Panasonic has introduced its latest network cameras in which converging electronic information and communication technologies have been harnessed to address today's video surveillance needs.
Imported to and distributed in South Africa exclusively by NPC (Electronics), the extended range now includes the splash-proof Panasonic KX-HCM230 Network Camera, which is suitable for sheltered outdoor applications. As with its indoor counterpart, the compact-sized (116 x 116 mm) KX-HCM230 is easy to install and operate. Once linked via Ethernet, the unit allows you to view remote images on your PC, wherever you are. What is more, the camera can be controlled from any PC connected to your network using a standard Web browser.
Also new is the Panasonic KX-HCM280 Network Camera that has a 21x optical zoom and both automatic and manual focusing features, together providing detailed and distinct images. Available in ceiling- and table-type variants, the KX-HCM280 offers a wider range of sight than earlier model network cameras, enabled by high-speed 350° pan and up to 120° tilt (table-type) capabilities.
Up to four KX-HCM280 units can be accessed simultaneously on a PC, irrespective of their location, without needing to switch between cameras or to install additional software. The software supplied with the KX-HCM280 also provides a wealth of remote controls in a single window, including pan/tilt, zoom, focus control and preset positioning. Being viewnetcam.com compatible, a personal Web address can also be sourced for KX-HCM280 cameras. With the use of a compatible mobile telephone (such as the Panasonic GD87), images can be viewed over the Internet and the camera's motion and zoom settings can be controlled.
"Ideal for monitoring potentially vulnerable areas, the KX-HCM280 can be linked to external sensors/devices such as motion detectors and alarms," adds Freddie Potgieter, divisional manager, Panasonic Office Automation, IT and Telecommunications Systems. "As soon as the sensor is activated, the KX-HCM280 will either capture and transfer images via e-mail or send an alert by e-mail - the choice is yours."
The two new models complement the indoor Panasonic KX-HCM10 Network Camera that made its début on the South African market in 2002.
"All three of our network cameras can be used for either home or business applications," says Potgieter. "In a commercial environment, they allow one to view other rooms, warehouses or branch offices either from the same building or from a distant location. All that is needed is a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). Up to four network cameras can then be installed, each one assigned an individual IP address, and linked to the network. Then the images captured by one or more of the cameras can be monitored using the interactive software to pan, tilt, 'zoom' by enlarging the image or record. Moreover, the cameras can be monitored by up to 10 users simultaneously."
These functions can also be applied to home security monitoring. "All that is required to install a network camera is Internet access and AC power," continues Potgieter. "Connected to the house alarm system, the camera can be activated by movements detected by the passive infrared monitors, immediately starting to record images in its scope and triggering an e-mail alert to the home owner, a security company or any other preselected recipient."
For more information contact Cedric Greeves, Panasonic, 011 313 1400, [email protected]
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