| Manufacturer: Eminent | Model: EM4484 Wireless Internet Camera |
| Price: 90 Euros | Web: Eminent |
We’ve reviewed a number of IP cameras over the last 12 months, and find that whilst the idea of live video streaming in the digital home is attractive for surveillance and communication purposes, the camera configuration software is invariably poorly written and difficult to use leading to a distinct anti-climax for the purchaser (and the reviewer!) We’re looking forward to the day when a manufacturer brings out a camera which is well featured, easy to install and offers a great set of features that even your mum could take advantage of.
The next contender is Eminent’s EM4484 Wireless Internet Camera, which is a modestly priced IP Camera allowing you to watch live video across your local network, or stream remotely over the Internet. A fewo weeks ago, we reviewed the company’s latest digital media receiver, which came packed with features and a lot of polish, so we’re hopeful that the EM4484 may win our hearts. Let’s take a look.
What’s in the Box?
Unpack and you’ll discover:
- EM4484 Wireless Internet Camera
- Power Adaptor
- UTP Network Cable
- Camera Stand
- Antenna
- Manual
- Setup CD
Specifications
The EM4484 offers wired (10/100) and wireless (802.11b/g) networking to stream images across the network. WPS (Wi-fi Protected Setup) is supported to allow each of connection to your wireless network. Maximum video resolution is reasonable (in this price bracket) at 640 x 480.
Wireless Networking: Wireless 802.11b/g standards with WEP,WPA, WPA2 encryption and WPS support Wired Networking: Ethernet RJ-45, 10/100 Base-T auto-sense WLAN interface: External detachable antenna Video: Real-Time Recording Software: Surveillance Software Supported video resoultion: 640x480(VGA),320x240(CIF) and 160x120(QCIF) Frame rate: up to 30 fps Protocols: HTTP, FTP, SMTP, DHCP, NTP, DNS, DYNDNS
First Looks
The EM4484 is a relatively small camera, with a white acrylic case. The top of the camera has a socket for the wireless antenna which screws in to secure. The front of the camera has the lens, a manual focus ring, and LEDs for LAN, Wireless LAN and Power.
The rear of the camera sees a screw-in socket for the supplied camera stand, and the base is a convenient location for power, LAN socket and a recessed reset button. So far, so straightforward. The camera is a little chunky, but won’t cause your friends and family to complain when seen. Those wishing to film covertly may have concerns about the front LEDs which rather gives the game away. The LEDs can be switched off in the camera’s management console, thankfully.
The stand accompanying the camera is adjustable, and can be wall/desk mounted courtesy of four screw holes – you will need to fix the stand however, as the camera is too heavy to use on the stand in a free standing position, which is certainly an oversight, and potentially a show stopper for those who don’t wish to get the drill out, before we’ve even powered on. I’d be concerned just how much time Eminent’s QA department have spent with the camera, for such an obvious issue to be unresolved during testing.
Installing the Camera
Connect the camera to power and your network courtesy of the supplied Ethernet cable (installation has to be performed with a wired connection), and you should see the power and LAN LEDs illuminate in blue and green respectively. Drop the installation CD into a PC on the network, and install Eminent’s camera admin software, and Multi Camera Viewer application.
