Inexpensive hidden security camera / VCR option ?

[DR4296]

Greetings All !

A friend of my wife has this slightly-paranoid little old lady she helps out (cooks a bit, cleans a bit, etc.)

Well, this little old lady is paranoid that, when she leaves the house, her various younger relatives are coming in and stealing from her (apparently, they have keys).

She asks (through my wife's friend... and now through me...):

What hardware would you recommend if I wanted to set up some sort of motion-activated... but small or hidden... security camera and have it record to my VCR so I can watch it later ? How much would this cost me ?

Anything that would work with a normal VCR would be a plus.

Any recommendations?

Thanks!

[independentpete]

Well, for inexpensive... There's X10's VCR Commander II kit (http://www.x10.com/cameras/ux23a_s_k_ps19.html) with a motion sensor. Then add an X10 wireless camera (http://www.x10.com/cameras/xx11a_s_k_ps29.html). This setup can be had for under $150. I can't say that I'd recommend this, but it is inexpensive, does not require running wires and does work with existing VCRs. The quality of X10's CMOS-based cameras is poor, especially in low light. The wireless range of the cameras can be poor depending on the size and layout of the home. The motion sensors can false trigger often.

Basically the VCR Commander causes the VCR to record for five minutes after each motion detection. I've set one of these up and the experience was that the motion sensor kept tripping, causing the VCR to record practically 24/7. When it did catch the vandal in action, it was too dark to make out.

You don't say what you mean by inexpensive. You could get a better CCD-based camera and still use the same VCR Commander and motion sensor. At least you'll have a good picture.

[Rupp]

DRaasch,
Plug this into a VCR and let it rip.

[Jim Doolittle]

New door locks may be cheaper.

[DR4296]

Rupp,

What is that?

Teddy bear with a mini-camera...
some sort of video receiver that apparently would plug into the VCR ??

Any motion detector in there?

[independentpete]

DRaasch: Link to Rupp's teddybear... http://www.smarthome.com/7853.html. Doesn't appear to have motion detection.