I have read that the Digital Private Eye is made to resemble a Passive Infrared Sensor (PIR), which is a very common alarm system. Unfortunately, the Digital Private Eye is not really that advanced, but is a mere mini pinhole camera. Those who cannot afford a high-tech security alarm and camera system might feel that only the Digital Private Eye is required.

I imagine if anyone were to see the Digital Private Eye, they would probably think it was a smoke detector, maybe even a motion-sensitive alarm, but too small to be an actual camera. Even if they thought it was a camera, they would be wondering if there was anyone on the other side watching the film.

However, this remarkable device is capable of taking 30,000 pictures at 30 frames a second. All of that data is stored on a 1GB card, so it’s probably only good for maybe 15 minutes worth of fame. However, the Swann Digital Private Eye is motion activated, so how much would it actually film? The Digital Private Eye also has a button on the side that you can press in case you want to take manual pictures.

Using the Digital Private Eye is pretty easy. All you need to do is use the included AC cord or not included 9 volt battery and flip it to on. It takes pictures right away, and attaches to a computer or laptop via USB.

In addition to being a potential security camera, it can also double as a webcam. A webcam that can also be used as a SD memory card reader, and the device itself comes with one SD memory card.

Even though I believe the Swann Digital Private Eye is a wonderful gadget and well worth the $200 USD price tag, I have to admit it makes me nervous. As I mentioned before, I see several devices that look like the Digital Private Eye every day, and I don’t know whether they are real PIR cameras or not.

Now I’m beginning to wonder if they are all Digital Private Eyes. As Hall and Oates once sang, “Private Eyes, are watching you. They see your every move.” Maybe they should add the word “Digital” if they plan on remaking that song.

In other words, keep a sharp eye out. The last thing we need is take another step closer to becoming Big Brother surveillance society. And the first place that could begin is when everyone feels they need their own personal surveillance camera or cameras.