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Netgear Arlo Review

After Thinking of Home Security, I started looking at fake and real video surveillance systems on the market. At the same time, my brother learned of my family's encounter with a burglar and decided that video surveillance is necessary. I agreed with him that video surveillance is a great deterrent and useful for the capturing of evidence. He proceeded to order me a set.

In this article, I am going to review the Netgear Arlo VMS3330, which includes three video cameras. The Netgear Arlo is marketed as 100% wireless video camera home security system. My family is going to put it through the pace starting with installation. I will update this article over time as we integrate it into our home fortress.

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Weathering the Elements

Upon receiving the package, my first impression is that these look like typical iPhone, tablet, and other consumer electronic products. The cameras, although hefty, doesn't look like they can stand sunlight or rain.

But as I researched about the product some more on the Arlo support site, I saw this question, "Are Arlo cameras weatherproof?". The answer is "Yes, Arlo cameras are weatherproof. They work in a wide variety of weather conditions, including sun, wind, rain, or snow. Operating temperature is 14� F to 122� F (-10� C to 50� C).".

Now, I feel a lot better. Because I have been concerned about the product failing under the sun. Knowing its weatherproofing capability, I can basically mount it anywhere in the open. I want intruders to see it and use it as a deterrent.

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Placement

Just because Arlo's HD security cameras are wireless, doesn't mean placing them is any easier than wired video camera. In fact, it can be just as hard or even harder in your situation. It's true, wireless cameras mean you don't have to drill holes and run wires everywhere. That part is definitely easier. But for wireless devices to work, there are strict placement requirements that you have to meet.

Arlo camera has to be within 300 feet from the base stations. Range could be shorter through metal and thick walls. This maximum distance is probably no problems for most home owners. But if you have a ranch or a huge plot of land, be ready to deal with this limitation.

What's more restricting for a typical home owner is that the Arlo camera should be at least ten feet from the base station. And each camera should be at least 6.5 feet away from each other. Because the base stations uses wired Ethernet, not WiFi, you can be even more restricted, unless your Internet router happens to be in the middle of your home.

Older Revision of Netgear Arlo Review

Netgear Arlo Review

Package (Unboxing)

Base Station

HD Security Camera

Weathering the Elements

Placement

Setting Up

Service

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