STACK Magazine April 2015 Issue 126

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076 APRIL 2015 JB Hi-Fi
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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 –
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
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
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.
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
Push notification incoming;
the dog is on the move