Panasonic intros two security network cameras
updated 04:55 pm EST, Wed February 4, 2009
Panasonic network cameras
On Wednesday, Panasonic announced the release of two network security cameras with the BL-C101A and BL-C121A. Both are meant for home or business monitoring, and allow users to see what they see over an Internet-connected PC or cell phone. The BL-C101A is simple to connect thanks to its single-wire interface, while the BL-C121A only requires a power cable as it has a built-in 802.11b/g Wi-Fi radio and internal antenna. Either can capture MPEG-4 video and JPEG images at the same time.
A web address is provided for users with each camera, which they can visit to remotely view the camera's video feed. Sound is sent over as well, as the units have a built-in microphone. Other shared features include a digital input for triggering the operation of the camera, a 1 Lux Color Night View Mode, and a 4, 9 or 16 multi-camera viewing support. The CMOS image sensors in either can record at up to 30fps. They also have a way to transfer images when a motion detector was triggered or based on a timer. Finally, there is full screen monitoring and SSL support for secure browser connections. The BL-C121A also adds a digital output that allows it to trigger alarm systems.
The Panasonic BL-C101A is priced at $130 and the BL-C121A carries a $200 suggested retail price. Both are available now.
Panasonic BL-C101A
Panasonic BL-C121A
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Joined: Feb 2009
The trouble with IP cams
Quite apart from the issues most non-geek users have with IP cams (NAT? ddns? huh?), they really only show what's happening NOW. A combination of an IP camera with a service like HomeCamera (www.homecamera.com) would be ideal - access on demand, get scheduled recordings saved to a central server for easy "what happened throughout the day" browsing, mobile phone alerts...
These companies need to start working together. Now.