Gear We Use
Over the years, many viewers have asked about the equipment used at Eagle Country – the cameras, connections, and field gear that support the live streams you watch each day. This page will help answer those questions plainly and honestly.
Much of our core equipment was sourced years ago through professional suppliers, including B&H Photo, and is no longer sold. When possible, we share current equivalents or comparable tools for reference. This is not a shopping list, but a field record — offered for transparency, curiosity, and those who enjoy understanding how things work behind the scenes.
Camera & Streaming Equipment
Dahua IP PTZ
Status: In use / Discontinued
What it’s used for
Nest, Cow & River Cams
Why we chose it
Dependable in outdoor environments and built for weather.
Notes from the field
6 years in service and continues to run effectively
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
IP PTZ
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Bayhead Cam
Why we chose it
Uses a similar PTZ class to our primary cameras, more budget-friendly, longevity.
Notes from the field
3 years in service in FL extreme heat, storms and rainy seasons and it has performed well
Epiphan Pearl 2
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Handles live stream encoding and delivery with an emphasis on long-term stability and unattended operation.
Why we chose it
Dedicated hardware encoders are designed for continuous operation and tend to be more reliable than software-based solutions in permanent installations.
Notes from the field
This system has supported live streams across 6 seasons with minimal intervention.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
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Haivision Makito X Series
Audio Interface for IP Cameras
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Used to integrate ambient audio into select live camera feeds.
Why we chose it
Reliability and compatibility with our existing camera systems
Notes from the field
Excellent when they work. They are susceptible to power surges, lightening and we have had to replace often.
Weather-Resistant Ambient Microphone
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Captures ambient environmental sound to accompany select live camera feeds.
Why we chose it
Designed for outdoor use, reliable in changing weather conditions, and compatible with long-term camera installations.
Notes from the field
Used in our permanent outdoor setting where durability and consistent performance matter most.
Networking & Connectivity
This equipment provides the network backbone that connects our cameras to the stream reliably across distance, terrain and weather. Much of our networking equipment was installed years ago and has since been updated or replaced by newer models. Where helpful, we reference current equivalents by category rather than exact model.
Network Routing & Managenent
Status: In use / Discontinued
What it’s used for
Provides centralized routing, monitoring, and control for the on-site network that supports our camera systems.
Why we chose it
Long-term stability, centralized management, and proven reliability in our installations.
Notes from the field
This core networking layer has been in service through multiple seasons and upgrades. Specific models have evolved over time, but the role and platform remain consistent.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
Switching & Distribution
Status: In use/Discontinued
What it’s used for
Distributes network connectivity and power to cameras and related equipment across the site.
Why we chose it
Managed switching allows for dependable power delivery and traffic handling in a system that operates continuously.
Notes from the field
Switching hardware has been updated over time as capacity needs changed. We prioritize durability, long service life and integrating into our managed network.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
Point-to-Point Wireless Links
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Bridges network connections between locations where running physical cable is impractical.
Why we chose it
Reliable performance over distance, outdoor durability, and long-term stability in changing weather conditions.
Notes from the field
Wireless bridge hardware has proven dependable across seasons. Models in this category change, but the functional role remains the same.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
Power, Connectivity & Reliability
These systems support the reliable, long-term operation of our cameras and network equipment in an outdoor environment.
Much of this infrastructure was selected over time based on real-world performance rather than specifications. Where helpful, we reference current equivalents by category rather than exact components.
Power Distribution & Protection
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Provides consistent power delivery to cameras and network equipment while helping protect against environmental and electrical stress.
Why we chose it
Outdoor systems require dependable power and protection to operate continuously through heat, storms, and seasonal changes.
Notes from the field
Power-related components have had the greatest impact on long-term reliability. Protection and stability have significantly reduced downtime over multiple seasons.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
Physical Installation & Mounting
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Secures cameras and supporting equipment in fixed outdoor locations while maintaining stable positioning over time.
Why we chose it
Stability and durability matter most in permanent installations exposed to wind, weather, and seasonal movement.
Notes from the field
Mounting solutions have been refined as locations evolved. Simple, robust hardware has proven more reliable than adjustable systems.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
Environmental Protection
Status: In use
What it’s used for
Protects cameras, networking, and power equipment from rain, humidity, heat, and environmental exposure.
Why we chose it
Environmental protection extends equipment life and reduces maintenance in permanent outdoor deployments.
Notes from the field
Weather protection has been essential for long-term operation, particularly during storm seasons and periods of sustained heat.
Closest current alternatives (for reference):
This page reflects equipment choices made over time in response to real conditions in the field. As seasons change and technology evolves, specific components may shift, but the priorities remain the same: stability, stewardship, dependability and excellence.