IP CAMERA LEARNING & RESOURCE CENTER

So you’ve got a shiny license for Panasonic’s latest version of their software BB-HNP15. This allows you to monitor, record and playback from up to 64 cameras simultaneously and supports features such as MPEG-4 video, high resolution support, graphical display of recorded events, full screen mode etc.

This guide will take you through the relatively simple process of installing the software and registering your license.

System requirements for Panasonic BB-HNP15 (when 2 cameras are connected):

• Microsoft Windows XP 32bit/Vista 32bit
• Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher
• NTFS file system recommended
• Intel Pentium 4 2.6GHz or greater (or equivalent compatible processor)
• RAM: 512MB or higher
• Program installation requires 200MB of free hard disk space

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Wireless IP cameras are perfect security devices for your small business or home as they can be placed virtually anywhere where there is a power outlet. This allows for some great covert monitoring around your home, placing the cameras in locations where intruders wouldn’t suspect.

This HOWTO: will provide a step-by-step guide showing how to set up your wireless Panasonic IP camera so that it can connect to your wireless network.

This guide is suitable for the following cameras:

• BL-C20A
• BL-C30A (now discontinued)
• BL-C131A
• BB-HCM371A

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It’s possibly a little known fact that Panasonic IP cameras come with a dedicated viewer for cell phones and mobile devices. We certainly point this out if someone calls us for advice but I don’t think it’s a feature that Panasonic shout too much about.

So let us shout about it now because we think it’s a great feature which seems to be overlooked all too often.

Static image only

So first off, it’s designed for cell phones so don’t expect 30fps live video, in fact, don’t expect a live view at all as the viewer will only give you a static JPEG.

What’s the use in that? Well, its a live shot taken from the camera the moment you accessed the viewer and gives a good representation about what you camera can see at the exact moment in time. You can also refresh the image using the on-screen option.

This feature can be found in the consumer range of Panasonic video products: BL-C1A, BL-C20A, BL-C111A, BL-C131A, BB-HCM371A, BB-HCM511A, BB-HCM515A, BB-HCM527A, BB-HCM531A, BB-HCM580A, BB-HCM581A.

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As any Mac user will tell you they generally get stuffed when it comes to software availability and support for their machines. Sadly when it comes to IP cameras it’s no different.

As IP video specialists it probably won’t come as any surprise that we’ve seen a one or two IP cameras in our time but luckily we also have someone who owns a Mac (yes just the one!). So here is our top 5 list of cameras which we think make ideal home security cameras for Mac users. (more…)

You will find that when you come to install your Panasonic IP camera that the tools provided are for Windows based PCs only. This seems to be the case for every IP camera we come across and we think Mac users do get a raw deal.

It is possible to use a Panasonic IP camera with a Mac. You won’t get the full functionality without using the ActiveX control through Internet Explorer but you will still be able to access the camera, its settings and live images.

This guide will show you how to setup a Panasonic camera using a Mac without using any of the installation tools provided on the CD-ROM.

This guide is suitable for the following cameras:

• Panasonic BL-C1A
• Panasonic BL-C20A
• Panasonic BL-C111A
• Panasonic BL-C131A
• Panasonic BL-HCM371A
• Panasonic BB-HCM511A
• Panasonic BB-HCM515A
• Panasonic BB-HCM527A
• Panasonic BB-HCM531A
• Panasonic BB-HCM580A
• Panasonic BB-HCM581A

Note that this guide will also be suitable for older, discontinued cameras in the BL and BB ranges. (more…)

Making the transition from wired to wireless is an exciting step and with a wide choice of wireless IP cameras now available on the market you can keep an eye on your home or business without cluttering it up with cables.

Normally wireless connections are every bit as reliable as their wired counterpart but sometimes there can be something which prevents their smooth operation. Interference.

Interference

We’ve all experienced interference in some way, from the television picture breaking up during a heavy storm or crackling on the radio when you enter a built-up area or valley. Your wireless signal works very much in the same way as your radio or television and may dip in and out depending on circumstances and the environment.

We realise that when you are connecting your IP cameras wirelessly is it even more crucial that they remain connected at all times, especially when they are used as IP security cameras. So let’s take a look at some of the causes of interference and how we can help reduce their effect. (more…)

Product Evalution: Panasonic BB-HCM527

1. Accessories

1.1 Included in the box

The camera comes complete with a ceiling plate, ceiling mount cover, safety wire, installation guide, setup guide, stand-alone SD memory card recording guide and a setup CD-ROM as well as various screws and washers for installation.

The camera also comes with a 1-channel version of HNP15 Network Camera Recorder software. (more…)