isn't placed in somewhere private like a bathroom or your nanny's bedroom.
There have been some cases where judges allowed video of nannies and elderly care related videos without the person having known or consented to being recorded. But I would imagine they were doing something bad enough to take it to court in the first place. A general rule is, if it invades someone's personal privacy in a place where they could be changing or doing anything personal...it's a No No!
Audio, however gets a little tricky. As far as I know, it is legal in the following states to record audio when one person in the conversation is aware they are being recorded. Now, if you are one of the people in the conversation, you're covered since you know about the presumably hidden recording device.
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, District of Columbia, Georgia , Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
In the states below, it is required to let the other person know they are being recorded. If you don't tell them, you could be sued.
California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Washington
Now, in some states, there are exceptions to this rule. If someone is committing a felony, audio recording is generally allowed.
So, what about businesses? Much the same story here. Video is almost always allowed because your investment and employees are being protected. A good way to cover your backside is to put up a sign informing the employees of the possibility of being recorded. Another way to do it is to include a note in the paperwork the employee has to sign when coming to work for the first time.
Audio, again is a different story. It is illegal in all states to record audio without at least one person knowing about it. Of course, this can also be included in the paperwork the employee is signing. It is definitely the best way to limit your legal liability in these situations.
This information is not intended for legal advice. If you aren't sure of the laws in your state, please contact an attorney.
In the home, video seems to be legal without audio as long as a camera isn't placed in somewhere private like a bathroom or your nanny's bedroom.
There have been some cases where judges allowed video of nannies and elderly care related videos without the person having known or consented to being recorded. But I would imagine they were doing something bad enough to take it to court in the first place. A general rule is, if it invades someone's personal privacy in a place where they could be changing or doing anything personal...it's a No No!
Audio, however gets a little tricky. As far as I know, it is legal in the following states to record audio when one person in the conversation is aware they are being recorded. Now, if you are one of the people in the conversation, you're covered since you know about the presumably hidden recording device.
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, District of Columbia, Georgia , Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
In the states below, it is required to let the other person know they are being recorded. If you don't tell them, you could be sued.
California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Washington
Now, in some states, there are exceptions to this rule. If someone is committing a felony, audio recording is generally allowed.
So, what about businesses? Much the same story here. Video is almost always allowed because your investment and employees are being protected. A good way to cover your backside is to put up a sign informing the employees of the possibility of being recorded. Another way to do it is to include a note in the paperwork the employee has to sign when coming to work for the first time.
Audio, again is a different story. It is illegal in all states to record audio without at least one person knowing about it. Of course, this can also be included in the paperwork the employee is signing. It is definitely the best way to limit your legal liability in these situations.
This information is not intended for legal advice. If you aren't sure of the laws in your state, please contact an attorney.
What about Nannies?
So what about your house? Should you have a hidden camera in your home?
There is a great deal of controversy over this subject. Is it an invasion of privacy, is it legal, is audio allowed?
For some it may be different than others. If you are a new mother leaving your newborn with a nanny for the first time, I say more power to you! As much as I would miss that baby, it would make my day so much easier to be able to "see" him/her and make sure he/she's happy throughout the day. And maybe you do need to check in on that new nanny! So that nanny has glowing references and seems great with the kids while you're there. What about when you're away? Does she talk on the phone constantly or watch TV while neglecting your child? These are not minor things, in my opinion and should be addressed. What if there are questionable people stopping by your house to see her? What do they do in front of your baby, toddler, preschooler? Of course, you should use your own good judgement on this one, but can you really afford to have someone watching your child that doesn't have their best interests at heart?
More on the legal side....
There is a great deal of controversy over this subject. Is it an invasion of privacy, is it legal, is audio allowed?
For some it may be different than others. If you are a new mother leaving your newborn with a nanny for the first time, I say more power to you! As much as I would miss that baby, it would make my day so much easier to be able to "see" him/her and make sure he/she's happy throughout the day. And maybe you do need to check in on that new nanny! So that nanny has glowing references and seems great with the kids while you're there. What about when you're away? Does she talk on the phone constantly or watch TV while neglecting your child? These are not minor things, in my opinion and should be addressed. What if there are questionable people stopping by your house to see her? What do they do in front of your baby, toddler, preschooler? Of course, you should use your own good judgement on this one, but can you really afford to have someone watching your child that doesn't have their best interests at heart?
More on the legal side....
Reasons to own a Hidden Camera Part 2
Ok, so now the latest craze is the DVR. For the not so tech savy, its kind of like a digital VCR. In some cases, you have a hidden camera connected in one way or another to a stand alone or external DVR.
Even better are the hidden cameras with built-in DVR's. Talk about nice! They are usually only about a pound heavier and come with a removable SD or memory card so you can view your videos on your computer.
One more step up from that...and, ahhhh, we have the remote access DVR that is viewable via cell phones, internet, phone lines, LAN and WAN to name a few. Who wants to work from 9 to 5 and then come home to 8 or 9 hours (depending on how long your commute was) of video to watch? This way you can check in on your house, kids, business, warehouse, or even an elderly parent in a nursing home to make sure they are safe and their needs are being met. I'm fortunate enough to be able to stay home with my daughter at the moment. But if I wasn't??? I am the worry wart, paranoid mother who would definitely want to be able to see my daughter during the day via streaming video! Not just to check up on the nanny, but to give myself the peace of mind that my child is still alive, unhurt and breathing fine. Ok, slight exaggeration there, but you get the point!
Still to come...hidden cameras in the home...
Even better are the hidden cameras with built-in DVR's. Talk about nice! They are usually only about a pound heavier and come with a removable SD or memory card so you can view your videos on your computer.
One more step up from that...and, ahhhh, we have the remote access DVR that is viewable via cell phones, internet, phone lines, LAN and WAN to name a few. Who wants to work from 9 to 5 and then come home to 8 or 9 hours (depending on how long your commute was) of video to watch? This way you can check in on your house, kids, business, warehouse, or even an elderly parent in a nursing home to make sure they are safe and their needs are being met. I'm fortunate enough to be able to stay home with my daughter at the moment. But if I wasn't??? I am the worry wart, paranoid mother who would definitely want to be able to see my daughter during the day via streaming video! Not just to check up on the nanny, but to give myself the peace of mind that my child is still alive, unhurt and breathing fine. Ok, slight exaggeration there, but you get the point!
Still to come...hidden cameras in the home...
Reasons to own a Hidden Camera
A few years ago, the average person would have thought it absurd to buy a hidden surveillance camera. That's something spy agencies and PI's specialize in...right? Well, not so much anymore.
With the conscientious business owner becoming more aware of the growing need for security, this seems a little more reasonable. Not only is it smart to provide security for your business and inventory, you might also think about your employee's security. Especially if there is cash being exchanged!
Not sure about the new employee you just hired? Now you have a foolproof way to keep an eye on them without their knowledge. Think about it, you perform better when your boss is in the room, right? But don't you tend to slack off, check personal emails, take extended smoke breaks, and chat with co-workers when you know the boss is gone or in a meeting? Your employees are no different! But their behavior may be a little more disturbing than you think. Here's a way to make sure your business isn't being damaged either physically or by reputation while you are absent.
And really, if your employee isn't doing anything wrong, why would they have a problem being recorded? Now, bear in mind, this is not so you can nit pick on everything your employee does wrong...it's to address the major issues you don't feel you can let slide.
http://rpc.technorati.com/rpc/ping
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