W B Shillington The security cameras I’ve previously reviewed have been independent devices capable of sending notifications to a cellphone when its motion detector became active. Video could be recorded in either SD or HD. The new HeimVision Assure B1 provides more comprehensive coverage. It consists of a base station that controls and receives data from up to four wi-fi-connected cameras. Video may be recorded in HD or FHD.
Description
This system is comprised of a base station, one security camera, an ethernet cable, two micro-USB to USB cables, an AC power block, and a camera mount. If required, up to three additional cameras may be added. The base unit is 3.5 inches wide, 1.6 inches high, and 2.1 inches deep. A micro-USB port on the right-hand side serves as its power input. A micro-SD slot and an ethernet port are located at the front. When first plugged in, a power indicator illuminates and, within 30 seconds, a green wi-fi symbol should appear. Four additional LEDs denote the status of the connected cameras. Each security camera is 2.8 inches high, 2.8 inches wide, and 1.6 inches deep. The back can be removed, accommodating the insertion of four AA batteries. Rechargeable batteries are recommended. A screw socket located at the bottom of the camera allows this device to be attached to a mount. Alongside the socket is a flap that, when removed, reveals a micro-USB port. This input can be used to recharge the camera’s batteries. The camera’s front panel contains a lens, a blue LED that illuminates when the camera is active, four infrared lights used for night vision, a microphone, and a spotlight. Below, a dome conceals the device’s PIP motion detector. A speaker grill is located on the right side of the unit. This device can be reset or paired by pressing a button located at the top of the camera.
Specifications
The Manufacturer
HeimVision is a subsidiary of China-headquartered Vantop Technology & Innovations. This company focuses focus on the design and manufacture of smart home-related equipment such as security camera systems. If you require more information on the Assure B1 Security camera, please check out this link to the product at Indiegogo.
Resolution
This camera can operate in either HD or FHD. High Definition refers to a resolution of 1,280 x 720 pixels. Full High Definition delivers a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels. Typically an Assure B1 camera would be set to FHD mode. The High-Definition option, however, can be useful in areas where the wi-fi signal is weak. It is less demanding of bandwidth.
Viewing Area
Each Assure B1 camera offers a 130-degree field of view. The associated mount can be adjusted to point the camera in pretty much any direction.
Nighttime Operation
Four infrared LEDs provide enough light to illuminate an 18-foot area forward of the camera. These cameras are also equipped with a small spotlight that can be activated to assist in illumination and provide color.
Motion Detection
A Passive Infrared (PIR) system, at its most basic, incorporates a pyroelectric sensor that can detect levels of infrared radiation. In this application, the infrared signal picked up by each half of the pyroelectric sensor is canceled by the signal received by the other. However, if someone were to wander within range of this sensor, the infrared radiation produced by their body would first register on one half of the pyroelectric sensor, causing an imbalance and triggering an alarm.
The HeimSmart Application
This software is used to set up and control the security system. When a camera detects motion, a notification is sent to the associated phone. The application also supports voice communication between the phone and connected cameras.
Storage
Video produced by the cameras may be stored within the cloud. I chose the alternate method, installing a 128G micro-SD card into the base station’s slot.
Performance Test
I mounted the camera at the far end of my twenty-foot-long front porch. Although I tested this system in both HD and FHD I found that it worked more reliably in High Definition. This was due to poor wi-fi reception within my front porch. I expect that once I install a wi-fi extender, the FHD resolution will prove more dependable. I noticed a slight time lapse between an action occurring in front of the camera and this event’s reflection on the phone’s screen. The length of this delay depends entirely on the speed and strength of the wi-fi system in use. Motion detection worked well, providing a warning notification and a snapshot of each event. HD video was acceptable, although FHD resolution proved clearer and provided better detail.
Overall Impression
This security system is remarkably flexible, reasonably priced, and delivers Full-High-Definition video. It can handle up to four cameras equipped with motion detection, infrared lighting, and a spotlight. To ensure these cameras remain charged, they can be connected to a compatible solar panel. If you are looking for a security system with the ability to add additional cameras, the HeimVision Assure B1 Security Camera should be on your shortlist. This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional. © 2021 Walter Shillington
