Turn your webcam into a home security system.
Having a home security system can give you piece of mind. It can allow you to check on rooms and entrances from the Internet while you are at work or even on vacation. If you have a webcam, it's easy to set up and, if you use a free software program, it doesn't even cost very much. You can also have it set up in less than 30 minutes.
Instructions
1. Set up the webcam in the area that you want to protect. Connect the webcam to the wireless transmitter. Some webcams come with mounting screws or sticky pads that will keep them set in stable. Use these to mount the camera, if they are available.
2. Make sure there is a power source available. Some webcams come with independent power sources while others need to be plugged into an electrical socket.
3. Turn on your computer and install the webcam software that came with the kit. Connect the USB video receiver to your computer by plugging it into the USB port.
4. Open up the software application by going to the "Start Menu" and launching it.
5. Sign up for a service that will allow you to broadcast your webcam feed to the Internet. This will let you watch your house from anywhere you can get an Internet connection. You can use a computer, a cell phone or a PDA for this. A few programs that you can consider are HomeCamera.com, Broadcam, or Cambrosia. As of 2010, these services cost anywhere between free and $60.
6. Download and install the software on your computer. You will need a computer that has Windows XP or Windows Vista for this, with at least 512 MB of RAM for these programs to work.
7. Configure your software. Setting up these programs is simple. All you need to do is to name each of the cameras that you are using. For example, you can call them living room, entrance, bedroom, or camera #1, #2 and #3. Then the setup wizard will walk you through the rest. It takes about 5 or 10 minutes to complete the process.
8. Log in to the website where you signed up and downloaded the software. Immediately you will be able to see all of your video feeds in one place.
Tags: your computer, come with, home security, home security system, security system, Some webcams