I heard about some inexpensive security cameras which get their power through the same cat5 cable which delivers the data/pictures (which would simplify wiring tremendously). Does anyone know about these? Do they work with Linux, particularly CentOS?
I have a security camera, though not powered through the cat5, will have to check that out... Anyway, I'd recommend these sites:
http://www.zoneminder.com/ http://www.cctvcamerapros.com/
Right now I have my camera attached to an RF modulator and splitter which merges the signal onto the coax run on channel 65 so I can watch it on my TV. As far as integrating with Linux, would check out Zone Minder link above, otherwise if you modulate onto your TV stream like I did you can then just use mythtv or any capture program if you wanted to schedule captures, etc.
Have fun,
Josh