D-Link launches the Cloud Camera 5000

D-Link has launched the Cloud Camera 5000, which is a new camera aimed squarely at making home surveillance systems easier to set up and monitor. D-Link is attempting to turn mydlink's cloud services into the star feature of this camera, saying that by setting up an account at mydlink, you can view the video your camera is capturing from any internet-connected computer. There are also free Android, iPhone, and iPad apps available for mydlink and the Cloud Camera 5000, with the idea being that you're only ever one log in away from viewing what's going on in your home.

The camera's pan/tilt functionality allows for a 340 degree viewing field, so by setting the camera up in the right place, you can have a good view of pretty much the entire room. You can control the pan and tilt of the camera with the included remote control or through the mydlink portal and mobile app. The Cloud Camera 5000 captures video in 720p and can record up to 15 away in complete darkness thanks to built-in infrared LEDs.

Included is a microSD slot that allows for recording, be it continuous or motion-based. If you choose to go with motion-based recording, you can also set up mydlink to send you email alerts when recording begins. When the microSD card is filled, D-Link says the camera will begin recording over old footage, and you'll be able to access recorded footage from the mydlink portal.

It sounds like a pretty cool camera packed with features that are aimed at ease-of-use, but it isn't going to be cheap. Prices listed for various retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Staples range from $250 up to $300, so be prepared to plop down a significant chunk of change if you want this camera monitoring your home when you're away. Check out some more photos of the camera in our gallery below, and be sure to have a look at our hands-on with the Cloud Camera 5000 if you're interested in buying one!

[via D-Link]