In today’s world, home security is more important than ever. While high-end security systems can be expensive, there’s an affordable and creative solution that most of us already have lying around – old smartphones! Instead of letting these devices collect dust in a drawer, why not repurpose them into a functional and effective DIY home surveillance system? This step-by-step guide will show you how to build your very own surveillance system using old smartphones, offering an affordable and reliable way to keep an eye on your home.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Use Old Smartphones for Surveillance?
Old smartphones may seem like outdated technology, but when put to good use, they can serve as highly functional security cameras for your home. With the right apps and setup, your old devices can provide a solid security solution. The best part? You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment or pay monthly monitoring fees.
Benefits of a DIY Home Surveillance System with Old Smartphones
- Low Cost: You’re using devices you already own, so the cost is minimal.
- Easy Setup: With a variety of apps and tools available, setting up a surveillance system is straightforward.
- Customization: You can position cameras wherever you need, in and around your home.
- Mobile Monitoring: Access the cameras from your smartphone, tablet, or computer anytime, anywhere.
1. Gather the Necessary Equipment
Before you start setting up your DIY surveillance system, make sure you have all the necessary components:
Old Smartphones
Any smartphone with a camera will work for this project. Ideally, you should use phones that are still functional, with a working camera and Wi-Fi capabilities.
Smartphone Mounts or Stands
For easy placement and positioning, invest in adjustable phone mounts or stands. These will help you secure your phones in different areas of your home.
Wi-Fi Network
A reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential for your system to work. Your phones will need internet access to stream video feeds to your monitoring devices.
Smartphone Apps
There are several free and paid apps available that turn your smartphone into a security camera. Some popular ones include:
- Manything
- Alfred
- IP Webcam (for Android)
- AtHome Camera
2. Choose the Right App for Your Surveillance System
Several apps are designed specifically to transform your old smartphones into surveillance cameras. Here are some of the best options:
Alfred
Best for beginners: Alfred turns your smartphone into a security camera with easy-to-follow steps. It offers features like motion detection, live streaming, and remote access.
Manything
Best for streaming: Manything allows you to stream video feeds to other devices and offers cloud storage for recorded footage.
IP Webcam (Android Only)
Best for advanced users: If you’re tech-savvy, IP Webcam offers advanced customization and integration with other surveillance systems, perfect for setting up a more sophisticated DIY system.
AtHome Camera
Best for multi-camera setups: This app allows you to use multiple devices simultaneously and manage different cameras from one central device.
3. Set Up the Smartphones as Security Cameras
Now that you’ve selected your app, it’s time to set up the smartphones to act as security cameras. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Install the App
Download the chosen app on both the old smartphone you’ll use as the camera and your main smartphone or computer that you’ll use for monitoring.
Step 2: Position the Camera
Find strategic spots around your home where you want to place the smartphones. Ideal locations include entryways, windows, hallways, and areas that aren’t easily visible to outsiders. Use a stand or mount to secure the phone in place, ensuring it’s stable and has a clear view of the area you wish to monitor.
Step 3: Connect to Wi-Fi
Make sure the smartphone camera is connected to your home Wi-Fi network. This allows the camera to send real-time video feeds to your monitoring device.
Step 4: Configure Motion Detection
Enable motion detection in the app’s settings. This feature will alert you whenever it detects movement, saving you from having to constantly monitor the feed.
Step 5: Adjust Settings
Many apps allow you to adjust the camera’s resolution, sensitivity, and even sound. Customize these settings to fit your needs.
4. Monitor Your Home from Anywhere
Once your phones are set up as surveillance cameras, you can easily monitor your home from any device connected to the internet. Simply log into the app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer, and you can access live video feeds from your old smartphones. Some apps also allow you to watch recorded footage, so if you miss an alert or want to review events, you can easily check the history.
5. Secure Your Surveillance System
To make sure your DIY surveillance system is as secure as possible, follow these steps:
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Many apps offer two-factor authentication (2FA), which provides an extra layer of security. Make sure this is enabled to protect your system from unauthorized access.
Change Default Passwords
Change the default passwords for the app and the smartphones to something more secure. This will help protect your video feeds from being hacked.
Use Cloud Storage for Backup
Some apps allow you to back up your video recordings to the cloud. This ensures that you won’t lose footage if the phones are damaged or stolen.
6. Additional Tips for Improving Your Surveillance System
* Use Multiple Smartphones for Full Coverage
To cover more areas of your home, use multiple smartphones. This will give you a full 360-degree view of your property, increasing your security.
* Set Up Night Vision
Some apps offer night vision mode, which uses the smartphone’s infrared capabilities to capture clear footage even in low-light conditions. If your phones don’t have built-in infrared, you can buy external accessories for night vision.
* Mount Phones in Hidden Locations
For added security, consider mounting your old smartphones in less obvious locations. Hidden cameras can be great deterrents for intruders.
* Use Motion Sensors
For enhanced accuracy, pair your smartphones with external motion sensors. These devices can trigger the camera to start recording when they detect movement.
7. Consider Powering Your Phones
Since security cameras are typically left running 24/7, make sure your smartphones are plugged into a power source. You can buy long charging cables or wireless charging pads to keep your devices powered throughout the day and night.
Conclusion: An Affordable Home Surveillance System
Repurposing old smartphones for a DIY home surveillance system is an excellent way to save money while increasing your security. With just a few smartphones, some apps, and a stable Wi-Fi connection, you can easily monitor your home from anywhere in the world. This method not only makes use of devices that might otherwise go unused but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is being watched over, all while keeping your costs down.
