Labs

In many respects, the IP7137 is almost identical to D-Link's DCS-2120. The similarities become obvious once you insert the installation CD. This runs a search tool that's identical to the one provided by D-Link, and had similar problems finding the camera on our network. The same IP Surveillance software

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is also included.

Unlike D-Link's version, the IP7137 doesn't have a removable wireless antenna. Its focus ring isn't as easy to adjust, either, as it sits flush with the body of the camera. Vivotek's web interface isn't as well designed as D-Link's, but it offers an almost identical set of options. The IP7137 offers a choice of DDNS providers, plus email, FTP and video quality settings. It can monitor three areas for motion, recording video or saving a JPEG image when movement is detected.

In daylight, the images produced were marginally poorer than those from the D-Link camera. It recorded an image in low light, but couldn't reproduce colours accurately, turning white areas yellow. Like the other IP cameras, it's useless in total darkness.

This is a decent IP camera, but the D-Link DCS-2120 feels more solid, has better help features and is marginally cheaper.