Use Skype for iPhone as a Home Security Camera Monitor

If you have a child at home and you have to look up what he is doing while sitting on a babysitter or  you have to watch someone who lives with you in your home when you are not there.  For this purpose,  if you have a desktop computer or a laptop then you already have a security camera by which you can keep an eye on that person or the child.

If you dont have a desktop computer or a laptop then all you need is an iPad 3G or iPhone which are more capable to exist with Skype’s iOS application that works as a monitor. This is how you will be able to see what is happening in your home by using these devices from any place where you can get the facilities of 3G services.

STEP 1: You just need to install the Skype on your desktop. First open the Skype website and download the desktop version of Skype for windows or Mac.  Then you have to make sure that your idevice has the facility to install 3G version. This is necessary that your internet connection remains constant and Skype is open on your computer while doing this job.

STEP 2: Now you will need 2 accounts on Skype. If you don’t have accounts on Skype then use your iPhone’s application to make your main account and for 2^nd one use your desktop version of Skype. This 2^nd account will be used only to connect the Macbook’s webcam so your Skype name should be difficult and keep it a secret. Once both your accounts have been registered then login to Skype on your idevice and desktop computer.

STEP 3: Then you have to turn on the automatic answer in Skype on your desktop, check “start video automatically” and uncheck “show call controls”. It will be found in the Skype preferences panel under the calls tab.

STEP 4: Try it! Now open your Skype application in your iphone or ipad and you should be sure that you are logged in to your main account. Then in search bar type your Skype name of 2^nd account by which your computer is logged in as and it should come up. Then press the video call button and within the seconds you will see what your webcam sees at your home.

If you are trying to identify the person, we would advise you to turn on the volume on your desktop and to dim your display. The Skype is very noisy and very visible even when you are answering calls. Skype will not work if your laptop or computer is either closed or locked.

I love the fact that I can place my Macbook anywhere in my home and can take a quick look at any particular place, even if I am on the vacations! It is important that I still have a grandfathered unlimited data plan with AT&T and those who don’t have unlimited data plan you should be warned while using Skype away from Wi-Fi.

Has anyone tried this out? Give your comments !

Popularity: 5% [?]

Related posts:

1. iPhone 4 will finally be featuring Skype Video calling, other platforms not yet confirmed
2. Tips and Tricks on How to transform Android SmartPhone turned into a webcam
3. New Skype App for iOS Adds Video Chat
4. How to Set iOS 4.3′s iTunes Home Sharing Feature on iPhone 4, iPad and iPod Touch
5. Five iPhone Apps That I Can Not Live Without

Tags: iphone apps, iphone camera, skype for iphone

Category: Apple