Mr.X

I've never bought a video camera, other than the type you carry around, so I need some advice. I want to mount a PTZ video camera on the back of my house to allow watching the back yard via a smartphone app with the option to record on demand or when movement is detected to a Windows computer in my house. The house is hardwire networked and I'm pretty good with computers. I'd like the camera to also be able to stream audio from a built-in microphone in addition to video. The streaming video should be viewable in the house but also on the internet (even if it's at a slower framerate/resolution) Ideally the camera would be POE and as high a resolution/framerate as is affordable. Let's say under $500 but under $300 would be even better! A known manufacturer would be a plus, but not critical. The camera would need to work in the winter, it would be protected from snow, but it might get wet and the temperature can hit -40 sometimes... Suggestions? Am I out of my mind with the budget I'm proposing? Is there a comparison table somewhere of current products?

So close! No suggestions then for a Calgary company with some expertise?

Calgary. Can you recommend a dealer with plenty of knowledge about IP Cameras?

Thank you very much, VST_Man and the rest of you. You've all been very helpful! " title="Applause" /> My location is in Canada so it does get cold (-30) and hot (+100)

Makes sense! A requirement for an outdoor camera, I would guess?

I understand about the IR (for night viewing) but what does the heater blower do?

Thank you VST_Man. What's the difference between that one and this one? http://www.securitycameraking.com/12x-2-megapixel-indoor-outdoor-59498-prd1.html?pSearchQueryId=2825596

Whoops. There's WAY too many choices... How about this? http://www.amazon.com/JYtrend-Wireless-Waterproof-Smartphone-Dectection/dp/B00HS8QYZ2

Thank you for your reply. Is there a source where I can learn more about PTZ outdoor IP cameras? I'm sure the camera you suggested is great, but why is it better for me than, say http://www.amazon.com/Q-See-QTN8018D-Weatherproof-Camera-65-Feet/dp/B00K2XEOD4/ref=sr_1_16?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1426054662&sr=1-16