Making sense of the Axis camera naming convention
Gain a better understanding of the model numbers used by Axis Communications for their IP network cameras with this helpful Axis naming convention guide. We break down the camera product codes, which help indicate key functions and specifications, so you know what to look for when it comes to finding the right products for your CCTV installation.
Axis IP cameras
The expansive Axis range features a varied array of network cameras from static indoor and outdoor cameras to thermal surveillance solutions and rapid response PTZ units.
Thankfully, Axis model numbers are typically short and easy to interpret, usually in the format: X1234-XXX. Have a look at the following table, and we’ll use the Axis M1135-E Mk II Box Camera as our first example.
Breaking down the Axis M1135-E MKII model number naming
| Model # | Meaning |
|---|---|
| M |
Product line Q = Most advanced P = Versatile and advanced M = Affordable V = Live streaming I = Network intercoms |
| 1 |
1 or 2 = Box, bullet or thermal camera 3 or 4 = Dome camera 5 or 6 = PTZ 8 or 9 = Positioning camera, specialty camera or intercom |
| 1 | Series number (1-9) |
| 3 | Running number (0-9) |
| 5 |
Resolution 1 = VGA - 640 x 480 2 = 4CIF – 704 x 576 3 = SVGA – 800 x 600 4 = HD 750p 5 = HD 1080p 6 = 3 - 5mp 7 = 5 – 8mp 8 = 8 – 15mp 9 = 15mp or more |
| -E |
Extensions B = Barebone C = Climate-controlled D = Detector E = Outdoor-ready G = Gateway L = LED illumination (IR) P = Panoramic R = Rugged S = Stainless steel T = Temperature measurement V = Vandal-resistant W = Wireless X = Zone/Division 2 explosion-protected certification |
| Mk II | Version |
The Axis M1135-E Mk II camera is therefore an affordable, outdoor-ready box/bullet camera with HDTV 1080p video resolution. This a third release of this model, and in this case the second version of this third release. As you can see, all these key specs are indicated purely by the product name, but there is of course much more to the cameras if you decide to delve deeper, but it serves as a helpful starting point.
Note that cameras can have up to four extensions, such as the Axis M4318-PLVE, which is an (M) affordable, (4) dome camera, (3) 3 series, (1) first release, (8) 8MP to 15MP resolution (this model is 12MP), (P) panoramic, (L) infrared light LED, (V) vandal resistant and (E) external use.
Axis camera series naming
You’ll notice that the initial letter and first two digits make up the series name. This refers to the “family” of devices the camera belongs to, which means they all share similar functionalities and purposes, but with slight technical differences. Check out our blog on the M31 camera series for an example of a camera series.
Axis Thermal Cameras
Thermal cameras follow the same naming convention. However, their resolution is different as thermal sensor resolutions are lower than optical sensor resolutions.
| Model # | Meaning |
|---|---|
|
0
1 2 |
208 x 156
384 x 288 VGA (640 x 480) |
So, the Axis Q1961-TE is an (Q) advanced, (1) box/bullet camera, (E) outdoor-ready, (1) with 384x288 resolution that features (T) temperature measurement and is (E) outdoor ready.
Axis Modular cameras
Modular cameras are versatile devices consisting of a separate body and sensors. Being different to the units mentioned above, their model numbers mean slightly different things but are still straightforward. Lets break down their naming structure below and if you’re interested in learning more about the use cases of these devices you can read our Top 5 Reasons to Choose a Modular IP Camera blog.
Modular base unit naming
The main unit is the brain of the device and where all the video processing happens. Their simple naming structure defines the Axis FA51 main unit as a next-generation model that can support one sensor unit.
Sensor units
As sensor units can come in a variety of form-factors, lens types and resolutions, the naming convention has more variety. Let’s use the Axis F2105-RE sensor unit as our next example, referring to the table below:
| Model | Meaning |
|---|---|
| F |
Product line
F = Flexible FA = Next generation |
| 2 |
Product type
1 = Standard sensor 2 = Cylinder sensor 3 = Eyeball sensor 4 = Dome sensor 7 = Angled sensor 8 = Bullet sensor |
| 1 | Series # |
| 0 |
Lens type
0 = Standard 1 = Varifocal 2 = Pinhole 3 = Fisheye |
| 5 | Resolution 5 = HDTV 1080 / 2MP |
| RE |
Extension
-E = Outdoor-ready -L = LED illumination -R = Rugged |
This makes the F2105-RE a rugged, outdoor-ready flexible cylinder sensor with a standard lens type and HDTV 1080p resolution.
Axis Complete Modular Cameras
Axis also supplies complete, all-in-one modular units with a base and sensor provided together. The Axis P1265 Mk II for example features a modular camera with HDTV 1080p resolution video.
Axis is one of the most understandable brands in terms of product naming, normally being short and relatively easy to interpret. We hope that this guide enables you to make better sense of these Axis product codes.
To explore the Axis naming convention in even more detail, take a look at our Axis Product Naming Structure PDF download.
For any further questions or help in choosing the right camera, speak to one of our Axis experts.
Updated 13th November 2024