Network Security Camera VERKADA HARDWARE Mini Series CM42-S — 5 MP (2592x1944), fixed iris & focal length, audio, GbE, H.265/H.264, 90-day cloud retention

The VERKADA HARDWARE Mini Series CM42-S is an indoor network security camera that captures 5 MP (2592 x 1944) video with fixed iris and fixed focal length optics. The camera offers day/night color imaging, onboard audio capture, Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and efficient H.265/H.264 video encoding. It is designed for continuous monitoring and integrates with cloud-based retention, providing 90 days of stored footage for investigation and review.

Advantages

The CM42-S combines high-resolution 5 MP imaging with a compact indoor form factor, delivering clear detail for identity and incident review while maintaining a straightforward installation process. Built-in audio and support for both H.265 and H.264 codecs reduce bandwidth and storage demands. Gigabit Ethernet ensures a reliable network connection for live view and upload to the cloud retention service.

Suitable for

• Office spaces and meeting rooms where indoor coverage and moderate detail are required
• Retail environments for general surveillance, loss prevention and customer flow monitoring
• Facility common areas such as lobbies, corridors and reception zones
• Small business sites that need centralized cloud retention and remote review

When it may not be suitable

The CM42-S uses a fixed focal length and fixed iris; it is not suitable when variable zoom or adjustable aperture are required to cover widely varying distances or to adapt to highly dynamic lighting conditions. It is designed for indoor use and does not include environmental weatherproofing or vandal-resistant housing, so it should not be used outdoors or in exposed industrial locations without additional protective enclosures.

Key specifications

• Image sensor resolution: 5 MP (2592 x 1944)
• Optics: fixed iris, fixed focal length
• Video codecs: H.265 and H.264
• Day/Night: color imaging with low-light capability
• Audio: built-in microphone for onboard audio capture
• Network: Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) connectivity
• Storage: 90 days cloud retention included

How to use

Mount the camera in an indoor location that provides a clear field of view for the monitoring area, ensuring the fixed focal length covers the intended scene. Connect to a local Gigabit Ethernet network for power and data if using PoE-capable infrastructure, or follow your site’s power/network setup procedures. Configure video quality and codec (H.265 recommended for lower bandwidth) via the management interface, enable cloud retention settings for 90-day storage, and verify audio capture sensitivity if audio monitoring is required. Test live view and recorded playback to confirm framing, exposure and network upload stability.

What to consider before purchase

• Indoor-only design — requires protective housing for outdoor use
• Fixed focal length and fixed iris — verify coverage distance and angle match your scene
• Network capability — Gigabit Ethernet recommended for best performance
• Retention needs — 90 days cloud storage is included; confirm it meets your compliance or operational requirements

Usage recommendations

Place the CM42-S at ceiling height or on a secure wall mount to maximize coverage and minimize obstruction. Use H.265 encoding to reduce bandwidth and cloud storage consumption while preserving the 5 MP image detail. Periodically check audio levels and cloud retention status to ensure recorded evidence is complete and retrievable.