ZoneMinder Forums

I am looking at this software to see if it will do what I need for a new system. I am new to all of this so could use any advice. I am looking for 8 to 10 cameras, 6 outside and the rest indoors. This is strictly for security when the business is not open so I am mostly worried about night activity so all of the cameras need to be IR. I would like a system that can monitor cameras for movement then record activity. I would also like to have one camera to be in HD and post images or video to a website. Will this software do this and what type of cameras should I be looking for?

Welcome to the Zoneminder site. In short: yes; this application can do everything your asking plus very much more. As for the cameras that's going to be your call. I recommend heading over to the Bluecherry.net website to see what's available. They offer the full spectrum from analog for use with capture cards to digital HD IP cameras (with motion detection capability built in). Bluecherry also offers a live CD based on Ubuntu that's an excellent starting point for using Zoneminder. Also several other live CD's are available through links in this forum or at linuxtracker.org to help you decide if this is right for you!

How do I figure out what cameras I need? I can't find a place that sells them that will help me decide. They just say figure out what you want and order it from us. Is it better to get good cameras and dimly light the outside of the building or is it better to get IR cameras? I want a good quality video, how do I interpret the specs of these cameras? How do I make sure I get the right cameras?