Question 1

Can these cameras be used outdoors? Maybe in a carport or a porch?

Accepted Answer

I only have these cameras outside and haven't had any problem with them.  Make sure you create a drip loop if you have a rainy environment.   Also try to not point them toward any lights, such as a street light, and it will work better after dark.  I also need to keep the spider webs off of them because it can trigger the video capture as movement.

Question 2

I Just purchased this system - I'm seeing a lot of people talk about purchasing a separate Hard Drive to go with it - 
Is this a Requirement? It comes with the DVR - Does that NOT Record?  Do I HAVE to get an Additional Hard Drive?? 
If the DVR Doesn't Record - then Why does it come with the system? What is the DVR used for then?

Also,  it has 4 cameras - can all 4 camera shots be viewed on 1 channel on my TV Screen - Split into 4? Or will I have to scroll through 4 different channels to view the 4 different camera shots?

IF its a REQUIREMENT that I MUST buy a Hard Drive  - can someone recommend a size and an inexpensive place to get one? Newegg? Do I really need a TB? That's A LOT.

Please help.  Thank you from a Single Mommy trying to keep her 2 daughters safe! :)

Accepted Answer

No, the hard drive is not a requirement, but if you want to record the cameras, you need it. Without it you will just have the real time viewing of the cameras.
Yes, you can set the dvr to show either one camera in full screen, split in 4 or even 8 fields. Or you can run a so called tour which just switches between all connected cameras automatically.
Regarding hard drive, I would recommend a 1 TB drive, you will get the best bang for the buck with those. The 1 TB is just about 20 bucks more than a 500GB. Just make sure you'll buy one which is certified for surveillance recording like the AV series or the new purple series from Western Digital. Seagate has similar drives. 
Stay away from normal desktop drives, they will die in a short time.

Question 3

Do these camera  display color video on the monitor or when web accessing from internet explorer? Is there an iPhone app for this?

Accepted Answer

Video is in color during normal light levels. Switches to black and white at night or low light levels. Has iPhone and Droid apps however viewing over 3G doesn't work, not enough band width. I have this system watching my carport and outside doors. Friends are very impressed by it.

Question 4

operating temp range?

Accepted Answer

Hello, since we're here in the northern California's relatively warmer climate, and so far this system is able to perform well at around 40 degree F at the low end. The hi range I haven't experienced yet, but with industry standard it should be able to handle upto 120 F if not more.

Hope this answers your question.

Happy surveilling

Question 5

How long are the camera cables?

Accepted Answer

It comes with 60 foot cables. You can purchase longer cables separately if you need them.

Question 6

How long are the camera cables? 60ft? 100ft?

Accepted Answer

60ft

Question 7

Will it send any sort of notification when motion is detected?

Accepted Answer

It will send and email if you set it to do so in settings.

Question 8

Does this system have audio?

Accepted Answer

not included on cameras you have to install a separate mic for that

Question 9

I want to buy this for the outside of my business. The main use would be for overnight to help prevent(hopefully) and catch anyone that tries to disturb the business.

Is the night vision good enough to get a license plate off a car from 50-100ft away? Or to get a clear picture of a persons face?

Is there any zoom option and is it clear? I know some surveillance systems have reviews stating the zoom is pointless since it is so blurry when zoomed...

Accepted Answer

There is no zoom option with this lower level of security system, and as for being able to see a license plate from 50-100 feet away, I don't think this will meet your needs. HOWEVER, I bought this system, and it is perfect for my store in the Village of  Pawling, NY. I do not need to see a license plate that far, and the night vision (Infrared) is adequate to light up the entire inside of my store and I can see well at night through the cameras. It works for me, but I think you'll need a few steps up of a security system to meet your requirements. Zoom and Pan/tilt are available with more expensive cameras and a better resolution with higher-resolution (and more expensive) cameras.

Question 10

Has anybody ever have to contact Laview support? I tried and get nothing, if you had can you post a good number to call. Thanks

Accepted Answer

I haven't tried to call them, but I did email them about a camera not working. They responded back (by email) within an hour and had me test a couple things (different cable, different camera on same cable, etc). I replied back that it wasn't working at all in any configuration and they responded back with an RMA form to get it replaced. This was all done within a few hours on a Thursday (Dec 26th).

Questions & Answers