Vanguard and iris / zom / focus adjustments

[Kenoracle]

I have just installed an x10 b/w camera and Vanguard software.  On the display, Vanguard appears to have adjustments for Zoom, Iris and Focus.  The camera does not work well with low light (I am using it to monitor the baby's room).  The Vanguard controls do not appear to work at all.

I called X10 and explained the low-light problem (but not the fact that controls existed in Vanguard).  X10 suggested downloading X-ray Vision software to help control the brightness.

The X-ray Vision software did, in fact, allow changes in brightness.  It does not have a large display, nor does it have many of Vanguard's other options.

Questions:

1. Are the Vanguard 'Zoom/Iris/Focus/etc.' controls truly inactive?  Is there a way to activate them?

2. For the low-light problem, I read that an IR illuminator can help.  The X10 support tech said that use of IR illumination may or may not help the camera with low light (50% chance either way).  Has anyone had experience with use of IR illumination? 

Thank you!

[HA Dave]

Questions:

1. Are the Vanguard 'Zoom/Iris/Focus/etc.' controls truly inactive?  Is there a way to activate them?

You could buy the Vanguard (or Sentinel) Camera... it has a zoom/Iris/Focus.

2. For the low-light problem, I read that an IR illuminator can help.  The X10 support tech said that use of IR illumination may or may not help the camera with low light (50% chance either way).  Has anyone had experience with use of IR illumination? 

You could have someone shine a IR remote control on and around the camera. You can watch the view on your PC and see if the IR light works.

[Kenoracle]

Thanks for the advice.  The Vanguard/Sentinal seems more pricey than X10, so it is not the best option at this time.

I will try an IR remote in the room.  This will be a very good test of the camera!

Thanks.