Surveillance Camera.

[xelasnave]

So many out there so I ask for opinions..

All I want is a camera in the observatory that transmits to a viewing station in my van.
.
So I can check on things whilst in bed

Self contained perhaps so as not to offer any opportunity to interfere with the Asiair plus.

Thanks

Alex

[mldee (Mike)]

TP Link have a bunch of reasonably priced surveillance cameras that link using wifi and your internet router via mobile/PC app, so you can view on phone, tablet, PC, etc. Their system is called TAPO. Link: https://tinyl.io/6cvC

The app allows you to access the cameras from any internet-connected location. Cameras are good quality, easy install and come in weatherproof models if you choose.

I have two that allow me to monitor inside the obs and a second that monitors the outside environment, in colour and day/night IR vision as well, from anywhere on the planet that has reasonable internet.

You can no doubt find similar from other mfrs, but my user experience with the TP link stuff has been great.

[frank777 (Frank)]

I use this one obtained from Bunnings, less than $100... https://www.bunnings.com.au/orion-10...E&gclsrc=aw.ds
It connects via wifi to an app on my phone and has a lithium battery so it's portable. Has auto night vision mode and sends an alarm to the phone when movement is detected. I set it up in my backyard when I'm running my rig overnight; I live on a suburban corner block and the backyard is somewhat accessible, so having this camera gives me some degree of comfort. I use an ASIAir and they both live happily with each other.

Frank

[xelasnave]

Thanks gentlemen you have been a real help.

alex

[floyd_2 (Dean)]

I actually grabbed a TAPO C310 from Officeworks on the weekend to try. $79.20 I think it was, with WiFi and ethernet connectivity, waterproof, and decent optics. All just to watch my telescope outside while I'm comfy inside my obsie. For $80, it was a bargain. I'm running it through my Blue Iris software and it's fine.

The only thing I'm not sure about is whether the IRs will cause trouble. My filters all block IR so I'm not expecting any trouble (fingers crossed).

[AstralTraveller (David)]

My concern with internet enabled cameras is the possibility that someone else may be watching too, possibly waiting for me to be away. I don't understand how secure they are and whether they can be hacked. So I'm cautious.