Indoor instead of outdoor IP cam for porches?

[PluffMud 0]

Is it generally thought to be OK to install indoor rated cameras in outdoor locations that are completely protected from rain/snow? The brands I'm considering are Axis and ACTi in case that matters.

 

I'm currently using some indoor-rated Foscams and the cheaper Axis cams (M1011, M1014) in covered outdoor locations and have had no issues in over a year. Heck one of my PTZ Foscams is mounted under an eve that can sometimes get wet and I haven't had any issues! Those cameras are easy to replace but now that I'm looking to get serious with higher quality Axis or ACTi cameras I thought I would ask

 

I'm mainly looking at using a couple indoor-rated ACTi or Axis domes but didn't know if the high humidity we have down in SC would cause problems. It only gets below freezing a couple times a year. Don't know if the answer changes for indoor-rated domes vs. box vs. cube cameras so any insight would be helpful!

[Securame 0]

It might depend on your climate, but generally speaking, it is not ok. No matter if the camera is protected from rain, it will not be protected from humidity, dust, dirt, etc. so eventually it will be more likely to fail than if it is was installed indoors.

 

But it will also depend on the type of camera. Some cameras are better protected than others, so even if they are not rated for outdoor usage, they might work ok if the climate is not harsh. A PTZ foscam outdoors... I doubt that one would run for many years

[ssmith10pn 0]

I would be more worried about insects getting in it.

[Kawboy12R 0]

If you've got one then I'd say use it if it's well protected. If you DON'T have one, then after the budget creeps up a little then why spend bigger money on something that's not rated for the job when there are other options for about the same money that are? Instead of an indoor Axis, for example, install an outdoor ACTi. Or just look a little harder for a deal on an outdoor option. Or skip takeout coffee for a couple of weeks. Heck, there's one guy on here who spent 5 cents on a Ziploc baggie and a twist tie and had good luck in a beach location through a hurricane with some cheapo webcam. Whatever you do though, I bet in two-three-four years you'll regret not getting an outdoor one if you have a corrosion-related problem. There are ways to install OUTDOOR cams that'll almost guarantee they'll get water in them as well.

 

Done right in the right location I'll bet you have good luck, but should you plan on sticking a high-budget indoor camera outdoors when you know there are longer lasting options? Answer that one for yourself.

[bigglebowski 0]

If SC meant South Carolina then yes you should just spend the extra money for an outdoor rated cam. The newer model Acti OD cams should be cheap enough to just not have to worry about changing it out 1-2 years from now when the moisture finally compromises the housing and then sits there and electrolysis takes over.

[buellwinkle 0]

I had an Axis M10 pointed out the window and it worked great for about a year and a half, then the sensor got burned. Axis said it's my fault for using an indoor camera to view the great outdoors. For what it's worth, I have no direct sunlight, heavily wooded location.

 

Why mess around, just get ACTi's new "D" series outdoor cameras. Is the price difference that great?

[MaxIcon 0]

I had one of my Bosch analog indoor dome cams under the eaves for many years with no issues. It was on a home-brew PVC pendant hanging about 1.5' down to clear the roof overhang.

 

This is in Silicon Valley, with mild weather, and in a pretty protected location, not pointed towards the sun. No problems with bugs, water, spider webs, etc.

 

The only time I ever had to mess with it at all was when the exterior of the house was painted and I had to re-aim it. Aside from that, I literally didn't touch it for years except to wipe the dome about once a year.

[Peter_ 2]

I've used an Axis M5014 outdoors, under an eve for a few years now. The network cable started to crack in one spot, but it's holding up so far in the 100+ degree summers and mild rainstorms. But as others said, probably best to get a real outdoor model and not have to worry about it.

[PluffMud 0]

Thanks for the responses! With everyone advising against it I will completely rule out using anything indoor-rated for any type of outdoor location. The 'SC' does mean South Carolina (the Charleston area) so we do get very humid conditions that are not good to exposed electronics.

 

As several pointed out, the prices of the ACTi outdoor cameras are so good not to even risk using indoor cameras. I guess I was mainly asking for the Axis cameras but the relatively small increase in price for the outdoor versions are well worth the peace of mind.

 

I'm still pricing out and trying to decide between an ACTi vs. an Axis camera setup (5 cameras total with future expansion). While I like the price and specs of the ACTi cameras the main draw for me going with Axis is the Edge Recording feature. Although there are certainly trade-offs, I REALLY like the idea of not having an NVR while still having the flexibility of adding one in the future if I decide I want one.

[blakem 0]

I'm still pricing out and trying to decide between an ACTi vs. an Axis camera setup (5 cameras total with future expansion). While I like the price and specs of the ACTi cameras the main draw for me going with Axis is the Edge Recording feature. Although there are certainly trade-offs, I REALLY like the idea of not having an NVR while still having the flexibility of adding one in the future if I decide I want one.

 

ACTi has local storage on some models. Look at TCM-7811 or KCM-7111 for example. I also agree if you are spending money on new cameras why gamble on using an indoor rated camera in an outdoor location.

[buellwinkle 0]

ACTi provides free NVR software with IOS app that's excellent. Axis, on newer cameras provides AAC which is CMS software to view the videos recorded on internal SD or NAS, the advantage is no PC needed to record but some people complain it's slow. Both make a good product, both have good service & support.

 

Saw the Axis P3364-VE for $649 (varifocal wdr outdoor dome) on Amazon which is a good price. On the lowest end the ACTi D71 (fixed lens outdoor dome) for 1/3rd the price and they have models with more stuff so depends on what you need, what your budget is. If you are looking at the higher end of the price range, the ACTi dome to look out for is the E84, my guess comperably priced to the P3364-VE, but low light 2MP, not out yet.

[Kawboy12R 0]

Axis P3364VE 6mm can be found for $450-$500 on Amazon occasionally if you're lucky. Have yet to find a 12mm for that price but as soon as I do it'll be sold.