Add Audio to a Security Camera System

Net-enabled cameras have entered the age of talkies, thanks to a new gadget from Axis Communications that acts as a voice-over-IP bridge for the company's line of networked cameras. The Axis 2191 Audio Module adds audio capability to an Axis camera server, permitting two-way communication. Audio makes the package a better business security tool and allows the package to function as a videoconferencing tool.

The $249 module connects to the serial port on the back of an Axis camera server--a high-quality camera with an on-board operating system and ethernet connector. It's a quick way to enhance the camera's usefulness. With the module, the Axis system can detect ambient sound and even relay audio response through optional speakers. A firmware upgrade prepares the camera for the module. I simply hooked up my shipping unit, powered it on, and enabled the voice features in the camera's firmware operating system via a Web browser. To videoconference, users on the other end connect to the camera through their Web browser and download an ActiveX control.

There are a few catches: The module works only with Axis cameras, which cost around $400. And sound quality suffers if camera and listener are far apart--say, Boston and Seattle. It's not ideal for videoconferencing either, since you have to connect to the camera's internal Web server, which has a limited ability to process high-bandwidth video and audio data. Use a high-quality speakerphone instead.

For security use and for person-to-person online chatting, however, the camera server, coupled with the audio module, works reasonably well and is a breeze to set up.

SUMMARY

Axis Communications Axis 2191 Audio Module Great for businesses that need to keep an eye on facilities or equipment, but it works only with the company's cameras. List: $249