Examining Pelco's New Sarix IM Series Domes

JH
John Honovich
•Published Jan 12, 2011 00:00 AM
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In this note, we examine Pelco's expanded mini-dome line. In their announcement, Pelco is emphasizing [link no longer available] that this provides for 'any environment'. We believe the most important aspect of the release is that it eliminates a major gap in their product line-up for more affordable dome cameras.

Previously the IM series consisted of only two models that were quite basic/limited:

  • IM10 - 1.3MP Color-only Dome (online $435)
  • IMS0 - Standard Definition Color-only Dome (online $354)

Now, four additional models have been added:

  • IM10DN-E [link no longer available] - 1.3MP Outdoor Dome D/N, IP66/IK10++ (MSRP $1170)
  • IM10DN-V [link no longer available] - 1.3MP Rugged Dome D/N IP56/IK10++ (MSRP $1079)
  • IMS0-E [link no longer available] - SD Outdoor Dome (D/N or Color) IP66/IK10++
  • IMS0-V [link no longer available] - SD Rugged Dome (D/N or Color) IP56/IK10++

A key improvement with the new models is the true D/N stock feature in the MP models (D/N is optional on SD models). However, the IM series continues to lack full frame-rate H.264 at full resolution, and only provides one SKU for a 2.8mm - 10mm integrated lens. 30fps is achievable at 720p but only with MJPEG. At 720p/H.264 the maximum is 12.5fps.

Both varieties of the new models offer impact resistance ratings of IK10++ (note IK10 denotes an impact resistance up to 20 joules; IK10++ denotes 50 joules). The outdoor model features IP66, while the ruggedized model is rated IP56.

A search on our camera finder reveals that online pricing between $650 and $750 is cost competitive for 1.3MP, D/N, IP66, H.264 domes. For example both Sony (SNC-DH160) and ACTi (TCM-7411) produce a model with these features for roughly $650 online. Note that the Pelco -E model features a high impact rating of IK10++, and also offers auto-focus and auto-iris - the ACTi TCM-7411 offers none of these. On the other hand the SNC-DH160 does provide an IK10 rating, built-in IR, and a powered zoom/focus, placing it very high in price/performance. There is currently no online pricing available for the IM10DN-E, but we expect pricing to be quite competitive, around $600 online.

Pelco's higher-end equivalent, the IE10DN-E (online $850) is roughly $250 more in projected cost than the IM10DN-E. The IE version offers interchangeable lenses, on-board storage, auxiliary 24VAC power, i/o for input/relay, and a basic camera sabotage analytic. If these features are not necessary the IM version will present a more cost-effective option still providing key outdoor ratings (IP66) and day/night capability.