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The AXIS M31 Network Camera Series is a range of network cameras designed for surveillance and security applications, emphasizing ease of use and robust functionality. These cameras are part of the A1 Security Cameras product line, known for their commitment to security solutions. The series includes models like the AXIS M3106-L Mk II and AXIS M3106-LVE Mk II, indicating variations in features such as integrated illumination (L for Light) and vandal-resistant enclosures (VE for Vandal-resistant Enclosure).
The primary function of the AXIS M31 Network Camera Series is to capture and stream video over a network, enabling remote monitoring and recording. These cameras are equipped with various features to optimize video quality and manage data efficiently. They support multiple video compression formats, including Motion JPEG, H.264 (MPEG-4 Part 10/AVC), and H.265 (MPEG-H Part 2/HEVC). Motion JPEG provides a stream of individual JPEG images, suitable for scenarios where excellent image quality and access to every frame are crucial, though it consumes considerable bandwidth. H.264 and H.265 are more efficient, significantly reducing file size and bandwidth requirements while maintaining high video quality, making them ideal for situations with limited network resources or extensive storage needs. The product includes a viewing client license for H.264 and H.265, with additional licenses available for purchase.
The cameras offer different capture modes, which define the available resolution and frame rate, influencing the camera's field of view and aspect ratio. Users can select a capture mode based on their specific surveillance requirements for frame rate and resolution. The lower resolution capture modes are typically cropped from the highest resolution, allowing for flexibility in monitoring different areas.
To enhance security, the cameras incorporate features like AXIS Internet Dynamic DNS Service, which assigns a host name for easy access, and AXIS Video Hosting System (AVHS), providing secure internet access to live and recorded video. AVHS can be enabled through a one-click setup by pressing the control button for a few seconds, or configured to always attempt connection to an AVHS service.
The cameras are designed to operate in various lighting conditions. They include settings to reduce noise in low-light environments, such as adjusting exposure mode to automatic, setting the shutter speed as slow as possible (maximizing the shutter value), and reducing image sharpness. Multiple exposure modes are available, including Automatic exposure for general use, Flicker-free for environments with artificial lighting like fluorescent lights, and Flicker-reduced for mixed lighting conditions (artificial light and bright light, such as outdoors). Users can also lock current exposure settings using the "Hold current" option.
For event management, the cameras support action rules that define when the product performs certain actions. These rules can be scheduled, recurring, or triggered by specific events like motion detection. Users can configure multiple triggers for an action rule, all of which must be met for the action to be performed.
Accessing and managing the AXIS M31 cameras is designed to be straightforward. Users can access the product's web page via standard web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, or Safari. AXIS IP Utility and AXIS Camera Management are recommended tools for discovering Axis products on the network and assigning IP addresses. Upon first access, users are prompted to configure a root password, with a strong recommendation to use secure passwords of at least 8 characters and to change them regularly. The manual emphasizes the importance of setting up a secure HTTPS connection before resetting passwords if there's a risk of network sniffing.
The cameras offer features to optimize bandwidth and storage. Users can enable Zipstream functionality, which intelligently reduces bandwidth by analyzing video content and optimizing compression. Dynamic GOP (Group of Pictures) and dynamic FPS (Frames Per Second) settings further contribute to efficient data management. Increasing compression levels can also help reduce bandwidth, though it might result in less detail in the picture.
To maximize image details, users are advised to select the highest resolution capture mode, set compression as low as possible, and consider MJPEG streaming, although this will increase bitrate and potentially reduce frame rate.
The AXIS M31 Network Camera Series includes several maintenance features to ensure reliable operation and easy troubleshooting.
Firmware upgrades are a key maintenance aspect. Users can check the current firmware version through the product's webpage (under the help menu and "About" section) and download the latest firmware from axis.com/support/firmware. The upgrade process is performed via the product's web interface (Settings > System > Maintenance). It's important to keep the product connected to the power source during the upgrade. Preconfigured and customized settings are generally saved during firmware upgrades, provided the features are available in the new firmware. AXIS Camera Management can be used for multiple upgrades, simplifying the process for larger installations.
Troubleshooting guidance is provided for common issues. If a firmware upgrade fails, the camera reloads the previous firmware, often due to an incorrect firmware file. Issues with setting IP addresses, such as the product being on a different subnet or an IP address already in use, are addressed with instructions to contact network administrators or use ping commands to diagnose conflicts. For login problems, users are reminded to check the correct protocol (HTTP/HTTPS) and, if the root password is lost, to perform a factory default reset.
The factory default reset is a critical maintenance feature. It resets all settings, including the IP address, to their default values. This process involves disconnecting power, pressing and holding the control button while reconnecting power, and holding it for 15-30 seconds until the status LED flashes amber. Once the LED turns green, the reset is complete. If no DHCP server is available, the camera defaults to IP address 192.168.0.90.
LED indicators provide visual cues for the camera's status:
The SD card slot is designed for local storage of recordings. Users are cautioned to use fingers for insertion and removal to avoid damage and to unmount the SD card from the product's webpage before removal to prevent data loss or corruption.
The control button serves multiple maintenance functions, including initiating a factory default reset and connecting to an AXIS Video Hosting System service.
Performance considerations are also detailed, guiding users on how various settings and situations (e.g., image resolution, compression, number of clients, simultaneous streams, event settings, HTTPS usage, client computer performance, ACAP applications) can affect bandwidth and frame rate, helping users optimize their system for desired performance.
General| Model | Axis M3106-L Mk II |
|---|---|
| Type | Fixed Dome Network Camera |
| Image Sensor | 1/2.8" Progressive Scan RGB CMOS |
| Memory | 512 MB RAM, 256 MB Flash |
| IR | No |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Frame Rate | 30 fps |
| Lens | 2.8 mm |
| Day/Night | Automatic with ICR |
| Compression | H.264 |
| Audio Compression | AAC, G.711, G.726 |
| Audio Input | Built-in microphone |
| Network Protocols | IPv4, IPv6, HTTP, HTTPS, TCP, UDP, RTSP, RTP, DHCP, DNS, NTP |
| Security | HTTPS encryption |
| Application Programming Interface | VAPIX® |
| Analytics | Axis Camera Application Platform (ACAP) support for third-party analytics applications |
| Onboard Storage | microSD card slot (support for up to 256 GB) |
| Casing | IK10-rated |
| Power | Power over Ethernet (PoE) IEEE 802.3af, 12 V DC |
| Connectors | RJ45 |
| Approvals | CE, FCC, UL |
| Weight | 0.5 kg (1.1 lb) |
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