GREAT GADGETS

Wireless camera offers omniscient edge

By Eric Griffith

You might not think you need a wireless spy camera, but think of what you could do with it. Wondering when the mailman arrives? Want to videotape your sleeping newborn without using a camcorder? Need to check up on the nanny? X10's XCam2 ( www.x10.com ; 800-675-3044 ) makes it easy to do all of these things on your own television. It sells for $79.99.

The XCam2 camera and microphone unit is small and light—less than 4 ounces—and includes a built-in transmitter. You can attach it to a tripod, wall or ceiling; it will even work outdoors. XCam2 broadcasts a signal to a receiver that is hooked up to your television or monitor with video cables— the red, white and yellow kind—or a coaxial cable.

Keep an eye on things from afar with the wireless XCam2. Once the camera and receiver are plugged in to AC outlets, you instantly have a full-color view on your screen of what the camera sees. You can use a VCR to tape the signal from your television, or use a video capture card to record the signal on your PC, enabling you to post the footage on the Web.

The 2.4GHz wireless transmission means the camera and receiver can be as far apart as 100 feet. The signal even travels through walls, but don't expect DVD- or even broadcast-quality images unless the two devices are close to each other. Even then, the sound is far from perfect.

But considering the low price and ease of setup, XCam2 is an inexpensive alternative to buying a camcorder or Webcam—and stealthier, too.