Storage Options IPCam unboxing video

IP security cameras aren’t particularly new, I remember trying my first one out for a client about 15 years ago. They used to be extremely expensive even for the most basic models. They weren’t very good either.

However, a few weeks ago I started looking for internet or IP cameras to install here at home while I was on holiday so that I could keep an eye on the place and on the building work going on at my home while I was away. I was surprised to find this IPcam from storage options for around £60. When you consider what you get for the money; motorised pan and tilt functionality, wireless and wired network connectivity and both day and night modes, it sounded like a bargain. I bought one!

I’ve recorded a brief unboxing video for you below and have been using the camera for a few weeks now. It’s quite impressive. IQ is acceptable but only VGA resolution. I like being able to control everything from the web interface though so you can move the camera around as well as set up email alerts when it detects movement or upload images via FTP and thanks to the infra-red LEDs you can see in total darkness too.

Storage Options IPcam specification:

Hardware

• CPU:   DSP+MCU
• OS:   Built-in OS
• Movement:   Pan & Tilt Functionality
• Warranty:   1 year

Video

• Compression format:     Motion-JPEG-N
• Sensor:     CMOS 300,000 pixel
• Frame rate:     15fps
• Resolution:     VGA: 640 x 480
• CIF:     320 x 240
• Adjust:     Brightness, contrast, chroma, saturation
• Minimum illumination:     0.1 Lux/F1.2
• S/N ratio:     >48DB (AGC off)
• Shutter speed:     1/50s (1/60s)
• White balance:     Auto
• Backlight balance:     Auto
• Night vision:     5mm x 10 LED, IR 10m
• Lens:     F1.2/6mm, 54°, CS
• Audio:     Two-way
• Pan / Tilt:     Built-in RS485, Horizontal: 0-270°, Vertical: 0-900°

Network:

• Internet interface:     RJ-45, 10/100MB Ethernet network
• Protocol:     TCP/IP, HTTP, ICMP, DHCP, SMTP, PPPoE
• Wireless:     Wi-Fi, 802.11b/g (optional)
• IP mode:     Dynamic IP address, Static IP address

Alarm

• Input / Output:     1 / 1
• Intelligent motion detection:     Motion detection setting
• Alarm action:     Support email, notes alarm
• System requirement:     Win98/SE/ME/2000/XP/Vista/7
• Browser support:     Internet Explorer 5.0+
• Supports TCP/IP, SMTP and HTTP, sends image to your mailbox automatically when the alarm is triggered
• Internal motion detection function or external sensor can be used to trigger recording
• Advanced user management, only allows authorized users access to the images
• Package Contents: IP camera, power supply, antenna, software CD, quick installation guide, mounting bracket

Posted by: Matt