AXIS 205: Questions & Answers

Q: What is the difference between a web camera and a network camera?

A: A web camera is connected to a PC, normally through USB, and uses the PC to make video available to other viewers. It will not work without a PC locally connected to the camera.

A network camera combines the functionality of a high-end web camera, the PC and network interface into one network-ready product.

Q: You talk about One Click installation. What is that and do I need this?

A: Axis offers a free of charge service (the AXIS Internet Dynamic DNS Service) for all AXIS 205 customers, which allow them to connect to the camera using a customer friendly name (such as http://axis123456.axiscam.net) instead of the more cumbersome use of IP addresses. And if the IP address is changed, it will automatically update the DNS service. It is a convenient way to access cameras when you have access to the Internet, and it is free of charge.

Q: How much bandwidth does the camera require?

A: The file size of a JPEG image depends on factors such as selected resolution, compression level and the actual content of the image. Typical image sizes for 640x480, using medium compression and normal daytime indoor office lighting levels, are in the range 30-40 KB. Size for an image of 320x240 and medium compression is in the range of 8-9 KB. The image size is then multiplied by the actual frame rate to define the bandwidth utilized. The user can limit the frame rate and number of simultaneous viewers if wanted.

Q: Can I save video from the camera?

A: Yes. By using an application such as AXIS Camera Explorer you can provide generic recording of video. It will also allow you to view multiple cameras simultaneously. If you need more advanced recording tools, there are other software solutions available such as AXIS Camera Recorder.

Q: Must I have an Internet connection to use the camera?

A: No. The camera works fine also in local network without and Internet connection. But you will not be able to use the AXIS Internet Dynamic DNS Service (One-click installation).

Q: Can I use the AXIS 205 as an alarm device?

A: No. There is no built-in Motion Detection and there are no possibilities to connect external alarms to the camera. If used with an advanced recording tool, such as AXIS Camera Recorder, the application can create alarms based on activity in the picture. When alarm functionality is required, it is recommended to use AXIS 2100 or AXIS 2120, both which have external alarm input.

Q: Is there an outdoor housing available so I can install the camera to monitor my front door?

A: No. The AXIS 205 is not suitable for outdoor use, as direct sunlight may impact the lifetime of the image sensor. In this application we would recommend AXIS 2110 or AXIS 2120 Network Cameras.

Q: I don’t want to draw people’s attention to the camera, can I turn off the LEDs on the front?

A: Yes. The LEDs can be controlled from the Setup-section in the web interface, but will require Administrator rights.

Q: Does AXIS 205 support NetMeeting and similar applications?

A: No. The AXIS 205 is not a web camera; it is a complete network camera with built in web server and IP address.

Q: Does AXIS 205 Network Camera support Power-over-Ethernet?

A: No, the AXIS 205 does not contain built-in support for Power-over-Ethernet.

Q: Does AXIS 205 Network Camera support Wireless LAN’s?

A: Yes AXIS 205 Network Camera works fine over wireless networks based on 802.11a,b or g standards. But it will require an external device point connected to it.

Q: Does AXIS 205 Network Camera support audio?

A: No, there is no support for audio.