Ip camera for close up (of my gas meter reading)?

[collectors]

Hi, this may sound a daft one, but my gas meter is in the loft & had a spare 3.6mm ip camera. So got it all connected so i could take readings with the cctv. Now the meter is clear, but the reading numbers are not very clear "out of focus". If i move the camera away, all becomes better, but now the readings are to small to read. Would a 2.8 camera help, or is this just field of view. Thanks

 

[Phil]

A 2.8mm lens would deliver a wider field of view.
Therefore, likely worse for your application.

Manufacturers used to state the minimum focal distance in their specs, but seldom do now.

I'd guess that one of the cheap App-only mini PTZ cameras (typically offered by Amazon) would suit you well for this requirement.

 

[collectors]

Thanks Phil,
I have ordered a cheap 2.8-12mm zoom & it looks like it may have a depth of field adjustment & zoom. But doesn't say. But for ``£15 if it dont work, i will buy a bird box. lol Cheers