It’s been a while since we’ve seen any real innovation in the consumer/small business IP camera market, but the UK’s Y-cam may have a new offering that may be worth a look, or vice versa….
Called the Y-cam EyeBall, the new camera is said to be the “world’s first Push & Point mini-dome IP camera”, a bold claim it seems, but easier to pull off when you invent and trademark the term “Push & Point” (as the company has done). Push & Point describes a simple installation method for the camera lens, which can be easily aimed and focused on the things you wish to protect – no screws required.
The EyeBall offers a range of features including Power over Ethernet, a Digital I/O for systems integration, and 2-way audio capability with integrated microphone and audio out connector. Video recording is made simple, courtesy of an on board microSD slot or record direct to NAS/server with Y-cam’s NAS-Ready configuration feature (which allows the camera to talk to any NAS drive using the CIFS/SMB protocol). As you’d expect, you can also stream footage over Wi-Fi for live viewing on a PC/Mac.
More advanced features include motion detection, Email & FTP alerts, a low-light setting as well as mobile apps for iPhone, Android, BlackBerry, and Symbian to support remote live viewing. Resolution is limited to 310,000 pixels via a 1/4″ CCD, delivering 30fps @ 640×480 so we’re not yet in the realms of high definition just yet, but it may well satisfy your security, if not entertainment, needs.
The Y-cam EyeBall (YCEB03) is available to order now for a RRP of £195 / $331 / €234.
More: Y-cam
