Most often, mini video cameras used by people in Moscow and other cities are digital models of one type or another. However, there are also mini-dv video cameras - devices that record video streams on a modern type of magnetic tape.

In addition, right now in the online store you can easily purchase the following types cameras:

• mini video camera with a long mode of operation without connecting to the mains;
• mini video camera 720;
• mini video camera with monitor;
• mini camcorder for computer;
• video camera on a mini DVD disc;
• security mini video camera;
• video camera for shooting at objects with minimal illumination;
• mini video camera with zoom;
• battery powered mini camcorder
• pocket mini camcorder.

All these types of mini camcorders are more or less suitable for a variety of tasks. The specific potential of a mini video camera, as well as its price, depend on a number of indicators.

List of key indicators:

• camera angle.
• Matrix type, maximum resolution.
• Support for remote access network protocols.
• The range of wireless frequencies on which the mini video camera can transmit information.
• The type of media you are using and its maximum size.
• Image compression format.
• Ability to record sound along with video.
• Temperature regime work.
• Device power settings.
• Case assembly materials, degree of protection against moisture and dust.
• Mounting type, method of installation on site.
• The presence of night lighting.
• The presence of a motion sensor.
• Dimensions.

You should pay attention to whether there is an instruction in Russian in the kit. All this information is available on the store's website, and after reading it, choosing the best option, all that remains is to place an order. So you can buy a mini video camera at a price of 1000 rubles with fast delivery directly to the specified address. Also on the site there are reviews of other customers, which will become an additional source of information, a living example of the use of the selected model of a mini video camera.

Technologies that in the recent past seemed like something from the realm of fantasy are now becoming more and more real. Everything that a couple of decades ago appeared only in science fiction films is gradually being realized.

The video surveillance industry has also undergone noticeable changes for the better - modern technologies make it possible to realize the full range of capabilities of a conventional video surveillance camera in a miniature case.

In addition, various spy cameras appeared in the form of buttons, glasses, watches and other household items. In this article, we will just analyze the various variations of wireless mini cameras for covert video surveillance, which are of the greatest relevance today.

Wireless CCTV cameras

Wireless surveillance cameras can be divided into. The former are very susceptible to various distortions and interference. The quality of the image received from the second group of cameras is practically not affected by interference, but they can still lead to loss of the radio signal or a decrease in the connection speed.

Wireless mini video cameras can be connected to the DVR via a radio channel, with a transmission range of up to 50 meters, in the absence of interference in the form of concrete walls, etc.

Digital cameras, like conventional cameras, have a standard set of components: a lens, a viewfinder, a photosensitive element - a matrix, and a body. To reduce the size, manufacturers make some models unpackaged, but the most popular due to the wide range of applications are still case models.

Among other things, an integral attribute of modern wireless mini cameras is a receiving module that will receive a signal from a video surveillance camera (such cameras are equipped with a radio channel to provide wireless transmission data), cables for connecting to a monitor, computer or TV, and two AC adapters - one for the camera, the other for the module. Installation and configuration of such a kit is within the power of anyone who knows how to use a computer - it does not require special skills or programming knowledge.

Some body models are equipped with interchangeable lenses, which is undoubted advantage if necessary, change the viewing angle from time to time - by setting wide angle lens, you will get the maximum field of view, and when screwing on a lens with a larger focal length, you will be able to track only a certain object - a car in the yard, etc. The lenses have a threaded connection, so replacing them is not particularly difficult.

The power supply of hidden CCTV cameras is carried out by means of a battery, but there is also the possibility of connecting to the mains using. From the battery the camera is capable to work from 1 to 5 hours. Also, depending on the specific model, it is possible to use the built-in battery as a power source.

For shooting at night, like most conventional cameras, miniature wireless cameras are equipped with infrared LEDs. This backlight is not visible to the human eye, and allows you to shoot in complete darkness with a possible range of up to 10 meters.

In some cases, mini cameras are also equipped with a Micro SD memory card slot, which allows, in the absence of a wireless connection, to record video on an internal drive with further viewing on a computer monitor screen. To save memory, you can use the "motion recording" mode - in this case, video recording will be made only after motion occurs in the field of view of the camera lens. Moreover, such a camera, in principle, does not require a wireless connection, which makes it many times cheaper than analogues equipped with a wireless transmitter, and also thanks to this it can be freely used as a wireless outdoor mini surveillance camera.

The legality of covert video surveillance

Due to its small size, the wireless mini surveillance camera is quite easy to disguise itself as interior items, and no one will even guess that it is being watched, but in which case, be aware that the law of the Russian Federation prohibits such interference in a person’s personal life without warning, and you may incur administrative responsibility for such actions. Articles 20.23 and 20.24 of the administrative code of offenses impose a fine for the use of covert video surveillance or eavesdropping, and article 138.1 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation prohibits the import of certain devices that are special technical means to the territory of the Russian Federation.

Wireless mini camcorders with internal memory

Wireless mini camera.

Among the large number of various miniature video cameras, one can single out one that has the most compact dimensions and the possibility of universal use. This is the Ambertek RS101 model. Its dimensions (25x25x26 mm) are almost half the size of a matchbox, and the weight is only 11 grams. This camera records color video in AVI 640x480 format at 30 frames per second. It is also capable of taking photos with a resolution of 1600x2000.

Recording is carried out on an internal drive - Micro SD card, with a possible expansion of memory up to 64 GB. Built-in 140mAh battery allows continuous video recording for 1 hour, and you can charge it from a computer via the USB cable included in the kit, or via portable chargers (which can increase the continuous operation of the camera dozens of times). The stylized protective lens cap can be easily removed from the device, making it even more compact and allowing you to use it as a full-fledged . You can buy such a wireless hidden mini video camera at a price of about 2500 rubles in Russian online stores. This camera is not a special technical tool, and is not prohibited by the law of the Russian Federation.

A few more models of wireless mini cameras from Ambertek, their brief characteristics and price.

Miniature video camera Ambertek.

Dimensions: 54x20x15 mm;

Weight: 38 grams;

Metal body;

AVI video recording at 640×480 resolution and 30 frames per second;

Support for Micro SD memory cards up to 32 GB;

Work from the built-in accumulator till 1,5 o'clock;

The Ambertek MD80 SE camera comes with various mounts for all occasions: clips with a clip for clothes, a mount kit with screws and double-sided tape, a silicone case to protect the camera from damage, a magnetic bracket.

The cost of the camera is about 3,000 rubles in domestic online stores.

Small video surveillance camera Ambertek MD98, price 7000 rubles.

Dimensions: 53x25x23 mm;

Weight: 44 grams;

This camera has the ability to record video in Full HD 1920x1080 or HD resolution 1280x720 at 30 frames per second. In addition, it is equipped with a motion sensor and infrared illumination diodes for shooting at night.

Battery life is about 2 hours of continuous video recording. Can work as a webcam. 170 degrees. Video is recorded on an internal Micro SD card, expandable up to 32 GB. The price is around 7000 rubles in Russian online stores.

Wireless Mini WiFi Cameras

Wireless WiFi mini cameras have the ability to connect directly to the device from which it is planned to monitor (mobile phone, computer, laptop, etc.) via a WiFi network, and transmit a signal to the Internet through a router with subsequent online viewing from any device from any point of the globe.

Walls are the main obstacle to signal transmission from the walls, therefore, before purchasing them, you need to know in advance, but it is better to carefully check whether the WiFi signal strength is enough to implement your plan in your particular case, for example, a wireless WiFi outdoor camera can have serious problems with signal transmission in if it is installed at a considerable distance from the receiver and in the presence of interference in the form of walls, which will be inevitable if it is installed outdoors. In the absence of obstacles, the picture from the camera will not differ from the usual ones, while the transmission range can be up to 100 meters.

As a power source for mini cameras of this group, there is also a built-in battery with the possibility of power supply from the mains or batteries. In order to set up the camera, you must first connect it to the power supply, then find the camera's WiFi network on your Android/iOS mobile phone or computer and connect to it. Most mini cameras for covert surveillance with wifi do not require the installation of a special one, which makes their setup easy and accessible to everyone, some use a special application for mobile devices based on Android or iOS, downloading and installing which will also not cause much trouble to the user of gadgets based on operating data systems.

When using several miniature WiFi cameras in different places, it is possible to view the image from each of them on one monitor, but this will require special software and a little computer knowledge to figure out how to set up such a system.

Mini wifi camera Ai Ball. Price - 7000 rubles.

AI Ball. Among a large number of mini cameras equipped with a data transmission module over a WiFi network, one can single out the popular Ai-Ball model. Its dimensions are relatively small - 30 x 35 mm, and the weight is 100 g together with the battery. Wireless mini wifi camera Ai-Ball easily and easily connects to a computer / laptop, as well as devices based on android and iOS: just turn on the camera on your computer or mobile phone, download the simple Ai-Ball AV Recorder application (or use a browser), connect to a WiFi network "Trek Ai-Ball", and immediately view the image from the camera, as well as record video with sound.

In addition, this camera has the ability to connect to WiFi router, so you can view videos over the Internet from anywhere in the world, and with the help of Multiview mode, you can view images from several miniature Ai-Ball cameras on one screen, so you can easily organize. Power is supplied by a CR2 battery, from the mains using the charging stand included in the kit, as well as through a portable charger. The cost of such a camera today is about 7,000 rubles in domestic online stores.

To properly set up the camera, you must read the instructions that come with the kit!

WiFi camera SyCloud. The cost is about 8000 rubles. in Russia.

sycloud. Another good model is the SyCloud mini WiFi camera. It is capable of recording video in HD (1280x720), 30 fps. It has a relatively small size and weight: 56 × 54x19 mm, 50 grams. With free apps for Android and iOS, you can view the image from this camera directly on the screen of your mobile phone as well as on the computer. Built-in batteries allow the camera to work continuously for 1.5 hours. You can set up video recording on a Micro SD card and use the camera as a car DVR. You can buy a SyCloud camera within 8000 rubles.

Wireless mini webcams

Now you won’t surprise anyone with miniature ones that fit easily in the palm of your hand, but wireless models can still be a curiosity for a person who encounters such devices for the first time. Wireless mini webcams are quite easy to set up: the kit comes with a special receiver that is inserted into the USB port of a laptop / computer and receives a signal from the camera at a frequency of 2.4 MHz at a distance of up to 100 m. By installing the software that comes with the kit on the computer , you will immediately see the picture transmitted by the camera on the monitor screen.

The wireless webcam can be easily installed anywhere in your house, apartment, office, or on a window, for example, to monitor a car in the yard. As a power source, a battery, a battery, or an electrical network is used.

For implementation, it is necessary to disguise the camera as some kind of interior item, or install it in a secluded place that is not visible. But do not forget about the legality of such actions, if you plan to observe someone, this has already been said above, so we will not repeat ourselves.

Among other things, miniature webcams are very convenient when used for your own needs, for example, for communicating with friends or family via Skype, or simply for shooting children or home holidays, if image quality is not critical for you.

Spy mini camcorders

If earlier spy cameras in the form of buttons, watches, glasses, pens were beyond reality, and were shown only in science fiction films about the future, today you can easily purchase such a gadget at an affordable price.

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Modern technologies do not stand still and now simple people can use their gifts. The video surveillance industry has undergone tremendous changes over the past decades, and we can use wireless mini cameras for covert surveillance even at home. From our review, you will find out what variations of such devices exist, as well as which models are the most relevant.

The main advantage of wireless devices is their size

Why do we need wireless mini cameras for covert video surveillance: varieties and purposes

The mini surveillance camera, which does not require any cables, is mobile. It is used where it is impossible to put massive or stationary equipment. In this case, the location of the device can be hidden.

The small device is used in different areas. It is installed in offices, at home, when it is required to leave children alone, or with a nanny or to monitor staff. This is the principle of operation for small CCTV cameras - the sound is transmitted to the recording equipment, which provides access for viewing at any time. The structures are connected to the DVR using a radio channel. Signal transmission is possible up to 50 meters. There are framed and non-framed models.

The cameras have the following components:

• viewfinder;
• lens;
• housing and matrix as an ultra-sensitive element.

The design involves the installation of a receiving element that picks up a signal from a video surveillance device. Cables are also needed to connect to any type of screen. Installing hidden video surveillance in the apartment is not so difficult. It can also be done on your own. It does not require programming knowledge.

The systems are powered by batteries. At the same time, it can also be connected to the electrical network using a power supply. When used, the battery will last approximately 2-5 hours. A built-in battery is used as a power source.

The main manufacturer of such equipment is China.

Let's look at the areas of use of such devices:

• fixing negotiations and various business meetings, which allows you to record all the important details;
• supervision of subordinates;
• supervision of housekeepers and nannies;
• recording press conferences, lectures and seminars, which allows you to carefully study the material in the future;
• recording events during investigations;
• use as a DVR for road transport.

Video: what the smallest camera looks like

Advantages and disadvantages of mini CCTV cameras

Demand for video surveillance devices forces their manufacturers to create new and improved models, thereby expanding their range. The advantage of mini cameras is their inconspicuous use. They can easily be disguised as a small object.

Here are some of the advantages of the devices:

• protection of equipment from damage;
• it is possible to create a black-and-white and multi-colored image;
• the presence of a reliable case;
• option with sound accompaniment;
• the control zone is unknown to outsiders;
• used for rooms with different areas;
• with such observation, it is possible to determine the facts of abuse.

Some models are equipped with ultra-sensitive matrices that allow you to get a clear image. The equipment is powered by battery and mains. Due to the high degree of supersensitivity, it is possible to shoot in the dark.

There are also weaknesses:

• not very high quality pictures;
• high price;
• it takes time to install.

Important! Installation of special equipment requires coordination with law enforcement agencies.

How legal is it to use covert surveillance

Let's find out how legal it is to mount mini cameras in places common use for covert video surveillance. Legislation prohibits the use of such surveillance. There are articles in the Code of Administrative Violations, where covert surveillance provides for a fine and confiscation of equipment. If you install such a device, then a special plate should warn about this. When installing such devices in the office, employees must enter into a special agreement on the collection and use of personal data.

However, hidden filming in an apartment is quite acceptable if the recording is not planned for distribution. For example, when staff work in the absence of owners.

Related article:

Types of CCTV cameras

Now let's find out what are the mini cameras for covert video surveillance in the apartment. Here are some varieties:

• Monochrome and color image.
• built-in models.
• Options without body.
• Stationary or mobile.
• Different dimensions.
• Mains power or standalone operation.

Built-in products can hardly be distinguished from ordinary items, as they can be mounted inside them. Mini cameras are placed on clothes or mounted in the ceiling.

Dimensions of wireless minicameras for video surveillance are no more than a match head. They are even camouflaged with a button. For their operation, wireless translators or stand-alone sources are used.

Wireless products are especially comfortable to use, since their installation does not require hiding the wires away from the eyes. Wi-Fi radio channels are used to transmit video. A hidden Wi-Fi surveillance camera device broadcasts a signal to a computer using a router, and the recording is recorded on a hard drive.

When choosing Wi-Fi options, it is recommended that you carefully consider options such as focal length, capture angle, brightness and playback features. An accumulator or batteries is used as a power supply. Modern technologies They also have mini surveillance cameras with recording on a memory card.

Motion-sensing wireless mini-camera options help you work more economically. In this case, the volume of the card is consumed in a suitable mode.

Choice of miniature CCTV cameras: analog and digital devices

Wireless mini-cameras for hidden video surveillance in the apartment are digital or analog. The functioning of analog devices is carried out with the help of terrestrial television. But this technique is not particularly popular, as it is distinguished by a significant percentage of all kinds of interference. Even the weather can affect broadcasting capabilities.

If you decide to buy wireless mini cameras for GSM covert video surveillance, then you, like many users, prefer the option of digital equipment. Devices of this type are mounted where mobile signals are available. This functional option can be installed outside or inside the house in any season and under any conditions. Be aware that signal speed may decrease if there are walls in the path between the recorder and the camera.

Installing monochrome mini-wi-fi cameras for covert video surveillance helps to create a clearer picture. It does not require a large amount of memory, which will help to shoot for a long time.

The advantage of digital technology is that even interference cannot affect the image. They can only reduce the transfer rate.

"Spy" mini-cameras

"Spy" mini-cameras are a multifunctional type of equipment. You will need it if you wish to obtain evidence of any incidents. Some models are even used in moving objects, they can even be installed in cars. Miniature mechanisms are mounted in houses where money or important documents are stored.

Products are popular due to such advantages:

• the technique also combines such elements: a voice recorder, a camera, a camera and a night vision device;
• the device goes unnoticed;
• it is possible to create a color image with a high degree of resolution;
• can continuously work two hours;
• the amount of memory varies from 1 GB;
• video has a resolution of 1280*960 pixels;
• application of additional functions.

Criteria for selecting mini-devices

Let's find out what you need to pay attention to when buying a wireless hidden Wi-Fi security camera for your home. Equipment prices depend on its resolution, size and type of camera. An important factor is the sensitivity of the device. It is measured in lux, this indicator reflects the maximum lighting capabilities. For example, for a street in cloudy weather, this value is 3,000-5,000 Lx, and for indoor premises, it is about 150-1,000. In general, sensitivity is important when choosing safety equipment.

If you need quality equipment, then before you buy a wireless mini camera for video surveillance, decide on the viewing angle. The larger it is, the larger the coverage area will be. However, this is not a guarantee of picture clarity. But to get a clear image, it is worth choosing a narrow viewing angle. Cameras with this angle can be directed at the gate or gate. With the help of wide-angle devices, you can inspect fairly large areas.

A necessary factor when choosing cameras is the resolution. The higher it is, the better the image will be.

To provide a large-scale overview of the local area, zoom lenses and additional devices are used. Some models, even with a fairly compact size, it is possible to create high quality resolution, which helps to see a person's face at a distance of 50 meters.

Devices are classified according to the color parameter into monochrome and color. At the same price, the monochrome type wireless mini CCTV cameras provide sharper images.

If you can not turn on the equipment in the network, then a variety of batteries are used. The device will be able to actively shoot for about two hours. But if the device is used in surveillance mode, it can be active for up to 400 hours.

You can choose a device, taking into account the method of information transfer:

• cameras transmitting images WiFi networks, operate in web device mode and send a live image. But the use of devices is limited to the area where Wi-Fi operates;
• devices with a GSM communication unit are relevant for both indoor and outdoor mounting.

It is worth paying attention to additional functions. For example, devices with an infrared mechanism are capable of broadcasting video at any time of the day. Infrared LEDs help illuminate the area in front of the camera. If you want to extend the operating time of the device, then you need to choose a product with a memory card. The motion sensor helps to reduce the consumption of current consumption.

The price of CCTV devices depends on the model, functionality and performance. Most a budget option can be purchased for 1.5-3 thousand rubles. The standby time is at least 200 hours.

Cameras with backlight, recording on a card and with a sound sensor will cost 3-5 thousand rubles.

Installation of covert video surveillance: connection and installation

After selecting a suitable device, a wireless mini-camera with a motion sensor is installed. In this case, the installation should be carried out according to the prepared plan in compliance with all connection diagrams. To configure the equipment, a monitor and a wire with connectors are used. With this approach, it will be possible to adjust the sharpness of the lens and the correct viewing angle.

In addition, you will need to pick up a high-quality video recorder. To do this, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:

• the number of video and audio channels;
• write speed;
• recording format.

Installation of a video recorder of hidden mini-surveillance cameras with a motion sensor is carried out by installing a hard drive, adjusting the contrast and brightness of the device, as well as optimal sensitivity.

When installing video surveillance, it is worth considering a hidden place. It can be some kind of niche in the wall, an insulated loggia or a false ceiling. After that, the monitor is connected, as well as the recording is turned on.

So, let's look at the main stages of connecting video surveillance devices:

• installation in a pre-selected and planned place;
• connecting cables to recording equipment;
• connection to a special connecting cable;
• connecting the power supply, taking into account the polarity;
• connect the monitor to the DVR and then to the network.

To install invisible elements, you can use any household appliances. It is better if these are stationary objects that cannot be moved. Hidden home security camera can be disguised even in a wall clock. Just be aware that the camera body heats up.

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“If you have a burglar alarm, motion sensors or smoke detectors may be the best place to mount the camera. The device on the ceiling will provide a full view of all corners of the room.

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This camera features:
Very small size, minimum function buttons and high resolution photo and video shooting.

Let's consider in more detail.

The camera comes in a stylish metal box.

The kit also comes with 2 cables - for recharging the built-in battery of the camcorder from the computer's USB port and for viewing (copying) recordings to the computer; a lanyard for wearing the device around the neck and a disk with a driver.

Let's add on our own: you won't need a disk at all, since operating system automatically recognizes the camera itself when it is connected via a USB port (a memory card must be inserted into the appropriate slot). An additional removable disk will be created, and you can view the contents of the camera as a flash drive.

The chamber is smaller than a regular matchbox. Her weight is 30 g. And this is with a built-in battery. Amazing, isn't it?!

With all this, this device has all functionality conventional professional video surveillance camera: recording color video with sound and photo.

On the front side we see a pinhole lens with a diameter of 1 mm!!! above it and slightly to the left is a small decorative window (does not carry any semantic load). On the left side there is a hole for a lace, with which you can wear this miracle of technology around your neck.

There are only two buttons in the upper side part, with their help you can control this tricky device. Why cunning? Yes, because these two buttons perform all operations - turning the power on and off, turning the video recording on and off, taking photos and interacting with the computer.
In fact, everything is not so difficult as it might seem at first glance. In addition, it comes with detailed instructions in Russian, in which you will find comprehensive answers to all questions during the operation of the device.

On the left side is a slot for memory cards. We need cards in microSD format, the maximum amount that the device accepts is 16 GB. Up to 400 minutes of color image with real-time audio at a resolution of 1280x960 pixels can be recorded on a maximum capacity card.
The final number of hours of video that can be stored on a 16 GB card depends on many factors, such as the brightness of the overall image being shot, and so on.

On the other side, we see a mini USB connector. With the help of supplied wires, we can recharge the built-in battery at any time, and we can also connect the camera to view (copy) recordings to a computer (laptop).
It is worth noting that there are 2 wires in the kit, each of which serves a specific purpose, the corresponding sticker labels hang on them.

The market for mini-surveillance cameras has been swallowed up Chinese manufacturers. Today, it is saturated, the assortment is diverse, the prices do not particularly bite. Therefore, if there is a need, it is easy to purchase a mini-camera, both in China, via the Internet, and in Russia, in a specialized store.

Application area

Camera KPC-S700CP4 KT&C. The price is 3500 rubles.

• Covert monitoring of the premises. For example, you want to constantly monitor office employees discreetly so that they do not have complexes from the all-seeing eye of the lens, but work at ease. Then it will be easier for you, as a leader, to understand who is who in reality.
• Hidden recording of important meetings, especially those that are confidential for reasons. Especially if you come to a meeting in the meeting room at the host side, which is stuffed with hidden video and audio recording equipment. Take your camera with you, disguised as a button or watch.
• Nanny and housekeeper supervision. If you would like to see what the servants are doing during your absence, then by installing cameras of the usual type, you will have three problems. Firstly, it will injure your employees psychologically, secondly, they will be offended and morally depressed from distrust of them, thirdly, whoever wants to will always find a “dead zone” in your villa and win back full program. Better put hidden cameras.
• Mini-cameras are convenient to use as regular cameras if you are not particularly concerned about the quality of the shooting. You have the opportunity to shoot discreetly, which does not cause embarrassment or aggression among others. This can happen in crowded places: shops, streets, parks, train stations.
• It is very convenient to use hidden mini-cameras at seminars, lectures, press conferences, in order to later, in more detail, familiarize yourself with the material. Previously, a voice recorder was used for this, but progress does not stop, especially since the speaker often shows slides that I would like to capture.

Peculiarities

The main feature of mini-cameras is that they can be used as hidden ones. Cameras that have a lens with a hole in the "eye of a needle" or those that are camouflaged under cufflinks, buttons, brooches, etc. are almost invisible.

Cameras can also differ in the way data is transmitted: Wi-Fi, 3G, wired or high-frequency radio. A separate class of cameras - not transmitting, with content recording to internal memory.

Types of cameras for covert surveillance

Sip-m02w. Price: 2900 rubles

By type, surveillance cameras can be divided into wired, wireless Wi-Fi or G3, and standalone.

• Wired. A class of cameras that are installed on a stationary basis indoors. Some time ago they were used as portable ones complete with transmitter and battery. To do this, I had to use, at a minimum, a purse. Time has passed, and they have remained convenient only for stationary use. Requires a 5-12 volt power supply.
• Wireless WiFi. These devices currently operate via the WiFi protocol, so their transmission range is short, indoors up to 50 meters. But if you use the TRENDnet TEW-OA14DK (14 dBi) antenna for the receiver, then the line-of-sight communication range will be 8 km. This is quite enough to be located in the visibility of the window, even at a decent distance for retrieving information.
• Wireless 3G. This is still new. But for those areas where there is 3G coverage, mini-cameras capable of transmitting this signal are the most promising. You can watch the image from them online anywhere in the world on mobile device. But it is better to purchase a 3G modem, insert it into a laptop or PC, and, in addition to viewing, record.
• Autonomous, not transmitting. A special class of cameras that record video on internal memory and are self-powered. This is very convenient, because you are not tied to the one who reads the information. There is one drawback, this is the lack of an online mode. Until you merge the data somewhere, it remains inaccessible. Well, so what, you're not working intelligence.

Advantages

The main advantage of mini camcorders is their secrecy. And no, because you need to follow someone or remove a crime and you will not be noticed. No.

The psychology of most people is arranged in such a way that a protective reaction is activated on any entrances to personal life, even a non-outside person. You have just watched a group of your friends and girlfriends playing beach volleyball in a casual and fun way. Now try to approach them with conventional camera. The game will change. Someone will go into a rage and start playing on the lens, someone will close up and start skipping feeds, one of the girls will start posing, and some young lady will shout: “Put the camera away, goat!”.

If you shoot it with a hidden camera, then the game will go on as usual. Then show the video of the entire company. Your friends will love it, except for the girl who posed. She'll say, "How could you?"

Camera Samllest VD-7501. Price: 4900 rubles.

Popular Models

Fountain pen with hidden camera and USB input for video download. Price: 3600 rubles

• KPC-S700CP4 KT&C. Covert surveillance camera made in Korea with 4.4mm cone lens. It has a 1/3″ SONY CCD and generates a color video signal with a clarity of 380 TVL. Suitable for concealed installation in walls and furniture. When installed correctly, a 1.2 mm hole for the lens remains on the surface. It has high light sensitivity. But it is equipped with only an analog video output, which significantly reduces the range of application.
• Sip-m02w. High-resolution color camera, similar in design to the previous one, but with a slightly smaller 1.4” sensor. However, it is made using more advanced CMOS technology, which compensates for its smaller area. Pinhole 3.7mm lens. Video signal compression according to the H.264 standard. The camera is completed software to watch videos for Android and iOS devices. That is, you can easily observe on a mobile device what is happening in the camera's vision zone within the range of the WiFi connection.
• Samllest VD-7501. This is a new generation product. The transmission is carried out over a 3G network. Everything that this mini-camera shoots, you can see anywhere in the world where there is 3G network coverage. The camera allows you to remotely adjust the electronic zoom (10x). Can save video to SD card in HD format, but transmit signal in SD format. Consists of two blocks: miniature camera and a recorder with a transmitter. Supports motion sensor function, so it won't record for hours without motion.
• Pen with camera. Hidden recording gadgets on internal memory are difficult to classify. Because they all have about the same specifications but different design. Normally, the recording quality is limited by the CIF video standard or, in best case PAL, photos will turn out to be slightly larger high resolution 1980×1024. The battery will last for 5 hours of continuous recording. To remove information, it is enough to connect it to a computer, like a regular USB flash drive. They can look like buttons, lighters, flash drives, watches, etc.

Attention. Unauthorized surveillance is punishable by law. There are precedents.

Installation of video surveillance systems

Installation of mini-surveillance cameras can be stationary and temporary. TO different types installation, a completely different approach. Need to provide good review visibility of the camera, adjust the focus correctly if it is adjustable, and comply with all conspiracy laws.

Where to install

In order to choose the location of the camera, it is necessary to determine where the subject or subjects will be located, taking into account the fact that they can sit, get up and walk. That is, the camera should display as large a viewing angle as possible. With the ideal position of the camera, if it is on the wall, there will be a 65-70 degree angle between the wall below the camera and the imaginary beam from the camera to the eye level of the subject being filmed. We are talking about a standard office room of the head of approximately 5x8 meters. If the room is larger, then the angle changes.

When you install an office surveillance camera, it is usually installed in the highest position in the corner. This allows you to most fully cover the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe premises.

In any case, it is necessary to choose a compromise that satisfies the main requirement - legible visibility of faces.

How to install

Almost all mini-cameras of covert surveillance do not have brackets, adjustments for the position and direction of the lens. This means that you will have to set the angle of inclination and come up with fasteners for them yourself. There are cases when inexperienced unfortunate masters built cameras into the walls, and with every change in the interior of the office, they knocked them out of the walls to change their position. Do not be lazy, order a special removable platform from specialists, with camera angle adjustment.

As a rule, office walls are sheathed with drywall - this is the most convenient place to install a camera with a cone lens.

Purchase

Regardless of where you buy a mini-surveillance camera, for starters, you should clearly understand what kind of camera you need. The designation in the nomenclature "mini video camera for covert surveillance" does not mean that this camera is suitable for your purposes.

How to choose

Decide:

• stationary or portable;
• analog or digital interface;
• wired or wireless;
• WiFi or 3G;

Where can I buy

There are several sources to buy:

• specialized stores selling security equipment;
• radio markets;
• domestic online stores;
• Chinese online stores.

Of course, you can buy these devices in China by paying with a card via the Internet. And it will most likely be cheaper. But it can be difficult to find the device you need in non-wholesale sales. Therefore, it is easier to buy the found goods after all in online stores in Russia.

What is the price

The cost of such cameras is low, if we are not talking about professional video surveillance equipment, the price of which goes off scale for thousands and tens of thousands of dollars.

For example, a pen camera with a USB port costs no more than $150. At the same time, the Samllest VD-7501 hidden camera with 3G transmission function will cost you 108 (in China) dollars, not including shipping costs.

If we compare the prices of wired cameras, they are approximately the same, and are at the level of $70. At the same time, cameras equipped with a transmitter, such as the Sip-m02w, cost $55 in China and $100 in Moscow.

Legality of the installation

This paragraph, you can cross out everything that was written above. Because in Russian Federation any covert surveillance is prohibited, except for those who are allowed to (special services). This is regulated primarily by Article No. 23 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, which provides for complete inviolability of personal life. But this is just a declaration. But articles 20.23 and 20.24 of the Code of Administrative Violations directly state that in the case of the use or import of covert surveillance and listening devices, the persons responsible for these acts are fined, and the equipment is confiscated.

Therefore, everything that is written above is written for informational purposes, and whether or not to violate the law is a personal matter for everyone.