Web cam.

Is it possible to use a web cam as a security camera ?

Rabbit...

I don't see why not.

pmj...

Yep.

If so what software do I need to leave it running and
record onto my PC ?

pmj...

There are several different Software Packages that will do it - some
are Free, some are ShareWare & some are Commercial Software.

Do a web search, or look on any of the Downlaod Sites for them.

I'm thinking of long runs (2 to 3 hrs ) not just short clips.

Jeff Gaines...

You'd be better off with a network security camera in a low light
situation - they cost more but come with some good software.

I've lost track of the law about filming people, there was an argument
about Human Rights/privacy but I don't know where it ended up.

Rabbit...

Pass but I know you can get stuff I've seen a party on a web cam. Ponder
possibly could help.

pmj...

Yep - they will all take a series of Shots (at a specified Interval),
over a period of time.
& some of them have Motion Detectors as well, so they only Record stuff,
when there's movement.

Some just Save the Pics as Files to a Hard Disk & others will also
Post them up to WebSpace (by FTP) or Send stuff by eMail.

The local yobs had a go at my car again Sat. night, I caught
them and called the police.

Rabbit...

Sorry to hear that :-(

I had two other witnesses but was told that they could still
get away with it.

Rabbit...

Sounds about right nowadays :-(

So if I can catch them on camera I don't think a court could
argue with that.

pandamonium...

There are packages out there that have motion detectors built in so they
will only start recording when something is happening. Conquercam is one
I'm sure.

Rabbit...

Wanna bet ? If they are kids under a certain age you could end up in trouble
unfortunately :-( Also not too sure about English law but I'm sure the yobs
*legal/social/I know my human right person might argue the legalities of a
security camera pointing at a public place. IANAL but I believe you are only
allowed to point the camera at your own property :-(

pmj...

But have you asked their Permission, before Filming them?
:-)

Or rather...
:-(

You may find that their Lawyer will claim that Pictures of them
obtained using covert surveillance techniques aren't admissible
as evidence.

So it might be an idea to put up a big sign, saying that CCTV is
in use!