I pulled out two more cameras this morning from the queue of cameras waiting for review. These are the M-550 and M-880. This year the Moultrie cameras have a new look and are referred to as “Gen2” for generation 2. This helps to avoid confusion with models of the same name from previous years. If you purchase a Lockbox in our store make sure that you select the one with “Gen2” in the description.
The Moultrie M-550 Gen2 camera has a similar design to the A-5 and A-7 we are reviewing although it is a bit smaller and has the same whispy black on green camo style of the A-7. The camera has menus for its settings rather than the simple switches. The two line display is back lit which is a plus.
This camera (like MOULTRIE M-888 )is one solid piece with a small door or flap that opens to reveal the buttons, switches, and SD card slot. The battery is an ejectable slide in tray that holds 8 AA batteries. This puts the entire camera in the back making it easier to aim than those heavy in front camera in the door style that is most typical. We will keep an eye out for leaks around this seal. I have not heard anything but this is something to look for.
The latch feels sturdy with substantial thickness and compresses the door securely when latched. This is good as I feel the rubber moisture seal will hold in a downpour.
The camera design splits the IR array into a right and left side with the PIR on top and lens below. There are 12 LEDS per side for a total of 24.
The camera supports 8 AA batteries making it economical to run. The bottom of the camera has a tripod insert with the 12v power IN and USB OUT ports.
For mounting there are wide strap slots on either side and supplied is a nice wide strap. There are holes for a python in the rear and I believe that you can loop the python around the camera face and around the tree for a better than average security. There is no substitute for a lock box though.
You can also use the python holes for bungee straps which I will likely do.
The camera is documented as a 7MP camera with a Photo setting and a single VGA setting for video (640×480). There is also a hybrid mode for photo and video. There are several delay settings ranging from 5 seconds to 30 minutes. Set up was very easy and familiar. Without reading the book programming was done in 1 minute.
