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Logitech WiLife Digital Video Security--Outdoor Master System Camera by Logitech
Digital product summary informationManufacturer: Logitech Audio: English (Original Language) Format: CD Platform: Windows Model: 961-000287 Product features: - Logitech WiLife Digital Security Systems are not compatible with the new Logitech Alert Digital Security Systems
- Support For Up To Six Cameras
- Motion-activated Mobile Alerts
- Multiple Mounting Options
Accessories:
Digital camera reviews of Logitech WiLife Digital Video Security--Outdoor Master System CameraDigital camera Review: A breeze to install, easy to use Summary: 4 Stars
I purchased this outdoor camera after considering virtually every other option out there, including various IP cameras. My intention was to use it to show my driveway, as stuff has been stolen out of my vehicles over the past few months while they were right in my driveway. I had a couple of concerns about this product, primarily the 15 fps frame rate (which was half of other cams), the rated temperature it could withstand (I live in the northeast), and the low-light capabilities.
I ended up purchasing it after seeing the high cost of various outdoor IP cams, and the fact that they were more involved to install. I'm tech savvy, but not interested in doing wiring. Turns out this cam solved all of my concerns.
First, the outdoor cam is extremely easy to install. Up and running just as advertised, although I will have to drill a big hole behind the cam to run the power cord through. Be advised that it is permanently affixed to the cam, meaning that you will have to drill a big enough hole through wherever it's mounted to fit the plug end of the cord. Drilling that hole is really the biggest issue with this camera. If you don't have to do that, you're golden.
With regard to the 15 fps, during the daytime it's no issue at all. Very smooth and clear. At night however, I've found 15 fps isn't quite enough to get perfectly smooth video. It's a bit jerky, but not overly so. For my purposes, it works. You wouldn't want to use it at night professionally though, I dont think. With regard to its low light capability, I was pleasantly surprised. I live in a suburb of NYC, so we have street lights and neighbors close by, so there's always quite a bit of ambient light about. Therefore, even before my motion-activated lights turn on and brighten my driveway, it gives a pretty good picture. If you are out in the middle of nowhere where there isnt a lot of ambient light, your results may differ, but it should be fine anywhere you have any additional lights about.
Finally, I was concerned about the durability of the cam itself. I believe it says it's temperature rated down to about freezing, which concerned me, but I just used it during a blizzard and sub-freezing temps and there were no issues. Not sure how that affects product life, but time will tell.
Viewing the cam online is a snap, and provides various good alert functions to send the alerts to either an email address or a cell phone. You can limit the sensitivity of the camera itself so it doesnt record every time car headlights reflect off you windows, and limit the area in which the camera will attempt to detect motion. Very helpful. You can only view a live feed online, not the recorded video, unless you purchase a platinum package from Logitech, currently valued at about $80 for the year. I just recevied a $20 off email though, so I am considering it. It provides additional features other than uploading your video to their server for viewing and storing (for the safety conscious), and also includes the ability to pan, tilt and zoom their indoor cams.
The only real drawbacks are the lack of audio (not needed for my purposes), and the 15 fps at night. Otherwise, this is a great cam, which can be added seamlessly to their other indoor cams. It is cheaper than other good outdoor wireless IP cams, requires no wiring and does the job as advertised for residential purposes. Not sure about using it commercially, as I have no need for that. Overall, I highly recommend it for home use.
Summary of Logitech WiLife Digital Video Security--Outdoor Master System CameraWiLife Digital Video Security Camera Outdoor Master System
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