Phil H 0 Posted May 21, 2010 I purchase a Sentient CCTV package from Maplin a month or so ago, posts on parallel topics relate to the DVR and how to coax it to work with an internet connection. I was particularly interested in reading the number plates of the few vehicles that pass my house on a private road, however, the resulting resolution when playing back the DVR record was insufficient for visual NPR. The cameras that came in the kit were very neat and carry the "DSP" logo lettering in, red (D), green (S), and blue (P). I resolved the problem by replacing the camera lens with a much longer focal length version. This will have undoubtedly voided the warranty, however, it was easy, cheap, and the result is excellent. It simply involves removing the three screws from each end of the camera body (one of which is hidden by a label), and withdrawing the board camera assembly from the rear. After slackening a small grub screw, the existing lens (I believe this has a focal length of 3.6mm) can be screwed off its mount. The replacement lens (f = 16mm from Henrys at £4) screws onto the mount in its place. It requires adjustment of the focus and care needs to be taken doing this as the camera obviously must be powered up during the exercise. When happy with the focus adjustment, tighten the grub screw and re-assemble. It is very important that the front of the camera is removed prior to offering the board camera up through the rear of the body othewise there will be trouble with the sponge grommet that supports the lens and serves to shield it from back reflected IR light. Also - make sure the orientation of the body is correct, ensure the connection through to the IR LEDs is in place, and the small pack of silica gel remains tucked behind the board. Phil H Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
