Security cameras in this category are network (IP) cameras for watching over offices, meeting rooms, reception areas and conference venues. They suit businesses and facilities managers who want video surveillance running over their existing network. The range is small and currently comes from Axis Communications, a specialist in network video.
How to choose a security camera
Indoor or outdoor use. Check where the camera will be mounted before anything else. Cameras for car parks, entrances and building exteriors need a weatherproof housing, while a camera for a meeting room or corridor does not. Always read the protection rating in the product listing.
Resolution and field of view. Higher resolution lets you identify faces and number plates rather than just see movement. A wide lens covers a whole room from one position, whereas a narrower view suits doorways and counters. Match the lens to the distance between the camera and the area you want to record.
Fixed, dome or pan-tilt-zoom. A fixed camera watches one scene and is the simplest to set up. Dome cameras are harder to tamper with and hide which way the lens points. Pan-tilt-zoom models can follow movement and zoom in on detail, which helps in large halls but costs more and needs more configuration.
Low-light performance. Many incidents happen after hours, so look for night-vision features such as infrared illumination or good sensitivity in dim light. Without them, footage in a dark conference hall or car park may be of little use.
Power, network and storage. Most network cameras can be powered through Power over Ethernet (PoE), which means a single cable carries both data and power. Check that your switch supports PoE and that you have a recorder, server or cloud service to store the footage. Video management software compatibility is worth confirming if you already run a system.
Security camera brands we carry
- Axis Communications: a Swedish company widely credited with introducing the first network camera in 1996, and known for professional IP video products used in commercial and public buildings.
No other brands are listed in this category at present, so the product page is the best place to confirm the exact specification of the model on offer.
Security cameras FAQ
What is an IP security camera?
An IP security camera is a digital camera that sends video over a computer network instead of through a dedicated coaxial cable. It connects to a router or switch and can be viewed and recorded from a computer, server or mobile device. Many models also receive power through the same network cable.
Do I need Power over Ethernet for a network camera?
You do not strictly need it, but it makes installation much easier. With PoE, one Ethernet cable provides both power and data, so you avoid running a separate power supply to the camera. If your switch does not support PoE, a PoE injector can add it.
How do I choose a camera for a conference room or office?
Choose a camera with a lens wide enough to cover the whole room from where you can mount it, and with enough resolution to identify people. For indoor spaces a dome or fixed camera is usually sufficient. Check the placement against privacy rules and tell staff and visitors that recording takes place.
Can I use a security camera outdoors?
Only if it is designed for outdoor use. Outdoor cameras have a housing rated against dust and water, and often a wider operating temperature range. The product description should state the protection rating, so check it before buying a camera for an exterior position.
