Baby monitors help parents stay in touch with their babies during sleeping hours. But understanding the ins and outs, and especially the setup approach, of a baby monitor can be somewhat confusing. So in this guide, we will look at important tips and tricks to keep in mind.
The History of Baby Monitors
The need to monitor babies is a very important concern. Some years back, napping babies were merely put down in their own rooms as parents went on with their home chores. Infants would be laid on cradles in the same room with the parents, so that when the baby cried he or she would be easily heard.
It wasn’t until in the early 90s that baby monitors first appeared. In fact, the first baby monitors were invented by Fisher-Price in the 1930s. Fifty years later baby monitors managed to become a household necessity.
Baby Monitor Basics
It is essential to learn the basic functions of this tool even before setting it up and using it. By doing so parents and caregivers will be able to select the best baby carrier for their baby/ babies
How Baby Monitors Work
Traditional baby alarms, also called baby alarms, operate on a radio system, which is a lot more similar to a walkie-talkie. They are very basic, and they feature two parts. The first one (known as the base or transmitter) is kept in the baby’s room. This unit has a microphone that takes sounds made by the baby and transmits them via radio waves to the other half of the monitor.
The receiver, also known as the second half, is located near the baby or sometime may be carried around by a caregiver. This allows the caregiver to monitor the baby from any distance.
Types of Baby Monitors Available
Sometimes back, the only available baby monitors were a one-way unit, they were only capable of transmitting sound. They required both the receiver and transmitter to be plugged into the wall. They are still widely available, even as we speak. Some baby monitors include video options and two-way radio options that allow the parent or caregiver to talk back to the child. Regardless of the type of a baby monitor, their use and setup remain largely the same.
Tips for Setting up a Baby Monitor
It is important to consider the setup of the unit even before parents and caregivers purchase the desired baby monitor. Failing to think about the location and use of the baby monitor prior to the purchase largely affect its efficiency. Therefore, try to do your homework before you go purchasing a baby monitor. Here are some tips you should keep in mind.
1. Placement of the Transmitter Is Important
A wall plug is required for a baby monitor’s transmitter end to operate. This is an important element because it is what ensures that the monitor works properly.
Hearing your baby’s cry will depend on where you place the transmitter. It is recommended that you set the transmitter at least 5 to 10 feet up the crib, though most modern units are highly sensitive to sounds. Video transmitters should also be placed close to the crib to properly pick up sounds made by the baby. As for the camera, set it up in a way that it can scan the entire room
2. Make Sure the Receiver Is Right for the Job
Try to consider the use and quality of the receiver. When the wireless remote needs to charge, the receiver unit will only need to be plugged in. But the sensitivity of the unit will differentiate from model to model. It is therefore important for caregivers or parents to consider what activities they will engage in while the baby naps and where they will be located
There are monitors that vibrate when the baby cries up to a certain limit. This may be useful to parents who watch other children while the baby is still sleeping.
3. Be Aware of Frequency Interference
Radiofrequency is another important aspect on which baby monitors operate. Most baby monitors in today’s market fall into three frequency categories: 49 MHz, 900MHz, or 2.4 GHz.
Using a Baby Monitor
After buying a baby monitor, plug the transmitter onto the wall, charge the receiver, and then turn each monitor on. At times, you might be required to consider additional items such as the number of receivers, when to use the monitor, and the number of charging stations
Buying a Baby Monitor
Both new and used models are okay. So, buying a baby monitor shouldn’t be hard for you. Any retailer or major department store will sell the most popular models. Also, boutique baby stores, online outlets and electronic retailers also offer models that include video capabilities
Buying a Baby Monitor on Amazon
If you are looking for an excellent resource, where you can purchase baby monitors along with other related baby products, then go for Amazon. Its sellers range from individuals to large stores and warehouses. This allows the buyer the option of buying either the new or used models at discounted prices.
Conclusion
Since the units are easy to set up, a baby monitor, therefore, proves to be a simpler item to use. But before actually starting to use a baby monitor, parents and caregivers should consider several additional elements like the type of receiver they want to use, the placement of the transmitter, and the unit’s frequency.
