What to Look for in an Outdoor IP Camera

There are a few factors you need to consider when purchasing an outdoor IP camera. Not only do you want the outdoor IP camera to function properly but you also want the IP camera to be reliable and not deteriorate over time from improper installation. This article will discuss some features you need to consider when purchasing an outdoor IP camera.

Running Power and Ethernet Cables

You will need to ensure that the outdoor IP camera has sufficient power and that it has an active connection to your network. First review the power specifications of the outdoor IP camera to make sure you don’t overpower the device. Some IP cameras require a basic AC adapter, however some larger dome cameras require a hard-wired DC connection.

An active Ethernet connection will also be required. This connection can be accomplished in multiple ways but the most common are running an Ethernet (RJ45) cable directly from your network to the camera, or providing a wireless connection. When running an Ethernet cable, you will want to ensure that the cable is no longer than 300ft. Any longer and the speed of the data traveling through the cable will be lowered or the camera will just fail to connect to your network. When using a wireless connection, you will want to ensure the outdoor IP camera is within the specified distance from your wireless router or access point. If the outdoor IP camera is a long distance from your wireless router or access point, a long range wireless device might be required to strengthen the wireless connection.

Outdoor Environments

Most outdoor IP cameras are built to withstand extremes in weather. A check of the location where the outdoor IP camera will be installed can ensure that weather conditions will not harm the camera. If the outdoor IP camera will be subjected to cold temperatures, you will want to ensure it has a proper built-in heater. If the outdoor climate can be very warm and humid, make sure the outdoor IP camera has a suitable fan or blower. By having a built-in heater and fan, the camera will be able to control the temperature within the outdoor IP camera's enclosure, thus lowering the chance of damage from weather extremes. Look at the camera specifications or contact the manufacturer to determine the outdoor IP camera’s required operating environment, including temperature and humidity range.

Mounting the Outdoor IP Camera

Outdoor IP cameras have various ways of mounting. The most common are wall mounts, pole mounts and ceiling mounts. Depending on where the outdoor IP camera will be installed, you will want to ensure the outdoor IP camera has the correct mounting equipment included. Be sure the outdoor IP camera is properly installed to a strong structure that will withstand potentially strong winds and rain. If the structure is unstable or “wobbly”, the IP camera video will be unstable and hard to view.

Viewing Area

The location you choose for the outdoor IP camera should allow you to see the complete viewing area you want to monitor and record. Contact the manufacturer to determine the size of area - or field of view - the camera will be able to see and at what distance. Consider a Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) outdoor IP camera to view large areas. These PTZ cameras will allow you to view scenes or objects that are long distances away from the camera by zooming in (up to 26 times) to get a closer look. The Pan/Tilt feature of PTZ cameras allows you to rotate the cameras up to 360 degrees horizontally (Pan) and 90 degrees vertically (Tilt) to gain a larger field of view.

Lighting

Obviously, just as with the human eye, it is important to have sufficient lighting to enable the outdoor IP camera to pick up an image. Look at the Minimum Illumination rating of the cameras being considered and consider the purchase of a day/night camera. IP Cameras use something called a LUX rating to indicate the minimum illumination that will allow the particular camera to discern an image. The lower the LUX rating, the lower the amount of light required. Day/night cameras have special filters that work to lower the LUX rating when the light passes below a certain point. The images created below that point are black and white. For cameras with a higher LUX rating or in conditions of complete darkness, Infra-Red (IR) illuminators can be used to light up the area enabling the camera to pick up an image.

Auto Iris Capability

When IP cameras are used outdoors or are subjected to direct sunlight, it is strongly recommend to use an Auto Iris lens. An Auto Iris lens will greatly improve the picture quality in variable light conditions as well as protect the IP Camera's CCD from strong, direct light which may cause permanent damage.

Conclusion

An examination of the above factors in your outdoor IP camera installation will ensure that the proper camera is chosen for your application, and that it is installed correctly. 4XEM offers many outdoor IP cameras for the home, small businesses and large corporations. 4XEM offers various IP cameras that are suitable for outdoor use when used with suitable outdoor enclosures.

Click here for more information on 4XEM’s Indoor IP Network Cameras.

Click here for more information on 4XEM Outdoor IP Camera Enclosures.