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The ACTi E51 is a 1MP Indoor Dome Camera with Basic WDR and a fixed lens, designed for digital video surveillance systems. It offers a comprehensive set of features for effective monitoring and recording in various indoor environments.
The E51 camera is a cutting-edge digital video surveillance device capable of compressing and transmitting real-time images with outstanding quality over a standard TCP/IP network. It is an ideal choice for building an intelligent IP surveillance system, providing robust monitoring capabilities. The camera supports dual streaming with H.264 High Profile and MJPEG compression formats, delivering superior image quality at 30 frames per second up to a resolution of 720p (1280 x 720) pixels and VGA (640 x 480) pixels. This dual-codec support allows for flexible integration into different network environments and recording requirements.
A key functional aspect is its built-in hardware motion detection, eliminating the need for external motion sensors. Users can define up to three video motion detection areas and fine-tune object size and sensitivity settings to reliably detect objects within the camera's view. This hardware-based detection offers enhanced sensitivity and faster response times compared to software-only solutions. The camera also supports privacy masks, allowing users to define up to four configurable regions to block out sensitive areas from being viewed or recorded. Text overlay functionality enables user-defined text to be displayed on the video feed, which can be useful for adding timestamps, location names, or other relevant information. Image orientation can be adjusted with flip and mirror options, providing flexibility in mounting and viewing.
For network connectivity, the E51 supports a wide range of protocols and services including TCP, UDP, HTTP, HTTPS, DHCP, PPPoE, RTP, RTSP, IPv6, DNS, DDNS, NTP, ICMP, ARP, IGMP, SMTP, FTP, UPnP, SNMP, and Bonjour. It connects via a standard RJ45 10/100 Base-T Ethernet port. Security features include IP address filtering, HTTPS encryption, password-protected user levels, and IEEE 802.1X network access control, ensuring secure communication and access to the device.
The camera integrates an alarm system with video motion detection as the trigger, supporting up to three detection regions. Upon an alarm event, the camera can perform various responses, such as notifying a control center, changing camera settings, commanding other devices, sending e-mail notifications with snapshots, and uploading video or snapshots to an FTP server.
The E51 is designed for ease of use and integration. It comes with powerful bundled surveillance software that allows users to easily set up an existing PC as a digital video recorder. This software supports scheduled and manual recording, ensuring that important video is saved to local storage. The reliable and accurate motion detection, combined with instant warning capabilities, enables immediate response to events. The software also provides quick and simple search and playback functions, making it easy to retrieve desired images and video.
Installation is straightforward, with options for ceiling or wall mounting. A drill template is provided to assist with accurate hole placement for mounting. The camera's viewing angle and focus can be adjusted manually after installation. This involves removing the front cover, adjusting the pan and tilt directions based on the live view, and then adjusting the lens focus. Once adjustments are complete, the dome cover is reattached.
Power over Ethernet (PoE) support simplifies installation by allowing both power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable, reducing cabling complexity. The camera is compatible with PoE-supported switches or injectors.
For initial setup, if a DHCP server/router is present in the network, the camera will automatically acquire an IP address. Users can then use the ACTi IP Utility program to discover and access the device. If no DHCP server is available, manual configuration of the PC's IP address to the same subnet as the camera's default IP (192.168.0.100) is required. The camera's IP address can then be changed to a static, unused IP within the network via its web configurator.
The web configurator provides a user-friendly interface for managing camera settings. After logging in with default credentials (admin/123456), users can view the live video feed and access the "Setup" menu to configure various parameters, including network settings, video quality, and alarm responses. The process for changing the IP mode to static and assigning a new IP address is clearly outlined, ensuring proper setup for multiple devices in a network.
The E51 is fully compatible with ACTi software and supports ISV integration through a Software Development Kit (SDK), including streaming libraries and ActiveX controls. This allows third-party software developers to integrate and control the camera, offering flexibility for customized surveillance solutions. The firmware can be accessed and managed via Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or newer.
The E51 includes a reset button for restoring the unit to factory default settings. This is a useful feature for troubleshooting or reconfiguring the device. The reset process involves pressing and holding the button for 15 seconds while the unit is powered on, after which the Ethernet LED will indicate the completion of the reset.
The device is designed for indoor use and should be installed in a dry place protected from weather. Cleaning should only be performed after disconnecting the camera from its power supply. Users are advised not to open the housing of the product or attempt to service it themselves, as this could expose them to dangerous voltages and other hazards. All servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
The manual emphasizes the importance of adhering to all warnings and safety instructions to prevent damage to the system, other equipment, or personal injury. It also provides guidelines for handling situations where the product may require service, such as power cord damage, liquid spills, or exposure to rain/water. Upon completion of any service or repairs, a safety check by a service technician is recommended to ensure the product is in proper operating condition.
The camera's image enhancement features, such as Basic WDR, automatic and manual white balance, brightness, contrast, auto gain control, digital noise reduction, and flickerless settings, contribute to maintaining optimal image quality under varying lighting conditions, reducing the need for frequent manual adjustments.
| Form Factor | Box |
|---|---|
| Environment | Indoor/Outdoor |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 1/3" |
| Day/Night | Yes |
| IR Cut Filter | Yes |
| IR Illuminators | No |
| Video Compression | H.264, MJPEG |
| Multiple Streaming | Yes |
| Audio Compression | G.711 |
| Ethernet | 10/100 Mbps |
| Wireless | No |
| ONVIF | Yes |
| Weatherproof | IP66 |
| Vandal Proof | IK10 |
| Device Type | Network Camera |
| Minimum Illumination | 0.01 Lux |
| Frame Rate | 30 fps |
| Audio | Two-way audio |
| Protocols | HTTP, HTTPS, RTSP, RTP |
| Local Storage | SD card |
| Power Supply | DC 12V |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 50°C |