Baby Monitor
From LoveToKnow Baby
Since you can't always be right by your baby's side, especially when he is sleeping, you can use a baby monitor to keep watch over your baby. Many parents use baby monitors to listen to their children when they sleep. Others like to use monitors as they do activities and chores around the home. There are several terms you should be familiar with before you begin shopping for a baby monitor. You will also find that there are several different types of monitors.
Monitor Features
While all baby monitors are made with the basic idea in mind, which is keeping track of baby, different monitors offer different features, and they come in a variety of prices.
Monitor Frequency
When you begin looking at monitors, you'll notice differences in frequencies from one model to the next. Obviously, the larger the frequency, the better reception a monitor will have. However, prices will increase, too. Monitors generally come in frequencies of 49 MHz, 900 MHz, and even 2.4 GHz.
Monitor Power Source
The monitor that you purchase should be equipped with both a battery and an electric A/C adaptor. Using batteries will enable you more freedom to move around the house or yard, but you will probably want to plug your monitor in when you are basically in one area of the house.
Channel Selection
Most monitors offer at least two channel to choose from. Some monitors have several channels, however. If you discover that there is too much interference on a channel, you can switch to another one for clearer reception.
Monitor Lights
Some monitors also have lights which illuminate when any sound is picked up. The louder the sound, the more lights you will see. This helps if you are doing some activity which might prevent you from hearing the baby.
Double Receivers
While many monitors only have one base and one receiver, some of the newer models are now equipped with two monitors, which give parents even more freedom and monitoring capabilities.
Monitor Types
There are several types of monitors available. Take a look at all of these monitors, and decide which will fit your needs the best.
Audio Monitors
These monitors are strictly for sound reception. Although they may also have light indicators, they do not allow someone to see the baby also.
Audio/Video Monitors
These monitors are equipped with a camera and a small television. The camera is focused on the baby's crib, and the television is either placed in a stationary area or carried around, if it is portable. Infrared cameras are available in some of these monitors for nighttime viewing.
Audio and Movement Monitors
These monitors are able to detect movement and sound. You can place a movement detecting pad under the crib mattress, and you can pick up your baby's sound through the receiver.
Word of Caution
While baby monitors do enable parents more freedom to move around their homes, you should never rely completely on a baby monitor to track your child's activities. The best way to keep your child safe is to supervise him or her. Also, as with any other electric device, don't use the monitor around water to reduce the risk of electrocution. Finally, don't let your baby play with the monitor, accessories, and wires or cords!
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