can I use a camcorder with Zoneminder?

jjleprikon · Post by **jjleprikon** » Sat Sep 02, 2006 9:18 pm

Hi all, I am a newbie, and am considering building a security DVR with ZoneMinder. I have done some research on this forum and I think I found a card that will work. Its an ebay card, search eBay for "8 CHannel DVR Card Digital Video for CCTV 200fps NEW" or here's a link: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... %3AIT&rd=1.

I am looking for an inexpensive camera and it occurs to me that maybe an older camcorder could be had for a good price. If it has an rca video output can it be used with an adapter to connect to a card like this? eventually, I think I may want 3 or 4 cameras. I assume the really inexpensive cameras like this one on eBay: "CCTV Mini Wire Security Infrared Color Camera -S10" link: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... %3AIT&rd=1 are not going to be much good?

jameswilson · Post by **jameswilson** » Sat Sep 02, 2006 9:52 pm

its difficult as i have yet to find an 'in-expensive' camera that either works properly day 1 or theones that do age very quickley. Compared to proffesional kit they are really poor. I would consider spending a bit on your pickup especially as you have saved a lot by using zm. I knw you can buy dvr's for £100 but you really do get what you pay for.
BTW how much was your tv, car, mobile etc
how would you expect an unbranded tv to perform etc is basically what im getting at

jjleprikon · Post by **jjleprikon** » Sat Sep 02, 2006 10:24 pm

Agreed. I suspect the unbranded cheap cameras are going to be low performers. Thats why I'm wondering about using a 'branded' camcorder camera.

jameswilson · Post by **jameswilson** » Sat Sep 02, 2006 10:34 pm

you could but it was never disigned for it so your milage may vary. a proper pro level camera say bosch or panasonic are less than £200. You can get decent bullet cams that will last but unless there is an aesthetic need for them stick to proper cameras in proper housings.