- Video Quality
- Ease of Use
- Features
- Design
Summary
Piper nv Smart Home Security System with Night Vision, created by iControl Networks, proves to be a top competitor of current security cameras in the market. A top pick as a pet camera, Piper classic showcases many additional top-notch uses including home automation, home security, and family monitoring.
Piper Security Camera Review
iControl Networks launched their Piper nv model camera which has been receiving great reviews from users. Every Piper nv purchased comes with the camera itself, siren deterrent, motion detector, and humidity/temperature sensors.
Piper Design
The Piper nv model is approximately 3.5 x 3.5 x 6.1 inches which sits comfortable on many standing shelves. The Piper nv also has the ability to be mounted on a wall as well. The camera comes in white or black options. The Piper nv does need to be plugged in to operate with a 7.5W AC/DC wall adapter. However, 3 AA batteries are used in the camera for backup with an average battery life of 5 hours.
Main Features
The Piper nv has many enhanced features for a pet camera including multiple sensors for motion detection, temperature/humidity monitoring, light and sound detection. One key feature of the Piper nv is the 105 dB Intruder Siren which alerts when programmed – and boy it is loud! The Piper nv also has 4 specific setting modes: off, home, vacation, or away which have programmable settings for alerts. Alerts can be received through push messages, text messages, emails, or phone calls.
Home Automation
Piper is a step above standard security cameras by including home automation compatibility within the device, making Piper a true all-in-one home security product. Many wireless accessories are available with this model including door/window sensors, smart switches, and dimmer switches. In addition to simply controling lighting and appliances, Piper can help create an over security perimeter for your home including detailed home vitals. During our review, we synced our outdoor lights and back door to the app, allowing us to control both while also viewing a live stream of our home.
Video and Sound Quality
The Piper nv has an immersive video camera with a 180 degree field of view, 1080p HD resolution, and night vision, all of which are high in comparison to many other pet cameras on the market today. Piper nv also has a 30 foot detection range and video on demand abilities to watch videos live or as recorded. An update to the camera includes the ability to pan, tilt, zoom, and view split screen features. Piper also allows you to view four independent viewing zones through the split screen features. Important to the world of dog and cat lovers, a two-way audio intercom system allows you to interact with your pet while you are out.
Internal and Cloud Storage
The Piper nv has the ability to store up to 100 videos through the free cloud storage. It also has the ability to store around 1,000 25 second clips before needing to erase for additional storage capabilities. Real time alerts are sent to owners once alert is detected through push messages, texts, emails, and phone calls based on user preferences.
Installation and Setup
Installation and setup are easy and app based. The app is compatible with iPhone 4S and later, iPad 2 and later, iPad mini (all running iOS 7, at least) and Android phones running Android 2.3.3, at least. Once the app is downloaded, you plug in the Piper nv and run the setup. Check out the video below which takes you through the full setup:
Piper Camera Price
The Piper classic currently runs at $199. An upgraded model, the Piper nv, runs about $279. For that price, you have enhanced features such as the ability to record during the night. Through the Piper website, you can get free shipping on orders over $50 and a 1 year limited warranty with a 30-day money back guarantee.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Piper nv Security Camera proves to be a great camera for monitoring pet activity and comfort, but also provides an upscale home security system along with home automation. The home automation capabilities can remotely control lights and appliances directly through the app and a smart switch. Additional security accessories and features include door and window sensors which would alert a security breach to your phone. The Piper camera line is a product of parent company iControl Networks, which has been providing software to many reputable security firms over the years. The Piper nv capitalizes on the industrial-grade encryption techniques which keep all of your information and video recordings safe.
If you are looking for not only for pet monitoring, but also for an investment in home security, the Piper nv camera provides a cost-effective and reliable solution. We give it two thumbs up!
