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Panasonic BL-C1A Network Camera
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Now reflecting back on a previous review TWL did on the DS207+ from Synology, we downloaded the latest firmware (at the time of this review) and were able to connect to the BL-C1A. This connection allowed us to use the BL-C1A as a surveillance camera and store the video on the DS207+ for later review. The options give us the ability to set recording times and the ability to broadcast the camera through the DS207+ webpage interface. The firmware update for the DS207+ was free and very simple to do. This update took all of 5 minutes and we didn't loose any of the custom settings that were stored on the NAS. This would be ideal for the small businesses that want to run surveillance all hours of the day and don't want to deal with VCRs and VCR tapes that will degrade of time. The DS207+ ability to attach to other storage media, the owner will not be limited to the storage space on the local DS207+ device. The limiting factor with the DS207+ though is it will only support one camera at no cost. If the DS207+ owner wants any more cameras, they will need to purchase a license for the additional cameras.
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Conclusion
The Panasonic BL-C1A is a very feature rich camera with its simplicity of power and network setup and simple menu driven setup menus. The additional compatibility with internet capable cell phones to pull up and view whatever the camera is viewing at that very moment. The addition of integration with the Synology's 207+ with a free firmware upgrade is very handy option for those small business owners who are looking to run a surveillance camera at their place of business at a lower cost that purchasing a full fledge security system when all the user is looking for is just one camera. TWL gives the Panasonic BL-C1A the editor’s choice award for its simplicity and ease of integration with other products on the market without any additional cost.