If you have an old tablet lying around, you can repurpose it as a security camera to keep an eye on your home or office while you’re away. With the right apps and setup, you can turn your tablet into a reliable surveillance system without spending a fortune.
Why Use a Tablet as a Security Camera?
Using a tablet as a security camera has several advantages. It’s cost-effective, as you don’t need to purchase a separate camera. Tablets usually have a good camera quality, making them suitable for monitoring purposes. Additionally, you can repurpose an old device and give it a new life as a security camera.
Guide to turning your tablet into a security camera
Using your tablet as a security camera can be a cost-effective and convenient way to monitor your home or office. With the right apps and setup, you can easily turn your tablet into a surveillance tool to keep an eye on your property.
Step 1: Choose the right app
Start by selecting a suitable security camera app for your tablet. Look for apps that offer features like motion detection, live streaming, and cloud storage options. Popular options include Alfred, Manything, or Presence.
Step 2: Positioning your tablet
Decide on the best location to place your tablet for optimal coverage. Ensure the tablet is securely mounted and has a clear view of the area you want to monitor. Consider factors like lighting and potential obstructions.
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| 3 | Connect your tablet to a power source to ensure continuous operation. |
| 4 | Set up alerts and notifications to receive updates on any detected activity. |
| 5 | Regularly check the camera feed to ensure it is functioning properly. |
Step 1: Choose the right app
Before turning your tablet into a security camera, you need to choose the right app that will allow you to monitor your space remotely. There are several apps available on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store that can turn your tablet into a security camera. Some popular options include Manything, Alfred, Presence, and IP Webcam.
Step 2: Position your tablet strategically
Once you have set up your tablet with the security camera app, it’s time to position it strategically for optimal coverage. Consider the following tips:
1. Choose the right location
Place your tablet in a location that offers a clear view of the area you want to monitor. Make sure it is not obstructed by any objects or reflections that could interfere with the camera’s view.
2. Mount or prop up your tablet
Use a tablet stand or mount to keep your device stable and secure. Make sure the angle and height of the tablet are adjusted to capture the desired area effectively.
By positioning your tablet strategically, you can enhance the security coverage and improve the surveillance capabilities of your makeshift security camera system.
Step 3: Set up motion detection
Now that your tablet is positioned and connected to the security camera app, it’s time to set up motion detection. This feature allows your tablet to detect any movement in its field of view and automatically start recording or send you an alert.
Instructions:
- Open the security camera app on your tablet.
- Look for the motion detection settings in the app menu.
- Adjust the sensitivity and detection area to suit your needs.
- Test the motion detection by moving in front of the tablet’s camera.
- Ensure that notifications or recordings are triggered when motion is detected.
With motion detection set up, your tablet can now act as a smart security camera that alerts you to any suspicious activity in your home or office.
Step 4: Adjust camera settings
Once you have your tablet set up as a security camera, it’s important to adjust the camera settings to ensure optimal performance.
1. Resolution: Check the resolution settings on your camera app and choose the appropriate resolution for your needs. Higher resolution may provide clearer images but can also consume more storage space.
2. Frame rate: Adjust the frame rate to capture smooth video footage. A higher frame rate may result in smoother video but can also require more processing power.
3. Motion detection: Enable motion detection if your camera app supports it. This feature can help conserve storage space by only recording when motion is detected.
4. Night vision: If you plan to use the security camera in low-light conditions, make sure to enable night vision mode if available. This will allow the camera to capture clear images even in the dark.
By adjusting these camera settings, you can customize your security camera to meet your specific requirements and ensure reliable monitoring of your surroundings.
Step 5: Ensure reliable power source
One of the most critical aspects of using your tablet as a security camera is ensuring a reliable power source. To prevent interruptions in the video feed, make sure your tablet is connected to a power source that won’t fail unexpectedly. This could be a wall outlet, a power bank, or a USB connection to a computer or other device. Consider using a backup power source or a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) to keep your tablet running even during power outages.
Step 6: Access camera remotely
Once your tablet is set up as a security camera, you can access the live feed remotely from another device. To do this, you can use a variety of apps that allow you to connect to your tablet’s camera over the internet. Make sure your tablet is connected to a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data network for remote access.
Some popular apps for accessing your tablet’s camera remotely include Manything, Alfred, and IP Webcam. Install the app on both your tablet and the device you want to use to view the feed, then follow the instructions to connect the devices.
Once connected, you can monitor your tablet’s camera feed in real-time, receive alerts for motion detection, and even record footage for later viewing.
Step 7: Enable cloud storage
Enabling cloud storage for your security camera footage is a great way to ensure that your recordings are securely stored off-site. Many security camera apps offer cloud storage options for a monthly fee, allowing you to access your footage from anywhere with an internet connection.
To enable cloud storage for your tablet security camera, simply follow the instructions provided by your camera app. You may need to create an account, choose a storage plan, and configure the settings to upload your recordings to the cloud automatically.
Cloud storage provides an extra layer of security and convenience, as you won’t have to worry about losing your footage if your tablet is stolen or damaged. Make sure to regularly check your cloud storage account to manage your recordings and ensure that they are safely stored.
Step 8: Monitor and review footage
Once you have set up your tablet as a security camera and started recording footage, it’s important to regularly monitor and review the recorded videos. This will help you stay updated on any suspicious activities or incidents that may have occurred.
Make sure to check the camera feed regularly either through a dedicated monitoring app on your tablet or by accessing the recorded videos stored on the device. Take note of any unusual movements or events that may require further investigation.
It’s also a good practice to review the footage periodically to ensure that the camera is functioning properly and capturing clear images. This will help you troubleshoot any issues and make adjustments to improve the camera’s performance if needed.
