Whew, just got back from fixing the WeirsCAM. It was a little more complicated than I expected but that gave me a chance to spend even more time at the Lake! Did anyone see me on the roof of the pier at Weirs Beach today?
I am going to set up a separate donation system to raise funds for the new camera. By separating it I will be able to show how it's doing, like Wolfeboro Online did. If I can raise the funds quickly I could have the new camera up this fall. I'll try to have the camera donation system up this weekend.
I would love to put another camera on the Lake at a location like Alton Bay but it really isn't as easy as it sounds. First you need a good location and the cooperation of the building owner. A good location is vital. Then you need power, a dedicated phone line, dial up account and a place to put the various hardware needed to manage the camera remotely. The owner of the building has to be willing to allow all this hardware and wiring to be installed. Oh and don't forget the $1500-$2000 initial investment (if you want high-quality) and the ongoing expense of the phone line (about $50/month) and dial-up account.
As much as I would like to be involved individual businesses around the Lake would be wise to do it on their own. I can think of several great locations. A WebCAM is a great way to draw attention to a Web site or business. I know there are some services on the Lake that will install. It's tough for me to offer that service since I'm down in the Boston area and have a full-time job to work around.
I think the number of cameras on the Lake will continue to grow and the image quality will continue to improve. I will cooperate in any way I can with people who want to install their own cameras. I have provided a free server account for the new
Snake Eyes camera and will do the same for anyone else who is serious about setting up a new camera.
Please hold off on any camera-related donations until I get the new donation system set up.