Fine-Tuning Your Axis Dome Camera For Optimal Focus

Focusing an Axis dome camera can be done manually or remotely, depending on the model. Many Axis cameras feature a varifocal lens, which allows users to adjust the focus and zoom in and out. To adjust the focus manually, users can open the camera and locate the control pins on the lens block. There are typically two pins: one for zooming in and out, and the other for focusing. Users should move the pins until the image on the screen is clear and sharp. Alternatively, some cameras can be adjusted remotely via a web browser by accessing the camera settings and navigating to Image > Focus > Fine-Tune. The camera will then automatically adjust the focus, which typically takes 1-2 minutes.

Adjust the camera lens first

To adjust the camera lens first, you must determine if your lens needs calibrating. Blurry images can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty lenses, incorrect camera settings, or user error. However, if you consistently miss the focus, your lens may need to be adjusted.

You may need to calibrate your lens if you have recently purchased a new lens and it is not as sharp as you would like, or if you have dropped your lens and the focus seems off. Elements in your lens can shift over time, affecting focus. Calibrating your lens tells your camera how to fix those small shifts.

To calibrate your lens, you will need a calibration tool, a tripod, your camera body, and the lens. You will also need a computer to review the images and check where the focus is falling. Place your calibration tool on a flat surface in good light, and mount your camera on a tripod, aligning it with the tool. Use the widest aperture you can and make sure your lens is far enough away from the tool to account for your minimum focusing distance.

Take your initial shot, focusing on the main focal point on the calibration tool, and then review the image on your computer. Evaluate the image for focus – is your focus falling forward or behind your focal point? Use your camera's adjustment settings to fine-tune your focus. Repeat this process until you have the focus exactly where you want it.

Remember that calibration is camera and lens-specific, so if you have multiple cameras and lenses, you will need to fine-tune autofocus for each combination. Additionally, lens calibration is not a one-time fix; you will need to calibrate regularly to maintain optimal performance.

Use the web interface to improve the focus

The AXIS OS web interface allows you to adjust the focus of your camera. To access the web interface, open a browser and type the IP address or host name of the Axis device. If you don't know the IP address, you can use AXIS IP Utility or AXIS Device Manager to find the device on the network.

Once you have accessed the web interface, you can adjust the focus by following these steps:

• Go to "Video > Installation" and adjust the zoom slider.
• To adjust the focus, click on "Show autofocus area" and adjust the autofocus area to cover the part of the image that you want to be in focus. If you don't select an autofocus area, the camera will focus on the entire scene. It is recommended to focus on a static object.
• To fine-tune the focus, adjust the focus slider.

In addition to adjusting the focus, you can also improve the image quality by reducing motion blur in low-light conditions. This can be done by adjusting the following settings in "Video > Image > Exposure":

• Move the "Blur-noise trade-off" slider toward "Low motion blur".
• Increase the gain by setting the "Max gain" to a higher value.
• Set the "Max shutter" to a shorter time.
• Increase the light level in the scene.
• Mount the camera so that objects move toward it or away from it rather than sideways.

Manually adjust the focus

Many Axis cameras come with a varifocal lens, which allows the user to adjust the focus to get the right distance and clarity. These cameras also often allow zooming in and out. These adjustments can be made manually or remotely if the camera is equipped with a motorized lens.

To manually adjust the focus on an Axis camera, first open up the camera and locate the control pins on the lens block. There are two pins (depending on the camera model), one for zooming in and out, and the other for focusing. Inspect the labels on the piece and find out which is for zoom and focus. Once you’ve located the focus pullers, move the pins until the picture on the screen (where the camera is hooked up) clears up and looks sharp.

If your camera has a focus ring, follow the instructions in the user manual to focus the camera.

Adjust the focus via a web browser

Many Axis cameras come with a varifocal lens, which allows the user to adjust the focus to get the right distance and clarity. These types of cameras also often allow zooming in and out. These adjustments can be made manually or remotely if the camera is equipped with a motorized lens.

To adjust the focus via a web browser, first access the camera via the web browser and log in using your credentials. Then, click the Settings button, navigate to Image > Focus, and click the Fine-Tune button. A new window will pop up.

Click the Fine-Tune button, and the camera will start to automatically adjust the focus. This process usually takes 1-2 minutes, during which the camera moves the sensor back and forth to find the correct position with the exact distance to the lens. Once the process is complete, the camera will display a message on the top right of the screen ("Fine-Tune: Done").

If you are not satisfied with the image, you can continue to make manual adjustments until you are happy with the result. Keep in mind that the adjustments may depend on installation conditions, camera placement, angle, and height. You may need to find the "sweet spots" that work best for the camera's installation spot.

Clean the dome or front glass

Keeping the dome or front glass of your Axis dome camera clean is crucial for maintaining clear and reliable video footage. Here are some detailed steps to ensure effective cleaning:

Prepare the Necessary Tools:

Before beginning the cleaning process, gather the required tools and materials. This includes:

• Compressed air: Useful for removing loose dust and particles without touching the camera's surface.
• Microfiber cloth: A soft, lint-free microfiber cloth ensures gentle and scratch-free cleaning. Ensure the cloth is clean and free from debris.
• Cleaning solution: Choose a high-quality solution specifically designed for optical surfaces. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners as they can damage lens coatings.
• Latex gloves: These will prevent fingerprints and skin oils from smudging the dome during the cleaning process.

Remove the Dome Cover:

Most dome cameras have covers that can be detached for cleaning. Carefully remove the outer dome cover by following the instructions provided in the camera's manual. Place the cover on a soft surface to avoid any damage.

Remove Loose Particles:

Hold the can of compressed air upright and blow away any loose dust or particles from the surface. Start from the centre and work your way outwards to avoid pushing particles towards the edges.

Surface Cleaning:

Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to your microfiber cloth. Gently wipe the surface of the dome cover in a circular motion, starting from the centre and moving outwards. Use minimal pressure to avoid scratching the surface. Repeat this process for the inside of the dome cover.

Reassemble and Inspect:

After cleaning, reassemble the dome cover. Inspect the camera's live feed to check for clarity and ensure that the cleaning process was effective. If necessary, repeat the cleaning steps.

Establish a Cleaning Schedule:

To maintain optimal lens clarity, create a regular cleaning schedule. The frequency of cleaning will depend on factors such as the camera's location, environmental conditions, and the level of contamination it is exposed to. Outdoor cameras, for example, may require more frequent cleaning due to dust, pollen, and other outdoor elements. A sealed camera housing can help reduce the amount of cleaning needed.

By following these steps and maintaining a clean dome or front glass, you will ensure that your Axis dome camera provides consistent high-quality images and reliable performance.

Frequently asked questions