We were able to set up the DCS-1000W in about 10 minutes. All network and video settings were done through a somewhat simplified Web-based interface that let us choose between static or DHCP (dynamic host configuration protocol) networking settings. Home users will appreciate support for PPPoE if their broadband ISP restricts them to this protocol. We were able to connect to the camera to make changes and view video from any PC on our network or remote location. We just punched in the camera's IP address into any browser and up popped the video interface and settings control panel. The DCS-1000W even allowed us to configure it to send still images at timed intervals as email attachments to specified email accounts.

The DCS-1000W doesn't offer the greatest quality in terms of video clarity and compression. In fact, even at the best resolution (640x480), it was a poor camera compared to PC-dependent Web cameras at a quarter of its $499 price. In our testing we noticed that 20 fps looked more like 5 fps to 7 fps and the camera's video compression limited the video quality considerably -- particularly when mounting the camera to shoot long hallways and areas with more than the average amount of depth. Video-streaming quality was comparable to Internet streaming video circa 1998. Still the resolution was acceptable for basic security and close-up video.

Most intermediate users will find the configuration tools to be straightforward, but those with less networking experience may have trouble with the networking language and information. If you're not up to the task, we recommend a regular Web camera that costs less.

Pros: 802.11b wireless networking without a PC; still-image capture and email autosending.

Cons: Not the best image quality we've seen; the camera is very big and very expensive.

Company: D-Link
Price: $499
Available: Now
Specs: 802.11b wireless networking; RJ45 Ethernet port; CMOS VGA Sensor (640x480 resolution at 24-bit RGB color); shutter speed: 1/50 ~ 1/15000 sec; auto white balance; video resolutions: 160x120, 320x240, or 640x480; five level compression rate; frame rate: 1, 5, 7, 15, 20 or Auto (depends on video format); brightness, contrast, and hue control.