StarDot 10MP Cameras Examined

•Published Apr 09, 2012 00:00 AM

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The race to higher resolutions continues, now with 10 megapixel entries from Stardot. These new cameras aim to provide increased resolution at prices close to previous 5MP. In this update, we overview Stardot's 10MP models, and compare to low-cost megapixel camera provider Arecont.

Overview

Stardot is offering two models of 10-megapixel camera: the SDH1000VN vandal-resistant outdoor dome, and the SDH1000BN fixed box. These models share the following features:

1/2.3" CMOS image sensor.
True day/night with mechanical IR cut filter.
MJPEG and H.264 (Baseline profile) streaming.
5 FPS at maximum resolution, 10MP (3856 x 2764)
On-camera motion detection.

Stardot's 10MP cameras will be shipping in the Q2 2012, with MSRPs of approximately $1,400 for the SDH1000VN dome, and $1,200 for the SDH1000BN box camera, including megapixel varifocal lens.

Competitive Comparison

Arecont and Sentry360 are the most likely comparisons in the 10MP range, as they offer models with similar featuresets and frame rates. Both Arecont and Stardot use 1/2.3" image sensors, while Sentry360 users 1/2". Avigilon's Pro HD series [link no longer available], similar (or higher) in resolution, uses much larger 35mm imagers, JPEG2000 encoding only, and is not compatible with third-party VMSs.

Compared to Arecont, the Stardot SDH1000BN is moderately more expensive. Based on other models' online and MSRP pricing, the SDH1000BN should have a street price of about $1,000, including lens. The Arecont AV10115DN can be purchased for around $850 online (including ~$200 for a lens). Sentry360 is more expensive than both these options, with an estimated street price around $1,500, though Sentry360 offers machine vision lenses, more expensive than the lens options offered by Arecont and Stardot.

As we've seen in our tests, cameras at these resolutions perform poorly in low-light and wide dynamic settings, and often deliver lower framerates than specified. Users should be aware of these issues, and test these factors before deployment.