Name:	lakngulf -	Reply
Subject:	Security Cameras
Date:	3/30/2022 10:15:40 AM

What is your go to for home security cameras?  My Arlos are getting old and I think I want to add another option or replace altogether.

My Arlo depends on me remembering to change batteries, AND wifi to be on.

Are there options that use Solar charged batteries, and have Cellular backup when wifi is not available?

Thanks

Name:	MartiniMan -	Reply
Subject:	Security Cameras
Date:	3/30/2022 1:42:40 PM

I too have Arlo cameras and have looked for other alternatives and found none that were all that much better.  All require internet to access them remotely.  I suppose if you have a cell phone present at all times set up as a hotspot you can use that for accessing the cameras.  Not sure about the speed issue if you go that route.  One option to look into is the Simply Safe system.  They claim their batteries last longer.  My daughter has the system in her house and seems to like it.

The harder part is the battery issue.  One other option is a hard wired system which is probably pretty pricey.  Let me know what you find out as I would be interested in hearing about another option.

Name:	MrHodja -	Reply
Subject:	Security Cameras
Date:	3/30/2022 2:44:30 PM

I have SimpliSafe at two locations, but only one camera so far.  The system base station has battery backup and I believe uses cellular coverage for alarms, but the original camera relies on 120VAC to operate via USB power.  They have newer cameras that I believe are exterior and wireless, so maybe they communicate directly with the base station.  If they rely on internet and someone cuts the power to the house the entry sensors would work but not the camera(s).  Almost worth installing a small solar panel on the roof that feeds a backup battery so when some "smart" intruder cuts power thinking they re cutting internet, the backup would kick in and internet would keep working and thus the cameras as well.  Of course if internet is via cable and they are smart enough to cut the cable, you are SOL. 

Name:	MartiniMan -	Reply
Subject:	Security Cameras
Date:	4/3/2022 12:31:42 PM

That's pretty much the way it is with the Arlo system.  You need power and broadband to run the cameras.  You could spend a lot of money to keep both going but I think it's probably safe to say that most of the burglers in the Lake Martin area are not that sophisticated.  Usually teens or people with a meth habit.  Like the locks on my trailers about all these systems might do is cause the perp to move onto easier pickings.  Frankly, since we don't live full time at the lake there is very little in our lake house worth stealing but I have cameras just in case.