Axis IP-Surveillance system Design Manual page 11

Fixed network cameras
A fixed camera is one whose viewing angle is fixed once it is mounted. A fixed camera with a body and
a lens represents the traditional camera type. In some applications, it is advantageous to make the
camera very visible. If this is the case, then a fixed camera represents the best choice since both the
camera and the direction in which it is pointing are clearly visible. Another advantage is that most fixed
cameras have exchangeable lenses. For further protection, fixed cameras can be installed in housings
designed for indoor or outdoor installation.
Figure 2.1.d. AXIS 211 Network Camera
Fixed dome network cameras
Fixed dome cameras, also called mini domes, essentially consist of a fixed camera that is pre-installed
in a small dome housing. The camera can be easily directed to point in any direction. Its main benefit
lies in its discreet, non-obtrusive design, as well as in the fact that it is hard to see in which direction
the camera is pointing. The camera is also tamper resistant. A limitation of a fixed dome camera is
that it rarely comes with a changeable lens, and even if it is changeable, the choice of lenses is lim-
ited by the space inside the dome housing. However, a varifocal lens is often provided, which enables
the camera's field of view to be adjusted. Fixed dome cameras are designed with different types of
enclosures such as vandal-resistant and/or IP66-rated enclosures for outdoor installations. No exter-
nal housing is required. The mounting of such a camera is usually on a wall or ceiling.
Figure 2.1.e. AXIS 216FD Network Camera
PTZ network cameras
The camera's view can be remotely controlled, either manually or automatically, for panning from side
to side, tilting up and down, and zooming in and out of an area or object. There are now mechanical
as well as non-mechanical PTZ cameras.
Mechanical PTZ cameras can pan, tilt and zoom through manual or automatic control. In a manual
operation, an operator can use a PTZ camera to follow, for instance, a person in a retail store. PTZ
cameras are mainly used indoors and in applications where an operator is employed and where the
visibility of the camera's viewing angle is desirable or not an issue. The optical zoom on PTZ cameras
typically ranges from 10X to 26X. A PTZ camera can be mounted on a ceiling or wall.
Figure 2.1.f. AXIS 214 PTZ Network Camera
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