John Holguin
In a world where security is a top concern for many, having a reliable surveillance system is essential. But purchasing a professional security camera can be costly. What if there was a way to create your own security camera using a couple of old phones?
Believe it or not, you can easily turn your old smartphones into a fully functioning security camera system. With just a few simple steps, you can have a cost-effective solution to monitor your home, office, or any other space you wish to keep an eye on.
By repurposing your old phones, not only do you save money, but you also contribute to reducing electronic waste. It’s a win-win situation! So, let’s dive into the steps and discover how to create your own security camera system using two phones.
Before we begin, make sure both phones have a decent camera quality and enough storage space for video recordings. And remember, setting up your own security camera system requires some technical knowledge, but don’t worry, we will guide you through the process step by step.
Why use two phones for a security camera?
Using two phones to set up a security camera system has several advantages over using just one phone. Here are some reasons why using two phones can be beneficial:
| 1. | Increased coverage: By using two phones, you can place them in different locations to get a wider coverage area. This allows you to monitor multiple areas simultaneously and capture more angles and perspectives. |
| 2. | Improved reliability: Having a backup phone as a second camera provides redundancy in case one phone malfunctions or loses power. This ensures that you don’t lose your surveillance footage and maintain continuous monitoring. |
| 3. | Better flexibility: With two phones, you have the flexibility to position them in optimal locations for capturing the desired angles. You can mount them on walls, place them on shelves, or use any other creative setup that best suits your monitoring needs. |
| 4. | Enhanced features: Many security camera apps allow you to connect multiple devices and sync them together. This enables advanced features such as motion detection, live streaming, and cloud storage. By utilizing two phones, you can access and utilize these advanced features to enhance your security system. |
Overall, utilizing two phones for a security camera setup provides extended coverage, improved reliability, increased flexibility, and access to enhanced features. It offers a cost-effective solution for creating a comprehensive surveillance system to protect your home or business.
Choosing the right phones for the setup
When setting up a security camera with two phones, it is crucial to choose the right phones that meet the necessary requirements. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the phones:
| Camera quality | Choose phones with high-resolution cameras to ensure clear and detailed video footage. Look for phones with at least 1080p video capability for better quality images. |
| Battery life | Since the phones will be used as security cameras, consider selecting phones with long battery life. This will ensure that the cameras can continuously monitor the area without needing frequent recharging. |
| Storage capacity | Opt for phones with sufficient storage capacity as security camera footage can take up a significant amount of space. Look for phones with expandable storage options or ample built-in storage to avoid running out of space. |
| Connectivity | Ensure that the phones have stable and reliable internet connectivity. This is important for live streaming and remote access to the security camera feed. Phones with 4G or Wi-Fi connectivity options are preferable. |
| Compatibility | Check if the phones are compatible with the security camera app or software that you plan to use. Not all phones may support certain apps or have the required software specifications. |
| Accessibility | Consider selecting phones that are easy to mount and position as security cameras. Look for phones with flat backs or compatible mounting accessories to ensure hassle-free installation. |
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right phones that will serve as an effective security camera setup and provide reliable surveillance of your desired area.
Downloading the necessary apps
To turn your two phones into a security camera, you will need to download and install specific apps on both devices. These apps will enable you to record and monitor the video feed from one phone to the other. Here are the steps to download the necessary apps:
- Open the App Store on both phones.
- Search for a security camera app using the search bar.
- Look for apps that have good ratings and positive reviews.
- Once you find a suitable app, tap on it to open the app page.
- Tap on the “Get” or “Install” button to download and install the app.
- Wait for the app to finish downloading and installing on both phones.
- Repeat the process for both phones, ensuring that you download the same app on both devices.
It is important to choose a reliable and feature-rich app for your security camera setup. Some popular options include Alfred, IP Webcam, and WardenCam. These apps offer a range of features such as motion detection, night vision, and cloud storage options.
Once you have downloaded and installed the necessary apps on both phones, you are ready to proceed with setting up your security camera system.
Setting up the main camera phone
To create a security camera with two phones, you will need one phone to act as the main camera and another phone to serve as the monitor. In this section, we’ll focus on setting up the main camera phone and configuring it to capture and stream video.
Step 1: Choose a suitable phone
The first step is to select a phone that will serve as the main camera. Ideally, you should choose a phone with a high-quality camera and sufficient storage capacity to store recorded videos. Additionally, make sure the phone has a reliable internet connection, as it will need to transmit the footage to the monitor phone.
Step 2: Install a security camera app
Next, you’ll need to download and install a security camera app on the main camera phone. There are several options available on both Android and iOS platforms. Some popular choices include “Alfred,” “Presence,” and “IP Webcam.”
Depending on the app you choose, you may need to create an account or sign in with an existing account. Follow the app’s instructions to complete the setup process.
Step 3: Configure the camera settings
Once the security camera app is installed, open it on the main camera phone. The app will guide you through the initial configuration process, which typically involves granting necessary permissions, such as camera and microphone access.
Within the app settings, you may have options to customize video quality, enable motion detection, set up recording schedules, and configure notifications. Take some time to explore these settings and adjust them according to your preferences.
Step 4: Position the main camera
Now it’s time to position the main camera phone in the desired location. Look for a spot that provides a good view of the area you want to monitor, such as an entryway or a living room. Ensure that the camera is placed securely and has a stable position.
Consider using a tripod or a phone holder to keep the camera steady if necessary. It’s also essential to check the camera’s field of view to ensure it covers the intended area effectively.
Remember to keep the main camera phone connected to a power source to prevent it from running out of battery during extended surveillance periods.
With the main camera phone now set up, you’re ready to move on to the next step, which involves configuring the monitor phone to view the live stream from the main camera.
Mounting the second phone as a monitor
Using a second phone as a monitor for your security camera setup can provide real-time surveillance and remote access to the camera feed. Here’s how to mount the second phone:
- Download and install a reliable security camera app on both phones. There are several apps available on both iOS and Android platforms, such as Manything, Alfred, and AtHome Camera.
- Set up the second phone in a location where it has a clear view of the area you want to monitor. Ensure that it is securely mounted, either using a phone holder or a tripod.
- Launch the security camera app on the second phone and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as the first phone.
- On the first phone, open the security camera app and locate the option to add a new camera or device. Follow the prompts to pair the two phones together.
- Once the phones are linked, you’ll be able to see the live camera feed from the second phone on the first phone’s app interface. You can also access the camera feed remotely by logging into the app with your account details.
- Adjust the settings on the second phone’s app to customize the monitoring experience. This may include enabling motion detection, setting up alerts, or adjusting camera angles.
- Ensure that the second phone is continuously connected to power to prevent it from running out of battery during extended monitoring sessions.
- Consider adjusting the display settings on the second phone to ensure that the camera feed is visible and clear. This may include adjusting the brightness, contrast, or screen timeout settings.
With the second phone mounted as a monitor, you can effectively turn your old device into a security camera and monitor your home or office remotely.
Connecting the phones over Wi-Fi
Connecting the phones over Wi-Fi is a crucial step in creating a security camera setup. Follow the steps below to establish a stable and secure connection between the two devices:
Step 1: Check Wi-Fi networks
Make sure both phones are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Verify the network name and password on both devices to ensure they match.
Step 2: Install a security camera app
On both phones, download and install a reliable security camera app. There are several options available on both the App Store for iOS and Google Play Store for Android devices.
Step 3: Open the app on both phones
Launch the security camera app on both phones and follow the initial setup process. Grant the necessary permissions for the app to access the camera, microphone, and Wi-Fi settings. Create an account if required.
Step 4: Connect the devices
On one of the phones, select the “Add Camera” or similar option in the app. Follow the instructions to connect to an existing camera. On the other phone, select the “View Camera” option and search for the available cameras. Choose the previously added camera to establish a connection.
Tip: Ensure both phones are in close proximity to each other during this process to ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection.
Step 5: Configure settings
Once the connection is established, access the settings within the security camera app. Configure options such as motion detection, recording times, and storage preferences to customize the camera setup according to your needs.
With the phones connected over Wi-Fi, they can now work together as a security camera system. Place the devices in strategic locations, such as one as the camera and the other as the viewing device, to effectively monitor the desired area.
Configuring motion detection and notifications
Once you have set up your two phones as a security camera, the next step is to configure motion detection and notifications. This will allow you to be alerted whenever motion is detected by the camera.
1. Install a motion detection app
First, you will need to install a motion detection app on the device that will be used as the camera. There are various apps available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, such as Alfred, Manything, or AtHome Camera. Choose an app that suits your needs and install it on the camera device.
2. Set up motion detection
Open the motion detection app on the camera device and follow the on-screen instructions to configure the motion detection settings. Typically, you will be able to adjust the sensitivity of the motion detection, set up specific detection zones, and choose the type of motion that should trigger a notification.
3. Enable notifications
Next, you will need to enable notifications on both the camera device and the device that you will use to receive the notifications. Open the app on the camera device and navigate to the settings to enable notifications. You may also have the option to customize the notification sound and vibration settings.
On the device that will receive the notifications, install the same motion detection app and open it. Navigate to the settings and make sure that notifications are enabled. Depending on the app, you may also be able to specify the email address or phone number where the notifications should be sent.
4. Test the motion detection and notifications
Once you have configured the motion detection settings and enabled notifications, it’s a good idea to test the system to ensure everything is working properly. You can do this by triggering motion in front of the camera and checking if the notifications are being sent to the desired device.
Remember to periodically check the motion detection app’s settings to make sure they are still configured to your preferences. Additionally, keep in mind that setting up motion detection and notifications may drain the battery of the camera device more quickly, so it’s important to monitor the battery level and recharge as needed.
Monitoring and accessing the security camera remotely
Once you have set up your security camera with two phones, you can easily monitor and access it remotely from another device such as a laptop or tablet. Remote monitoring allows you to keep an eye on your property or loved ones no matter where you are.
To remotely access your security camera, you need to follow these steps:
1. Make sure both phones are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Install a surveillance app on both phones, such as Alfred or IP Webcam.
3. Open the surveillance app on the phone that is acting as the camera and tap on the “Enable Camera” option.
4. On the other phone, open the surveillance app and tap on the “Viewer” or “Remote Access” option.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the two phones.
6. Once the pairing is successful, you will be able to see the live video feed from the camera phone on the viewer phone.
7. You can now access the security camera remotely by opening the surveillance app on your laptop or tablet and entering the unique code or URL provided by the app.
By following these steps, you can easily monitor and access your security camera from anywhere in the world as long as you have an internet connection. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you can check in on your property or loved ones at any time.
FAQ,
What are the benefits of making a security camera with two phones?
Making a security camera with two phones can be beneficial in several ways. Firstly, it is a cost-effective solution as you don’t need to invest in an expensive security camera system. Secondly, it allows you to repurpose your old smartphones instead of throwing them away. Additionally, using two phones allows for better coverage and a wider field of view, enhancing the overall security of your space.
What are some popular security camera apps to use for this setup?
There are several popular security camera apps that can be used to set up a security camera with two phones. Some of the top options include Alfred, Manything, Presence, and IP Webcam. These apps offer a range of features such as live streaming, motion detection, cloud storage, and remote access, making them suitable for different security needs.
Can I use iPhones for making a security camera with two phones?
Yes, you can use iPhones for making a security camera with two phones. Many security camera apps are available for both Android and iOS devices, so you can easily find an app that is compatible with your iPhone. Just make sure that both phones have the app installed and have a stable internet connection for seamless streaming and monitoring.
Is it possible to record the footage captured by the security camera?
Yes, it is possible to record the footage captured by the security camera. Many security camera apps offer the option to save the recorded videos either locally on the camera phone or in the cloud. You can choose the storage option that suits your preference and needs. Additionally, some apps also provide motion detection features that trigger recording when any movement is detected, ensuring that you capture any suspicious activity.
