Hi all,
I'm new to the forum here and this thread is what prompted me to sign up.
I'm quite interested in a discrete system. Smash and grabs are a concern where I live (and I think most places) and having an exposed camera worries me. Often I'll remove my camera from view if I'm heading to an area where risk is higher. Often I'll take the camera down before I drive to where I'm going to ensure nobody watches me take it down and hide it away. Obviously this has many negative implications.
I think there are many benefits to a split DVR system. Stealth camera placement is just the tip of the iceberg.
Here's a few ideas that come to mind. Some are just a dream but it gives you some ideas as to the possibilities:
- Hideaway DVR could easily accommodate two camera connections
- IP cameras could be powered from the DVR unit over the one cable
- DVR could support simultaneous writing to two SD cards for extra data protection.
- DVR would house voltage regulator, GPS circuitry, impact/vibration sensor
- DVR to provide BNC connection for GPS antenna. With a good GPS chipset, antenna could be placed under dash and still receive signal
- Power connection on DVR could have constant 12V and ignition detection similar to audio components for reliable switching to parking mode
- Input for vehicle lights such as brake lights and turn signals - on-screen display of turn signal status could help in certain situations
It's very rare that I need to see the video in the car. It's easy to pop the SD card into my phone and review it if I need to. WiFi could be present on the DVR unit and the DVR's settings could be accessed through a phone app. There is really no need to have a LCD screen on the camera itself. They just add cost and size.
Just a few thoughts for now.
Cheers.