If you’re looking at security cameras for a shop, office, or home, UNIVIEW is one of the brands CompuOne carries directly, and it’s worth understanding what you’re actually getting before you buy — and how many you actually need, which most buying guides skip entirely. This guide covers verified specs, the PoE vs WiFi decision, and practical sizing guidance. For the IP vs analog and NVR vs DVR distinction, see our dedicated IP camera vs CCTV guide.
A Real Example: What the Specs Actually Mean
Rather than talk in the abstract, here’s what a real, current model looks like. The UNIVIEW IPC325LB-SF28 is a 5MP fixed IR dome camera with Smart IR up to 30m, IP67 weatherproofing, IK10 impact resistance, and PoE power — verified directly against UNIVIEW’s manufacturer datasheet. This is a genuinely representative model for what a mid-range installation camera looks like on paper.
- Resolution (2MP to 8MP across the range). Higher megapixels mean sharper footage, which matters most when you need to zoom in later. See our resolution comparison guide.
- Smart IR (up to 30m on the IPC325LB). Infrared night vision that adjusts its intensity based on distance, so footage close to the lens doesn’t get overexposed while far-away areas stay visible.
- IP67 rating. The camera housing is dust-tight and can handle water jets — rated for permanent outdoor installation without a separate housing.
- IK10 rating. The highest impact-resistance tier — the housing can take a solid physical hit without cracking.
PoE vs WiFi: Which Actually Makes Sense
- PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras get both power and data through a single cable connected to an NVR or PoE switch. No WiFi interference, no separate power adapter at each camera — the standard choice for permanent installations in shops and offices.
- WiFi cameras are easier to install without running cable, which suits renters or spaces where cabling isn’t practical. The tradeoff is dependency on your WiFi network’s strength at each camera’s location.
How Many Cameras Do You Actually Need?
- Small shop or office: 2–4 cameras — entrance, checkout/reception, and one covering the main floor area.
- Home: 2–4 cameras — front door, driveway or gate, and any secondary entry points.
- Warehouse or larger retail floor: more cameras with wider coverage, mixing fixed and wider-angle lenses to avoid blind spots.
NVR Options: Matching Channels to Your Camera Count
CompuOne carries UNIVIEW NVRs across several channel counts, so you can match the recorder to your actual camera count rather than over- or under-buying.
| Model | Channels | Built-in PoE |
| NVR301-04S3 | 4 | No |
| NVR301-04LS3-P4 | 4 | Yes (4 ports) |
| NVR301-08S3 | 8 | No |
| NVR301-08LS3-P8 | 8 | Yes (8 ports) |
| NVR301-16S3 | 16 | No |
The NVR301-04LS3-P4 is a good example of what a built-in-PoE model offers: ONVIF (Profile S, G, T) and RTSP compatibility — meaning it works with mainstream IP cameras beyond just UNIVIEW’s own — plus HDMI output at up to 4K (3840×2160), 4 built-in PoE ports (no separate PoE switch needed), and support for a SATA hard drive up to 6TB. All verified against UNIVIEW’s official datasheet. The “P4″/”P8” suffix on a model name indicates built-in PoE ports matching the channel count — useful shorthand once you know what it means.
Fixed Lens vs. What You Actually Need
Most of UNIVIEW’s dome cameras in this range use a fixed lens, meaning the field of view is set at installation and doesn’t zoom. For most retail counters and small office spaces, this is the practical choice — simpler to install, cheaper, and one less thing that can fail mechanically. Zoom lenses matter more for large open areas like warehouses or parking lots.
Don’t Forget Power Backup
A security system that goes dark the moment power cuts defeats much of its purpose. Running your NVR and PoE switch through a UPS keeps your cameras recording through short outages. See our UPS sizing guide for how to size backup power for your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate power source for each PoE camera?
No — a single Ethernet cable from the NVR or PoE switch carries both power and data to each camera.
What does ONVIF compatibility actually mean?
ONVIF is an industry standard that lets cameras and recorders from different manufacturers work together. An ONVIF-compliant NVR like the NVR301-04LS3-P4 can record footage from most mainstream IP cameras, not only UNIVIEW’s own.
Does the “P4” or “P8” in an NVR model name mean something specific?
Yes — it indicates the number of built-in PoE ports, matching the channel count, so you don’t need a separate PoE switch for that many cameras.
Are UNIVIEW cameras suitable for outdoor installation?
Yes — the IP67-rated models in this range, including the IPC325LB, are built for permanent outdoor use.
Buying Support Through CompuOne
Not sure which security camera system you need? Contact CompuOne with your location, property type, and the number of areas you want to monitor, and the team can help you choose the appropriate camera and NVR setup. Browse the full security camera Lebanon range to see current stock.
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