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Affected Roles: Administrator, Owner
Related Digital Watchdog VMS Apps: DW Spectrum® IPVMS
Complexity: Medium to High
Firmware Version: vS2.2.1_20210319 or newer
Last Edit: February 3, 2022
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The MEGApix® Flex™ (DWC-PVX16W) camera features four (4) individual 4 MP CMOS sensors that can be set up to offer a 180°~360° panoramic view over an area. When installing this camera, it is recommended to occupy all four (4) of the Sensor Module Base Guides, especially for Channel-1. If a Sensor Module fails or is not connected to the Channel-1 Base Guide, the camera may experience operational issues and video issues.
This article will outline how to assemble the lens Sensor Modules and how to mount the camera using a mounting bracket.
**NOTE: For more detailed instructions, please refer to the MEGApix® Flex™ Quick Setup Guide or User Manual.
When planning to install a MEGApix Flex panoramic camera, it is wise to consider the lens module angle, lens size, and the height of the mounting point.
To achieve a 360° view for the camera, the recommended installation height for the camera is relative to the size of the lenses. Because larger lens sizes create a more magnified/zoomed-in view, a larger lens size means the camera must be installed up higher to achieve a the same FOV width as if it were using a smaller lens size.
Use the table below for reference:
|
Lens Model # |
Lens Size |
Recommended Height |
|
DWC-PVXLMOD28 |
2.8mm |
12 ft ~ 14 ft |
|
DWC-PVXLMOD4 |
4mm |
16 ft ~ 18 ft |
|
DWC-PVXLMOD6 |
6mm |
20 ft ~ 22 ft |
|
DWC-PVXLMOD8 |
8mm |
24 ft ~ 26 ft |
Image: The image above is representative of a DWC-PVX16W camera that was mounted at a height of 7 feet from the ground. Note that the larger lens sizes result in a more magnified image.
When adding Sensor Modules to the MEGApix® Flex™, it is important that the camera uses all four (4) Sensor Module connections. Using fewer lenses can compromise the camera’s operation, creating issues with installing firmware updates or streaming issues.
**NOTE: The Channel-1 Base Guide must have a Sensor Module Block installed at all times for the camera to operate. If there is no lens detected for the camera’s Channel-1 connection, the camera will not stream video.
The MEGApix® Flex™ panoramic camera can be customized to use up to four (4) fixed lenses (2.8mm, 4.0mm, 6.0mm, or 8.0mm) to create up to a 360° panoramic view (depending on how the lens modules are positioned).
To assemble Sensor Modules for the MEGApix® Flex™:
Remove the camera’s dome cover and align the four (4) bolts and the arrow of the Sensor Module Block to match the guide points of the Base Guide.
Repeat this as necessary until all four (4) Base Guides are each occupied by a lens Sensor Module Block.
**NOTE: The Channel-1 Base Guide must have a Sensor Module Block installed at all times for the camera to operate. If there is no lens detected for the camera’s Channel-1 connection, the camera will not stream video.
Align each of the modules so that each lens is directed to point outward from the middle of the camera to create maximum area coverage.
DO NOT tilt the lens angle at more than a 60° angle to avoid creating critical image distortion and focus issues.
The MEGApix® Flex™ hardware accessories include mounting brackets that can have a camera attached and secured with only a few steps. Most cameras can be installed by affixing the camera directly to the ceiling or wall using the provided template and screws. However if you require some guidance with using the mounting bracket, you may use the instructions below.
**NOTE: If your mounting bracket does not have a safety wire for the camera or does not have grooves to lock the camera to the mount, you may be using an older bracket model.
To mount the DWC-PVX16W using a mounting bracket:
Additionally, mark and drill another hole into the mounting surface through which the camera’s cable connections can be made.
Make all necessary cable connections (i.e. power, network connection, etc.) for the camera.
Once all cables are connected, align the wedge (on the side of the camera) with the wedge on the mounting bracket then rotate the camera clockwise to lock the camera in position and to secure it to the mounting bracket.
**NOTE: If you are using an older mounting bracket model that does not feature the wedge-lock, secure the camera to the mounting bracket using the included mounting screws.
