NOTE: This information is provided as general advice only and all local laws should be consulted for using these devices.
There are many hidden and spy cameras on the market today. A motion activated spy camera is one that will begin recording when movement is sensed and will cease recording when motion is no longer detected.
These cameras range in price from $100 up to $800. Lower priced units usually have limited recording time and minimal resolution. Higher end units can include a 1 year battery, night vision or can operate outdoors for extended periods of time.
When shopping for a motion activated spy camera you will want to acquire a camera that has the longest record time possible for your budget. If the camera operates on batteries, make sure they operate for the minimum amount of time you will need to monitor your location. In some cases you may need color, others you may not. A color camera is generally more expensive and unnecessary for simple surveillance. Save yourself some money and go with the black and white.
Hidden cameras come in different resolutions. For security monitoring you will want the best resolution your budget can afford. Most modern cameras have a resolution between 300 and 600 lines resolution.
Resolution of a surveillance camera is measured by the number of horizontal TV lines that make the picture. Each of these horizontal TV lines is made up of many pixels. When all the lines are put together on a monitor, you get a full picture. The more lines you have the higher the picture quality. If you choose a camera with a low resolution (less lines) you may not be able to make out details such as a face or item removed from view.
One of the last things you need to consider when choosing a motion activated spy camera is the design. Choose a design that will fit into your everyday circumstances. There are many different models on the market including alarm clocks, lamps, outdoor rocks, mailboxes, watches, wall clocks, mp3 players and many others. The most popular of these is the alarm clock and wall clock models. These fit into many locations and hey, why not – clocks are everywhere.