Paddock (Security) Cameras

This project was instigated by Terri, she wished to keep an eye on the animals, especially when they were due to give birth. I am convinced this was a good idea, much better doing a head count from the settee when the rain is pouring down.

Initially I bought a Swann 4 camera and DVR system from Dick Smith whilst they were on sale (this is before I knew of Youshop). An important point for me, 4 channels are not enough, seriously look at a 8 camera system, but do not buy 8 cameras to start with. My system had 450 lines cameras, these are good enough for general security, but higher quality is required for detail, such as number plates.

The DVR was sited close to the TV (to monitor the cameras, RGB input useful) and within reach of the ADSL Router by Ethernet cable for the internet. The cameras are hard wired and supplied with 4 off 18 metre cables to power the cameras and get the signal to the DVR. The cables were run up the inside of a fitted wardrobe and across the roof space, to the eves of the house. Initially, 2 cameras monitored the top paddock and the spare 2 watched our drive entrance and parking area.

This a brief explanation of the rigmarole to be able to view your cameras over the internet. There will be detailed instructions in the DVR manual and hopefully in some form of English (this is not guaranteed with Chinese devices).

Physically, an Ethernet cable is connected between the DVR and your Router. Your router should support UPnP ( recent models are OK) to give you a fair chance of getting it to work. Next step is to configure the network page of the DVR as per instructions. Your router will require some fiddling also, its easier to work on the router with a laptop connected by Ethernet. If you have a static IP address the router set up is easier, but most NZ homes have a dynamic IP, which means the address changes every time your router reconnects to the internet and you have to work round this. Again your DVR or router manual should give guidance. Believe me the whole process can age you severely.

The two paddock cameras were very restricted in their fields of view, so I bought a PTZ camera with a 27 times zoom from a Chinese supplier on Sella for $500. I cannot now find his products, so not sure what's happened. There are plenty of choices on Trademe, but I cannot vouch for quality.

The cameras and DVR have been a godsend, apart from watching the animals in bad weather, the ability to observe on the internet or phone when away from home or abroad is brilliant and very reassuring. We actually use the internet at home instead of using the TV.

To be continued.

I am currently working on a remote solar powered camera, feedback if it works