[Eug-lug] Webcams in the office...

[Alan]

Matthew Jarvis wrote:
> 
> I'm thinking that I can get away with those cheapo webcams, run the 4 of 
> them into a usb hub and into a computer for viewing. (?)
> 
...

> 
> Can I do this on the cheap like this or am I gonna have to pony up some 
> real $$$ to make it happen?
> 

Yes.
You could easily do this with a bunch of USB cams and a few instances of 
VLC.
Keep in mind the distance limitations of USB though.

I myself (sticking with the philosophy of "Do it right the first time") 
would grab some Axis or Panasonic netcams and a copy of zoneminder.
However, if the budget isn't there for that, you can run USB cams with 
zoneminder. The advantage being that if the budget does materialize for 
netcams, you don't have to re-setup the system, just plug them into 
zoneminder and away you go.
The downside being that zoneminder can be somewhat complex to configure 
(though there is a liveCD now).

Do you plan to stick one outside to catch the graffiti punks? They seem 
to love the back of your building.

-ajb