GSM listening devices

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sc0tt-uk
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GSM listening devices

Post by sc0tt-uk »

Hi folks,

Has anybody ever used one of those listening devices that are incorporated into a plug socket, feed off of mains power, and can be dialed into via GSM? I ask because events here have unfolded which mean I have access to monitor somewhere for a few months that may yield some pretty good sounds (legally too, wahoo!). Specifically, I'm wondering whether the mains feed intafeered with the audio signal, and how hard the replacement socket was to install (I'm not an electronics guru by any stretch of the imagination).

Cheers for any advice
Sc0tt-uk
mjj9994
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Re: GSM listening devices

Post by mjj9994 »

Hey Scott -

I would need to see a picture/description of the device for any useful feedback, but can say that I have avoided using direct power from a building just for personal safety reasons. While I am sure it can be done, seems too troublesome to go through having to shut down power for the building, installing device and hoping it will not short out (either the device or the entire building.ha). Plus there is the whole voltage consideration... I would guess the device is DC powered, which means you would also need to install a transformer of sorts for the device at the same location to go from AC to DC.

Not sure if there are any electricians on the site here, but would definaely defer this to a professional (my father is an electrician, but could only imagine the questions I would get if i asked him if i could install and extra recepticle in the wall where one already is..ha). Too many possible problems when tikering with direct power lines to the building (fire, electrocution, etc).

I have contemplated the 'power' problem if I were to wire my own house and decided the best solution for me would be to find an electrical outlet that is out of the way or not used much and route cables from there (ie closet, hallways). Possibly even permanently covering the outlet with something (bookcase, painting, statue, phony electrical covering, etc). From there you can use a standard power strip and the power supplies that come with the device(s), entirely concealed and splice the power cables to some extended security camera cables (i pick them up for like $15 for 25 foot cable). Those cables are fairly small and easy to conceal under carpet, trim boards, etc). While this option entails a lot more work and planning, it is much safer and uses the devices power converter and normal power supply for the house, so i think it would be more stable in the long run. I currently have a room mate for another couple of months, but when they move out, I plan to use a bedroom closet for power, and running cables througout the house from there for power to cameras/audio, including a DVR (in same closet where the power is).. so will let you know how it works then :)
tilehurst88
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Re: GSM listening devices

Post by tilehurst88 »

Scott,

I qualfied as an electrician a few years back although have now moved into a new business area. Replacing a scoket in the Uk is a relatively easy job although needs to be done by someone with appropriate skills for obvious reasosn and I would be wary of installing a socket with a built in device as there is no way to isolate it. If you are looking at buying a mains device then I would suggest a safer alternative is the GSM device whihc masqardes as a electrical double adaptor . These are fairly common to see in houses so won't arose suspition although this won't be a problem as you have permission anyway. The big benefit of these however are they are plug in, can be removed easily or turning of at the plug socket . Just hope yur intended targest dont trun of by accident though.

I have no experience of the quality from these but I would suspect that the issue of mains noise has been well thought through and suitable filters are included in the circuitry and I doubt if even devices designed for 60hz mains would pick up to much noise on our 50hz .

Look forward to hearing the recordings.
Tyrannical
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Joined: 11 Aug 2013 03:42

Re: GSM listening devices

Post by Tyrannical »

Hey Scott,

This is an old thread i know, but i've been contemplating buying something like this: http://www.onlinespyshop.co.uk/product. ... ug-adapter, and was wondering if you ever ended up buying one yourself? Like you i'm just wondering if they actually work and are free from interference.

Cheers
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