I have purchased this item from another webiste and the information listed here about the camera is incorrect. in particular, the 10X zoom. This is a 3X Zoom camera. Hope this prevents someone from ordering this and not getting what they expected. Check the manufacture website for more info. www.q-see.com.
FYI - I actually like the camera... If some other company list the item, I would be more than happen to give a proper review.
UPDATE.... Per my previous statement. Here is a better review. The information, about the zoom spec of the camera is still shown as incorrect. Below is the current specs:
540 TV Lines Resolution
3X Optical Zoom
Lens: F = 5mm (WIDE) - 15mm (TELE)
1/3" CCD image sensor
0.01 Lux
It is stated as being a color camera, and it is. One thing to note is that different cameras handle color differently. I only know of 2 ways. One is where the picture you see is always color, day or night.
And another way is like this camera. During the day ( high light level) the view is in color. During the night (low light level) the camera reverts to black and white. My understanding of this is, this improves low light resolution. For my purpose, this works great. When it does show color, during the daytime, it is very accurate and mostly clear.
Take note also this item needs to be taken apart in order to be setup. The instruction are not clear on how to do this. The camera comes in 2 pieces, the mount bracket 1 pc and the camera and base another piece. If I get a chance I will post pictures showing what that looks like.
I highly recommend this camera if you are in search of a PTZ type that has full automatic, basic functionality. Most, if not all of the cheaper PTZ cameras I researched had only manual controls. Example, the zoom was manual instead of auto. And the directional control was manual instead of automatic
One final thing to mention... The instructions for a first time Camera DIY'er are horrible, especially when it comes to camera setup. If problems are encountered try posting comments here and someone may be able to answer your question before to much frustration sets in (smile)....
I do not work for any of the companies that sale this item....