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Hi... I've got a small bar, and mainly want some cctv cameras to monitor my video poker. I'm looking for something easy that we can install and records well. Oh... and for under $1k. What's good?

That should be pretty doable, but I would like to know how many cameras you're looking for total (including all areas, not just video poker) before we get too deep into the design. If you could limit yourself to four cameras, though, we could easily stay on your budget by using a standalone DVR (the 1304NET) and four black and white bullet cameras (190SWBs). Remember, going black and white doesn't compromise quality, so you'll still be getting high-resolution, 11-year lifespan cameras for the price.

Cost-wise, we'd come in at just under $1000 for a full four cameras (I went ahead and attached a document to this post showing what a system like this would consist of), though keep in mind that installation would add on a bit if you don't put the system together yourself. I'd encourage you to consider the DIY approach if you feel comfortable doing it, the hardest thing you'll have to do is to run the cable.

Tom,

What is the quality of the DVR and cameras? Will I be able to see my cameras via the Internet? I'm not looking to spend a lot, but I am looking for good quality

Can't say I blame you!

In what I included above, the DVR and the cameras are both top-notch. The 190SWBs are high-resolution, full Sony chipsets that are rated for 11 years of life before they experience any sort of picture fade, while the DVR is capable of internet viewing, motion detection, and would be equipped with a hard drive rated for five years of continuous use (meaning 24/7/365, never resting) before it finally wears out. At that point, though, you can just replace the hard drive for a fraction of the cost of the DVR and get another five years.

In short, everything will ultimately get old and stop working, but by the time these cameras and the DVR reach the end of their operating lives (over 10 years from the date of purchase), you'll probably be thinking about upgrading anyway.

What would you recommend? My place is over 3000 sq. feet, and the locals are lively (like to fight). I worry a bit about minors sneaking in, and want to show that we card. Drug addicts know better than to come here! I'm not sure if I'm up to the watch via the internet thing (not technically inclined).

For a bar that size, obviously we'd probably be talking about a much larger system than four cameras, but what kind of coverage were you looking to achieve? Given what you've told me it sounds like we could get away with just covering the bar and the entry and exit points, but that would leave the main areas of your bar without coverage.

Do you have anything like dance floors, pool or dart areas that are particularly troublesome? Any areas with tables and chairs or booth seating?