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Published: Mar 24, 2009 Author: Michael Chiu Editor: Amber Lupala Provider: Hawking Share this article:

Installation and Testing

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Looking at the installation instructions for the Hawking HomeRemote Pro Wireless Video Camera, I once again couldn’t help but doubt that it could be that simple (do note that you do need to have a Hawking Internet Gateway (the one that comes with the starter kit) to use this camera). First step is to simply power and connect the camera to the network router. Then, enter the username/password and product key, and the camera will be automatically detected and configured. Finally, simply disconnect the camera and set up the WiFi settings (network name, encryption password, etc) and you done. The camera begins streaming its signal to your HomeRemote Pro webpage.

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The camera’s resolution is not that amazing (640x480 maximum), and its lack of night vision does reduce its usefulness (most of the places I want to monitor are dark at night). But for a wireless video camera that has to transmit a signal via a wireless network, the performance is definitely acceptable for most home monitoring setups.

Video output is in .avi format. See here for a brief sample video.

Sample Video- click here to view it!

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The HRPC1 does have additional home monitoring capabilities that make it stand out from your typical video camera. The camera (and the software) is capable of detecting motion and notifying you via email with a snapshot of the activity detected. This feature is easy to set up (via a single webpage) and works well. However I would have liked the capability to record video when motion is detected; that capability is not in place. Along with the motion detection feature, the camera’s resolution and other settings can be configured easily.

Also, note that you can also view this camera via your Internet-connected cell phone, provided that you have a pro-level subscription service (currently ~$10 a month or $100 a year); while this seems expensive, the ease of use and well designed interface are worth the minimal expense.

The HomeRemote Pro camera also comes with its own recording and viewing software that can be used locally. I thought the interface could use improving but overall it does the job. You can add up to 4 cameras to monitor using the software, though again it does not have the ability to record video upon motion detection.

Conclusion:
The Hawking HomeRemotePro HRPC1 Wireless Video Camera is a versatile and useful accessory to add to your Hawking HomeRemote Pro Home Automation/Home Monitoring system. Like the starter kit, it is very easy to install and configure; Hawking has truly made home monitoring a plug-and-play installation. However, the camera does fall short in certain areas, such as recording video upon motion detection and night vision. But if you’re looking for an easy to use and capable wireless video camera that can be streamed over the Internet and cell phone, you may want to consider Hawking’s Home Automation system and this camera.

Pros:
+ Easy to setup and connect
+ Allows for monitoring your home via the Internet and your cell phone
+ Intuitive user interface via any Internet browser
+ Comes with separate recording and viewing software

Cons:
- Pro level service requires subscription fee
- Can’t record video upon motion detection
- No night vision

Thanks to Hawking Technologies for making the products available for review.