Panasonic is showing new Network cameras that will allow users to monitor virtually any location—whether home, office, small business or even vacation house—from nearly anywhere in the world, via the Internet.

Available through select Panasonic dealers for professional installation, the new models offer high-quality, 640 x 480, live video at up to 15 frames per second or 320 x 240 video at 30 frames per second, for crystal-clear remote viewing via a network or the Internet**. Users can view images from nearly any Internet device, including a PC, PDA or on a compatible cell phone***. And, all cameras come equipped with an SD Card slot for easy image recording.

“Panasonic’s Certified network cameras offer consumers the option of having one or more network cameras installed by professionals,” says Mike Timar, national product manager of facsimile and IP products. “These cameras are perfect for anyone who wants to easily monitor their home or business, no matter where they are in the world.”

The compact cameras can be placed wherever there is an Ethernet (10/100 BaseT Switch) connection. And since the cameras do not require a direct connection to a PC, the cameras will work even if your computer is turned of, or even in another building.

The cameras all have the ability to have a date and time stamp on the image, and when used with the BB-HNP60 recording software can function not only as a remote monitoring tool, but provide security recording as well.

All models feature a high-speed 100-degree per second pan and tilt control that can be operated via the Internet giving users a wide viewing range for monitoring homes or business.

In addition to seeing a location, all models also have a two-way audio feature. The cameras have built-in terminals for external speakers and a microphone, which can be used for a variety of applications—from announcing dinner to greeting visitors at the reception area.

The cameras can also capture live video in low-light situations—down to 3 Lux or an incredible 0.2 Lux when in Color Night View Mode—ensuring clear video under a variety of lighting conditions.

Select cameras in the line also feature wireless capability and can be used with a 802.11b or g-compatible router or access point. Two models in the line are designed for outdoor use—perfect for monitoring entryways or any outdoor area (See Chart).

All cameras in the line can connect to two optional security devices, such as a motion sensor or smoke detector, and can be programmed to automatically view a specified area when triggered, record images and e-mail an alert. The image buffer will store up to 560 images before, during, and after an alarm is triggered for viewing later. The camera can also be connected to a relay, which when used with a door opener, could allow instant access to authorized people via remote control even when the user is not home.

Users can also program the cameras to automatically upload images to an FTP server or Web page, or to automatically send images to them via e-mail ¾ anywhere in the world ¾ at designated intervals. Control software and e-mail software (SMTP) are included. All models allow images to be viewed by 30 users at one time. Access to the cameras can be password-protected, and each username can have different access privileges.

Panasonic network camera images can be viewed and controlled from virtually any location. The cameras feature a built-in Web server and its own Web page where images are automatically uploaded. Additionally, users can use the free Viewnetcam.com service. Special software, embedded in all Panasonic network cameras, allow users to create a personal web address for easy access to the camera’s live video. With this service, users need not worry about an ever-changing numerical Internet address created by Internet providers.

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