PIR and Video Recording

[stylo]

Hi all. I'm interested to know if there is a way to setup a PIR to trigger a PC with webcam to start recording.

I've used the motion detect SW to do this but never works well enough for external facing cameras (changes in light/wind moving trees etc all cause unnecessary recordings).

Any tips appreciated.

Adam

[toscal]

Will contact the supplier I use to see what they can come up with. I know certain DVR system can do it but No too sure about Pc based systems.

[stylo]

OK thanks for that.

[toscal]

There are video cards for connection of up to 4 cameras. Depending on the software used it is possible for a compatible alarm console,needs to have either RS232 or 485 comms, to then comunicate with the pc when a pir is triggered. The pc would need some form of RS485 interface I think.
Another way is to have a stand alone DVR connected to your pc either via a network or directly via USB. These have the posibility of direct sensor connections, so if the PIR has a switched contact when triggered then you can connect this upto the DVR,on say channel 1 and connect a camera to channel 1.Now when the PIR is triggered it will trigger recording of the camera. Though some will start recording all connected cameras.
Send me a PM if you want more details of the DVRs and I will email specs etc.

[stylo]

Thanks for that. Will think it through.
Adam

[m1anh]

Hi all. I'm interested to know if there is a way to setup a PIR to trigger a PC with webcam to start recording.

I've used the motion detect SW to do this but never works well enough for external facing cameras (changes in light/wind moving trees etc all cause unnecessary recordings).

Any tips appreciated.

Adam

Have you tried zoneminder ,Works very well for me. Some good advice is DO NOT USE cheap cameras!. I only buy cameras that contain a Sony CCD. i.e. Ex-view HAD or Exwave HAD.

I find the motion detection in the software very good. However, it does support external Input / Outputs, including X10. Although not used it.

Ian