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Skype Security - Observation

Keep a remote 'eye-out' on important people or areas.

Items needed for setting up a security/observation webcam

Skype 2.5 or later version

(2) Computers - both with broadband - 'Home' and 'Away'

(2) SkypeIDs - one for each computer

(1) Skype Webcam for your 'Home' computer

Skype Security (or Observation) Webcam Setup

If you have a webcam you can set up a Skype security (or observation) application easily.

Instructions:

1. Computers with Skype (version 2.5 or higher) installed and broadband access on both “home” and “away” locations.

2. A webcam installed on the “home” computer correctly, and pointed at the subject/area you want to monitor.

3. On the “home” computer, go to Skype > Tools > Options > Video (BETA)
   
   
   1. Turn On: Enable Skype Video
   2. Turn On: When I’m calling, and activate the “start my video automatically” function (see image)

4. On the “home” computer, go to Skype > Tools > Options > Advanced > Call, and activate the “Automatically answer incoming calls” function.
   

Then, 'call the “home” computer through Skype from your remote access "away" computer . The Skype call will be picked up automatically, the webcam will turn on, and the live capture video will be sent to your "away" computer screen.

By this point you might have this in mind: You want to have the Skype security cam always on. But, you still want to be able to receive other Skype incoming calls.

No problem. You can activate multiple Skype accounts or sessions at the same time on a Windows XP machine. See the instructions here. You can set up a new Skype account dedicated to working with the security application, and you can have your personal Skype account open to other incoming calls at the same time.

IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE KEEP YOUR SKYPE IDS FOR VIDEO SECURITY/OBSERVATION LIMITED TO THOSE SKYPE USERS YOU KNOW. SEE BELOW ON HOW TO LIMIT CALLS IN.