Custom security camera setup recommendation?

[scottl31]

Talk to a lawyer before you install anything.

Really? I have a real hard time believing that everybody who buys these systems actually consults a lawyer before installing them.

 

[pete_c]

Most folks do not; small offices etc. 
 
Many people are sue happy and with the right lawyer can twist just about anything around such that their actions can be justifiied and not admissible in a court of law these days. 
 
Sad thing is that if there is bad stuff going on much of this bad stuff just gets a slap on hand with a warning not to do again; even if you have it recorded on video. 
 
When I did a small construction and IT project; I did hear some "guff" relating to my contruction monitoring IP PT cameras here and there.  The cameras were set up for live video I ignored the "guff".   I wasn't recording anything but just wanting to see progress when I was not there (and was working multiple projects).

 

[sic0048]

OK, the intention is not to record or even have the cameras hidden. But recording seems to be part of what most of these systems do.
 
I'm baffled that anybody has any worry about any legalities when you are talking about somebody illegally gaining access to your premises. My boss's feeling about that is if a burglar beaks in and wants to sue him for recording, then bring it on. If I can get recommendations without worrying about the legal aspects, that would be great.

 
The problem comes from people that are not breaking and entering to be there.  A person's privacy is a sticky subject, hence the recommendation to find out what is legal and illegal in your area.  Just because your boss is using common sense doesn't mean it would be legal to do what he wants to in your area.  
 
Again, just recording video is generally not a problem, especially if you notify people as they come on premise through signs.  It is the audio recordings that can get you in trouble depending on where you are located.
 
If the systems were separate (ie a CCTV system that recorded video only and an intercom system that didn't record audio), I doubt you would have any problems.  Then if something was going on, a person could use the two way audio to speak into the situation even if they are off site.  There are plenty of alarm systems that do this with the audio portion.  For example, when there is an alarm a person can listen in and speak to the premise through the alarm system. 

 

[scottl31]

At this point, I'm not concerned with any legalities. I have informed my boss about the possible problems. He has a very good attorney to run all this by.
 
I'm just trying to get some hardware/software recommendations to show him, or at least what to stay away from. Can anybody help?

 

[electron]

It sounds like you want something like this:
 
http://www.mobotix.com/eng_US/content/view/full/66936
 
There are several other door units out there supporting this kind of stuff.
 
I believe the 'regular' Mobotix cameras support video chat / SIP as well, so check them out too.
 
Mobotix is known for top of the line gear, but you will pay a lot of money.  Might be what you are looking for tho.

 

[Del91574]

The problem comes from people that are not breaking and entering to be there.  A person's privacy is a sticky subject, hence the recommendation to find out what is legal and illegal in your area.  Just because your boss is using common sense doesn't mean it would be legal to do what he wants to in your area.  
 
Again, just recording video is generally not a problem, especially if you notify people as they come on premise through signs.  It is the audio recordings that can get you in trouble depending on where you are located.
 
If the systems were separate (ie a CCTV system that recorded video only and an intercom system that didn't record audio), I doubt you would have any problems.  Then if something was going on, a person could use the two way audio to speak into the situation even if they are off site.  There are plenty of alarm systems that do this with the audio portion.  For example, when there is an alarm a person can listen in and speak to the premise through the alarm system. 

exactly, without getting into all the other areas. 2 way audio and an alarm system are a different subject and application altogether. The communication is initiated by the alarm panel and not automatically and it can't be triggered unless the alarm allows it, IE: a CS operator wants to listen in and be a voyeur for whatever reason....ain't gonna happen.
 
Doing video isn't the issue, the can of worms starts to open with the audio aspect.
 
Legalities are black and white, what is admissable or allowable is what the judge decides.
 
Sony makes the Ipela series that supports mics and speakers, but I'd be wary about the application.