Great optics, but the configuration experience is simply terrible and cumbersome
Written: Jun 11 '04
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Product Rating:
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Pros: 3.01 Firmware, Optics (great low light performance), Zoom, Integrated Motion detector and Mic.
Cons: Support, Interface, Documentation, Configuration, Wireless Performance, Wireless interaction with Netgear base stations, no adjustable mount.
The Bottom Line: The Toshiba is the best for outdoor deployment and in low light but not suggested for those looking for an easy installation.
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| gulbranson's Full Review: Toshiba IK-WB11A Webcam |
I've deployed three WB11A camera's outside for security purposes. From the first day I attempted to deploy the cameras wirelessly I ran into multiple issues with the configuration, wireless range and interaction with Netgear base stations. I've also deployed a Panasonic HC-270 which is far more reliable and easier to configure, but the optics are no where even close to the Toshiba. I tested the Toshiba's with multiple base stations (3Com, Linksys and D-Link) I found the 3Com and Linksys work the best, however, the range was dismal (30-50 ft) max seemed to be the limit and the connection was very speratic and often dropped after a day or so. After two months of being very frustrated I opted to simply run Ethernet cable to each camera. This significantly increased the difficulty of the installation of each camera, but it simply was a requirement if I wanted a camera that could deal with very low light situations. Unfortunately that only corrected the connectivity issue. The next big problem was the stability of Toshiba camera. I had to reset the camera's several time per week. After filing multiple reports to Toshiba Support (which is simply terrible) they started to implement fixes into their firmware and 3.01 finally addressed the stability issues. So far, I've been reasonably happy with the camera's and found 3.01 quite stable (reboots are needed very infrequently).
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID: gulbranson
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Reviews written: 2
Trusted by: 0 members
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