I've decided to go with DropCam but haven't pulled the trigger. When I looked, I saw that there's an option that uses less bandwidth... I forget if that's because it's q lower quality feed or if it's an on-demand streaming (rather than one that records). For security purposes, you'd obviously need the recording one, but if it's for live-observation or entertainment purposes, the lower-bandwidth (and I think free) option would work.

Upthread, someone said that the Dropcam feed can be viewed publicly via a website, but in my quick check, it looks more like you need to be signed into an app, or your dedicated page with user/pass on the web. Is there an easy way, without paying a subscription cost, to show the feed live on a website without needing a user/pass. For example, if i wanted to enable FTers to via a live feed of my back yard, could I set it up so I direct them to www.moopersbackyard.com and there's an always-on streaming cam shot there? I can get these answers by researching more, but I'm swamped at the minute and thought one of you who was already familiar might be willing to give me the low down. Thanks!

take a look at iSpy software , you can set it up webcams that start with motion detected......

If you are a little conversant with Linux, motion is a free software package that makes any network-attached or USB camera into a motion activated security camera.

The solution I use are many plugnplay ip cams. They take a few moments to set up, the pc doesn't need to be on whilst you are away and there is a great ipad app as well as pc viewing software. We have around 15 cameras on two properties and they connect directly into routers via cable, home-plugs or wifi. Our inside cameras are from Starvedia. They do alerts and also record to nas if you need this.