Introducing the Amcrest 5MP Bullet Camera IP8M-2496EB-V2

Bullet Camera is a high-performance security camera designed for outdoor surveillance. Featuring a 5MP resolution, it delivers crystal-clear video quality and enhanced night vision capabilities, allowing for reliable monitoring even in low-light conditions. Its durable, weatherproof design ensures longevity, making it suitable for various environments. With Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality, installation is simplified. Priced at approximately $79.99, it offers excellent value for comprehensive security needs.

Specifications 

• Resolution: 5 Megapixels (2592x1944)
• Field of View: 103° Horizontal, 54° Vertical
• Night Vision: Up to 98 feet with 30 IR LEDs
• Weather Resistance: IP67 Rated
• Connectivity: RJ45 Ethernet Port, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)
• Storage: Supports up to 128GB MicroSD Card
• Motion Detection: Adjustable Sensitivity and Alerts
• Power: DC 12V, 1A

Overview

Amcrest provides an excellent digital surveillance product that can be useful to a wide variety of users. This 4K bullet camera features the latest JS technology which allows the camera to operate in any web browser without the use of a plugin.
This camera adopts a high-quality design to achieve high levels of reliability and security. It can be configured to work locally, as well as on a network. This camera works using a POE connection and interfaces with most networks through the Ethernet port of your router.

Features

This camera has the following features:

• Network Access
  The camera can be accessed remotely from a wide variety of internet connected devices, including PCs, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.
• Cloud Storage Functionality
  Amcrest offers premium cloud storage options to enable long-term storage. Amcrest Cloud also allows the user to easily locate and view recordings for playback from any internet connected computer or smartphone (iOS/Android).
• Advanced Network Protocol Support
  This camera is UPnP compatible, and includes functionality for use with DDNS, and other protocols to allow remote and local connection with a large variety of network hardware.

Device Overview

The diagram below shows the camera’s profile and cable connections.

Please refer to the following chart for information about the camera and its ports. Please see below for detailed diagram of the camera’s physical features.

1. Ethernet Port 
   Provides POE power and data to the camera.
2. Power 
   Provides a secondary power option for the camera if you do not want to operate on POE.

Description

The Amcrest 5MP Bullet Camera IP8M-2496EB-V2 is built with durability in mind, featuring a metal body that is IP67 rated for weather resistance. The camera's 5-megapixel sensor captures detailed images and videos, while the 30 IR LEDs provide effective night vision. It supports both wired and wireless connectivity, making installation flexible. The camera also includes features like motion detection and alerts, ensuring you stay informed about any activity around your property.

Connection & Installation

This section provides information about the connection and installation of your camera.

Connection Guide 
The camera initially should be connected via the following method: 
In addition to connecting the camera to a computer, the camera can also be connected to a power source, by connecting the power cable to both a power outlet, and the camera.

Note: If the camera is using a PoE (Power over Ethernet) connection, DO NOT connect the camera to a power source, otherwise this can result in a major malfunction.

Installation Guide 
Follow the steps and use the diagram in this section to install the POE cameras.

Note: Prior to installation ensure that the installation environment can support at least 3 times the weight of the camera.

1. Stick the installation sticker on the designated surface where the device will be installed (wall or ceiling).
2. Drill 4 holes through the holes on the installation sticker.
3. Open the accessories bag and take out the expansion bolt and insert it into the holes.
4. Open accessories bag and take out the screws. Tighten the 4 screws to fix the device on the installation surface (wall or ceiling).
5. Loosen the sunshade screw to move it around to the desired position, then tighten the screw to lock it into place.
6. Plug in the camera to power it, using either an Ethernet or power cable.
7. Using a Philip’s head screwdriver, (not included) loosen the adjusting screw near the base of the camera. This allows the camera to be rotated, as well as pivoted within the ball joint.
8. Adjust the device to the desired position.

Camera Access Setup
This section will provide information on how to setup and access your camera through the following methods:

• Local PC (Web User Interface (Web UI), Amcrest Surveillance Pro, etc.)
• Amcrest View Pro app
• Amcrest Surveillance Pro
• Amcrest Cloud

Default Username and Password
To login to the system for the first time, use one of the following default username/password combinations. Once you have successfully logged in, it is highly recommended to change the password for security reasons.

• Username: admin
• Password: admin

How to Setup the Camera

To make your experience with your Amcrest camera easy and simple, we've provided multiple ways to set up, view, and operate your camera depending on your needs. Please follow the instructions on this page to set up your camera in the way that works best for you.

Setting up Your Camera for the First Time

If you are setting up your camera for the first time, or you are setting up your camera for mobile viewing. 
Using the Amcrest Cloud app or Amcrest View app on your smartphone or tablet, you can view your camera live from anywhere, and access features such as taking snapshots, creating recordings, and more.

For Configuring Advanced Settings on Your Camera 
If you would like to configure your camera to enable advanced features such as motion direction, e-mail alerts, FTP, image adjustments, scheduling and more.

For Cloud Storage and Playback 
Amcrest Cloud is our optional premium cloud storage solution which allows you to access recorded footage from any device. We offer free storage plans as well as continuous recording and motion detection storage plans. For more information on Amcrest Cloud please visit https://amcrest.com/cloud 

For Quick Web Access to Your Cameras 
https://AmcrestView.com is a web portal that allows you to view your cameras and recordings quickly and easily from anywhere in the world using a web browser. Use https://AmcrestView.com  if you need to simply check-in at a moment's notice. If you would like to use.

App Setup 
Amcrest cameras can be used on your mobile device using the following apps:

• Amcrest Cloud
• Amcrest View Pro

Both apps are free and available in the App Store and Google Play store. Please note, each app requires an iOS 6.0 or later version. Android will require a 3.0 or later version OS to run these apps.

For purposes of this guide, we will use iOS, though both apps. The App Interface may differ slightly from the screenshots below as updates are released. Below, you'll find instructions on how to set up your camera up on the Amcrest cloud app as well as the Amcrest View Pro app.

Amcrest Cloud App Setup
Amcrest Cloud allows you to access your device from anywhere in the world. Please note, you will need an Amcrest Cloud account to proceed with Amcrest Cloud app setup. You can register for a cloud account in the Amcrest Cloud app or from the Amcrest Cloud website at https://amcrestcloud.com 

• Please make sure your camera is plugged into a power source and your Ethernet cable is connected from the camera to your router.
• Make sure your camera and mobile device are on the same network during setup.
• To ensure the camera connects to the cloud, a reboot of your camera is recommended.

To add your camera onto the Amcrest Cloud app, follow these steps:

1. Download and open the Amcrest Cloud app from the App Store or Play Store.
   Note: Connect your mobile device to the same network that your camera is on.
2. Register for an Amcrest Cloud account. To register click on Sign Up and fill out the form to complete registration.
3. Tap on Add Camera

4. Give your camera a name (Ex. Garage, Living Room, Kitchen, etc.) and tap Next to continue.

   

5. Scan the QR code on the back/side/bottom of the camera or manually enter the camera’s serial number into the Enter camera S/N (serial number) field. Press Next to continue. 

6. If you are adding a new camera that does not have a set password the app will automatically detect that a new camera is being added. Tap OK to proceed.

   

7. Set a new password for your camera. The password must be between 8 to 32 characters long and contain only letters and numbers. When you have finished setting the password for your camera, enter the password again in the Confirm Camera Password section. Tap Next to continue.

8. Confirm and adjust any needed settings for your camera. When all settings have been confirmed, tap Finish.

   

Setup

The Setup tab allows the user to change different camera settings. Below is a screenshot of the setup tab:

There are 3 main sections to note in the Setup tab:

1. Menu Bar: The menu bar is composed of menu sections, which when clicked display any menu items that fall under their category.
2. Menu Items: These menu items each open a different menu that allows the user to change specific settings for the camera.
3. Menu Tab: These tabs open menu options for certain menu items.

Camera
This menu section allows the user to change different camera settings for video and to manage image profiles.

Configuration

This menu allows the user to configure image profiles for normal, day, and night usage.

Below is a screenshot that shows the Configuration tab in the Configuration menu item:

Below is an explanation for each of the fields on the Configuration tab in the Configuration menu item:

Picture 

• Profile: This dropdown box allows the user to select which profile to modify. The 3 options are Day, Night, and Normal.
• Brightness: This slider is used to adjust live view and recorded video window brightness. The value ranges from 0 to 100. The default value is 50. The larger the number, the brighter the video is. When you input the value here, the bright section and the dark section of the video will be adjusted accordingly. You can use this function when the whole video is too dark or too bright. Please note the video may become hazy if the value is too high. The recommended value ranges from 40 to 60.
• Contrast: This slider is used to adjust window contrast. The value ranges from 0 to 100. The default value is 50. The larger the number is, the higher the contrast is. You can use this function when the whole video brightness is OK but the contrast is not correct. Please note the video may become hazy if the value is too low. If this value is too high, the dark section may lack brightness while the bright section may overexpose. The recommended value ranges from 40 to 60.
• Saturation: This slider is used to adjust video window saturation. The value ranges from 0 to 100. The default value is 50. The larger the number, the stronger the color is. This value has no effect on the general brightness of the whole video. The video color may become too strong if the value is too high. For the grey part of the video, distortion may occur if the white balance is not accurate. Please note the video may not be clear if the value is too low. The recommended value ranges from 40 to 60.
• Sharpness: This slider is used to adjust the sharpness of the video. The value ranges from 0 to 100. The larger the value is, the clearer the edges are and vice versa. 
  Note: The higher the value, the higher likelihood of picture noise occurring. The default value is 50 and the recommended value ranges from 40 to 60.
• Gamma: This slider is used to adjust the gamma of the video. The larger the number, the brighter the video is. The default value is 50 and the recommended value ranges from 40 to 60.
• Mirror: This radio button allows the user to turn the mirroring feature on or off. Turning mirroring on will mirror the picture.
• Flip: This dropdown box allows the user to flip the video feed picture. Flipping the picture is recommended only if the camera is mounted upside down.
• To reset to default settings, click the Reset Defaults button. To refresh the screen, click on Refresh. To save the settings, click the Save button.

Exposure
This menu allows the user to select the exposure type for the video feed.

Below is a screenshot of the exposure menu:

• Profile: This dropdown box allows the user to select which profile to modify. The 3 options are Day, Night, and Normal.
• Anti-Flicker: These options allow the user to select what type of anti-flicker technology should be used for the video feed. The three options are 50 Hz, 60 Hz, and Outdoor. The desired option should offset any flickering effect caused by the electrical current used in the specific area.
• Mode: This dropdown menu allows the user to modify certain exposure settings related to the device such as, gain priority, shutter priority or setting a manual gain setting.
  • gainFirst - This setting will maximize the gain for the ideal exposure. Low Noise Basically turns up the ISO to the best setting without sacrificing exposure timing.
  • Shutter Priority - This setting will maximize the fastest shutter speed and will sacrifice the gain in return. Manual - This setting lets you select your shutter speed and have the gain adjust automatically. Selecting customized range will let you both the shutter speed an adjust the gain manually.
• 3D NR Level: This slider allows the user to specify the 3D Noise Reduction level. The value ranges from 1-100.

Important Safeguards and Warnings

Electrical Safety

• All installation and operation should conform to your local electrical safety codes.
• The product must be grounded to reduce the risk of electric shock.
• We assume no liability or responsibility for any fires or electrical shock caused by improper handling or installation. 2．Transportation Security
• Heavy stress, violent vibrations, and excess moisture should not occur during transportation, storage, and installation of the device.

Installation

• Handle the device with care. Keep the device right side up. Do not apply power to the camera before completing installation. Do not place objects on top of the camera.

Repair Professionals

• All the examination and repair work should be done by qualified service engineers.
• We are not liable for any problems caused by unauthorized modifications or user-attempted repair.

Environment

• The camera should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, flammable materials, explosive substances, etc.
• This product should be transported, stored, and used only in the specified environments as stated above. Do not aim the camera at a strong light source, as it may cause overexposure of the picture, and may affect the longevity of the camera’s sensors.
• Ensure that the camera is in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.

Operation and Maintenance

• Do not touch the camera sensor or lens directly.
• To clean dust or dirt off the lens, use an air blower or a microfiber cloth.

Accessories

• Be sure to use only the accessories recommended by manufacturer.
• Before installation, please open the package and check to ensure that all the components are present.
• Contact the retailer that you purchased from, or Amcrest directly if anything is broken or missing in the package.

Troubleshooting

1. The camera does not boot up properly.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • The power input is not correct voltage.
   • The power cable connection is not secured correctly.
   • The firmware was upgraded incorrectly.
2. Camera often automatically shuts down or stops running.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • The input voltage is too low or is not stable.
   • The insides of the camera have accumulated too much dust.
   • The temperature is either too hot or too cold.
   • The hardware is malfunctioning.
3. Real-time video color is distorted.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • The camera is not compatible with the monitor.
   • The camera color or brightness settings are not correctly configured.
4. The timestamp is not displaying the correct time.
   The time and date settings may not be configured correctly. You can take the following steps to resolve the issue:
   • Log into your camera’s web user interface via a laptop or PC.
   • Navigate to Setup>>System>>General
   • Click on the Date & Time tab.
   • Click on PC Sync to sync the date and time.
   • Click Save to save and apply the new date and time settings.
5. Motion detection does not work.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • The motion detection time period may be incorrectly configured.
   • Motion detection zone setup is not correctly configured.
   • Motion detection sensitivity is too low.
6. Web Access isn't working.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • Windows version is pre -Windows 2000 service pack 4. Use a more recent version of Windows.
   • ActiveX controls have been disabled.
   • The PC is not using DirectX 8.1 or higher. Upgrade to a more recent version of DirectX.
   • The camera is having network connection errors.
   • Web access may be setup incorrectly.
   • The username or password may be incorrect.
7. Web Access live view is only displaying a static picture. 
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • The network speed is not enough to transfer video data via web access.
   • The client PC may have limited resources.
   • Multicast mode may be causing this issue.
   • A privacy mask or screensaver may be enabled.
   • The camera’s local video output quality is not enough.
8. Network connection is not stable.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • The network is not stable.
   • There may be an IP address conflict.
   • There may be a MAC address conflict.
   • The PC or camera network card may be defective.
   • The Ethernet cable is too long
9. The alarm signal cannot be disarmed.
   Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
   • An alarm may be setup incorrectly.
   • An alarm output may have been manually opened.
   • There may be an error in the camera’s firmware.
10. The alarms are not working.
    Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
    • The alarm is not setup correctly.
    • The alarm cable is not connected correctly.
    • The alarm input signal is not correctly configured.
    • There are two loops connected to one alarm device.
11. Downloaded files cannot be played back.
    Below are a few possible reasons why this may be occurring:
    • The media player software on the PC may not be able to read the file format.
    • The PC may not have DirectX 8.1 or higher.
    • The PC may not have Windows XP or higher.
12. When I login via HTTPS, a dialogue says the certificate has expired or is not valid yet.
    • Ensure the PC has the same time as the camera’s system time.

Amcrest 5MP Bullet Camera IP8M-2496EB Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-resolution 5MP video for clear surveillance
• Effective night vision up to 98 feet
• Weather-resistant design with IP67 rating
• Flexible connectivity options (Ethernet and Wi-Fi)
• Motion detection and alert features
• Compatible with Amcrest NVR systems and microSD storage

Cons

• No built-in audio capabilities
• Requires frequent firmware updates for optimal performance
• Some users may find the setup process complex
• Limited compatibility with third-party NVR systems

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the Amcrest 5MP Bullet Camera for its high video quality and robust build. Many have appreciated the ease of installation and the comprehensive features such as motion detection and night vision. However, some users have reported issues with connectivity and the need for frequent firmware updates.

Common complaints include the lack of built-in audio and occasional difficulties with the setup process.