calving cameras question

[korytm]

We have been doing some research on putting up calving cameras this year. The problem we have is that we live roughly 12 miles away from the barn. We spoke to a company about security cameras and the cost was $1200 just for cameras, plus we'd have to run a phone line into the barn and purchase new cell phones that are internet equipt. Does anyone know of a system we could purchase that would work in this kind of situation??? Any help, suggestions, or references would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!!

 

[kfacres]

I hear there is a newer type system that runs off wireless....  You can get on from any internet connection, from anywhere- like being at work... 

There is also a system that runs wireless through your TV.  Wake up at night, and turn the TV on to check the cows, instead of firing up the comptor.  I've never looked into them, but have heard great things about them. 

Let me check on what I can find, there is an advertisement on one magainzine that I get, but don't have a copy with me right now.

 

[JSchroeder]

You are going to have a lot of trouble finding something that will work in such a remote location without internet access for anything resembling a reasonable price.  I'd go so far as to say it will be impossible.

Internet access is the key to keeping it affordable.  If you have it at the barn, there are a ton of options that span budgets all the way down to $50.  There's just no way to make a 12-mile jump cheaply without internet access.

 

[bluffcountrycattle]

The biggest challange is the distance...wireless transmitters won't go that far and you have to have a clean line of site.  I think your only option is to have a computer and internet connection at the farm, and have the video feed uploaded to an IP address on the internet.  Then you can check it from home or work over the internet browsers.  Perhaps a neighbor close to the farm has a wireless signal??  Or check into a wireless internet from the cell phone companies.  Just a few thoughts.  We run a wireless camera at the farm, and my parents can check the calving barn from the house.  Works great.  But we live 8 miles away so the only way we could see the camera is if my parents had internet, which they opt not too.  Hope this helps.  You don't need to spend a bunch on the cameras, as the cheap eBay ones are sufficient for us.  Your cost is going to come in getting a wireless signal, or internet connection at the farm.  

 

[korytm]

Thanks soo much for all the suggestions!!!  I greatly appreciate it!!! I'm really excited to have these cameras, and will look into some of the things mentioned! Thanks again!!