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Over the past decade there has been a marked evolution in the technology of surveillance equipment, along with a significant reduction in price among security cameras, tracking devices, and GPS units. Perhaps the biggest evolution of these has been seen in the area of hidden spy cameras. In less than 10 years, the “nanny cam” has evolved from a complicated setup of electronic equipment to a simple to use electronic work of art. So, what steps has technology taken in the evolution of spy cameras?
Wired to Wireless Hidden Cameras
Like standard security cameras found today protecting homes, businesses, and found on nearly every street corner in the city, nanny cams were another wired camera needing video connections running from the camera unit back to a recording device, like a VCR or monitor. Along the way, micro chips got smaller and more powerful in creating miniature lenses, or what is today called pinhole cameras. These were easily placed into such everyday items, like teddy bears, clock radios, and nearly any household item. Although still available today and often seen in disguised hidden cameras, like smoke detectors, floodlights, and some wall clocks, they require two sets of wires to transmit power and signal to a TV or DVR.
Concealing the wires was a bit cumbersome, but then a new generation of wireless cameras hit the market starting around 2000. First manufactured in such inanimate objects as planters, teddy bears, books, exit signs, and countless other items, wireless cameras eventually found their way into practical working components, like alarm clocks, clock radios, wristwatches, cell phones, fountain pens, and CD players. Inside the component was a tiny pinhole video camera and a small wireless transmitter. When a customer purchased a wireless nanny cam, they got not only a working electronic device but a receiver, A/V cables and power adapter as well. The tricky part came when it was actually time to set up the hidden camera system. The receiver that was provided had to plug into either a monitor close by or a VCR if they wanted to record events throughout the day. This required the user to place the VCR somewhere in the house within 100 feet of the camera, either in another room or on another floor altogether. The receiver was then plugged into the VCR, and when the user was ready to start recording he just hit the “start” button. Voila!....well, not exactly. A standard VHS cassette can only record eight to ten hours max, which can create a problem. However, with the advent of PCs and DVR players this did greatly extend the recording time available.
Let's say a mother wants to keep an eye on the nanny or babysitter while she's at work during the day. Just before leaving the house in the morning she would plug in the nanny cam and turn on the VCR or DVR to start recording. On arriving home at the end of the day and wanting to review what was recorded, she would have to sit for several minutes while fast-forwarding through hours of video, often looking at nothing at all. At the time, this was the only means available to monitor her child's welfare during the day, and the process at best was tedious.
Motion Activated Spy Cams
The concept of motion activation in video recording was a big breakthrough in the spy camera industry. Although the technology had been around for years, it wasn't until the mid 2000's that it became available and affordable to every day consumers. No longer did people have to sit through countless hours of viewing blank tape only to find nothing eventful was captured that day. Now, with motion activated hidden cameras, recording only took place when the camera's sensors detected activity in the room. If nothing moved, then the camera sat idle. As a result, the user might only have to watch 30 minutes to an hour of tape rather than 8 hours or more of static recording.
Another technology feature that came along to compliment the motion activated features of hidden cameras was the increasing popularity of the DVR, which eventually all but replaced the VCR. With a DVR there was no longer a need for VHS tape, since everything that was recorded now was done digitally, frame by frame. The advent of motion activation together with the convenience of the DVR made spy camera and nanny cam users very happy. Then, when it didn't seem things could improve any further, technology came along once again to improve the spy camera one more time.
Built-in DVRs and Micro SD Cards
A growing need started to develop for a self-contained, all-in-one hidden camera system, which by 2006 saw a solution finally arrive. To the delight of everyone, the motion activated spy cam now came with a built-in DVR, which utilized a micro SD card for hours of additional recording time and expanded memory. Gone, were audio/video cables, wireless transmitters, receivers, VCRs and obsolete cassette tape. The new generation of nanny cams and spy cameras allowed the user to set the device and walk away; either for the day, or weeks at a time. When he returned and wanted to view what the camera had recorded, he simply removed the SD card and inserted it into a USB card reader or directly into an SD card slot on the computer. Since the camera only recorded when movement was detected, viewing what had been captured became quick and easy. These cameras, which can be built into any everyday item imaginable, and often include added features like variable recording speeds, low light apertures, still shots, and date and time stamps, remain as the most popular hidden spy camera dvr on the market today. It didn't seem that video surveillance could get any better or easier, but then technology advanced once again to bring us the latest generation of hidden spy cameras.
Real Time Remote Viewing
Just when you thought covert spy cameras couldn't get any better, the newest technology that's come out now allows live, remote viewing capabilities. With this new platform of video surveillance, your desktop PC or laptop now becomes a server and a DVR.
The way it works is, the user places the spy camera in any room of his home, office, or other location he wishes to monitor, and the video is streamed live to his computer. As an example, say a guy owns a manufacturing firm in city “A” but has to travel to city “B” frequently to meet with suppliers. He wants to keep an eye on his business and workers while he's away, so he installs a few live, wireless remote-view cameras around the premises. Now, from wherever he is, here and abroad where he can establish an Internet connection, he can log into his laptop and remotely watch live what is taking place at his business in real time. He can also record directly onto his hard drive what the camera is capturing simultaneously 24-hours a day. All that is required is to load the included software program and to connect the receiver directly into the USB port of the computer located on the premises.
This technology is also great for mothers who work and want to monitor their child and babysitter during the day while at the office, or for parents of teenagers who are left at home unsupervised, or perhaps for a husband or wife who may suspect the other of cheating and infidelity, or for family members who are responsible for the care and well-being of elderly parents or relatives who are residing in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. The uses and applications for remote live viewing spy cameras are virtually unlimited.
Next on the Horizon?
It seems that every time we think technology can't improve over what we have today, we are continually surprised in the next technological advance. This is especially true when it comes to wireless hidden spy cameras. We are always excited and eager when the next new spy device or camera is introduced to the market. When that happens, you can be sure The Covert Eye will be there to offer the latest and newest covert surveillance product to our customers.
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There is so much information available on the Internet, it can sometimes be overwhelming. When it comes to self-defense this is no exception. A large amount of information is available about various self-defense products, techniques and tips from experts. With all this online self-defense information, there is just no excuse for people not to invest in the product or experience necessary to guard themselves against an assailant.
National law enforcement statistics tell us that more than 1.3 million crimes are committed every year. Don't be a victim to a carjacking, forcible rape, aggravated assault or robbery and don't become a statistic. If you have knowledge of self-defense or carry a self-defense device, you have the additional tools to prevent an attack, or free yourself, should it happen.
A lot of people prefer buying online self-defense products, as they feel that the websites have more in-depth information about the various products. Some sites are experts in self-defense and feature blogs and discussion forums where many people can interact and ask questions, share experiences or receive additional information.
Online self-defense portals provide a variety of non-lethal self defense products, either for the home or to carry with you. The best sites also suggests books and videos, offer free articles and e-mail newsletters which will assist you in learning more and more about this vital subject.
When you are generally uncomfortable going to a local store for your personal safety devices, online self-defense websites are a good answer. These sites will carry all types of personal safety items -- stun guns, TASER™ devices and pepper sprays, for example. Today's technology allows these products to fit into a pocket or purse, and work effectively in stopping an attack.
Crime statistics show that self-defense protection is needed at home as well as away. FBI crime figures show that a burglary takes place in an apartment, condominium or a house once every 15 seconds. In many shocking cases, somebody is at home at the time but did not hear the intruder until it was too late. Numerous home safety products can help.
There is often a much more extensive collection of online self defense products than there are in traditional brick and mortar retail stores. Apart from conventional home security services such as window and door alarms and motion detectors, other methods are available to protect your home. Door braces, fake TVs, Safety Beams and electronic dog alarms are examples. An extensive selection of products for the home or to carry with you make it affordable and sensible for everyone to protect their own personal safety.
Look for a Web store, like THE COVERT EYE, that specialize when you are shopping online for self-defense devices. For example, we carry a full line of Mace, Wildfire, Tornando, Streetwise, and Pepper Shot Pepper Sprays, along with several types of animal repellents, as well as non-leathal self defense weapons from makers like Taser, Stun Master, Z-Force, Streetwise, Runt, and many others. Additionally, we will often be able to advise you which items are legal for your particular state.
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There is so much information available on the Internet, it can sometimes be overwhelming. When it comes to self-defense this is no exception. A large amount of information is available about various self-defense products, techniques and tips from experts. With all this online self-defense information, there is just no excuse for people not to invest in the product or experience necessary to guard themselves against an assailant.
National law enforcement statistics tell us that more than 1.3 million crimes are committed every year. Don't be a victim to a carjacking, forcible rape, aggravated assault or robbery, and don't become another statistic. If you have knowledge of self-defense or carry a self-defense device, you have the additional tools to prevent an attack or free yourself, should it happen.
At The Covert Eye, your safety and security is our main concern, and that is why we offer such a large selection of home and personal protection products for you to choose from. Feeling secure should be the right of everyone. Along with our personal alarms and diy home security systems, a big part of our business is in our selection of non-lethal self defense items, such as Tasers, stun guns, MACE and pepper sprays. These products offer not only some peace of mind in knowing you're not completely vulnerable, but their effectiveness can be attested to in police reports every day.
Sadly, every month we will get a handful of orders from individuals who happen to live in selected states or cities where the purchase or possession of such a device is made illegal. Such states include Connecticut, Illinois, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Wisconsin. Restricted cities include Annapolis, Baltimore, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia.
My question has always been, why is that? We are not talking handguns or assault rifles, but simply a shot of oleoresin capsicum to the eyes, or electric shock to the body, both of which are only meant to temporarily disable a person, allowing the victim time to get to safety. If you were to ask law enforcement their thoughts, nearly all of them would like to see these non-lethal devices made legal in their states. It is far better to take a report of an attempted rape from a live victim rather than from one lying in a morgue. Unfortunately, old laws are hard to overturn, and the number of reported muggings, rapes, and personal assaults continue to climb.
Not long ago I spoke with a mother, whose daughter was attending college in Massachusetts and who was concerned about her safety at night when she walked alone from the library back to her dorm room. Apparently the
campus was beautifully landscaped, but at the same time the well manicured grounds also provided excellent concealment for any would-be attacker. She wanted to give her daughter a disguised cell phone stun gun to carry with her at night for personal protection, but stun guns are illegal in that state. She then thought about purchasing some pepper spray, which in Massachusetts can only be done from a licensed firearms dealer, but then she ran up against the college's policy that made it illegal for any student to carry in their possession pepper spray or Mace while on campus grounds. It was a dilemma she wrestled with. In the end, she bought the pepper spray and gave it to her daughter, anyway. A semester later the worry became a reality. While walking back to her dorm around 10:00 at night the daughter was suddenly attacked by a single male, who forcibly grabbed her and tried to drag her behind one of the hedges. Struggling to break free, she managed to get the pepper spray in her hand and began squeezing the spray in the direction of her attacker. One of the attempts found its mark, and the attacker suddenly let go, his hands going quickly to his face and eyes. The girl then ran back to her dorm, where she immediately called campus police.
The attacker was never found, but now her daughter was facing disciplinary action from the Board of Regents for violating policy about the possession of pepper spray on college property. The mother was worried that the board members could either suspend her, or even worse, take away her scholarship. I told her that in my opinion to even consider punishing a victim of attempted rape for fighting back, no matter what the policy, is to me totally unjust and unfair. I then added, “while I know you are concerned with the hearing your daughter will be having with the Board, and what decisions could come from it, at least you should be relieved and thankful that your daughter is alive and well to even attend the hearing.”
With that, she couldn't disagree.
Here, at The Covert Eye, we believe it is the right of every American to defend themselves and their families when confronted by intimate danger and physical harm. A non-lethal self defense weapon provides the perfect means of protecting you and your loved ones in such situations, without having to resort to deadly force. If you believe that Tasers, stun guns and pepper sprays should be legal and available to anyone, no matter the state or city, we would love to hear your thoughts and opinions. Even if you have a different view, we would like to hear your thoughts as well.
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As many as 50 Phoenix police officers may soon be wearing tiny convert video surveillance cameras as part of their uniform accouterment if a $500,000 grant is approved in early September through a joint partnership with Arizona State University and the U.S. Department of Justice. The grant is being called The Smart Policing Initiative.
Earlier this spring, a pilot program was tested with 18 officers wearing the small hidden spy cameras attached to their uniform in an effort to increase police transparency with the public. The three month trial, which concluded in June, resulted in 860 hours worth of video. From among the recordings, portions of the footage will be used as evidence in 62 cases going before the court.
The spy camera is worn like a Bluetooth device around the ear, and can be turned on and off from a remote control on the chest. A pocket recorder, or small video monitor, is attached to the belt. Once activated, video can't be edited or deleted.
Arizona law requires at least one person be aware they are being recorded, although the law is not well defined in how that is communicated or acknowledged, and can likely not even register depending on the situation or number of persons being confronted by officers. During the trial period some citizens did key in on the cameras being worn and asked if they were being recorded.
During the pilot program, Phoenix police tested Scottsdale-based TASER International's Axon cameras, which are more obvious in their appearance than traditional covert cameras of the same type, and come with a more heftier price tag. The cost of Axon cameras are about $1,700, plus an annual $1,200 each to archive the video footage. Likewise, a comparable wireless Bluetooth covert camera from any local security store runs about $200. The grant doesn't specify which brand of cameras are to be used, but does require the police agency to enlist a research partner. In the case of Phoenix it will be A.S.U., who will collect and analyze the data and calculate the effectiveness of their efforts.
The “Candid-Camera” officer video pilot program was one of 34 recommendations developed by a Phoenix task force last January to help improve relations between the police department and the community. The task force came into being in April, 2010, after several incidents involving the police angered citizens, including a March 2010 incident which saw City Councilman Michael Johnson, an Afro-American, wrestled to the ground and handcuffed by a White police officer.
With the eye of “Big Brother” becoming more prevalent in our daily lives now, and technology providing a video recorder to anyone with a cell phone, providing police officers with a wearable video recording device is the logical next step in the progression. How this plays out over time and the legal impact it could carry will be questions that will no doubt be discussed, but for now it may give us pause to be mindful of what we say and how we respond the next time we are confronted by an officer of the law.
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Self-Defense Kits
Specially put together to save you time and money, these self defense kits combine the elements of a stun gun/stun flashlight, a pepper spray, and a personal alarm. Used separately or in conjunction with each other, you or a loved one will stand the best chance of escaping an attack.
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Package #8
Some states have restrictions on Pepper Sprays and Stun Devices. Check if your state has restrictions here: Shipping Restrictions
Standard shipping is FREE for all retail orders totaling $100.00 or more! (48 Continental US orders only) Flat rate of $8.50 shipping applies to orders under $100.00.
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35.00 |
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Vampire Skull Self Defense Keychain
Don’t let your attacker suck the life out of you; fight back with the Vampire Skull Self -Defense Keychain! Made of lightweight, indestructible ABS plastic it can be concealed in your pocket or attached to your keys for quick and easy access. When the need arises simply insert two fingers through the eyes and make a fist. The top of the skull will press firmly into the palm of your hand allowing you to strike and fend off your assailant.
Features:
Made of indestructible ABS plastic
Lightweight and easy to conceal
Attaches to your keys for quick access
Small enough to conceal in your pocket
Measures 4.1” x 2.6”
Detailed skull design on both sides
Standard shipping is FREE for all retail orders totaling $100.00 or more! (48 Continental US orders only) Flat rate of $8.50 shipping applies to orders under $100.00.
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6.95 |
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3K Lumens LED Self Defense Zoomable Flashlight
The 3K Lumens LED Zoomable Flashlight is all the flashlight you will need, right on your hip!
Three Thousand lumens of blinding intensity, easily zoomable to pinpoint the beam where you need it! New innovative lens simply extends to narrow the blaze of light over 1,300 feet!
It has a blinding strobe setting for defense-disorientation and an SOS setting signaling.
Made of high quality aircraft grade aluminum strong enough to be used as a self-defense baton. It measures 6.22" x 1.61" x 1.33" and Includes 1 22650 Lithium rechargeable battery, charging cable and belt clip.
Standard shipping is FREE for all retail orders totaling $100.00 or more! (48 Continental US orders only) Flat rate of $8.50 shipping applies to orders under $100.
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44.95 |
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Self Defense Hammer Spray
When pepper spray is not enough, the patented, US made Hammer Spray gives you two powerful defense weapons in one! Inspired by the “hammer strike” self-defense maneuver, the Hammer Spray’s weight, ergonomic grip, cord, pepper spray, and striking point combine to create the ultimate self-defense tool. Pepper spray alone can be effective, but it requires separation between you and your attacker. The Hammer Spray is ideal for close-quarter situations where you are grabbed by an attacker. The sharp edge on the bottom of the military grade aluminum housing can be used to hammer strike your attacker and create enough separation for you to discharge the pepper spray and make your escape.
Why Hammer Spray?
Safe: Not only will it keep you safe from an attacker but it is also safe to use. The pepper spray has safety nozzle that needs to be turned before it will spray.
Contains UV dye: The product contains 0.5 oz. of pepper spray with UV dye, which police can use to identify an attacker.
Designed for DNA Recovery: The patented design includes custom grooving at end of the striking point to help collect DNA from an assailant for police identification
Refillable: The pepper spray can be refilled with .5oz and .75oz standard cannisters.
Twice the Protection: Sharp point for close quarter striking and long range pepper spray for spraying from a distance
Standard shipping is FREE for all retail orders totaling $100.00 or more! (48 Continental US orders only) Flat rate of $8.50 shipping applies to orders under $100.00
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70.00 |
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The Peace KEYper Self-Defense Tool
The Peace KEYper is the affordable self-defense tool that accommodates to anyone's daily life. Turn your everyday normal house key into a non-lethal yet lifesaving self-defense tool. Most Kwikset KW1 and Schlage SC1 styled keys (common style used for house keys) can fit into this device. Setup is easy. Simply open up the little hatch, slide the key right in and snap the hatch close and you're good to go! Also designed with a two-way ergonomic grip, you'll be sure to have a solid pinch grip hold should you be attacked by someone who sees you as easy bait. Additionally, there's a quick release spring - with one twist, this allows you to use an alternative comfortable yet effective power grip position. Using the Peace KEYper as opposed to using your key on its own as a self-defense tool gives you a better grip and reach as well as prevents you causing damage to your hand from the key's sharp edges when gripping it. The Peace KEYper protects you in more ways than one.
Stay protected at all times! It's a conveniently small device approximately the size of a car clicker that can be worn unnoticed on a key ring or lanyard, pants pocket, placed inside a handbag or can even fit in the palm of some hands and is ready to protect you from unwanted advances. Any thug would be none the wiser on what's in store for them. The Peace KEYper's design is so simple and inconspicuous that it can be carried right into places where self-defense tools are normally restricted such as government buildings, banks, and airports. No one should be left unprepared if the unthinkable ever happens.
Peace KEYpers are made out of high-impact polymer and steel for a sturdy design and are also 100% waterproof!
This is the ideal product for college students, runners, commuters, teachers, travelers, and more.
We're so confident in our product that we also offer a lifetime warranty! If your Peace KEYper is ever damaged or defective, we will get it replaced for you.
Keep peace of mind with Peace KEYper!
Specifications:
Material: High-Impact Polymer and Steel
Weight: 2.7 oz
Dimensions: 2.4” x 2.1” x 0.4”
Compatible With: Kwikset KW1 and Schlage SC1 keys
Waterproof
LIFETIME WARRANTY
Standard shipping is FREE for all retail orders totaling $100.00 or more! (48 Continental US orders only) Flat rate of $8.50 shipping applies to orders under $100.00.
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18.95 |
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Self Defense Keychain Two Prong Kubotan
Grip your kubotan and get to protecting yourself. A great public safety tool, the kubotan has been around for generations. Starting in Japan and originated by the man who trained their police, this is a non-lethal defense tool that looks harmless but packs a hard hit. Get yours now.
FEATURES
5.5-inch overall length
Colorful pattern - Black
Aircraft aluminum
Solid steel key ring
One can protect themselves with a harmless looking defense tool
Standard shipping is FREE for all retail orders totaling $100.00 or more! (48 Continental US orders only) Flat rate of $8.50 shipping applies to orders under $100.00.
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6.95 |
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