Vimtag (Fujikam) 361 HD IP Cam

An IP camera along with my lack of technical know-how would just be inviting trouble, I thought, as I ordered the camera. I wasn't disappointed with my initial disappointment. HOWEVER, armed with a refusal to give up, and the patience of the Fujikam help desk (I called them 4 times in a 24 hour period), I proved that even a technical loser like myself can get the camera set up, exploit it's capabilities, and as a result, be more than satisfied with the outcome. The camera is excellent; any issues would be due to your's truly, along with the (Verizon) network that my camera is running on. But I have adjusted, and discovered things. Mainly, that the higher the resolution, the lesser is the consistency in my network's ability to handle my inputs, such as pan and tilt. And at any given time, this ability seems to fluctuate, from no problem at all, to head scratching and thumb twiddling. So what I do, if I sense the network is log-jammed, would be to choose the lowest resolution to pan the camera, then select the HD resolution to view the details. That works every time for me. Also, the camera is very sensitive. Last night, I had it pointing outside, and the excellent night vision picked up every flying insectoid-type critter (which may account for the 329 motion-detected message alerts found this morning). Will decrease the sensitivity and see what happens. To conclude, to my undiscerning eye and non-techie self, I had difficulty appreciating the distinction between the cams on the market prior to purchase (other than the price). But as one who needed all the help that he can get, I think I made the right choice, as the Fujikam help desk made all the difference. I actually enjoyed calling into the call center, and bugging them. 8-23-14 update: I ordered and received an antenna expander, which is similar in appearance to the standard antenna, but is 15 inches long, and is advertised to increase the range of the camera. It is actually sold as a Foscam antenna (Foscam Wireless Range 9dbi Antenna Expander), but the fitting is the standard SMA, as seen on my Fujikam. The purpose in acquiring this, was to be able to move my camera from the back of the house where my computer is located, to the front. Up until now, I was receiving a "device offline" status. But now, with this inexpensive addition (which screws into the back of the Fujikam, replacing the original), I can receive a picture on normal setting, and pan and tilt at will, when I switch to the "small" setting. I might be able to obtain a signal for HD display, but I have not experimented yet with the position of the antenna, and the normal setting is good enough for now. The price I paid was $6.99, delivered. 6-29-15 update: Just a suggestion in it's usage. I had a critter that was removing the vent screen that leads to underneath my house. I considered the usual suspects (rat, possum, raccoon), and suspect the raccoon as the perp. Positioning this cam towards the entrance, it has captured the guilty party - the raccoon. So my recommendation for this cam, in addition to the security aspect, is that it might help in identifying pests on your property, as pests are creatures of habit. By noting the route that they take and the time frame, further steps can be taken to secure your vents, heirloom tomatoes, etc. 8-17-15 update: Changed last week from Verizon DSL to Time Warner cable because of the weak digital signal being received at my location from Verizon (due to the distance between the phone company's central office and my location). In opting for just the minimal MBPS option from Time Warner, I am seeing unprecedented response from my Fujikam in terms of speed and strength. Where before, I could never select the HD setting AND be able to pan and tilt at the same time, I am now with Time Warner at the minimal 3 MBPS option from them, able to use the Fujikam to it's fullest extent, which is very quick response, HD setting, and pan and tilt at will. My emphasis with this remark is that the performance of your Fujikam has altogether a lot to do with your internet provider. --- 3-6-17 The camera is still ticking. It went through many relocations, a new computer, change in internet providers, but still seems to be working and supported by Vimtag (no longer Fujikam). The periodic change in the appearance of the MIPC screens on my android phone tells me that updates are being generated. The good thing, is that I have not had a need to use it in any court-related issue. Although it is an inside camera, I have been using it outdoors. Must keep it protected from rain and the sun (the sun causes the rubbery parts to get sticky). Otherwise, no need to purchase anything new. This odd-looking camera still pans, tilts, records, and plays back, and that's all I need at this time.8-5-17 Wanted to note that the app has completely evolved for the better. Much more user friendly, with an appearance as if designed by a California tech start up, and not something translated from another language. This bowling pin of a security camera is still all I need, Pretty amazing.10-3-17 Reached out to Vimtag through email, because my device was recording pictures but not video. They questioned if I had a memory card in my device. I swapped out the old card, restarted the camera, and its now recording video. 12-2-17. Big update. I purchased a remote infrared illuminator from Amazon for $18, that is purported to greatly enhance the night vision capability of my Vimtag. The only problem, is, that my Vimtag is hanging upside down attached to my window with a GoPro suction mount - INSIDE my window pointing out. When the IR turns on at night on my Vimtag, it reflects back from the window into the device's lens, causing a wash out. The solution? Bathroom caulking squeezed carefully onto each of the IR bulbs of my Vimtag! I tried electrical tape first (it lifts off), then duct tape (it leaves a gummy mess). Caulking, brown caulking specifically, remains flexible, and I can peel the whole thing off, if need be. I have the world's ugliest security camera, with that brown pile, but now I can use the Vimtag as an outside security camera, but positioned in the safety of my house. I have the Vimtag on one end of the window, and the IR illuminator on the other end. The illuminator shines all the way across the street to my neighbors!