Ethernet vs WIFI

[QK]

I need to monitor my glass furnace, specifically the digital readout on the control panel, and I need to be connected via android phone/ipad.  The control panel is fixed, and the location can be quite warm, so I need to locate about 10 feet away.  Have power, can get Ethernet to location, but the display is about 1 1/2" by 3" with green backlit information. If I can't read the info, system is useless.  I don't need to record, and movement/audio are not relevant, as the numbers don't change much.  A quick video with my phone reveals a sort of rippling but numbers are readable

How I select a camera for this application? 
Is there a downside to using the Ethernet connection to the camera? Wifi is undependable in this location.
I am NOT a techie, (I just make glass) so the simplest install will be the most useful.  Failing simple clear detailed instructions.
ThankS!!

QK

[OUAnthony]

I don't think you're going to find anything remotely affordable in terms of webcams or IP cams and the level of magnification that you need. You could maybe try to rig some binoculars or small (kid-size) telescope between the camera and display, but that would be difficult...and any bump and you'd have to start all over. If you have a little soldering ability, perhaps you could remove the digital readout then cut or desolder the wires attaching it and solder in some longer wires (just long enough to where the temperature isn't too hot for the camera)? Of course, you could potentially ruin the thermometer...and it probably isn't cheap given the temperature range it measures.

Another possibility, if you have a DV camcorder with a firewire port and a computer with a firewire port, it should be possible to use it as a camera source in iCam (although I haven't tested it, and I'm not sure if it would require additional drivers). If your camcorder has a quality zoom, you might be able to use it.

[rjgvt]

I have a few Airlink IP cams and can manually change the focus. I think the lens can be changed for some of the models. If you do not need to record, it would just as easy to use an App on your phone to monitor an IP camera. Ethernet is definitely the way to go.

[webbrauzer]

There are a number of IP cameras you can buy online that have lens that can be changed. If you buy a lens alone or IP camera with a lens that is meant to view 3-4 meters you should be able to see the digits well. Use iCAM via android phone or iPad you have to see it remotely.  I have to ask what information do you want to know, if the temperature of the glass has fully melted and is ready to work? There are other ways to do this. You could have bell ring when it reaches a setpoint or similar idea.