Product Reviews

Axis' full-motion colour network cameras connect to a LAN and contain an embedded Linux-based Web server, so captured images can be incorporated directly into a Web site.

The Network Camera 2110 includes a Tamron zoom lens equivalent to a 30-80mm lens. It looks ideal for applications such as surveillance, a door camera or simply to put some pizzazz into your Web site. The new 2191 Audio Module connects directly to the camera's serial port, allowing two-way audio communications to take place over the same network link. From a Web browser, you can now access sound and video directly over the Internet.

The camera's Web server

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requires an IP address and this can be configured easily using Axis' IP Installer utility. Quick links to Wizards are provided on the camera's home page, so you can select features such as still or motion pictures, choose a resolution and personalise the published image. The frame rate adapts to the prevailing lighting conditions, with images stored locally in JPEG format. Different levels of compression can be selected, which operate via Axis' own ARTPEC-1 chip. Note that focus and zoom control must be carried out manually. The four-pole I/O connector offers extra features, such as a power supply for driving other devices, so external switches can be connected.

The audio module includes an internal microphone plus line-in and -out sockets, allowing for a full-duplex conversation with whoever is in front of the camera. Adjuster controls team up with a pair of level-indicator LEDs, although we found piping CD-ROM music through the module resulted in some distortion.

Overall, this audio and visual pairing is an impressive partnership. The network camera can be put to an endless number of uses, and the audio module adds a completely new dimension to what is already a sophisticated communications device.