The D-Link SecuriCam DCS-5300W Internet Camera ($380 street) functions with any 802.11b-compliant network. The one-quarter-inch CCD sensor delivers good low-light performance, and the glass lens ensures a relatively sharp image. It also has a built-in microphone.

Initial configuration is easily accomplished via the wired Ethernet connection using the camera's built-in Web server. When you first connect to the camera, you are prompted to download the ActiveX control that lets you view the camera image. Wireless settings include SSID and WEP; WPA is not supported.

The camera pans 270 degrees and tilts 90 degrees. Video resolution can be set to either 320-by-240 or 160-by-120. You can program up to 24 preset positions and include any or all of them in the Auto Patrol feature (where the camera cycles through a set routine to give you a sweeping view of an area). The included software lets you view up to 16 cameras and record images to your hard drive.

Additionally, you can configure up to three windows within the video frame to detect motion. If motion is detected, the camera can be set to send images via FTP or e-mail—in theory, at least. On our tests, FTP worked properly, but we were unable to e-mail snapshots automatically from the camera.

Still, the SecuriCam is worth a look. It offers a solid set of features at a good price.