Webcams unlimited

[OFSO]

Having just bought a very cheap USB plug 'n vomit webcam last week for use with de Skype, I thought of adding a couple more to monitor other places in the house. Before I do so, what happens when you add a second (or tertiary) device of the same type ? Does WN (XP in my case) add a number ...1,...2,...3 etc to each one so you can select it ?

OFSO (of the powered USB hub)

[mixture]

Seems multiple cameras with Skype is not too straightforward...

See here as a starting point (http://forum.skype.com/index.php?showtopic=297161)

[spannersatcx]

I thought of adding a couple more to monitor other places in the house

Yes you can by the looks of google you will need some software to control it though, I think. camera s/w (http://www.nchsoftware.com/surveillance/index.html?gclid=CMaXvJC6hqsCFUdTfAodlVYd1g) some more (http://download.cnet.com/Multi-Webcam-Surveillance-System/3000-2348_4-10706361.html) Looks like you will have to pay for it though.

[tony draper]

I understood there was a limit to how long a USB webcam lead could be,anyway after making enquires in this very place I found my posh new full 1080p HD webcam works quite happily on a five meter lead looking out me back window.
:)

[Spitoon]

....I thought of adding a couple more to monitor other places in the house. Uh-huh.....

More seriously - I've got no experience of doing what you are trying but this iSpy: Free Camera Security Software (Open Source) (http://www.ispyconnect.com/) looks might it might be of help.

[tony draper]

You would probably be better off thinking in terms of a conventional CCTV camera system if it is home security your after,although saying that the world of CCTV is changing over to IP cameras nowadays,but good IP cameras and associated equipment are still horrendously expensive it being the new kid on the block,reasonable CCTV security is very cheap these days,probably because it is being phased out,ebay is awash with good second hand kit.
:)

[OFSO]

Have had the conventional system for years (so long ago in fact that it has WIRES between the CCTV cameras and the control unit). Very useful for seeing if the feral cats in the front yard want feeding. Or if the postman has arived with yet another registered demand for taxes....

But was wondering whether I could buy another one of these cheap webcams - they cost about five quid here - mount it outside, give some of my friends an alternative view over the Bay of Roses.

In fact, so cheap are the cameras I think I will buy one anyway, plug it in and see if XP assigns a different number to it.

Go on E-Bay ? You must be a-joking.....

[tony draper]

The reason those webcams only cost a fiver is because they are tat Mr OFSO,
bite the bullet and go buy yourself a full 1080p HD jobbie yer meany.
:rolleyes: