How Hidden Cameras Actually Work In Plain English

The most asked question we receive is (1) "how do hidden cameras work?" The answer is that a small board camera is built into an everyday item. The camera can be wired which means it is connected to the DVR or VCR using a cable. The camera can also be wireless, in this case the camera transmits a signal to a receiver that is connected to the DVR or VCR.

An other question we receive is (2) "Can I get audio in my hidden camera?" The answer is no you cannot. According to US Federal Laws, audio should not be used in a surreptitious manner. One example of surreptitious interception is audio in a hidden camera. This includes pinhole board cameras and all covert or hidden cameras, i.e., a clock radio. Audio in a hidden camera or board camera is only available to law enforcement agencies. Title 18, Section 2512.

(3) What is the difference between a wired and a wireless camera? Wired cameras have a video cable that runs from the camera to your recording or viewing device such as a DVR, VCR or monitor. Wireless cameras have a built-in transmitter that sends the video signal to a receiver. The receiver connects to your recording or viewing device.

(4) How far can a wireless hidden camera transmit? Standard wireless hidden cameras can transmit up to 1000 feet and high powered wireless hidden cameras can transmit up to 2500 feet.

(5) How many wireless cameras can you have in one location? You can have up to four wireless cameras in one location. You can view all cameras at once using four receivers or you can use one receiver and switch to each camera. You will only be able to view one camera at a time if you only use one receiver. If you want to install multiple wireless cameras in one location it's best to order them at the same time so they can be put on different channels.

(6) Will a cordless phone interfere with wireless cameras? Cordless phones that operate on the 2, 4 GHz frequency will cause interference with 2.4 GHz cameras. Interference should be minimal and usually occurs if the phone is between the camera and receiver. Wireless Internet, networks and Wifi can cause interference too.

(7) What is a 2.4 GHz wireless frequency? A frequency is used to transmit a signal or data like video. @.4 GHz is the specific wireless frequency that transmitters use to send video signal to a receiver. Range varies from 200 ft to 700 ft, depending on environmental conditions.

(8) Do receivers work through walls up to two feet thick? You, as long as there isn't excessive amount of metal in the wall.

(9) What is a Plug and Play connection camera? It is an RCA Video plug and a power plug on the camera for easy connection to VCR or TV. This is done by running the RCA (Aux) line into the Video In of the VCR or TVl. The TV or VCR must be set on the correct channel to view the video in picture.

(10) Do the plug and play connections require extra wire to run the signal back to the VCR or TV? Yes, you need to buy the length of cable you need.

(11) Between what temperatures is it safe for cameras to operate in? It is safe for B/W cameras to operate between -23 degree C to + 50 degree C or - 10 degree F to +122 degree F. It's safe for color cameras to operate between - 23 degree C to + 40 degree C or - 10 degree F to + 104 degree F. It's also safe to store cameras between - 30 degree C to + 70 degree C or - 22 degree F to + 158 degree F.

(12) What is the operating voltage of a camera? 9 volts (CMOS) to 12 volts and 24 volt on professional models.

(13) What is a fixed lens? A fixed focal length lens can't zoom. the focus is fixed. A fixed focal length lens usually allows more light to pass through the lens at a given focal length than a varifocal, or zoom lens. This can be important in low light situations.

I'm sure many people have even more questions. If so just go to the website listed in the below bio of Marjorie L.

By: Marjorie LaPiere

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Marjorie L has been researching selfprotection, selfdefense including burglary prevention, and hidden (nanny cams) cameras sinse 2002. Working with many police departments around the country, she has been finding out what works and what doesn't work when it comes to perventing burglaries, personal attackes, and rapes (including attempted date rapes). For a sample of selfprotection & hidden-camera products Marjorie researched as being very effective, go to www.hide-a-camera.com