Roundup of Hidden Spy Cameras
Written by man on July 3rd, 2009 in Uncategorized.
Spy cameras – nothing new here, right? Embedded cameras have been around for years, but now they are becoming cheaper and in more products for the average consumer. This article will give you a taste of what’s available right now.
Starting off our list is the calculator spycam. Just think of a standard desktop calculator with a small embedded video camera. It is well hidden, because it really functions as a calculator. Expect to get at least 25 frames per second at a 320×240 resolution. These will be able to record in multiple audio, video and photo formats including MP3, AVI, and MPEG4.
Of course, we had to include a surveillance camera watch. These wrist watches have been inspired by spy movies like James Bond. They typically look like pricey analog watches and have the camera lens hidden in the face. In one example, the lens is deftly hidden in the numbering. While the video quality may not be as good as in a larger spycam, it is amazing what you can get for less than $200.
Another very spy movie-like device is spy camera sunglasses. Look for those that can take both photos and video. Look for a model that can shoot at least with a 1.3 Megapixel resolution. You should be able to find a pair for under $200.
Now let’s say you need to get some air to ground shots. Then get a spy plane! Perfect for recon! Most people wouldn’t even stop to think that a remote controlled plane could take photos or record video.
There are also your typical remote controlled vehicles (cars, trucks, etc.). Some will even transmit video wirelessly to a headset or other screen.
If you have kids and want to keep an eye on the nanny or babysitter, then you’ll want something a bit different. A desktop calculator may not cut it as it won’t fit in in a child’s bedroom or the living room. In this case, there are toys (like teddy bears!) that have embedded cameras, some of which can be hooked up to your home computer network and that can transmit real-time. Then all you need to see what’s going on at home, is a computer and Web browser hooked up to the Internet.
You can see a nice roundup of specific examples of these embedded spycam devices at this popular electronics gadget blog.
