Axis (http://www.axis.com) makes a variety of streaming video camera systems that can be used to monitor not only instruments, but also activities in the laboratory. The two systems being tested in the IUMSC are the Axis 2120 shown to the left, and Axis 2100 cameras. The 2120 has a faster frame rate (30 frames/second) and excellent resolution (720 x 480 pixels). The 2100 offers 10 frames/second with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels.

Both systems have built-in Unix based web servers and interfaces that allow rapid deployment. The image below shows the output from an Axis 2120 unit looking toward the microscopy bench opposite the SMART6000 CCD instrument in the IUMSC.