The Point Grey Cricket CR-POE-20S3C is a compact, high-resolution network security camera designed for professional surveillance and machine vision applications. This model utilizes Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, which allows it to receive both data connectivity and electrical power through a single standard Cat5e/6 cable, greatly simplifying installation and reducing wiring complexity. The camera is built around a 2.0-megapixel CMOS sensor capable of capturing detailed still images and video at resolutions up to 1080p Full HD. Its robust, weather-resistant enclosure, often rated with an IP67 or similar ingress protection rating, makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor deployment in environments such as retail stores, parking lots, industrial facilities, and perimeter monitoring.

The camera is engineered for reliable 24/7 operation and features a fixed or varifocal lens (depending on the specific model) with an infrared-cut filter for accurate color reproduction during the day and the ability to switch to a monochrome mode for improved low-light sensitivity. Advanced imaging features typically include wide dynamic range (WDR) to handle challenging backlight conditions, digital noise reduction for clearer images in low light, and onboard analytics for motion detection, tamper alerts, and intrusion detection zones. The "S3C" designation often indicates a model with a specific lens and sensor combination optimized for a balance of field of view and detail capture.

Control and configuration are managed through a standard web browser interface or dedicated video management software (VMS). The camera streams video using standard protocols like RTSP, ONVIF, or manufacturer-specific APIs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of network video recorders (NVRs) and software platforms. For system integrators and security professionals, the Point Grey Cricket CR-POE-20S3C offers a powerful, easy-to-install, and feature-rich camera solution that delivers high-quality visual intelligence for security and monitoring purposes.