STACK #126 Apr 2016

TECH

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Configuring new technology in the home was once something left for the professionals to handle, and the mere mention of the word 'tech' would spread fear in most like a bushfire. Arlo – Big Brother Is Watching

are fixed to a bracket on the wall (screws and mounting bracket included) via a magnetic dome that allows a complete range of positioning. The cameras offer a 130 degree field of view and record in crisp and clear 720p. Arlo cameras are designed to be all-weather, so placing them outside is not an issue (you may want to look at purchasing a proper external mounting bracket though – you don't want anyone stealing your camera), and recording at night is made possible with night vision, so any midnight dashes to the fridge are now in serious jeopardy. The aforementioned setup is ridiculously simple – without doubt the easiest that we've done. The unit comes with a base station unit that connects to power and your router via an Ethernet cable. Download the Arlo app, create an account, press a small button on the side of the base station, and similarly on the cameras, wait for them to sync (around 20 seconds) and you're literally ready to go. The cameras can be accessed via your device, so the temptation to watch just how much time your partner spends in front of the telly on their day off is irresistible. Arlo only records when motion is detected, thus preserving battery life, and when activated, a

T hat was then, this is now. Tech

manufacturers are all too aware of this inherent domestic technophobia and

consequently, new devices that are hitting the market now, for want of a better phrase, are practically idiot-proof to set up. Netgear's Arlo home security camera system is the perfect example of this. Home security is a growth industry, and while there are many options available to the consumer, Netgear has innovated the space with a system that uploads recordings to a cloud server that can then be accessed via smartphone, tablet or computer. Completely wireless, the cameras – which run off four CR123 lithium batteries per unit –

Push notification incoming; the dog is on the move

users to program the cameras for even greater efficiency; if you have them set up in the office, obviously you don't need them operational during the day – and trust us, you won't want the constant tirade of notifications hitting your phone. In terms of competition, we've yet to see anything that is comparable with the quality of Arlo, and we really can't emphasise enough how simple it is to set up and use. It's portability will appeal to renters, and outside of the obvious home security benefits, Arlo is perfect for baby monitoring and checking up on your pet's welfare (we've all seen the video). The storage is free for up to five cameras, but if you choose to add more – and it can handle 15 – you'll have to consider a payment plan. If you're looking for a reliable, top end wireless security system that you can install, configure and manage yourself, Netgear's Arlo is exactly what you're looking for.

push notification is sent as an email or directly to your phone. You can then log on and check to see if it's the dog jumping off the couch for a stretch or someone pulling your TV off the wall. A simple interface displays four cameras at once, and through the settings, recording length can be customised. Scheduling allows

APRIL 2015 JB Hi-Fi www.jbhifi.com.au

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