Wi-Fi CCTV cameras: features of modern equipment

Video surveillance is one of the ways to increase the security of a private facility and the territory that is adjacent to it. For this there is a wide range of different equipment. The most popular are Wi-Fi CCTV cameras, which are characterized by affordable cost, ease of use, ease of installation and configuration. This article provides an overview of the best models for indoor and outdoor photography.

Wi-Fi security cameras are convenient and affordable

Basic principles of operation and capabilities of the Wi-Fi camera

A Wi-Fi surveillance camera is a digital device that connects through a router to an existing local network. For this, the WPS protocol is usually used, which synchronizes the device using special buttons. The device has its own IP address. It broadcasts audio and video signals. Video codecs provide compression of information that is recorded on a medium. For this, a video recorder, a computer or a cloud service on the Internet can be used.

Video surveillance devices with Wi-Fi are connected via a router

There are models that write data and store it on embedded media. Such devices are simultaneously video recorders. Other options are unable to store information. With the help of built-in compressors in the form of frames and streams, the video stream is compressed, which is transmitted to the media. The video surveillance device can be powered by a built-in battery or a power supply.

Wi-Fi digital video camera for surveillance can support PTZ technology, which allows you to rotate the device along the vertical or horizontal axis, zoom in on a specific area of ​​the image. Manipulations with tilt, rotation and zoom are performed in the window where the picture is broadcast. A separate application or web interface is used as access.

Many models of Wi-Fi IP cameras are equipped with infrared illumination, which consists of a certain number of LEDs located around the lens. Its range can be within 5-50 m. The illumination is switched on manually through the control panel or automatically (if the device is equipped with a light sensor).The second option assumes the operation of LEDs at the time of the weakening of the illumination level in the room or outdoors below the set limit.

There are models that have a feedback system. They can not only receive, but also transmit audio information in the opposite direction. For this purpose, a speaker and speakers are built into the IP camera.

Cameras can be stationary or rotatable

Useful advice! Feedback cameras can be used in the home as a baby monitor or in offices to send voice instructions to employees.

Advantages and disadvantages of online surveillance cameras

A Wi-Fi camcorder is characterized by a number of advantages, among which are low cost of equipment, high quality of image and sound transmission, ease of connection, which does not require cable installation, remote access to a video stream, and feedback. To establish a connection with a device anywhere in the world, just enter the IP address, login and password on a computer or phone and watch what is happening online.

Wi-Fi CCTV cameras have advanced functionality. Here you can select the type of video stream formatting, eliminate signal interference, suppress noise, vibration, perform remote image recording settings, and turn the camera on and off. If any movement is detected at the protected object, the device sends a message to the user. For some models, the face recognition option can be configured. You can also receive notifications about changes in the state of sensors that are connected to the device.

You can monitor the territory from a computer or phone anywhere in the world

CCTV cameras via Wi-Fi are small in size, so they can be used as equipment for covert video filming. Wireless connection of devices eliminates the need for complex and time-consuming drilling of wire holes. If necessary, you can easily change the location of the camera.

Among the disadvantages are the instability to interference, the probability of signal suppression. For the device to work continuously, you must constantly monitor the battery charge level, periodically charge it or establish a cable connection to the network. Unstable work of the Internet can cause problems with viewing images online.

Important! In order for the camera to work stably without the likelihood of losing recorded data in the event of a connection failure, you should choose devices that simultaneously save data to the built-in memory card.

Wi-Fi surveillance cameras: types of devices

All models of IP cameras with Wi-Fi are divided into standard and licensed. The first option is most in demand due to its availability and low cost. When purchasing such equipment, you should take into account the maximum radius of confident data exchange, which is indicated in the passport. It is worth remembering that the presence of partitions, walls, various obstacles can significantly reduce this indicator.

Wi-Fi CCTV cameras are licensed and standard

Licensed video equipment is characterized by a significant distance through which data can be transmitted without interference with the ability to view the image online. However, such cameras have a high cost and a number of limitations associated with their use.

Depending on the angle of view, Wi-Fi surveillance cameras can have a fixed view, mobile focus, swivel mechanism, and fixed all-round view.

Digital cameras are either domed or box-type by design. In the first version, the lower part of the case is covered with a transparent plastic hemisphere, which provides additional protection for the device, hiding the lens movement. The dome of the mini wireless CCTV camera should be periodically cleaned of external contaminants as they will be visible in the image.The second option is located on a special bracket, which can be fixed or swivel.

Classification of wireless surveillance cameras by location

Depending on the location, video surveillance equipment can be indoor and outdoor. The first option is represented by standard models that do not have increased performance characteristics.

By location, Wi-Fi cameras are indoor and outdoor.

External devices must be resistant to adverse environmental factors such as precipitation, wind flows, temperature fluctuations, which is taken into account in the design. Such outdoor Wi-Fi video surveillance cameras are additionally equipped with special devices to protect them from moisture and dust. The devices have a robust, electrically heated housing.

For protection from atmospheric precipitation, a special visor over the lens is used. Outdoor Wi-Fi cameras should be equipped with anti-vandal protection.

Important! Outdoor models must have a dust and moisture protection class of at least IP66.

Wireless mini Wi-Fi cameras can be used for open and hidden installations. In the first case, any device options are suitable. For flush mounting, it is better to purchase devices without an external antenna and infrared illumination.

External online cameras must be equipped with protection from temperature changes, dust, precipitation and wind

Wi-Fi camera models may differ in the presence of an additional interface in the form of a connector for connecting an external microphone, connecting to a network, an external Wi-Fi antenna, an input for external sensors and burglar alarms, an output for connecting audio devices, a slot for a memory card.

Installing and configuring a Wi-Fi CCTV camera for home

Installing a Wi-Fi CCTV camera does not cause any difficulties. Equipment usually includes the required brackets, fasteners, plugs and connectors.

Before use, it is required to supply power to the camera in test mode and then connect it to the router. The connection is established by using a computer and a Wi-Fi network, for which it is necessary to register the network parameters. The camera drivers need to be installed on the PC. The device is started with a software package.

With multiple wireless surveillance cameras, all devices are connected to the same computer. Thanks to the settings, you can see images from all devices on the screen. After installation, the parameters of the camera are configured: viewing angle, device tilt, image brightness and contrast.

Generally, installing Wi-Fi CCTV cameras is quick and easy.

In order to ensure continuous recording of information, the maximum amount of memory is required. For this purpose, H.264, MJPEG, MPEG-4 codecs are used. To increase the bit rate, you can reduce the image resolution and the number of frames to the minimum acceptable level. To avoid power surges, it is recommended to install uninterruptible power supplies.

Important! During the operation of the cameras, the device should be periodically checked for the serviceability of all mechanisms and contamination.

Recommendations for ensuring normal operation of a CCTV camera

To ensure the normal smooth operation of your Wi-Fi home camera, you need to create certain conditions for its operation. The device must not be installed near heating devices, in areas with high humidity. The camera should not be located in places subject to strong electromagnetic radiation. The device will not work normally at temperatures below -30 and above +55 ° C.

For the Wi-Fi camera to work well, it is not recommended to install it in areas with high humidity

The camera may not turn on if the power is cut for a long time. To do this, you need to restart it, restoring the network access settings.If the computer does not see the device, you should check its performance in the presence of PoE by connecting to it via a cable. Next, the network settings are checked.

There are several ways to avoid a decrease in the signal reception range. To expand the reception spectrum, you can install an external booster antenna. A good effect is given by the use of a repeated signal - a repeater. For an outdoor wireless Wi-Fi video camera for video surveillance, you can install an external access point, which will increase the visibility range up to 100 m. You can increase the reception range by installing several routers.

Useful advice! The best result will be obtained by using several options, which is possible after prior consultation with specialists in this field.

Popular models of outdoor CCTV cameras with Wi-Fi

A good model is the AVC MVS-RW810 camera, which is ideal for video surveillance of a private home. The device has a resolution of 1 megapixel. Focal length - 3.6 mm, camera angle of view is 55 °. The model has a built-in motion sensor and infrared illumination, the range of which is 30 m. When an object is detected that moves in the field of view, the device starts to emit an alarm.

The HikVision DS-2CD2532F-IS camera works perfectly at temperatures from -40 to +60 ºC

Important! The outdoor camera kit includes two antennas with a gain of 5 dB.

The device is equipped with a 64 GB memory card slot. The device is powered from a 12 V source. The equipment is waterproofed to IP66. You can buy a wireless video surveillance camera with a Wi-Fi motion sensor for 4 thousand rubles.

Related article:

Home Security Cameras: An Effective Home Security Option
Varieties of devices. Equipment requirements. Popular models of outdoor and indoor cameras. Ready-made kits for observation.

The miniature dome model Hikvision DS-2CD2532F-IS has proven itself well. The device has an IP66 protection class against moisture and dust. The camera records video with sound, with a picture resolution of 2048x1536 at a frequency of 12.5 fps or 1920x1080 at a speed of 25 fps. The device is equipped with IR illumination for night shooting, effective at a distance of 50 m. The equipment effectively operates in the temperature range from -40 to +60 ° C.

The information is saved in the network storage with simultaneous recording on a 64 GB memory card. The device can work with any network configuration. The cost of an outdoor Wi-Fi video surveillance camera for a home is 7 thousand rubles.

Video surveillance device with Wi-Fi AVC MVS-RW810 has a viewing angle of 55 °

Another popular model is the Millénium Street PTZ PTZ camera with 5x zoom. The device can rotate 180 ° in 15 seconds. Video is recorded in Full HD quality. Thanks to the automatic day / night switching option, the camera works effectively both in bright light and in complete darkness. The range of the IR illumination is 50 m. You can buy the device for 10 thousand rubles.

One of the premium models is an outdoor Wi-Fi camera in a waterproof IP 66 DS-2DC2543GO-ІWS dome type. The device has a resolution of 4 megapixels. The sensor is 1.3 inches in size. The focal length is 2.8 mm, the angle of view is 98 °.

Information is transmitted wirelessly via Wi-Fi and is simultaneously recorded on the built-in 128 GB storage. Power is supplied from a 12V source. The camera has a motion sensor, IR illumination, and an option for automatic day-night switching. The cost of the device is 12 thousand rubles.

Best Indoor Wi-Fi Cameras for Desktop Installation

The Actіvecam AC-D7101IR1 model is ideal for video surveillance in an apartment. It can be used both for security purposes and as a baby monitor thanks to the two-way audio communication. The resulting image has a resolution of 1280x720 pixels, compressed in H.264 format. Power is supplied by a battery. IR illumination provides night video recording at a distance of 10m.The information is transferred to the DVR and duplicated on the built-in memory card. The cost of a Wi-Fi camera for home is 4.5 thousand rubles.

Desktop camera TP-Lіnk NC250 can be purchased for 9 thousand rubles

A good budget camera is the Xiaomi Ants Xiaoyi desktop model. The design of the device is modular, so that the lens can be used separately without a stand, by installing it in the door peephole. The camera has a viewing angle of 110 °. The video image has a resolution of 1280x720 Mp. Thanks to the 4x optical zoom, you can zoom in on the picture online. IR illumination provides a high-quality image at night at a distance of 6 m. The cost of the device is 4.5 thousand rubles.

Wi-Fi CCTV camera for home with remote access ESCAM QF001 enjoys well-deserved attention. The device can be rotated horizontally by 355 °, and vertically by 120 °. The camera transmits information to a laptop or phone online, while simultaneously recording it to the built-in 32 GB drive. The image has a resolution of 1280x720. Thanks to infrared illumination of 11 LEDs, high-quality night video recording at a distance of 10 m is provided. The price of the camera is 7 thousand rubles.

Important! The camera is equipped with a feedback function, so that the device can be used for two-way voice communication.

Camera Xiaomi Ants XiaoYi has a viewing angle of 110º and a resolution of 1280x720 MP

A good desktop model for video surveillance is the TP-Link NC250 cloud wireless camera. The device has a built-in light sensor, which allows automatic switching to night video recording, which can be carried out at a distance of 5.5 m.

Thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi repeater, the device is able to relay the received signal to other equipment, expanding the coverage of the wireless network. The Wi-Fi home security camera is not equipped with a swivel mechanism. Its position is set in manual mode. The viewing angle of the device is 65 °. You can buy such a device for 9 thousand rubles.

Overview of Indoor Wi-Fi Wireless CCTV Cameras

A good option for an apartment would be a wireless covert surveillance camera EZVIZ C2mini with 1 megapixel optics. The image has a resolution of 1280x960 pixels. The camera is equipped with a "Day-Night" option, due to which it automatically selects the required operating mode based on the light level. The range of IR illumination reaches 10 m. The device is characterized by a viewing angle of 115 °. The video is uploaded to the cloud and saved on a 128GB memory card. You can buy a camera for 6 thousand rubles.

The D-Link DCS-6010L wireless camera is designed to be mounted on the ceiling

The popular wireless mini-camera for covert surveillance D-Lіnk DCS-825L with a matrix resolution of 1 megapixel. The focal length is 3.3 mm. Thanks to its advanced technical capabilities, the device can be used as a baby monitor.

Image resolution - 1280x720. IR illumination with a range of 5.5 m provides high-quality black and white photography at night. Information is sent wirelessly to a laptop or phone and at the same time is duplicated on the built-in 64 GB memory card. You can buy a wireless video surveillance camera for home with recording for 6.5 thousand rubles.

A good panoramic model is the D-Lіnk DCS-6010L digital camera, which is designed to be mounted on the ceiling. The viewing angle of the device reaches 360 °. The maximum image resolution is 1600x1200. The camera is equipped with a motion sensor, when triggered, the video starts recording. With 10x optical zoom, you can zoom in on images. For feedback, the device is equipped with a speaker and microphone. The price of the camera is 10 thousand rubles.

Internal camera EZVIZ C2mini is equipped with a "Day-Night" function and a 128 GB memory card

Important! The camera is equipped with a panoramic lens distortion correction option.

The Ubiquiti UniFі Vіdeo Camera Micro wireless camera for indoor video has a compact size, so it can be used hidden.The device works effectively at temperatures up to 30 ° C. To provide feedback, the device is equipped with a speaker located on the front panel. The hidden wifi home security camera can be installed on the ceiling, wall or corner. You can buy the device for 12 thousand rubles.

Today, for outdoor or indoor video surveillance for various areas, wireless mini Wi-Fi cameras are widely used, which are characterized by compactness, ease of use, ease of installation and configuration, as well as low cost. This is the ideal option for the optimal ratio of signal transmission quality and price.