Network Video Solutions Concept Brochure
World leader Axis is the world market leader in net work video pro ducts. We have been deve l oping solutions that add value to your network since 1984 and specifically, network video solutions since 1996. With more than 200.000 professional network video products installed and a total of 2 million networking products installed, Axis has the experience to meet your company s needs. It is this experience, combined with our cutting edge technology that makes Axis the obvious supplier to choose when it comes to network video.
C O N T E N T What are network video solutions? 2 Features and benefits of network video 4 Converting analog CCTV to digital 6 Building a new digital network 8 Total cost of ownership 10 Market segments 12 Product overview 26 Looking forward 30 Q&A 32 Glossary 33
What are netwo
I N T R O D U C T I O N ork video solutions? When we talk about network video, we mean video and audio sources that are on the network and are available throughout the network. Axis network cameras are an example of a video product that uses the network, making it possible for users to access live video from any place at any time. This technology can be used in an almost unlimited number of different situations; however, most of its uses fall into one of the following three categories: 1. Security surveillance Network video s advanced functionality makes it highly suited to the mission critical applications involved in security surveillance. The flexibility of digital technology enhances security personnel s ability to protect people, property and assets from accident and crime. IP surveillance systems are therefore an especially attractive option for companies currently using CCTV. 2. Remote monitoring When it comes to remote monitoring, network video gives users the ability to gather information at all key points of an operation and view it in real-time. This makes the technology ideal for monitoring equipment, people and places both locally and at a distance. Application examples include: the monitoring of traffic on the highways, ongoing work at a production line or service staff at a help desk. 3. Broadcasting Network video can also be used to broadcast images over the Internet, providing users with real-time information about sporting events or weather conditions. As well as being a good way to provide information, live footage is a powerful tool for attracting visitors to a Web site and hence for promoting products or service providers. From analog to digital Many companies and organizations have already made significant investments in analog CCTV systems and as long as these systems are delivering value companies do not, understandably, see the need to change. For this reason, Axis product range allows companies to integrate an exist ing analog system with products that bring it up to speed with the latest IP-technology. So instead of start ing from scratch, it is possible to combine the old with the new, thereby acquiring the functionality that digital technology offers: Remote accessibility Cost-effective Flexible Scalable Future-proof Invest for the future Given their tangible convenience and cost advantages, network video and other kinds of digital media are set to gradually become the norm. As inter national market research specialist, Frost and Sullivan writes, The approach of the digital age is unstoppable and soon all media will be in digital form. 3
The features and benef
F E A T U R E S A N D B E N E F I T S fits of network video Network video is a proven technology that can be put to use in an extremely broad variety of different circumstances. Applications span from complex security solutions that make use of alarm information and video motion detection, to the smallest system used for remotely monitoring a sensitive area like a corner shop cash register. Here is an overview of its main benefits: Remote accessibility You can access real-time video at any time from any computer anywhere. The video can be stored at remote locations for convenience and security, and the information can be carried over the LAN or Internet. This means that even companies with small, far-flung operations can make effective use of an IP surveillance solution for security or remote monitoring purposes. Flexibility There are almost no limitations as to where you can place cameras. They are not tied to physical inputs or frame grabbers and you can connect the product to a LAN, xdsl, modem, wireless adapter or cell phone. Basically wherever you can receive a phone call on your cell phone, you can receive images from an Axis video product. Cost-effective In a number of ways, network video is highly cost-effective: the existing cable infrastructure can be used, so start up costs are low. Similarly, the slim network-run equipment keeps maintenance costs low. In a network video solution, there is simply less equipment to maintain than in a traditional analog system, fewer parts that can wear out over time. Images are stored on computer hard disks, which is a neater, cheaper solution than VCR and tapes. Scalability A network video solution can be expanded by simply adding cameras one by one, and quickly; on average it only takes a few minutes to get the product out of the box, connected and start sending images over the network. Future-proof Reliable business indicators predict that digital technology is set to become the future norm. Since Axis network products make use of this technology, you will get long term benefits from the investments you make today. 5
Converting anal
C O N V E R T I N G Y O U R C C T V S Y S T E M log CCTV to digital The CCTV market is well established and has been of great benefit to many companies in recent years. However, CCTV makes use of analog technology, which will be phased out over time as digital technology takes over. The opportunities CCTV offers for remote monitoring are limited. It requires dedicated and expensive cabling, and is only available to a single user. By contrast, network video solutions offer unlimited remote monitoring, advanced image manage ment, requires less dedi cated expensive cabl ing, can be access ed by many users, and is based on digital tech nology. By providing solutions for convert ing analog images into an easily dis tributed digital format, Axis helps users take a strategic step toward the development of a more open digi tal system, for a relatively small investment. Axis products can help you cost- effectively bridge the gap between analog and digital technology. the video server between the camera and the switch, giving full network control over the camera without affect ing your existing installation. Enhance your system If you already have analog cameras connected to an Axis video server, this system can be complemented by one or several Axis network cameras. Advanced network cameras, like the AXIS 2420 Network Camera, include both coaxial and Ethernet interfaces and transmit images over both analog and digital systems simultaneously. Extend your CCTV system If your existing system is analog, you can cost-effectively IP-enable it by adding an Axis video server. If your requirements are more far reaching, another solution would be to place VIDEO SERVER ANALOG CAMERAS IP NETWORK A video server is a simple way to enhance your CCTV system. 7
Building a
D I G I T A L N E T W O R K new digital network A digital network video system is able to transmit video without the need for a dedicated physical infrastructure connecting the camera to the monitor. It uses standard IP networks, such as LAN or Internet, for transporting information, rather than dedicated point-to-point cabling, such as that used in analog video systems. Existing infrastructure The majority of businesses, schools and industries now have a high-speed, IP-based network connected to the Internet. The same is true of an increasing number of stores and homes. Adding a network video system simply utilizes and extends the same infrastructure to include video functionality. Network Cameras INTERNET/ INTRANET Workstation Easy set-up Under these circumstances setting up a network video system is both simple and cost-effective. The only action required is to set the IP addresses of the network cameras a process that should not take more than a few minutes to perform. Once the basic system is up and running, it can be fine-tuned in a number of ways: by adding other functions such as motion detection, alarm handling, time stamping, local programmability, digital inputs and relay outputs, and Pan-Tilt-Zoom control. System expansion Should the need arise, the system can be expanded by adding more network cameras. This is just as easily done regardless of whether the new cameras are to be placed at the same site, or at a new location communicating over the Internet. Advantages, present... By establishing a digital net work, you can achieve the full func tionality of an analog system, whilst simultaneously acqui ring the numerous, Example: Network video solution. IP Network additional func tionalities and advantages offer ed by digital tech nology, such as flexibility of access to information, ease in distribution of images, capacity for integration, scal ability, and reduced costs.... and future For new users of video technology, this is a good opportunity to invest in a digital system that will last well into the future. Network video has the capacity to provide a higher level of integration with other functions and services, making it a continually developing system. And the use of open standard protocols and networks for communication enables easy system integration with equipment from a wide range of manufacturers. Workstation 9
Total cost of owners To arrive at the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for any system it is important to consider all the costs over the expected life cycle for the system. Advantages and cost savers that are relevant to network video systems will include: Lower installation costs In comparison to CCTV systems, this is an area where IP surveillance offers clear cost advantages. Installation costs are low since network video can be run on existing computers and net work infra structure. And where cabling is con cerned, a net work video solution vastly red uces the need for dedicated cables. A single cable, capable of carry ing 40 Mbps can carry around 40 video signals if each camera produces 1 Mbps in order to give the desired image and sound quality. In an analog solution, 40 separate cables would be required. Lower maintenance costs Thanks to the fact that a network video solution includes no moving parts, the repair and servicing costs associated with analog tape drive mechanisms are completely eliminated. Multiple applications Network cameras can be used for different purposes at different times of the day. For example, a camera can be used within an open Intranet application for employees to check when visitors have arrived during the working day. Outside office hours, the same network camera can be used to view a reception area. Audio Combining high-quality images and sound, network video makes all kinds of remote communication feasible. Two examples of applications are remote meeting participation and remote guidance. Reduced downtime Using net work cameras to guide people mending equipment at a distance can speed up repair times and reduce system downtimes dramatically. Reduced travel expenses Using network video to participate in a meeting remotely saves on the travel expenses which would otherwise be necessary, and is the best way of simulating physical presence. Decreasing prices While the cost of equipment based on analog technology is expected to remain static, network video technology, being based on standard IT equipment like network switches, routers and PC servers is likely to come down in price over time. This means reduced costs for any system enhancement over the years to come. 10
T O T A L C O S T O F O W N E R S H I P ship 11
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M A R K E T S E G M E N T S Market segments The factors driving any market are usually associated with increas ing the opportunity to do things more quickly and efficiently, thus saving both time and money. The case of network video is no different. Changing attitudes Where end-users are concerned, there has been a dramatic shift in attitudes over the last decade. Once, the sight of a network camera might have caused suspicion, being associated with authoritarian political regimes and the corresponding curtailment of civil liberties. By contrast, now that virtually all businesses, schools and industries are connected to the Internet, there is an increasing acceptance of network video as a normal observation tool. Images viewed over the network are generally perceived as harmless, representing part of a larger system, of which the majority already have a good understanding. Since the technology furthermore enhances pub lic security and can even be enter tain ing, many now regard it as positive. Practical technology For those using the technology dir ec tly, a number of practical factors come into play. Images stored on hard disks make searching and ret rieval much faster and easier, and lead to minimal maintenance costs. Com puters and other functions such as facility management and access control, are clearly converging toward a common IP network that can offer integrated services. At the same time, new innovative ways of using network video are being developed. Gaining popularity Network video is proving to be attractive in a vast array of market segments. At times, it is replacing traditional-style systems to reduce cost overheads, while in other areas it is being used for the first time as more people come to understand how the technology can meet their particular needs. An example of the former, would be a surveillance system switching from CCTV to network video, and an example of the latter would be remote monitoring of equipment by service engineers. 13
Government The tragic events of September 11th and subsequent terrorist attacks have brought the question of public security to the fore for governments around the world. Security has become such a high priority in the US, that large sums of public money are now being invested in protecting citizens with the best and latest technology available. The diagram shows a small town with various public buildings and spaces mapped out. Fighting crime Network video is one of the most useful tools in the fight against crime. As well as helping to detect more serious threats, cameras placed in public areas deter criminals from mugging, theft and vandalism. Emergency services In emergency situations it is quite common for police and fire fighters to be granted access to video from the cameras within a given facility. This enables them to pinpoint exactly where the emer gency is occurr ing and work out who most needs their assistance. Network video thus greatly improves their chances of handling a crisis effectively. Entrances and exits Cameras placed at the entrance and exit to a public building record who comes in and out 24 hours per day. This footage can be used to deter cri minals and as evidence if a crime occurs. It can also provide statistical evidence regarding how many people use public amenities such as museums, libraries and job centers. Exterior use Cameras outside public buildings prevent vandalism and increase security for the people living and working inside the buildings as they arrive and leave. Similarly, open areas such as town squares can be surveyed for the security of pedestrians. Reception areas An excellent place to observe who is entering a public building, cameras view ing a reception area can help prevent crime. The following are examples of Axis customers currently using network video products for governmental surveillance: Washington, DC Police (USA), City of Hull (UK), and New Zealand Prison. 14
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Transportation One especially popular application within this segment is the monitoring of traffic on highways to help commuters plan their journey to work. Video images broadcast over the Internet provide real-time traffic information and can reduce congestion. Emergency services can use the images to handle accidents more efficiently. Passengers on public transport can be protected from crime at bus stops and train stations by security surveillance cameras, as well as on the bus or train itself. However, due to the fear of ter rorist attacks, the airport has become the key place for employ ing network video solutions. Network video can be used in the airport environment to prevent theft, drug traf ficking, illegal immig ration, and much more besides. The diagram shows where cameras might be placed, and the different purposes they serve. Entrances and exits Cameras placed at the entrances and exits to an airport terminal record who comes in and out 24 hours per day. This deters criminals and the footage can be used as evidence if a crime occurs. Customs Reinforcing the work of on-the-spot security staff, cameras at customs areas enable remote monitoring for e.g. illegal immigration and smuggling. Car parks Cameras employed here ensure the safety of people using the car parks, and ensure their cars are not subject to theft or vandalism during the owners absence. Hangers Airplanes in their hangers can be monitored remotely to ensure that they are not tampered with between flights. Catering At a busy airport, air plane catering requires split se c ond timing. Network cameras can be used by caterers to see when the plane is ready to discharge its last flight s meal service and receive its next one. Baggage reclaim area Network video can be employed through out the airport s baggage system. At the customer interface it can be used to prevent crime, whilst behind the scenes, cameras can help airport staff check that the system operates smoothly. Broadcasting at airports Network cameras can improve effi ciency and customer service, by broadcasting up-to-the-minute images of incoming airplanes in the departure lounge that show, for example, when a plane is ready to board. Axis network video products are being used for transportation surveillance by: Sydney Airport (Australia), Circumvesuviana (Italy) and the Min nesota Department of Traffic (USA). 16
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M A R K E T S E G M E N T S Banking and finance Banks can use their existing network infrastructure to deploy cameras, short ening implementation time and lowe ring start up costs. Over the long run, network video offers a significantly cheaper, and more practical way of handling bank security than CCTV. Given that bank offices are often small and spread widely about the coun try, a network video system offers the major advantage of enabling secur ity personnel to view images from all the local offices at their PC, wher ever they work. The administration of a network video system is simpler and less labor intensive than CCTV since images are stored on computer hard disks, and employees do not therefore have to change and take care of video tapes. Cash desks Cameras placed over cash desk areas make life safer for bank customers and employees. Knowing that all incid ents will be observed is of course a deterrent to would-be criminals, it gives bank personnel peace of mind so they can get on with their jobs, and leaves customers free to go about their business. Entrances Monitoring who enters and leaves the building deters criminals and pro vi des evidence if the worst should happen. When an alarm is registered, security staff can immediately view the images remotely to decide how they can best handle the situation, if indeed it needs handling at all. For the ATM service to continue functioning, banks need to make all possible efforts to eliminate this kind of crime. Bank vaults and safe deposits Although the business of most banks is now conducted in a world of virtual money, there are still gold deposits and safes where customers valuables and the bank s assets need to be protected. A network camera with a motion trigger can be used here to immediately send images by e-mail to security personnel or the police if a break-in occurs. Outside the bank Another sensitive area is the exterior of the bank, where for example, a security van will make its daily visit and is easy prey for criminals. Here too, network cameras can be used to protect drivers, security guards, employees and bank customers. Caisse d Épargne, France s third largest high street bank, has network cameras installed in its 70 regional offices. ATM outlets Bank customers are arguably at their most vulnerable at the ATM (Automated Teller Machine) outlet. Any thief knows he or she has a safe bet, having watched a victim first withdraw their cash. 19
Industrial Network video is currently being used for monitoring manufacturing lines, industrial and pharmaceutical processes, automation, warehouse and stock control systems to name just a few examples of industrial applications. Efficiency at a production plant can be greatly enhanced through the use of virtual eyes. The diagram illustrates the ways in which cameras can be used in an industrial setting. Control room At, for example, a rock crushing plant or chemical processing plant, where there are health hazards for employees, remote monitoring of production processes provide the ideal solution. A network video system feeding images to the control room gives a plant worker the opportunity to check for machine malfunctions without the slightest risk of inhaling dust or toxic fumes. Production line or robots Cameras observing an automated produc tion line or factory robots can be pro grammed to send e-mail alerts if some thing unusual occurs. That way, the plant s staff is relieved of the monotonous and time-consuming process of watching out for machine malfunctions. Trouble shooting If a malfunction does occur and there are no service engineers in the area, network video can be used to set up a virtual meeting and get technical support at a distance. Goods entrances The accumulated costs of petty theft of raw materials entering and manufactured goods leaving a plant can add up to a huge problem over time. Network cameras work as a crime deter rent here, as well as offering an easy way to check the efficiency of the loading/ unloading methods being used. Storage areas Making sure a storage system works well, that goods can be accessed and are efficiently managed, can significantly affect the bottom line at a manu facturing plant. The fact that stor age is often handled at remote sites, usually due to the lower cost, makes this another good place to install network video. The following are examples of Axis customers currently using network video products for industrial surveillance: Volkswagen (Germany), Pines Manu facturing (USA) and China XiNan Power Elc. 20
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M A R K E T S E G M E N T S Retail Network video is used for security and remote monitoring purposes helping to keep store owners better informed, prevent theft and making store management more efficient. The diagram shows a chain of stores scattered about the country with the company headquarters situated in the capital city. Images from the branch outlets can be accessed from the headquarters at any time over the IP network. Entrance and exit Cameras placed at the entrance and exit to the store record who comes in and out 24 hours per day. This footage can be used to identify shoplifters, and make sure employees are in place during the correct times. Cameras fitted with motion dete c tion can be employed out of trading hours to register an alarm in the event of a break-in. If an alarm sounds, sec ur ity staff can immediately view the images remotely to see whe ther or not their presence is required a high percen tage of alarms today are actually false. Cash desk Cameras placed at the cash desk deter thieves, provide evidence in the case of theft and at the same time can be used to ensure that staff are following the correct sales routines. Electronic cash registers integrated with network video systems at the point of sales ensure that every transaction is monitored and no irregularities occur. Changing rooms In a clothes store, shoplifting regularly occurs in the changing rooms. To deter crime and give staff increased peace of mind, network cameras can be installed here. Moreover, the staff of large stores can view changing room images to check if they need tidying up after customers. Consumer behavior As successful retailing becomes more and more of a science, large stores are turning to network camera technology to improve their knowledge of consumer behavior. With strategically placed cameras, store managers can observe, record and measure consumer behavior. The results of their studies can be used, e.g., to ana lyze the success of different store layouts. Quality of service Store managers might also use network cameras to ensure that their employees are offering customers a sufficien tly high quality of service. Footage of customer interaction can be a useful tool for demonstrating the do s and don ts in e.g. courtesy training programs. Stadium (Sweden) and Spring field Food Courts (USA) are examples of retail chains using Axis network video products for retail surveillance. 23
Education Network cameras are increasingly being used in schools and other educational establish ments for security surveillance and the remote monitoring of playground areas, corridors, halls and classrooms. In the diagram, you ll see some examples of where cameras can be put to use in a typical campus setting. Computer centers Anywhere where expensive capital equipment is stored, or where research needs to be carried out under secure conditions, network cameras can be used for security surveillance purposes. Public spaces Students afraid of sexual or violent assault, especially at night, are comforted by the presence of network cameras in the campus public spaces. This includes external areas such as walkways between buildings as well as internal ones such as restaurants and school corridors. Broadcasting In an educational context, cameras can be used to capture the images of students practicing presentation or sporting techniques. These can later be reviewed over the network and used as a tool for improving performance. Similarly, images of art shows, scientific experiments and so forth can be broadcasted for the benefit of others who do not have the opportunity to view them at first hand. Creating unity In cases where the different faculties of a university are separated by several miles, the broadcasting of video over the network can help overcome this sensation of separateness. Showing images of each site at a central location helps keep students and teachers aware of the existence of their counterparts in other faculties and increases their sense of belonging to a wider community. Building management On a campus covering a large area, it is time saving for a janitor to be able to check remotely whether all students and teachers have left a building before, for example, calling the cleaners in. Canton School Direct (USA) and Newport Schools (UK) are two exa mp les of educational institutions currently using Axis network video products for educational surveillance. 24
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Product overview In recent years, Axis has secured leading positions in the network connectivity industry - a fact that owes much to our strong technological base for the cost-effective delivery of advanced applications. It is Axis goal to enable complete solutions for network camera installations, so you will find network cameras, video servers, network DVR and accessories are all included in our product range. For a complete list of Axis products, see www.axis.com. AXIS 2100 Network Camera Indoor network camera High-quality JPEG images CCD sensor technology Resolution 640x480 pixel 4 mm standard CS mount lens included Frame rate 10 fps (320x240) 3-10.000 Lux In order to increase light sensitivity the frame rate is automatically reduced in low light AXIS 2110 Network Camera Indoor/outdoor network camera High-quality JPEG images CCD sensor technology Resolution 640x480 pixel 3.5-8 mm vari-focal CS mount manual iris lens included Frame rate 15 fps (320x240) 1-200,000 Lux In order to increase light sensitivity the frame rate is automatically reduced in low light AXIS 2120 Network Camera Indoor/outdoor network camera High-quality JPEG images Exview CCD sensor technology Resolution 704x480 (NTSC, 60 Hz), 704x576 (PAL, 50 Hz) Standard CS lens fitting High-quality 3.5-8 mm vari-focal DC Auto iris lens included Mounting bracket included Frame rate 30 fps (NTSC, 320x240), 25 fps (PAL, 352x288) Excellent in low and strong lighting conditions (1-200.000 Lux) Built-in motion detection 26
P R O D U C T S AXIS 2130 Network Camera All in one integrated Pan/Tilt/Zoom camera solution Auto focus for ease of use and quick access to the objects 16x optical zoom High quality JPEG image Resolution 704x480 pixel Frame rate 30 fps Desk and ceiling mounted version available AXIS 2420 Network Camera Indoor/outdoor network camera High quality JPEG image Exview HAD CCD sensor technology Resolution 704x480 (NTSC, 60 Hz), 704x576 (PAL, 50 Hz) 2.8-12 mm vari-focal DC iris lens optional Frame rate 30 fps (NTSC, 320x246), 25 fps (PAL, 352x288) Excellent in low and strong lighting conditions (1-200.000 Lux) Built-in motion detection RS485/422 port for pan/tilt control Analog video output Also available in black/white IR sensitive version (0,5-200.000 Lux) The AXIS 2420 Network Camera has both analog video output and IP network connection. This means it can be integrated into traditional CCTV systems as well as into networked video systems. AXIS 250S MPEG-2 Video Server For professional applications demanding bandwidth efficient video High-resolution (720x576) DVD-standard MPEG-2 video stream CD-quality synchronized stereo sound Up to 1 minute of pre-alarm video buffer Independent system with embedded Web server Real-time MPEG-2 hardware compression and transmission High performance: capable of data rates up to 8 Mbit/s and full frame rate of up to 60 fields per second per user Minimum bandwidth 250 kbit/s Support for pan/tilt/zoom cameras AXIS 2400+ Video Server Accommodates up to 4 video sources using 4 video decoders for fast switching High-quality JPEG images (quality is dependent upon the analog video source) Resolution 720x480 (NTSC), 720x576 (PAL) Frame rate 30 fps (NTSC, 352x240), 25 fps (PAL, 352x288) RS 485/422 port for pan/tilt/zoom control 4 alarm inputs, 1 output Supports PAL and NTSC video sources 27
AXIS 2401+ Video Server Accommodates a single video source Single video loop-through output High-quality JPEG images (quality is dependent on the analog video source) Resolution 720x480 (NTSC), 720x576 (PAL) Frame rate 30 fps (NTSC, 352x240), 25 fps (PAL, 352x288) RS 485/422 port for pan/tilt control 4 alarm inputs, 1 output Supports PAL and NTSC video sources AXIS 2460 Network DVR Accommodates up to 4 video sources using 4 video decoders for fast switching 1 Ethernet port 4 alarm inputs, 1 output APViS (Axis Prioritized Video Storage) technology invented by Axis (patent pending) High-quality JPEG images Can be configured with up to four hard disks Based on Linux OS OS on flash memory AXIS 2490 Serial Server Connects legacy serial devices with no Ethernet port directly to the network Includes built-in Web server 10/100 Mbit Ethernet connection Two RS 232 ports and one RS 485/422 port Password protection and IP address filtering 802.11b Wireless Access Point and 802.11b Wireless Device Point 802.11b Wireless Access Point (sender) and 802.11b Wireless Device Point (receiver) 28 2.4 Ghz ISM Band Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) 802.11b 11 Mpbs Wireless LAN products TCP/IP, IEEE 802.3 and IEEE 802.11b 1/2/5.5/11 Mpbs with rate adaptation All OS support WEB interface 802.11 supports ranges up to 300 meters outdoors, 50-100 meters in office environments
P R O D U C T S AXIS 2191 Audio Module Easy access real-time audio and video Two-way audio communication via Internet Explorer No extra software required AXIS Camera Explorer software Installed in a PC or Pocket PC, AXIS Camera Explorer (ACE) is a low-end software package that allows video to be viewed from an unlimited number of Axis video products over both wired and wireless networks. Suitable for most Windows PCs and Pocket PC 2002, it also supports programmable camera switching so that users can create simple patrol-and-guard applications. In addition, the PC version supports AVI file extraction, PTZ camera control, and Quad image display. In addition to ACE Software, Axis cooperates with over 100 development companies to provide software which suits all kinds of different applications. Power-over-LAN Midspans and Splitter Connects to existing Ethernet or Fast Ethernet infrastructure via any standard Category 5 cabling The Power-over-LAN Midspan is fully compatible with IEEE 802.3 standard IEEE 802.3af compliant, enabling compatibility with PoE products Available with 1, 6 or 12 ports Power-over-LAN Midspan. Power-over-LAN Splitter. 29
Looking forward From vinyl records to CDs, from VHS recorders and tapes to DVD. It is not difficult to find examples of the way that new, more convenient technologies become a natural, unremarkable part our lives. An equivalent example in the video market is the shift from analog to digital solutions. Digital future Eventually, network cameras will replace all analog cameras. The switch over will naturally not be an instant one, given the large existing base of analog installations. However, many IT and security managers who are currently using CCTV are looking for ways to upgrade and move step by step into the digital world. Meanwhile, the majority of new systems installed today are digital, since the trends clearly indicate that this is a future-proof investment. Image quality An important difference between analog CCTV cameras and network cameras is that the resolution of a digital camera is not limited to the NTSC&PAL standard and can therefore achieve images of much higher quality. Improved image quality will open the door to new applications in the future. cameras will gradually disappear. History may even prove that DVRs are only a temporary solution, and these too could disappear within a decade. In spite of current difficulties, wireless technology promises to be important in the future. Smart cameras Network cameras, as well as being more widespread and applied in many new ways, will also become more sophisticated. So called Smart Cameras are set to grow at a faster rate than that of the total market. In the future, these intelligent cameras, powered by increasingly sophisticated CPUs, will not only constitute the eyes of security management, but the brains as well. In a few years, a network camera might, for example, be able to make decisions such as automatically opening doors to authorized personnel. It s only a matter of time. Tomorrow s systems The systems of the future will look very different from the analog CCTV systems that are common today. Quads, multiplexers, VCRs and analog 30
T H E F U T U R E What does Axis bring? Axis is the world market leader in network video products. We have eighteen years of experience in developing network products and eight years experience specifically dedicated to the development of network video solutions. Our network product range is now in its third generation and our track record in this field is unrivalled. Incorporating our unique chip set design, Axis network products are the slimmest and most cost effective on the market. When you buy an Axis network camera, everything you need to get the camera connecting to the network is included; not only the software and the IP number, but also a built-in web server, which means you don t even need a PC to run the camera. You just attach the unit to the network, assign it an IP number and you are ready to go. By cooperating with other leading companies in our industry, Axis increases its influence on the network video market. For example, our ADP program enables us to offer the widest range of application software available on the market today. Being a global company, we work hard to ensure the supply of our products around the world. A broad network of local sales organisations gives customers access to our product range no matter where they are based, and along with it, the benefit of our marketing and technical support. So when you choose Axis, you get a lot more than a network product. You get a complete network video solution using Axis cutting edge, future-proof digital technology, that is adapted to suit your specific real-world needs. 31
1. Question: The Axis network cameras look great, but I have heard that a DVR is really the latest and greatest technology in the security world? Answer: A DVR (Digital Video Recorder) has a lot of advantages over a VCR (Video Cassette Recorder) such as the fact that there is no need to exchange tapes, it offers consistent image quality, and quicker search for recordings. Network video has all these advantages, plus it also offers remote monitoring (wired or wirelessly) of all cameras, and it uses an IP based infrastructure to connect all cameras to the recording. This means you save on infrastructure costs, and at the same time build a scalable, flexible, future-proof system. 2. Question: Since I already have analog cameras shouldn t I buy a DVR instead? Answer: In many installations, several analog cameras are already being used. Video servers are used to digitize the analog cameras and to bring the information to a network video system. This leads to cost savings on infrastructure. Additionally, DVRs normally come in 16 channel versions, and do not scale very well to larger installations. A network video system can scale easily from 1 to more than 1000 cameras, one step at a time. 3. Question: Won t it be very expensive - the cameras cost more than analog cameras? Answer: A network camera is more expensive than the corresponding analog camera because it includes far greater functionality, e.g. digitalization, image compression and intelligence. When the total cost of the hardware (cameras, cables, and recording) is taken into consideration, a network video system normally favourably compare to a DVR based system. If you add on the installation cost, the advantage of the IP-Surveillance system becomes obvious: an IP-based infrastructure, with twisted pair, is much less expensive than analog coax cabling. 4. Question: Won t it cripple my network transferring all that video data over my network? Answer: Where only a few cameras are installed, your existing Fast Ethernet (100 Mbit) office network probably has sufficient capacity. For any larger deploy ment of net work cameras and video servers we recom mend a separate network for the video, just as you would install a separate analog coax video network. With today s network switches and routers, separating net works is relatively easy. Because of the local intelligence in the network cameras, decisions can be taken in the camera as to whether to send 1 frame per second or 30 fps over the net work, based on event, motion detec tion and time of day. This ensures that the network is used efficiently. 32 Q&A? 5. Question: Wouldn t the firm s IT manager be unhappy if I put all my video on his network? Answer: A professional IP-Surveillance based network will need a separated IP infrastructure to transport the video efficiently. It can however use the existing twisted pair infrastructure that exists in most facilities. It can also share spare ports on existing switches and routers, hence creating a converged network for data, video and potentially also voice. All this leads to a more cost-efficient overall communications infrastructure for a company. 6. Question: How can you be sure that transmitting video for security purposes over an IP network will be secure? Answer: An IP based network including the Internet is being used today for bank transactions, as well as sensitive corporate and military information. By employing available security measures like encryption, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and firewalls, IP-based networks can become highly secure. 7. Question: Are there compatibility issues bet ween networked video and existing video equipment? Answer: A lot of the existing video equipment is based on analog video (NTSC format) and is transmitted over coaxial cables. In order to make use of existing network infrastructure, be sure you work with a network camera vendor that also carries video servers. A video server has an analog NTSC input for a video signal, and then performs digitalization and compression which effectively turns the existing analog cameras into network cameras. 8. Question: Is the audio inclu d ed, and if so, how is it used? Answer: To acquire audio capabilites, you can connect an external module (the AXIS 2191 Audio Module) to Axis network video products. Having sound as well as images can be useful in several respects, especially for audio surveillance where the camera user can listen-in to the monitored site/location. Since the module supports 2-way audio it is also possible to give verbal feedback to the monitored site. Support for audio is included in the AXIS 250S Video Server.
Glossary CCD Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) are large-scale integrated circuits containing hundreds of thousands of photo-sites (pixels) that convert light energy into electronic signals. It is these light-sensitive imaging devices that are used within most modern surveillance cameras. CCDs are measured diagonally and can be 2/3, 1/2, 1/3 or 1/4 or even smaller. CCTV Closed Circuit Television, also known by the acronym CCTV, is a private video system within a building (or complex) used to visually monitor a location for security or industrial purposes. A CCTV system can be recorded and viewed on-site or viewed remotely through the use of telephone lines. Frame A frame is a complete video picture. In the 2:1 interlaced scanning format of the NTCS and PAL formats, a frame is made up of two separate fields of 262.5 or 312.5 lines interlaced at 60 or 50 Hz to form a complete frame which appears at 30 or 25 Hz. In video cameras with a progressive scan, each frame is scanned line-by-line and not interlaced; most are also presented at 30 and 25 Hz. JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) To create a JPEG graphic image a level of compression must be chosen from a suite of compression algorithms. When creating or converting a JPEG image from another format, you are asked to specify the quality of image you want. Since the highest quality results in the largest file, you can make a trade-off between image quality and file size. Officially, the JPEG file format is ISO standard 10918. The JPEG scheme includes 29 distinct coding processes although a JPEG implementer may not use them all. LAN Local Area Network. LUX The standard measurement of light, where 1 Lux equals the light emitted from a single candle at a distance of one meter. MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) MPEG, the Moving Picture Experts Group, develops standards for digital video and digital audio compression. It operates under the auspices of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The MPEG standards are an evolving series, each designed for a different purpose. To use MPEG video files, you need a personal computer with sufficient processor speed, internal memory, and hard disk space to handle and play the typically large MPEG file (which has a file name suffix of.mpg). You also need an MPEG viewer, or client software that plays MPEG files. Note that.mp3 file suffixes indicate MP3 (MPEG-1 audio layer-3) files, not MPEG-3 standard files. You can download shareware or commercial MPEG players from a number of sites on the Web. TCP/IP TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is the basic communication language (or protocol) of the Internet. It is also used as a communications protocol in private networks called intranets, and in extranets. xdsl The collective description for all types of digital subscriber lines; including ADSL, SDSL, High-data-rate DSL (HDSL) and Very high DSL (VDSL). xdsl technologies operate over existing copper telephone lines, but offer much higher transmission speeds with up to 32 Mbps for upstream traffic, and from 32 Kbps to over 1 Mbps for downstream traffic. 33
About Axis Axis increases the value of network solutions. The company is an innovative market leader in network video and print servers. Axis products and solutions are focused on applications such as security surveillance, remote monitoring and document management. The products are based on in-house developed chip technology, which is also sold to third parties. Axis was founded in 1984 and is listed on the Stockholmsbörsen (XSSE:AXIS). Axis operates globally with offices in 14 countries and in cooperation with distributors, system integrators and OEM partners in 70 countries. Markets outside Sweden account for more than 95% of sales. Information about Axis can be found at www.axis.com Axis Communications Office Locations CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS SWEDEN Phone: +46 46 272 18 00 FRANCE: Phone: +33 1 49 69 15 50 KOREA: Phone: +82 2 780 9636 UK: Phone: +44 870 162 0047 AUSTRALIA: Phone: +61 3 9225 5244 GERMANY: Phone: +49 811 555 080 SINGAPORE: Phone: +65 6836 2777 USA, Boston: Phone: +1 978 614 20 00 BENELUX: Phone: +31 10 444 34 34 ITALY: Phone: +39 011 841 321 SPAIN: Phone: +34 91 803 46 43 USA, Miami: Phone: +1 305 860 8226 CHINA: Phone: +86 21 6431 1690 JAPAN: Phone: +81 3 5531 8041 TAIWAN: Phone: +886 2 2546 9668 www.axis.com 20199/EN/R1/0303 2003 Axis Communications AB. Axis is a registered trademark. All other company names and products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.