Camera Review

Posted by Paul on 15th Nov 2012

I have previously reviewed the DVR. This review is for the cameras.

The 480 TVL cameras are adequate for day light use outside near doorways. Indoors, the cameras are fine. I find the colors for trees and grass are not very accurate but adequate for my use. Night vision is a limitation. This is probably related to the limited IR LEDs and the CMOS chip used.

Effective range at night seems to be 30 feet at night. Effective as in providing enough detail to identify people. Motion lights will help if you have them. I would not depend on this camera for providing enough detail beyond 30 feet at night.

Zmodo CCD cameras with 650 plus TVL are much better at night. I also purchased 4 CCD cameras with 650 TVL and 30+ IR LEDs from Zmodo. I am VERY happy with those cameras.

My purchase of additional cameras like the CCD cameras and this system was to monitor my Halloween and Christmas displays. As such, good night vision was a priority. If you need good night vision, you should consider purchasing CCD cameras with 30+ IR LEDs. You will be much happier with your purchase.

The CCD cameras are more expensive. If night vision is a priority, you won't go wrong with the CCD 650 TVL and 30+ LED cameras.

The DVR may limit you on ability to record fps (frames per second). You may need a faster DVR if recording from several cameras at once. At this point, I have not noticed a problem with my 4 CCD cameras as to recording.

One final note. 4 mm lens will offer a wider viewing angle. 12 mm lens will zoom in on an area more; but, limit the field of view. Anyone familiar with SLR cameras will be familiar with lens focal length. If you need a wide view for a yard or other areas, make sure to check the camera's focal length. If you want to identify passing cars for instance, 12 mm or 24 mm lens cameras might be an option. I have had no issue here with my cameras. I did research the focal length as part of my purchase.

Have a Good Day