I am not real familiar with the vanguard system but it sounds pretty complex. Several manufacturers make remote viewable camera systems and I know Costco, Home Depot, Lowes, Radio Shack, etc all sell them. Expect to pay a minimum of $200 for the cheap versions (prices climb signifcantly depending on quality and features).
Several features you want to look for; are the cameras low light viewable (i.e. do they have infared capability)? If so, what is the range? Check the resolution. If you are only using it for keeping tabs on the animals at night then consider getting a B&W system. B&W tends to have a higher resolution and more clarity in dark environments than color does.
Keep in mind that most remote viewable cameras are designed to be viewed over the internet not over a cellphone. If you want to view it over a cellphone most systems will only work with the iphone, though a few will work with blackberry's.
I don't think your issue has to do with a firewall or router issue. I think its more likely a equipment compatibility issue or malfunction. I would purchase a new system if you can, one that is more user friendly.
I have a veterinary clinic and would like to set up the ability to monitor patients via video when at home. On May 17, I received the Vanguard system, a wireless camera system with Vanguard software to allow remote video access from X10 and it has been a disaster. At first, I could remotely access the clinic server but only view one cam (have 4), couldn't switch cameras. Soo, they had me buy more transceivers to help with switching because of a possible electrical phase problem in my clinic. They also had me uninstall the software and folders and sent me a link to re-download software/drivers. Followed instructions meticulously. After installation, I can view the cameras on the host server and switch them, but now have no remote access. For over a month, they've had me checking with Verizon (my ISP) and checking the router for proper open ports, which verizon verified. Even with firewalls down on both ends, no remote viewing.
After multiple contacts with a number of techs and HOURS on the phone since 5-17, I was assigned a level 2 tech. He had me perform a myriad of tests and I sent results to him and still he still believes that a firewall or router is blocking access. What he won't explain to me is why I could originally remote view but now can't after reloading everything. No new software has been added between installations. Norton Internet Security is installed, but things still don't work when it is inactivated. I checked the router (westell provided by Verizon)and it is currently set to allow all traffic, no "firewall" is up on the router and all appropriate ports are open.
As that isn't enough, as of today, I can't access the cameras on the host computer, just static.
2 questions. Anyone know someone at X10 that knows anything? If not, what is a good source of another product that would allow me to install wireless cameras that would communicate with software installed on my clinic computer and allow me remote access to the cameras. The cameras need to be wireless so they can be mobile and stationed near a patient that requires monitoring.
fed up with X10
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