As the name might suggest, the Mini Camera major characteristic is due to its very limited dimensions, making it usable even where space is at premium.
But otherwise it is a completely operational digital surveillance camera capable of taking moving pictures of whatever enters its field of view.

The miniaturization of electronic equipment should not surprise, as it is a constant goal of manufacturers who achieved exceptional success up to the present time and still strive to reduce hardware dimensions by orders of magnitude in the coming several years.

A different success of present day technology can be appreciated in new models of cellular phones of last generation who display an embedded camera. Although generally intended for still views, there are models capable of taking moving pictures.

The definition is barely acceptable for small format images, and these gadgets are not primarily intended for security purposes. However a few cases have been published where, albeit their limited quality, such pictures helped to expose crimes.

It is therefore conceivable that this application will become more and more popular as more people will operate this type of gadgets and will learn to use them for security purposes in case of danger.

Mini Cameras are normally installed in a fixed location as part of a complete surveillance system that can be simple or complex depending on requirements.

As there may be the temptation to hide Mini Cameras and use them in illegal ways,
one should always remember that breach of privacy is always forbidden. This is the governing principle and honest people should not indulge in unlawful behavior. The more so as it should be known that hidden cameras can be easily exposed with a simple search using an inexpensive instrument.

The usual selections can be found in Mini Cameras as in regular ones. Color or black and white are the possible options, depending mostly on the amount and level of available light. In case of full darkness of insufficient light, infrared illuminators, either independent or surrounding the camera, may be required
Wired and wireless cameras are available, the choice depending on ease of installation being weighed against quality of picture reproduction.

The installation of a Mini Camera could be an easier way to become familiar with equipment and requirements of a Home Surveillance System, in order to prepare oneself to more complex and engaging applications needed to upgrade the do-it-yourself system and make it suitable to more demanding tasks.

Elia Levi is a retired engineer.
He built a website to assist with a step-by-step Guide to understand, design, select and set up, all by yourself the best and least expensive Surveillance System for your Home Security. Read more on the subject of this article at
1st-diy-home-surveillance-guide.com/Mini-camera.html Mini Camera.