A typical baby monitor, also known as a baby alarm, is a simplex (uni-directional) transmitter and receiver system used to remotely listen for noises made by an infant.One of the primary uses of baby monitors is when the infant is asleep in a separate room or floor, allowing caregivers or parents to keep track of any problems while away from the baby.
Video Baby Monitors: Baby Cams
Some modern baby monitors also incorporate a digital camera to show video footage on the receiver in a similar method to web cams, and some others allow the receiver to be plugged into a television or to be included in a portable LCD screen (with batteries); they are called baby cams.Some baby cams can work with low minimum light level (night mode).
Wired and wireless
Baby monitor generally uses wireless systems, but can also use corded ones. Audio wireless systems, using DECT, are completely interference free and have a range up to 300 m.
Video Wireless Systems
Suffer from interferences with WiFi (2.4GHz) or TV signals.
Have shorter range than audio or X10 monitors. A mix system offers a cord connection, using the home grid, and a wireless one from the outlet to the receiver.
Baby monitors may incorporate a visible signal as well as repeating the sound. This is often in the form of a set of lights to indicate the noise level, allowing the device to be used when it is inappropriate or impractical for the receiver to play the sound. Some monitors have a vibrating alert on the receiver making it particularly useful for people with hearing difficulties.
It is common for the receiver to be small and portable and to use batteries as their source of power allowing it to go with the caregiver, around the house. The transmitter stays with the infant crib and is usually plugged into a socket. Some baby monitor packages include two receivers.
