Electronic Alarms and Home Security Devices - Recommend components for DIY security system

Here is what I want to do:

- motion detectors around perimeter of property that trigger camera to take picture
- any camera that is triggered to take picture, that picture is then sent to an email address or loaded onto a server with a link to the picture sent in a text message
- wireless video cameras around perimeter of house that will take snapshot images of the thing that set off the motion detector



Budget is $400.

Can a reasonable set of components be purchased and put in place for that amount ? Assume the PC network and server hosting is already taken care of.

You are asking alot for just $400.

Here's a wireless camera with software:

http://www.brickhousesecurity.com/wireless-night-vision-camera-kit.html

If you want lots of camera's, you are talking a $1k+

Here is the article (http://www.engadget.com/2005/02/22/how-to-turn-your-laptop-into-a-home-security-system/)that got me interested. Althought that article, is mainly talking about using a webcam for the inside of a house, Im looking to expand with several and include outdoor areas as well.

If you try to use the software and devices recommended in the Engadget article, you will get the basic functionality described. If your needs are minimal, you are good to go.

If you are seeking higher resolution and detail, you will find yourself disappointed.