Need help with hardware configuration

zonaboy · Post by **zonaboy** » Wed May 07, 2008 3:09 pm

Hey guys, I'm looking into installing an outdoor surveillance system for my home. I've been doing a lot of research and I think I'm pretty close to nailing down a set of hardware, but I have a couple of questions.

First, since I'm on a budget, I'm leaning towards analog cameras. Initially just one, but eventually 4-6 total.

From reading posts here, I think I'm going to try to use Cat 5e cable and passive Video Baluns for signal and power. I've found a couple of 12VDC power distribution systems that looks like they would suit my needs. This seems like a better option then a power strip full of individual 12V power supplies. Does this sound like a good plan so far?

Ultimately I would like to get this video feed onto a Linux box running ZoneMinder to take advantage of all the features it has to offer. This is where my problem starts however. Currently, the best option for bringing all the Cat 5e inside my home is into a coat closet. I already have attic access from that closet and I can add a 110VAC outlet in there (there's already one on the opposite side of the closet wall). So... I can mount the power dist system in there no problem, but I don't think there is enough ventilation in that closet (door will be kept closed) to house a Linux box running 24/7. Space would be tight too. I also have my home's network router nearby on the other side of that wall as well (and easy access to it from the closet as well).

So... I was thinking of using some sort of Network Video Server, one that could take in separate analog signals, and provide MPEG4/JPEG on the backside via ethernet. This way, I could just string network cable out from the closet to the router (or bring the whole router into the closet now that I'll have power in there).

I've been googling, but haven't found anything that looks like what I need. Or if it looks close, its mega $$$. I was hoping that someone here would be able to point me in the right direction.

Or, if I'm completely off base, that would be good to know too!!

Sorry for the looong post. Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated!!!

Keith

Lee Sharp · Post by **Lee Sharp** » Wed May 07, 2008 4:35 pm

If you cut 2 inches off the top and bottom of the door you will get quite good ventilation with minimal visual impact.

zonaboy · Post by **zonaboy** » Wed May 07, 2008 7:03 pm

Lee Sharp wrote:If you cut 2 inches off the top and bottom of the door you will get quite good ventilation with minimal visual impact.

ah... the low tech solution, I like it!

still, its pretty cramped in there, filled with... well, closet stuff.

any comments on my overall configuration? will a network video server fit the bill for getting access to my analog cams from ZM?

any suggestions on a good 4 port network video servers at the $500 price point?

Keith

Lee Sharp · Post by **Lee Sharp** » Thu May 08, 2008 4:45 pm

It will add lag to the system, and extra load to your server. It will also be a hot thing in the closet. Lastlly, they ain't cheap. The only ones I have seen work here are Axix. I would just put the computer there.

zonaboy · Post by **zonaboy** » Thu May 08, 2008 6:12 pm

Lee Sharp wrote:It will add lag to the system, and extra load to your server. It will also be a hot thing in the closet. Lastlly, they ain't cheap. The only ones I have seen work here are Axix. I would just put the computer there.

Lee, thanks for your advice and sharing your experiences. You make good points. The network server that I was looking at was the Axis 241Q. Seems like a quality unit that supports simultaneous MJPG and MPEG4 streams. But at about $750, its pretty pricey. For that money, I could probably get a ProVideo 149 capture card and a micro-ATX linux box and still be ahead in performance and flexibility.

hmm... now where did I put my hacksaw?

Keith

coke · Post by **coke** » Thu May 08, 2008 8:30 pm

Maybe a ventilation fan into the attic if it becomes an issue.

zonaboy · Post by **zonaboy** » Fri May 09, 2008 1:09 am

coke wrote:Maybe a ventilation fan into the attic if it becomes an issue.

hey, i like the vent idea. I can't do it to the attic though because the top of the closet is actually the base for a "plant shelf" on the opposite side of the wall.

but maybe i could install a louvered vent for the door, or to the adjoining bedroom to the side.... hmmm.

thanks for the ideas!