Mobotix 7 Line Camera Tested

By Rob Kilpatrick and Derek Ward, Published Mar 12, 2020, 10:25am EDT (Research)

******* ** ********** * ****-******,********** *** *****, **** ********* ******** **** ****, ******* ** ****** *** ****** *** ********** ****** ***** ***.

** ********* ** ***, ***** **** Mobotix's *********** ******* *** ** ************ modules *** ****** ******* ** ****** from****************.

******, ** ****** *** ********* *********:

  • *** **** ** ********* ** *** 7 **** ** ******** *** ** its ******* ************?
  • *** ** ******* ** ***, *****, and *** ***** ******* ** ***** 4K ******?
  • *** **** *** *** *********** *******?
  • *** **** **** *** ******'* ** perform ******* ****** ******* ***** ***** sources **** ** ****, *******, *** foliage?
  • **** ********/*** ***** ** ******** *** detection?
  • *** **** **** *** *** ********* with ***** ***** *****?

*******

*** *** ********* ****** ** ******** areas, **** ****** ***** ******* **** competitive **** *** ********* ******* ** full *****, *** *****, *** **** with **, **** *** ***********, *** radically ****** ********* *********** ********** ** night.

************, *** *** **** ** ********* in *** ***** (**** ** ******, integrated ** ***********, ***** *******, ***.), taking ************* ****** **** ********* *** other ***********.

*******, *******'* **** **************** ** *** suffered **** ***** ****** ** ******* and ****. *** ******** **-********* *** app *** *** ****** **** ***** alerts. **** ********* **** **** ** accurately ****** ****** *******, ********, *******, and ********* **********, ******* ***** ****** on ***** ****** *******.

New ******** ******

***** **** ******* *** **** ******** for ****** *** ******* **** ** the '*********' ******** *** ******** ** February, ***** **** ******** ******* ** these ********, ******* **** ******* ********* firmware *** ** ** ********, ******* for ***** ** ***** ** ******* WDR, ****************, *** *** ***********.

*******

******* *** **** **** *** ****** or ******** ******* *** **** **********. For *** ****, ** ********* * 4K *** ****, ** **° ***/***** sensor, *** **°-**° ** *********** *** ~$1,450 *** ******.

**** ** ****** ****** *** ***** of **** *********** ** *****, **** as *** **-*********-****, ***** ***** *** ~$750 *** ******. ************, ****' ****** performing *****-**, *** ** *** **** expensive ****** ** ***** ****, ** only ********** **** ********* **** *** M73 ** ~*,***-*,*** ***.

Camera ********

*** ** *** ***'* ******* ******, setup ** **** ******* *** ****-********* than ******* ******* ***** ****** ******* the ****** ** ** *******. ***** time **** ** ******** ** ***** and ******** *** ******'* ******* ******* that **** **********. ** ****** ***** issues ** **** *****:

Weak **** ***** *******

** ****-*** ******, *** ******* *** produced ********** ****** ******* **** *********** 4K *******, ***** *****, **** ********** compression *********.

****** *******, ******* ******** **** **** clear, ***** *** ******* ** ***** recognizable ** *** **** *** ********* cameras.

Weaker *** ***** ******* (~* ***)

** *** ***** *****, ~* *** at ~**' ********, *** ******* *** is ********** ******* **** *** ***** and ****** **** *********'* ***** ****** 4K, ********** ***** *******.

Dark/IR ************ (~* ***)

** * **** ***** **** ** illumination **, *** ***'* *********** ** noticeably ****** ** *** ***** **** in *** ****** ** *** ***, though ******** *** ***** ************.

**** ~**' ****, ** ************ ** the *** ** **** ** ** issue, *** ***** ** ********** **** that ******** *** *******'* **** *** characters ***** **** ** *** **** chart.

** **** **** ***** (~**'* ********), the *** ****** *** *** *******'* face *** **** *****. ***** *** no "*****" ** ******** ** ******** on *** *** ** ********** *** overexposure ** ***** ******, **** ** or ***.

Wide ******* *****

** *** *** *****, *** *** compensated *** ****** ***** ****, *** the **** ******** ****** ** ** difficult ** ********** *******.

**** *** **** ****** *** *** subject ********, *** *** *** ***** to ***** ******** *** *** ******* brightness, *** *** ******** *********** ******* dark, ******* ** ******* ******* ** he ***** ******* *** ****.

**** *** ******* *** *** ********* DS-2CD5585G0-IZHS ******* ********* ** * *** motion *****, **** ******-*** ******* ******* backlight *** **** ****** ** *** indoor ******* ** *** *****, ******** to *** *****-** ***** ******** ***** images ** **** *****.

People ******** ******** *******, ********, **********

****** ******* ** **** **************** *** AI-Intrusion ***, ****** **** ******** ******** Running, ********, *** **********.

Common ****** ******* ** ***** ****** *******

** *** *****, **** **************** *** AI-Intrusion *** ******* ****** ***** ****** such ** ***** ***** *******.

**** ********* **** ******* ******* ****** throughout *** *****.

MXActivitySensor ***** ****** ** ***** ****, **-********* *** *******

*** ** *** **** ****** ******* of ***** ******, ***** ****, *** alerted ** ** ****************, **-********* *** ignored *** **** ** *** *****.

Swaying ******* *** ******* *******

**** **************** *** **-********* *** ******* swaying ******* *** *** ******* **** produced ** *** *****.

MXActivity ***** ****** ** *******, **-********* *** *******

******* ** *** ********** ** *** scene **** ******* ** ** **************** but ******* ** **-********* ***.

Both ********* ***** ***** ** *** ***** ***********

*** ********** ************ ******* ** *** scene ******** ***** ****** ** **** MxActivitySensor *** **-********* ***.

Size **********

*** ******* *** *** * ***** design, ********* **** *** ******* **** and ****** **** ******. **** *******, the *** ** ******** ****** **** a ****-**** ****. ***** ** * side-by-side ********** ** *** *** **** to *** ********* **-*********-**** **** *** Axis *****-** ******.

VMS ***********

*.*** ********* *** ************* ****** ******** in ********, *******, *********, *** ******* Optix. ********* ** ***** *** * max ** *****. *.*** *** *** work ** *** *** ******.

**************** ****** **** ******* *********, ******* in *** ***** *** ******* *****. AI-Intrusion *** *** ********** **** ** Genetec *** *********.

Bandwidth **********

*** ***'* ********* ********* *********** *** very ****, **** ***** ** ****** 30 **/* *** *.*** **** ******, over ** **/*. **** ***** *** rate ** ******, **** *.* **** using *.***, *** ***** ** *.* Mbps, * ~**% **********.

*** ***'* ******** **** *** ******* of ** ******* ** **** ******, above **** ** *** **** *****-** (highest *** **** @ ~* ****), Hikvision **-*********-**** (******* *** **** @ ~4 ****), *** ******** *** (******* bit **** @ ~*.* ****).

Made ** *******

*** ******* *** *** **** ** Germany.

Test ***********

***** ******** **** ************ ***** *** models ******:

  • ******* ***** *** *** ** * maximum ** */*** / ****.
  • *** *** *** ****** ************ ****** out ** ***** "**".

*** ****** ******** ******* *** **** at *** **** ** *******: *.*.*.**.

Comments (25)

John Honovich

IPVM | 03/12/20 02:26pm

I spoke with Mobotix's CEO yesterday after we previewed these results.

He provided context about Mobotix's future and plans for this line. He said they have a long-term plan where they will continue to improve and expand, emphasizing that they have the full support of Konica Minolta. In particular, he mentioned that they have hired ~150 people in the last 2 years and are continuing to staff up their engineering team.

So long as Konica Minolta supports them and they understand that developing surveillance cameras in 2020 requires significant ongoing R&D investment, which he says they do, they have a chance to significantly improve and be competitive. Whether they do so, of course, is to be seen.

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 11
Unhelpful
Funny

Undisclosed #1

03/12/20 02:47pm

I'm not the only one who sees it, right?

Agree
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny: 28

Undisclosed Integrator #2

In reply to Undisclosed #1 | 03/12/20 02:49pm

I wonder if the companies consider things like this when designing.

Imagine if a camera looked like it had angry eyebrows or was about to vomit.

Agree: 2
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny

Undisclosed Integrator #5

In reply to Undisclosed Integrator #2 | 03/12/20 09:16pm

I can tell you that the Swedes are extremely concerned with the lines of their cameras - haven’t been there lately but it wouldn’t surprise me to find a few polishing their Jony Ive accents.. (this is not criticism as aesthetics are an important consideration for any customer with an architect involved)

Agree
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny
Avatar

Brian Rhodes

IPVMU Certified | In reply to Undisclosed #1 | 03/12/20 02:53pm

Mobotix is from Germany, not a biker bar.

Agree: 1
Disagree: 1
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny: 5

Jeremy Ellis

03/12/20 02:57pm

I know some great people that work for this company, so it’s hard to talk badly about this product, but...

The “improvements” are always promised in the next release. How about you just fully bake it before rushing to market?

Agree: 10
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny

John Honovich

IPVM | In reply to Jeremy Ellis | 03/12/20 03:03pm

Jeremy, that is my gut feeling. I think the challenge for them is that they feel pressure to get something out. It's a catch-22. Release it early, it has problems, people are mad. Don't it release it, people are mad that nothing is out.

Agree: 7
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny

Joe Byron

In reply to Jeremy Ellis | 03/12/20 04:09pm

Hi Jeremy:

I appreciate your comments and believe that you’re making a valid point. We are doing our best to remain on schedule with our products to satisfy the needs of the MOBOTIX partners.

The release of the M73 was on an entirely new platform that we are very enthusiastic about as we look toward our future. In addition, we have communicated that there will be additional software updates to follow in Q1 and Q2 2020.

Please see the feature update information below that would more clearly address the outcome from the test results:

- WDR Improvements: In parallel with the communication from our customers, we recommend updating the WDR feature firmware release (7.0.3.x) which will be released on March 23, 2020.

- Smart/Adaptive IR: The upcoming WDR release will compensate for the overexposure at a close range.

- MxActivitySensor: As an fyi, this is not an AI app, this is more of a classic MOBOTIX analytics feature. The MxAnalytics AI with Deep Learning Object Recognition will follow with a FW update on March 23rd. This will reduce the false alerts found in MxActivitySensor significantly.

- H.265: This is not yet enabled in the firmware but will be included in a firmware update on the 30th of April, including ONVIF Profile T compliance.

Agree: 3
Disagree
Informative: 6
Unhelpful
Funny
Avatar

Kyle Folger

IPVMU Certified | 03/12/20 03:44pm

I guess it's always been easy to make fun of the Mobotix appearance, I guess due to having "Unique Quality." However, from watching the assembly video, there are many more things to note. It seems you pay more for the opportunity to build your own camera. Why the cable whip? Couldn't they just copy Axis where you don't need some custom-fit locking whip to be able to lock in and seal? Why don't they offer a preassembled option with the modules of your choosing at the time of order? I looked at the brochure and I'm not sure of the reasoning for offering a color option, when the only difference is a small trim piece. There doesn't appear to be a way to mount to a standard electrical box.

From this test, it seems one could pay a little bit more and get the Q1798-LE with better video quality, a varifocal lens, fully assembled, and featuring a punch block for termination of installed cable. The whip in the axis camera makes a little more sense to me. I'm leaving analytics out of the equation and I realize the Axis doesn't provide for an optional camera/speaker module.

That being said, I'm sure the build quality is solid. I do like flexible options in cameras, but I prefer those options to be in addition to common camera features such as IR and lens...Though, I could see the advantage if the camera imager failed; you could then easily swap it out at that point.

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful
Funny

Undisclosed #3

In reply to Kyle Folger | 03/12/20 03:47pm

It seems you pay more for the opportunity to build your own camera.

Kramer?

Agree
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny: 5

Joe Byron

In reply to Kyle Folger | 03/12/20 05:43pm

Hi Kyle:

Yes, other manufacturers allow you to use your own RJ-45 cables but the reasoning behind implementing the cable whip was the avoid an elevated risk of water ingress. Regarding your modular design question, we certainly could sell pre-assembled products but there would end up being be a large module combination factor to consider, including the ones that we have yet to release. Also, any pre-assembled models would eliminate the flexibility of swapping out modules (post-installation) as you’ve already pointed out. Many of our longtime MOBOTIX partners find that the ability to choose the exact module combination to fit their needs from the start with the ability to swap out later, is a big benefit and it sets us apart from other manufacturers.

Agree: 1
Disagree
Informative: 2
Unhelpful
Funny
Avatar

Kyle Folger

IPVMU Certified | In reply to Joe Byron | 03/12/20 07:20pm

Thanks. I'm just wondering how you attach conduit to the base and then what to do with the whip. Thus far, I haven't had an issue with the rubber ring grommet with the push-through fitting allowing the use of any pre-terminated patch cable or premise wiring. I don't necessarily think this design is the worst or anything, but I do like options and the report stated using a custom cable didn't lock well and didn't fit tightly.

When I was mentioning pre-assembled options, I wasn't suggesting options that removed the modular flexibility. I was suggesting that it would be an option at the time of order. For instance, I can order a Dell PC with an SSD or an HDD and have required software options setup before arrival. I can also order an iPad with DEP setup so it's easy to quickly add to your MDM solution. This option would be more for a time savings so there would be minimal setup. I like building PCs, but it's more efficient for me to get a pre-configured one with the options I need. Desktop machines, for the most part, are still modular.

I do like the modular aspect of the product as long as the part is available years down the road. This can extend the life of the product if/when new technology becomes available.

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful
Funny

Joe Byron

In reply to Kyle Folger | 03/12/20 11:14pm

Hi Kyle: You bring up a great point as I had an internal discussion where we could easily create an interconnection box as an accessory. I can get back to you with further details. With respect to the pre-assembled options, the time savings at the time of order is critical, especially when you are installing a number of cameras and every one needs some sort of customization. We call it "kitting" and currently we don't offer that type of service at MOBOTIX but at least one of our distributors does. It would be interesting to understand how much of a need this is within the MOBOTIX partner community and thanks for brining it up!

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 3
Unhelpful
Funny

Undisclosed Integrator #4

03/12/20 05:41pm

I've had a little hands on with the MOBOTIX M73 and from the little testing I have done, I have been impressed with the image quality and performance of the product. I look forward to getting a unit in the future and really see how far we can push it!

As a MOBOTIX VAR, I'm glad they released the M73 series as it may fill more surveillance applications & offers edge AI/Deep Learning for our clients. We're looking forward to the future development of the line.

Agree: 3
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful
Funny

Joe Byron

03/12/20 05:52pm

Thanks for that feedback Integrator #4. As stated previously on another reply, the release of the M73 was on an entirely new platform that we are very enthusiastic about as we look toward our future, especially with applications outside of "traditional" security surveillance.

Agree: 2
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful
Funny
Avatar

Martin Naylor

CameraControlUK
03/12/20 07:24pm

Joe, having used Mobotix cameras for over 10 years I am astounded they still insist in the stupid pre-made proprietary RJ-45 plug/tail. We have more issues with water ingress using these connections as the flying end needs to go in a joint box with a coupler introducing a further point of failure. Never have water ingress problems with the likes of Axis.
Mobotix suggest using their own MX-Overvoltage-Protection-Box-LS at additional cost with a simple rubber gland that is difficult to mount within the camera bracket.
Raising this issue with several personal at Mobotix goes nowhere, once someone suggested a special crimping tool would be made available, as usual with Mobotix they talk about a great feature but never release it.

Agree: 1
Disagree
Informative: 5
Unhelpful
Funny

Joe Byron

In reply to Martin Naylor | 03/12/20 11:28pm

Hi Martin: You are correct in stating that we did have water ingress issues in years past with the RJ-45 plug/tail, however, the issues have been going down with every new release we made from Mx12 series to Mx6. The OVP box at 49€ is cheaper than most over voltage protection devices in the market and is additionally sealing the cable at both ends. Bottom line is that we'd like to solve your water ingress challenges for you and I invite you to contact us as soon as possible so we can assist you.

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 2
Unhelpful
Funny

John Richardson

03/12/20 09:23pm

What sort of frame rates can be achieved in 4K MXPEG vs H264? Can you measure any significant decoding performance difference between the two?

Agree
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny

Joe Byron

In reply to John Richardson | 03/13/20 01:08am

Hi John: The max 4K Frame rate (also available on our data sheet) is 20 FPS for MxPeg and 30 FPS for H.264. In addition, H.265 will be made available by April 30th.

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful: 1
Funny

John Honovich

IPVM | 03/12/20 09:48pm

Note: The bandwidth results are very concerning, even among the many issues of this camera.

First, we had a typo in the bandwidth chart that said 'H.265' but was meant to say 'MxPEG', revised chart below:

That night time bandwidth is very concerning. It's been years since such extreme night time spikes were common but 30 to 50Mb/s streams could seriously cause storage problems.

Agree: 6
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny
Avatar

Jon Dillabaugh

Pro Focus LLC
In reply to John Honovich | 03/14/20 01:04pm

I think you still have a typo 😱

50mbit? From an IP camera? In 2020?

Agree
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny: 3

Julien ROMANO

03/17/20 08:00am

I'm 10 years Mobotix Dealer, that was my only cam product because reliable. Expensive but reliable. Easy to use I/O, http request, API etc.

But for client, no iOS app and buggy software on desktop PC

We use to take a loooong time supp to configure : 1/2 day per cam, to config Activity sensor, SD card, update after first tests, etc

BUT on my last client to protect, 3 Mx16 trigger too much on false alarm (shadow) : Mobotix support said I can't do it more with this product.

I've switched to Avigilon, more expensive, but more easy : iOS App, etc.

For me M7x need several semesters (or years) to have compétitive IA.

PS: A lot of IA App will be a supp cost.

Agree: 1
Disagree
Informative
Unhelpful
Funny

Undisclosed Integrator #6

03/17/20 09:25am

I have to say that I feel you’ve missed quite a few improvements against the Mx6 series...

• lower barrier to entry - skill set and initial training overhead is much lower than comparable former M series

• WDR built in - technician needs less understanding to configure WDR when compared to previous versions using exposure windows

• the build issues you encountered are no real difference from assembling previous series - you get used to lining up the notches etc

There’s a way to go but I feel that this is a good step forward for Mobotix

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 2
Unhelpful
Funny

Undisclosed End User #7

05/08/20 03:49am

fyi: looks like there's new firmware release (Release Notes for MOBOTIX Camera Software) that supposedly improves WDR

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful
Funny

John Honovich

IPVM | In reply to Undisclosed End User #7 | 05/08/20 11:20pm

#7, thanks for sharing! At some point, we may retest this. Right now, we are really focused on 'fever' cameras and well, I assume Mobotix is as well, given their non-stop marketing of it.

Agree
Disagree
Informative: 1
Unhelpful
Funny
Subscribe to IPVM Research to read the full report.
Why do I need to subscribe?
The IPVM Research Service includes products tests and shootouts plus competitive and financial analysis, helping decision-makers better evaluate purchasing, partnering, developing, and/or competing against companies in physical security.
Already have an account?
Loading Related Reports