This year, D-Link has released a stunning home IP camera which is nothing like what I have reviewed previously. Works only with Apple HomeKit, this camera has a clean and modern look. Combining D-Link’s unique 180-degree de-warping and excellent night vision technology, this is Omna 180.
Out Of The Box
Cylindrical in design, Omna 180 Cam HD (DSH-C310) has a silver-grey aluminium casing that looks like the back of my space grey iPad Pro. Besides its eye catching exterior, the 180-degree camera lens on the front stands out on this camera. Included in the box are 5V 2A micro-USB power adapter and Quick Installation Guide.
The Omna 180 is designed to stand upright on any flat surface. Therefore, there aren’t any mounting holes found on this IP camera. At the base, there is a microSD card slot for local storage and reset button.
One of the key hardware features on D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD is the built-in microphone and speaker. This allows remote talking over the internet conveniently. Other hardware features found on the Omna 180 include a light sensor, status LED and IR LEDs.
Technical Specifications
The D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD weighs about 230 grammes and resembles a slim soft drink can. The IP camera uses an F2.0 aperture and supports recording up to 1080p Full HD video. While most IP camera uses a 120-degree lens, the Omna 180 uses an 180-degree lens with de-warping technology. This means that I can view more details in the live feed and recorded clips, without the fish eye effect.
The Omna 180 can operate on 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequency bands. With the support up to 128GB microSD card, the Omna 180 allows me to record more 1080p clips without worrying about storage space.
You don’t have to worry about complete darkness because the Omna 180 will automatically turn on its night vision mode when it senses low light. Viewed only in black and white, the camera allows me to see up to 5 meters. This is more than enough in any of my rooms.
Although D-Link has removed it’s Sound Detection function for the Omna 180; the Motion Detection function is still there. D-Link has included a two-way communication function which I felt useful. I could simply speak to my boy and check out the mess he has created when I am away from home.
Apple HomeKit And Omna iOS App
In case you might be wondering what Apple HomeKit is, it is Apple’s framework for smart home automation. This makes communication between the integrated smart home devices and home owners easier. As long as there is an internet network, smart home devices can be controlled and send notifications to home owners.
I have never used the Apple HomeKit before. Comparing to the previous two D-Link IP camera which I have reviewed, the Omna 180 Cam HD is the easiest to setup on my iPhone. It took me less than 15 seconds to complete the whole integration process!
For remote access of the Omna 180, the IP camera requires a handshake with my Apple ID and iCloud Keychain. In layman terms, the Apple HomeKit provides the framework, while Apple ID and iCloud Keychain provides the security. This also makes integration of Siri possible.
Using my Apple TV (4th generation) with tvOS 10.2 which is always connected to my home network, I can create a home hub to control my Omna 180 using my iPhone when I am outside.
The Omna iOS app is designed to give more control such as firmware upgrade, viewing of recorded clips, notifications and motion detection settings.
My Finals Thoughts
I love the sleek and modern design of the D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD. This is D-Link’s first home IP camera which works on Apple HomeKit. The 180-degree field of view captures everything from left to right. The infrared sensors work very well, recording everything in black and white during complete darkness.
With local microSD card storage, users need not worry about monthly cloud storage bills. Nevertheless, it will be great if D-Link has the option to integrate this storage function with Apple’s iCloud in the Omna app.
I believe many will love the design of the Omna 180. Unfortunately, this IP camera only works with iOS devices. Sorry Android users. If your house is an Apple iOS ecosystem, this is a good camera on your shopping list.
The D-Link Omna 180 Cam HD is now available in Apple Store at $319 SGD.
