About the size of a golf ball, the Camball is a 1 camera surveillance system that takes clear video with audio, and large color photos, recording them to tiny SD cards you can view later.
Manufactured by the Korean company Starnex International, the improved SC-31 CamBall features motion activated recording, can use up to 16GB micro SD cards and includes many accessories that were previously sold separately.
The CamBall is one of the coolest gadgets we have seen, and there are two versions, depending on your needs. The SC-31 has motion detection, and the SC-30 does not.
If you want to record action sports, parties, weddings, meetings, or your cat, you might not want the motion activation. If you are trying to watch your Nanny, or keying your car, you need the motion detection.
The motion detection has been also updated over the prior model, specifically they are using a better chip, so it’s not just a software upgrade. Previously, the camera was so sensitive that clouds moving in front of the sun would set off the motion.
And the 16 GB memory increase allows you to record up to 48 hours of video. The internal batteries last about 100 minutes, hours with light motion, and with the optional Surveillance Pack, you can run the camera from the electricity of the building.
The CamBall is very easy to use. Charge it up for 3 hours, and turn it on by pressing the big button for 2 seconds. The lights turn on and blink 3x. Once it’s done, push the big button to take pictures, or press the record button (Up arrow) for 2 seconds, and it will record until you turn it off or the battery dies.
The photos are large and very clear, as is the video. While the recorded video is 320 x 240, its 30 fps and very clear, as is the audio. Audio can be turned on or off, depending on your needs.
Setting up motion detection is a snap; you just have to hold down the “Left Arrow” button for 2 seconds until its Red, and then press record (Up Arrow) for 2 seconds. Set it down and it will start recording when motion is detected.
You can set all the options using the CamBall manager software, or a TV, and it automatically updates itself, and the camera, whenever you connect the CamBall to a PC.
You can set the time/date, motion activation sensitivity, turn on/off the “Night Vision” capability, and if needed, flip the video 180 degrees if you have it mounted upside down.
While you can hook the camera up to a Mac to watch the video, the CamBall manager software only works on a PC, or you can hook the camera up to a TV, and you can change the settings there.
To view the videos, you can plug the CamBall into your Mac or PC, and find the video files. On a PC, use KM Player or VLC Media player, and on a Mac, QuickTime plays the videos. You can also use a SD card reader to watch your videos on any computer.
Choose from 4 different accessory packs to increase the usefulness of your CamBall. We covered the Surveillance Pack above., the Sports Pack allows you to film your bike or motorcycle rides, and protect it from rain or water.
Use the Vehicle Pack to monitor your car or truck for vandals, and it also integrates with most GPS monitors. The LCD Pack allows you to watch your videos on a color 2.5” LCD screen.
If you love gadgets, or need a small and easy to hide Spy Camera, check out this CamBall review article, to learn more about the SecureShot Micro Eyes SD Card Recording Ball Camera CamBall, a one camera surveillance system for home, work, sports, events, or your car.
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