The Cisco Meraki MV series revolutionizes physical security by blending high-definition video with cloud-native management and integrated machine learning analytics. These cameras utilize a powerful processor—similar to those found in modern smartphones—to perform advanced analytics right at the edge, eliminating the need for expensive, dedicated on-premises Network Video Recorders (NVRs) or complex video management systems.
The MV13 (Indoor) and MV63 (Outdoor) are cornerstones of Meraki’s third generation (Gen 3) offering, providing 4K Ultra HD video clarity and sophisticated AI capabilities. The primary challenge for IT teams is selecting the correct model based on environmental needs and ensuring the supporting network infrastructure, particularly PoE, matches the camera’s power requirements.
The MV13 is designed for discreet, high-resolution coverage within controlled internal environments.
Technical Specs
The MV13 is a compact mini dome camera.
Resolution: 8.4 MP (4K).
Field of View (FoV): Offers a wide horizontal field of view of 101.3°.
Storage: Available with 256GB (MV13) and 512GB (MV13M) high-endurance solid-state storage.
IR Illumination: Provides night vision visibility up to 15 meters (49ft).
Power: Uses the 802.3af PoE standard, drawing a maximum power load of 12.95W.
Analytics: Supports filter-based Smart Retention and Attribute Search.
In summary, MV13 provides compact indoor coverage with low power consumption and 4K resolution.
Typical Deployment Scenarios
Small Offices and Lobbies: For general monitoring and tracking foot traffic.
Hallways and Entrances: Utilizing its wide FoV for access control points.
Retail Point-of-Sale (PoS): Discreetly monitoring cash registers and counter areas.
Key Benefits
The MV13 leverages a low power footprint and simple installation. It provides built-in machine learning for computer vision, offering features like historical person tracking, motion heatmaps, and custom computer vision models via MV Sense.
Part 2: MV63 Overview (Outdoor)
The MV63 is a fixed-lens dome built to withstand harsh external environments while delivering 4K clarity.
Technical Specs
Resolution: 8.4 MP (4K).
Field of View (FoV): Horizontal FoV is 102°.
Storage: Available with 256GB (MV63) up to 1TB (MV63X) high-endurance solid-state storage.
IR Illumination: Provides night vision visibility up to 20 meters (66ft).
Power: Requires the higher power 802.3at PoE standard, drawing a maximum power load of 25.5W.
Analytics: Supports filter-based Smart Retention and Attribute Search.
In summary, MV63 is optimized for outdoor use, with rugged build, extended IR, and higher PoE requirements.
Outdoor Deployment Considerations
Environmental Protection: IK10+ and IP67 ratings, ensuring durability against weather and tampering.
Industrial Compliance: EN 50155 Railway Compliance certification for transportation and industrial applications.
Key Benefits
The MV63 offers high durability and extended monitoring reach. The larger IR range and optional 1TB storage capacity are critical for long-range perimeter capture and extended 24/7 recording.
Part 3: MV13 vs MV63 Comparison
The following table compares MV13 and MV63 technical specifications and key features.
Feature
MV13 Series (Indoor)
MV63 Series (Outdoor)
Primary Environment
Indoor, Discreet
Outdoor, Rugged
Max Resolution
4K (8.4 MP)
4K (8.4 MP)
Ingress/Impact Rating
N/A (Indoor)
IK10+ & IP67
PoE Standard Required
802.3af
802.3at
Max Power Draw
12.95W
25.5W
Max Storage Capacity
512GB (MV13M)
1TB (MV63X)
Max IR Illumination
15m (49ft)
20m (66ft)
Analytics Support
Smart Retention, Attribute Filtering
Smart Retention, Attribute Filtering
Summary: PoE requirements differ significantly; MV13 uses standard 802.3af while MV63 requires 802.3at switches.
Part 4: Deployment Scenarios
This section illustrates typical deployment contexts for MV13 and MV63 cameras.
Office / Retail / SMB
MV13: Ideal for indoor spaces requiring high detail but low operational footprint.
MV63: Perfect for securing exterior entry points, loading docks, or parking lots.
Campus / Multi-Tenant
MV13: High-traffic indoor areas like university lecture halls and school hallways.
MV63: Perimeter security, athletic fields, external pathways, and parking structures.
Outdoor / IoT / High-Power Edge Devices
MV63 and MV63X are ideal for logistics hubs, warehouses, or industrial yards due to IP67/IK10+ ratings and 802.3at PoE requirements.
Part 5: Decision Guidance
How to Choose the Right Model
For indoor, protected areas requiring simplicity: choose MV13.
For outdoor or exposed areas requiring durability: choose MV63 with 802.3at PoE+ provisioning.
Cost vs. Performance Considerations
MV63 offers superior storage and durability for longer retention periods and harsh environments.
Future Proofing & Scalability
Gen 3 MV cameras scale to thousands of units and receive automatic software updates, ensuring long-term network efficiency.
Part 6: Router-switch Advantages
Partnering with Router-switch can streamline MV deployments:
Inventory & Global Delivery: Rapid quotation and reliable global delivery reduce project delays.
Technical Guidance & Multi-Brand Options: Enterprise-level configuration assistance and sourcing across multiple brands.
Flexible Payment & Logistics: Supports flexible payment options and robust global logistics for large or multi-site deployments.
Part 7: Conclusion
The Meraki MV13 and MV63 offer cutting-edge 4K video surveillance defined by Meraki’s cloud simplicity and Gen 3 AI. Choose MV13 for discreet, low-power indoor analytics and MV63 for robust, weatherproof perimeter protection.
Contact Router-switch for fast quotation, stock availability, and expert consultation to design a Meraki MV deployment optimized for your environment.
Part 8: FAQ
What PoE standards do MV13 and MV63 support?
The MV13 supports 802.3af PoE (12.95W max load), and the MV63 requires 802.3at PoE (25.5W max load).
What are the protection differences between the indoor and outdoor models?
The MV63 (Outdoor) is rated IK10+ and IP67, while the MV13 (Indoor) is not rated for environmental protection.
Does cloud management require additional licensing?
Yes, Meraki cameras require active licensing for cloud management, monitoring, and firmware updates.
What is the maximum number of cameras supported per deployment?
Meraki MV cameras scale effortlessly, supporting thousands of cameras through the centralized cloud-based system.
Which scenarios are suitable for MV13 / MV63?
MV13 is best for indoor coverage, hallways, and small offices. MV63 is ideal for outdoor areas, entrances, parking lots, and industrial environments requiring IK10+/IP67 durability.
How to calculate PoE budget to support camera quantity?
Calculate total maximum power load (MV13 = 12.95W each; MV63 = 25.5W each) and ensure switch PoE budget suffices. Verify 802.3af/at compatibility.
What is the difference between MV12 and MV13?
MV13 is a Gen 3 camera with 4K resolution, Smart Retention, and Attribute Filtering, supporting 256GB/512GB storage. MV12 is Gen 2, 1080p resolution, 128GB/256GB storage.
What is Meraki MV?
Meraki MV refers to cloud-managed smart cameras by Cisco Meraki, performing video processing and storage on the camera, eliminating traditional NVRs.
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