From Paper Weight to Surveillance Cam: Turn an Old Smartphone into a Do-it-Yourself Surveillance System

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It’s summertime, and all you want to do is enjoy a well-deserved vacation to the destination of your dreams. You’ve been planning this trip for months, but once you arrive you start worrying about what's going on at home. Did you lock the doors? Did you remember to put the garage door down? Did you leave a light on so it looks like someone is home? Before you go on your next vacation, check out this cost-efficient way to put your mind at ease.

Home Surveillance System
If you have an old smartphone or tablet lying around the house, you’re just a few clicks away from having your very own surveillance system. With recent advances in technology, all it takes is a spare mobile device and an app to keep an eye on what’s happening while you’re away. Capabilities vary based on which app you choose, as well as if the device runs on an Android system or iPhone. Here are a few to consider:

Salient Eye App (iOS Devices and Android Devices)
The Salient Eye app turns a mobile device with a camera into a surveillance system. Here's how it works:

• The app uses the camera on the old mobile device to detect motion.
• After motion is detected, an email and/or text is sent to you.
• Next, the device begins taking pics of the intruder while also uploading them to a free online cloud.
• Lastly, the app sounds an alarm in hopes of deterring the intruder. 

The Salient Eye App also allows you to disable the alarm if you are expecting someone. That way you can monitor what they are doing without receiving pictures or startling them with the intruder alarm.

Manything App (iOS Devices and Android Devices) 
The Manything app provides many of the same features as the Salient Eye app, but one major difference is that the Manything app allows users to capture and watch a live video of their home instead of just still photos.

Protecting your home with any security system is always a positive and it's hard to beat the peace of mind that a professional security system provides. Some professional services will even get you a discount on your homeowners insurance. Check with your local Shelter agent to learn more!