Flir, Netgear, Linksys WiFi Security Cameras Have You Covered

by Nathan Eddy

Based on technology historically used in law enforcement for rapid suspect identification, RapidRecap allows users to simultaneously review a day’s worth of video events in seconds and quickly pinpoint events of interest. Original recordings of interest can then be accessed on both iOS and Android devices. The FX includes complimentary access to Flir’s Free Cloud Basic, which provides cloud storage of video motion events dating back 48 hours.

The camera’s SmartZone feature allows users to identify specific areas within the camera’s field of view for movement detection, which in turn triggers an instant alert to a user’s mobile device of choice. This allows users to receive only the most relevant alerts. An optional protective acrylic camera housing facilitates body or helmet mounting and makes the camera waterproof at depths up to 65 feet.

An optional dash-mount facilitates mounting the FX camera to a dashboard or windshield for recording while driving. In addition, a built-in accelerometer senses motion and activates a 30-minute loop recording function. The accelerometer also senses shock from potential impacts and automatically stores a “before and after” recording.

The rugged and weatherproof outdoor housing protects the FX from the elements and shields it from excess sunlight. Sold both with and without the camera, the outdoor accessory includes additional infrared LEDs to facilitate more powerful night vision capabilities up to 65 feet. Additional features include two-way audio, ambient temperature measurement, humidity monitoring and the ability to manage multiple cameras at once.

The FX will be available at Best Buy, Target, B&H, Amazon.com and other retailers starting in the spring and will launch worldwide later this year. Direct shipments to consumers begin in mid-April. The FX is offered with the indoor stand at $199 and with the outdoor housing at $249; additional accessories are sold separately. Every purchase of the FX includes a 30-day free trial of Cloud Plus.

With the free Arlo app, users can watch live-streamed or recorded videos, see motion event recordings, customize activity alerts and arm/disarm motion sensors. Arlo will also alert users instantly if an event occurs, and they can tap into as many as four simultaneous camera streams to watch from a desktop, notebook or mobile device. The WiFi-enabled camera boasts 720p resolution with a wide, 130-degree field of view.

The camera, which complies with the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) core specifications, features IP67 weatherproof and vandal-resistant housing to protect the system from both natural and criminal elements. It also provides night vision, motion detection, audio detection and alarm/event notification. Other features enhance video quality with cleaner images in any light.

Users can record directly to D-Link’s HD Pan & Tilt Wi-Fi Camera with its built-in microSD card slot and view on the iPhone, iPad or Android devices. A night vision feature allows users to view up to 26 feet of the environment in total darkness.

This camera features intelligent alerts to receive notifications for motion and sound, two-way talk capability, live secure streaming with bank-level encryption, and the ability to set alerts based on time of day or location. In addition, users can receive activity alerts on a smartphone, tablet or computer, or add the optional Cloud Video Recording (CVR) feature to access video from the past week or month.

This durable camera is gasket-sealed throughout for protection in rugged climates, including extreme heat, driving rain or snow. It includes a 2GB SD card and supports up to a 16GB SD card. The camera also boasts a night vision range of up to 35 feet, and features audio recording and a microphone. Its compact size is ideal for discreet camera placement in a variety of locations.