Uncovering WDR: Before and after

Editor / Provider: The Editorial Department, a&s International | Updated: 10/11/2013 | Article type: Hot Topics

As network cameras journey into the era of megapixel resolution, their internal sensors are also undergoing a change, owing to the different requirements needed to achieve high definition. With its affordable price tag, CMOS sensors are now replacing the traditional use of CCD sensors and slowly becoming the “eyes” of an increasing amount of megapixel network cameras. The differences in technology used by the two types of sensors, however, often create problems which affect the low-light and wide dynamic range (WDR) performance. Luckily, with the advancement of the different combinations of CMOS and DSPdigital signal processor (DSP), WDR technology is showing great improvement.

At present, WDR surveillance cameras using CMOS + DSP combination are gradually dominating the market. From a sales perspective, the price of surveillance cameras with WDR features is slightly more costly. From a technical point of view. Technology wise, WDR is already in its third generation, also known as “True WDR”, from when Panasonic first developed this technology. “Currently in the market, any camera able to produce a dBdB range over 100 is considered ‘True WDR', and is capable of handling any WDR applications,” stated Peter Pan, Product Manager at Dahua Technology.

WDR applications have grown wider as well. The swift development of WDR made it an undeniable key technology in surveillance cameras. Under these circumstances, WDR technology ought to be fully developed and stable by now. However, the WDR feature in many cameras is mainly achieved by merging two images together. Furthermore, if the DSP chip used in combination does not have proper processing capability, it may lead to poor image recovery, poor color reproduction, blurred images, and poor definition, etc. Thus, knowing the capabilities and applications of WDR surveillance cameras is extremely important.

What is WDR?
Many users may not understand exactly what WDR is or what it does and have misconceptions about what it is supposed to do. Furthermore, most manufacturers also have their own set of definitions and terms for the different forms of WDR technology available today. Many times, one manufacturer's definition of a type of WDR technology will most likely be in direct conflict with what another manufacturer will consider it as under the same term (i.e. digital WDR, True WDR, etc.). Simply put, WDR is the ability to simultaneously and clearly display the details of both the brightest and darkest areas in a scene. In other words, WDR technology is able to display details in a scene where there are elements of high contrast. When a strong light source (sunshine, lights, reflection) and shadows, backlights, and other areas of low light source exist simultaneously in a scene, the brighter areas may suffer from overexposure and show up as a blob of white in theimage. Vice versa, the darker areas in the scene will show up as a pool of black due to underexposure. Both situations can negatively affect the image quality. However, there are limitations to what a camera can display in circumstances of extreme brightness and darkness. This limitation is often referred to as the dynamic range.

“One way to think about WDR is as an art of trade-offs. In all imaging, the main task is to reduce noise and emphasize signal. The most obvious tradeoff in WDR is between noise and artifacts. It is possible to reduce noise levels and thus allow a higher dynamic range, but it comes with the cost of new artifacts. All current WDR techniques create artifacts,” said Andres Vigren, Product Manager at Axis Communications.

It is important to highlight that the dynamic range concept is defined as the ratio of the brightest and darkest regions in an image, and not as an absolute value. This ratio can be measured by dBdB. Regular video surveillance cameras have a dynamic range ratio of 10dB, regular WDR cameras have a dynamic range ratio of 48dB, with a difference of 38dB between the two types of cameras. Third generation WDR cameras can reach up to 95dB. With current technology, the maximum dynamic range that can be reached can surpass 120dB but not higher than 130dB.

Main Sensor Combinations for WDR
WDR technology employs various combinations of image sensors and processors, which can largely be categorized into three main combinations. “The sensor is a very important component that contributes to WDR performance. The dynamic range of camera depends on that of a sensor. The pairing of chipset and sensor needs to be considered as well, for example, if we utilize the old generation ISP chipset to match a new WDR sensor, the WDR functionality may not be able to perform to its maximum ability,” said Xuehai Yu, IP Camera Product Manager at Hikvision Digital Technology.

Through these three combinations, the technology evolution and application developments of WDR technology can be traced. Ask anyone in the security industry and they know that prior to applying WDR technology in surveillance cameras, there had only been features such as low lux, filters, polarize, autofocus, and BLC to tackle problems for environments with changing light patterns. Unfortunately, these previous technologies have limited capabilities. With WDR technology, it compensated for what previous technologies were unable to achieve, and went above and beyond what they can dowere able to do. The three main combinations are dissected in the following.

CCD Sensor + DSP
The first combination pairs a CCD sensor with a DSP. This form of WDR technology is also known as digital WDR. In other words, this combination uses a multi-exposure method, consisting of short and long exposure speeds. The first exposure is done to the bright areas in the scene to provide an image where details of the bright areas can be clearly seen. This image is saved into the buffer zone of the RAM. The second exposure is a slower exposure that targets the dark areas of in the scene and provides an image with details of the dark areas, which is saved into the same buffer zone where the first image had been saved. After both exposures have been performed, using DSP for image processing, the two images are stacked together, resulting in an image where details are visible in both the bright and dark regions of the scene.

CMOS Sensor + DPS WDR
The second combination is taken from Pixim's technology development based on a new image capturing system from the CMOS in the 90's, known as the digital pixel system (DPS). For WDR, DPS uses a process where pixels are individually exposed, along with control technology from an ARM 7 CPU. In comparison with the multi-exposure method used by a DSP, this combination is able to provide a wider dynamic range. From the ratio standpoint, the image processing power of surveillance cameras using the CMOS sensor + DPS combination can reach a dynamic range of 95dB, some can even reach above 120dB. By using DPS, problems that occurred from using CCD sensors (image discoloration or limited processing range) have also been resolved; its ability to accurately reproduce true-to-life color helps to meet application requirements.

The CMOS + DPS combination assumes the role of the eye and brain, and mimics how the two function together, allowing the image processor and the image sensor to have a two-way, real-time interaction. When the DPS is processing an image, it will simultaneously transmit signals to the image sensor. Not only does this adjust the exposure time, but also changes the image capturing algorithms in order to achieve intelligent image capturing. Therefore, under specific lighting conditions and environments, surveillance cameras using DPS can ultimately provide a more detailed, more complete, and more realistic image.

However, DPS is a technology incorporating the exposure of individual pixels. Therefore, each pixel contains a complete set of processing circuit, effectively decreasing the photosensitive area of each pixel. With the decrease in the amount of light received, there is a significant difference in sensitivity for cameras using the CMOS + DPS combination.

Sony Effio-P WDR
Compared to the two combinations listed previously, the Sony Effio series surveillance cameras have even more practical results. The Effio-P is a WDR solution introduced by Sony during the last two years. Based on our understanding, Tthe Effio-P can pair with the latest technology sensors and support CCD dual scanning to fully achieve true WDR, allowing it to clearly depict images in scenes with backlight or extreme lighting situations.

Differences in Performance
Though WDR cameras utilize mostly the same types of chip-sensor combination, camera performances still vary greatly from one another. “Just having a better sensors (front-end) does not mean you can achieve the best WDR performance, because signal processing system (back-end) matters a lot to have obtaining the best WDR result. For example, Sony sells Exmor CMOS sensors to many camera manufacturers, but no one achieves the same performance as Sony's technology,” said Miyamaki Hideo, Senior Manager Head of the System Engineering Department in the Visual Security Solutions Business Development Office at APAC, Sony Electronics.

Another major factor is the firmware used in conjunction with the CMOS. “Even if the sensors for these WDR cameras are the same, if the ISP or DSP paired with the sensor is different, there will be differences in the WDR performance. The firmware used can enhance the image, mainly by changing the algorithms of the ISP, but the most direct obvious differences lies in the previous hardware solutions. As WDR cameras generally process larger image files than regular cameras, naturally, they will have higher requirements for the DSP. Some manufacturers will incorporate another chip to help with processing the image. Using 3- megapixel WDR cameras from Dahua as an example, we added an FPGA chip to help enhance the image. Therefore, to ensure the best WDR feature, you first have to have a good design, as the firmware will adjust accordingly based on the design,” said Pan.

WDR performance can also vary based on default settings of the camera. “Each manufacturer has its his own definition of how images should be presented, and has a different preference for WDR performance in real application scenarios. Therefore, even if they use the same combination of sensor and ISP, the WDR performance may have significant differences based on the manufacturer's default settings,” said Yu.

According to Arnaud Lannes, Product Marketing Manager at Bosch Security Systems, manufacturers are also using theoretical values based on the bit processor to communicate WDR, but as the technology developed, Bosch has developed its own measurement method that can accurately measure the value.

Some users may be concerned whether WDR performance will provide the same results depending on if the camera is IP-based, analog, or HD-SDI. According to Hideo, “the difference is whether they make use of CMOS or CCD. Recently, cameras based on CMOS have the widest dynamic range. Technically, the type of interface does not matter for WDR performance.” Agreeing with Hideo, Vigren pointed out that it doesn't matter whether users select SDI, network, or analog cameras. “They all face the same challenges. When selecting a camera, the most important thing is to try both non-WDR and WDR solutions to understand the real need. Sometimes the WDR camera is not the right solution.”

“The WDR of the camera is linked to the sensor capability and the quality of the image processing. It is the reason why WDR should not be dependent on the fact that the camera is SDI, IP, or analog. However, the breakthrough of IP technology offers much more possibility to enhance the image performance by using analytics algorithms to tune dynamically the image processing,” Lannes stated.

WDR Video on TV
In order to properly display WDR video, some considerations must be taken into account. Regular TV monitors are unable to display WDR imagery as they are limited to a dynamic range 200 to 300 times narrower than that of a WDR camera. To address this issue, the WDR image is put through a nonlinear image processing process known as tone mapping. This process reassigns pixel brightness values to achieve the reduction of global contrast while preserving the local one. “Currently, most local manufacturers use local tone mapping technology, which helps to optimize each image pixel according to local image character, also to adjust image clarity in both the dark and over-exposed areas,” stated Yu. In this way, the overall appearance of the scene will remain perfectly acceptable to the human eye, while the image becomes displayable on a monitor.

Quality via Brand
Although WDR technology is developing and improving rapidly, it is still unable to compare with the capabilities of human observation as the low-lux point for WDR cameras is still pretty high. The darker it is, the worse the WDR technology will perform. Most WDR cameras still need to incorporate BLC to raise its ability to capture objects in environments with challenging lighting. Other limitations include limited available shutter ratios due to certain technological constraints, as well as motion artifacts. “If the image is built up of consecutive frames, there will always be visible defects in case of object motion for security cameras,” said Vigren. Hence, only cameras from some of the leading brands will garner the affection of the users.

BLC vs. WDR
It is important to note that people often confuse a camera's backlight compensation (BLC) feature with WDR, but the two can actually be differentiated quite easily. In the field of view of a conventional camera, when it is in the process of capturing a target object, such as something at the door or outside the window, there will be a very strong source of light in its background. Regular cameras are extremely limited in terms of balancing the brightest and darkest regions in an image. Usually, they tend to use the average ratio of all incoming light as reference in order to determine the level of exposure needed. The solution used to solve these issues is known as BLC. It uses centered BLC, mainly to enhance the level of brightness in the central point of view and suppress the brightness around the object in order to clearly see the target. Yet, under these circumstances, the camera is unable to simultaneously display clearly what is in the background and what is in the foreground.

Axis, G4S and Milestone strengthen Danish Port of Odense security

Editor / Provider: Axis | Updated: 10/7/2013 | Article type: Infrastructure

At the end of the canal in Odense is one of the biggest ports in Denmark, with a history going back to the early 19th century. Ports have always required high security as extremely valuable goods pass through them and they can also be used for smuggling and other criminal activities. After 9/11, security requirements were enhanced in a number of locations that were considered to be strategic targets for terrorists, including ports. The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code was given a considerably stricter wording in order to prevent acts of terror.

Solution
The Port of Odense needed to modernize its surveillance system. In an area equivalent to 100 football fields, there were only a few analog cameras with low resolution. The new system, installed by G4S, consists of 17 mobile Axis PTZ cameras and fixed cameras that are managed by software from Milestone. The system also includes an intelligent application that detects anyone entering the area and produces an alarm.

Result
When the system was installed it proved to have many advantages in addition to meeting the ISPS standards. It detects not only potential terror threats but also more everyday incidents such as unauthorized persons. The high image quality means that perpetrators can be identified and prosecuted. The system also saves money and is environmentally-friendly as the remote control solution means that the guards can establish a situation and the degree of action required without needing to visit the scene, thus minimizing any negative impact on the environment.

Needle in a haystack
Finding smuggled goods, hazardous goods, stolen goods or, in a worst case scenario, explosives in a port area is like looking for a needle in a haystack. It is necessary to search hundreds of containers, ships, warehouses and vehicles. With modern IP camera technology, authorities can concentrate on detecting suspicious activities directly. If an unauthorized person enters a container, it is either to steal something from it or to place something in it.

In large open spaces, mobile, high-resolution IP cameras offer several advantages. Intruders can be detected and identified even if they are far from the camera, and it is also possible to set the camera to follow people and vehicles automatically. When the object is out of range of one camera, the next camera takes over. This is called auto-tracking. Each of the 17 cameras covers an area with a diameter of around 200 meters.

Intelligent video
One of the system's linchpins is the software, which produces an alarm when someone enters the area. As it is a camera that produces the alarm, the guards in the control room can immediately see the intruder and assess the situation. If a patrol needs to be sent out, they can use a mobile connection to see where the intruders are going. If it is assessed that the police need to be called, the police can also be given access to the camera footage.

The system has given the Port of Odense efficient protection against everything from terrorism to vandalism. The fact that the cost is kept down means that, in practice, the ISPS requirements can be met without the overall costs of the Port increasing. As surveillance is financed by the harbor dues paid by ships, it is an important competitive factor. If it becomes too expensive to use the Port, goods will be transported elsewhere. However, security also plays a big role, of course.

Carriers need to know that their goods can pass through the Port safely and efficiently and the Port of Odense must be able to ensure that goods are transported correctly.“On occasion, haulage companies have denied that they had entered the area when we have invoiced them. When we sent them the images from our cameras, they paid immediately,” says Jorn Pedersen, Maritime Manager/PSO Port of Odense.

Infinova/March Networks financial solution integrated with 5MP cams and fraud detection

Editor / Provider: Infinova/March Networks | Updated: 10/3/2013 | Article type: Security 50

March Networks, the supplier of video surveillance systems to banks in the Americas, announce new additions to its next-generation financial solution. The expanded portfolio includes the new March Networks MegaPX 360 Indoor Dome IP camera and a local ATM/teller integration capability for smaller credit unions and community banks seeking more powerful fraud detection.

The new MegaPX 360 Indoor Dome provides financial institutions with high-definition (HD), panoramic overviews of entire retail banking branches and similarly-sized locations via a single camera rather than multiple surveillance cameras. Able to capture a complete 360-degree field-of-view and 5 megapixel resolution, the MegaPX 360 also features a digital PTZ capability that allows banks and credit unions to zoom in on a scene and capture multiple views at the same time.

The ONVIF-compliant dome is easily installed in a ceiling for 360-degree video recording, or wall-mounted to provide a 180-degree view. It integrates seamlessly with March Networks Command video management software and high-performance 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs for convenient, browser-based management. The MegaPX 360 is also a perfect complement to other March Networks HD and wide dynamic range cameras optimized for installation behind teller stations, in ATM lobbies and other dedicated areas.

Local transaction integration solution
Addressing demand from smaller credit unions and community banks eager to take advantage of time-saving investigation capabilities, March Networks is now offering local ATM / teller transaction data integration as part of its financial portfolio. The local solution delivers features similar to the company's centrally managed, enterprise-class offering, allowing smaller banks to identify fraud faster and improve recoveries.

With the local financial transaction integration, managers and other authorized staff will be able to search on all transactions conducted at their branch by card number, date/time or other criteria using their existing Visual Intelligence client software. They can then quickly access and review the resulting transaction data and synchronized surveillance video to identify possible fraud, gather case evidence and share evidence easily with law enforcement when required.

“We continue to expand our portfolio to meet the needs of different types of financial institutions, and deliver a complete solution that's exceptionally reliable and highly effective at helping customers protect profits,” said Net Payne, Chief Marketing Officer, March Networks.

Dynacolor unveils DynaGuardTM T, I series NVR and DynaHawk 720/820 speed domes

Editor / Provider: Dynacolor | Updated: 10/2/2013 | Article type: Security 50

The Dynacolor announces the DynaGuardTM T series Network Video Recorder, an economical lineup of 1080P real-time H.264 NVR. With compact size casing, IP camera Plug & Play supporting, and built-in Power over Ethernet switch, the T series NVR is designed specifically for small to medium-sized business and surveillance markets.

Features such as Full HD crystal clear video via local display output port, IP cameras dual streaming function, and embedded Power over Ethernet switch help system integrators to reduce time and cost on network bandwidth, equipment, power cabling and cumbersome installation.

Furthermore, integrated with Plug & Play function, the T series NVR offers users easy connection without the inconvenience of network, user name, password, and other complicated settings. And with its small size, the T series NVR is suited for areas with limited space. Coming with DynaHawkTM WH/WJ/WL/WM/WN series home security IP cameras, which offer excellent video quality in stunning micro size, the T series NVR is the best solution for SMB surveillance. Besides, all of the W series home security IP cameras are equipped with IR LED, edge recording, PoE powering-on, Plug & Play support, and other convenient functions. The DynaGuardTM T series NVR is extremely perfect to build a 24/7 safe and economical security system for SMB applications.

Looking for small/medium sized NVR suitable for offices, convenience stores, gas stations, communities? Dynacolor's DynaGuard I Series NVR is specially designed with compact unit size that monitors 6 channels IP cameras, ideal for installation with limited spaces.

Standard model of I Series NVR connects IP cameras through LAN network with stress-free setup. In the meantime, Pro model of I Series NVR offers built-in PoE switch that supports Plug Play connection, reducing expenditure on equipment, camera power supply and cabling. Featuring IP cameras configuration function, image quality, video format and motion detection settings can be directly configured on I Series NVR, without having to prepare a PC for separate setup.

Recording with 1080P/D1 dual streaming in H.264 High/Main Profiles, I Series NVR delivers crystal clear video display on local full HD monitor with efficient database consumption. Along with standard display mode, I Series NVR features Portrait display mode that suits for corridor or hallway monitoring.

While searching for playback videos, the preview screens provide pre-scan of desired videos.DynaRemote and DynaGuard CMS are remote clients on PC for distant access to I Series NVR, giving boundless surveillance controls. Likewise, APPs such as NetGuard and DroidGuard fulfill handy monitoring on portable devices with iOS and Android platforms.

Dedicated in IP speed dome market, NH720/820-20x equips with DynaColor's own-development PTZ module which includes high quality Sony progressive scan CMOS sensor, mega-pixel 20 times optical zoom lens providing exceptional details surveillance experience. DynaColor also introduces our latest image enhancing and video streaming technologies into this product. With wide dynamic range (WDR), Digital Noise Reduction (DNR), and Digital Slow Shutter (DSS) features, NH720/820-20x is able to provide high quality image under diverse light conditions. NH720/820-20x can also delivers at most four video streams and H.264 High Profile /Main Profile / Base Line codec to provides more flexibility in different application. It could be powered through High Power over Ethernet (820.3at) which tremendously simplified the installation process since only one network cable is required.

Hikvision safeguards Czech alarm manufacturer Jablotron

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 9/30/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Located in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is the new location of Jablotron Security company, which belongs to Jablotron Group - leading suppliers of alarms with thousands of authorized installers and hundreds of thousands of satisfied customers around the world.

Jablotron Security company focus is on alarm receiving centre services in the Czech Republic. Numbers of Hikvision products were chosen to protect both Jablotron's Security reputation and its new building.

Designed, supplied and commissioned by EUROALARM, authorized partner, importer, distributor and system integrator of Hikvision in the Czech Republic, this modern IP camera based system will undoubtedly serve to Jablotron needs for many years to come.

"Jablotron's Security overall goal was to design a high-quality CCTV system, but one that was easy to operate. We put a great deal of emphasis on the ability to obtain clear, quality, pictures in both day and night environments; as well the ability to view them live or by recording," explained Martin Svoboda, Operational Director at Jablotron Security.

The guts, so to speak, of this CCTV system was a quartet of Hikvision cameras: the DS-2DF1-514 5" Network High Speed Dome, DS-2CD8253F-EI IR Bullet Network Camera, DS-2CD764F-E 1.3 MP Network Dome Camera, and the DS-2DF1-402 4” Network High Speed Dome.

Internally, main entrances, as well as emergency exits were deemed areas that needed coverage. Additionally, hallways, various office space, and security management rooms were designated as requiring additional security.

Primarily tasked with this effort was Hikvision's DS-2CD764F-E 1.3 MP Network Dome Camera. "We found this unit to be particularly good in areas such as receiving, as well as other office space. We are really able to see, in great detail, what is important," noted Mr. Svoboda.

Features, such as up-to 1.3 megapixel (1280 x 960) resolution and HD720P real time video, allow the DS-2CD764F-E to successfully achieve this goal.

Located in the server room is the DS-2DF1-402 4” Network High Speed Dome. This camera was specifically chosen because of its 360° endless pan range. It was also put on a 24-hour scan feature to better visually patrol the area. This Hikvision model allows IP - both inside headquarters, as well as those outside (by remote viewing) - to keep constant vigil over this highly-important room.

While on the exterior, Hikvision's DS-2DF1-514 5" Network High Speed Dome mans the roof. Obviously, an IP66 rating is critical to this camera being able to do its job in hot European summers and brutally cold winters. Also, due to the area this camera resides - the roof - it is vital to zoom on any potential threats. A 23x zoom provides this, while a 360° endless pan range and -5°-185° tilt range gives the ability to quickly follow any item of interest. Interestingly, "We really liked this camera, and purchased an extra unit just in case of any emergency situation," added Mr. Svoboda.

Placed liberally along the external facade of these headquarters is the DS-2CD8253F-EI IR Bullet Network Camera. Again, sporting an IP66 rating, the DS-2CD8253F-EI also provides true day / night ability and an IR range of up-to 30m to give excellent coverage all lighting conditions. Mr. Svoboda remarked, "For this particular application, night vision was critical, and we are very comfortable with the DS-2CD8253F-EI's ability."

Finally, tying this CCTV system together is Hikvision's DS-8632NI-ST NVR. "The DS-8632NI-ST allows us to connect all of our internal and external Hikvision cameras into this 32-channel NVR. This conveniently and efficiently provides multiple access for different users, such as personnel at reception, security, or various managers that need require usage of our CCTV system," summed up Mr. Svoboda.

March Networks integrates Sony IP cameras with 8000 Series Hybrid NVR

Editor / Provider: March Networks | Updated: 9/27/2013 | Article type: Security 50

March Networks, a global provider of intelligent IP video solutions and an independent subsidiary of Infinova, announced the integration of its 8000 Series Hybrid Network Video Recorders (NVRs) with Sony Electronics's IPELA ENGINE EX and PRO IP cameras. The March Networks-certified integration makes it easier for 8000 Series customers and systems integrators to deploy Sony cameras for high-quality video surveillance. It also provides Sony customers with greater flexibility when selecting a recording platform, allowing them to take advantage of the exceptional reliability, centralized management and 100 percent IP camera support provided by the 8000 Series platform.

March Networks is committed to providing customers and partners with open, standards-based products. All 8000 Series hybrid recorders are ONVIF-compliant, which enables them to operate seamlessly with more than 2,000 third-party cameras. In addition, the company works with best-in-class manufacturers like Sony to ensure support for an expanded set of capabilities. The certified integration with the Sony IP cameras ensures out-of-the-box support for features including audio capture, H.264 video compression, motion alarms, physical alarms and switches, and PTZ control.

"Video surveillance customers are looking for broader product choices and deployment options," said Mark Collett, General Manager, Sony Electronics' Security Systems Division. "This integration with March Networks' hybrid recording systems is a direct response to that demand and is particularly advantageous for organizations seeking more detailed, high-definition surveillance video."

March Networks' 8000 Series Hybrid NVRs deliver the high-performance customers need for advanced surveillance and business intelligence applications now and in the future. Available in 32, 16, 8 and compact 4-channel models, the recorders support multiple hybrid camera combinations as well as all-IP video streaming, enabling organizations to transition from analog to 100 percent IP video on the same platform. The 8000 Series employs optimized H.264 video compression to provide detailed, HD video and noticeably sharper analog camera images without increasing storage requirements. The recorders also maintain the unparalleled reliability, centralized video management and scalability that have made March Networks the No. 1 supplier of enterprise video recorders in the Americas and a leading provider worldwide.

Hikvision launches new HD mini IP dome camera series with IR

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 9/26/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Hikvision is enriching its portfolio of 2-line HD network cameras with the introduction of its first IR mini dome IP camera series: the 1.3-megapixel DS-2CD2512F-I(W)(S) and 3-megapixel DS-2CD2532F-I (W)(S).

Although there are many mini domes available on the market today, these compact models are the first to be equipped with IR functionality. They are also able to withstand a wide temperature range of -30°C to 60°C, and their state-of-the-art housing is designed to fit in a wide variety of environments.

These models are equipped with 10pcs IR LEDs, offering an IR range of up-to 10m, to produce clear vision even in night mode. With the latest 1/3” progressive scan CMOS, these models capture sharp and clear images at 2048x1536 (DS-2CD2532F-I (W)(S) model) and 1280x960 (DS-2CD2512F-I(W)(S) model) resolution for identification purposes. Moreover, both cameras even provide full HD 1080p/HD real-time high-quality image performance. These models incorporate a switchable IR cut filter for true day/night operability and 3-axis adjustment ability to allow users the ability to easily adjust their desired view. Additionally, they feature advanced image enhancement functionalities like DWDR,

3D DNR and BLC, to provide a clear preview even under challenging lighting conditions. Moreover, the low-profile design of the cameras' housing makes them well suited for applications where discretion is of the utmost importance. Furthermore, IP66-rated weatherproofing ensures the cameras can withstand even the harshest weather environments.

Wi-Fi models are also available featuring the latest wireless standards to bring ultimate data security levels and supporting WPS (Wi-Fi protected setup) functionality to simplify wireless installations. User can just push the WPS button on both devices to initiate an automatic wireless connection. Additionally, built-in SD/SDHC/SDXC card storage (with a total capacity of up-to 64GB) ensures continuity during network disconnection. Also, a DI/DO interface is included for the user to connect to alarm devices for further security control purposes, as well as an inbuilt high-quality audio intercom allowing two-way communication.

Hikvision 2-line high-definition IP camera series offers a wide range, from box cameras, dome cameras to cube cameras and more, to fulfill SME needs. Hikvision's 2-line series is affordable, easy-to-install, and easy-to-use, and enriched with advance features, so users can enjoy all the benefits and value that IP surveillance has to offer.

The cameras will be available for order in Q4, 2013.

Avtech safeguards Taiwan coffee shop with HD video surveillance

Editor / Provider: Avtech | Updated: 9/26/2013 | Article type: Security 50

It goes without saying that coffee has been one of the most popular drinks in the world, and even Taiwan is no exception to this trend. There are numerous coffee shops on the streets and the competition is fierce. One of the most popular coffee shop chains in Taiwan has a branch store located at Nangkang Software Park in Taipei, which sells more than 50 different types of coffee, beverages, and desserts to business people every day. This coffee shop has indoor and outdoor seating, and as a result, it requires a solution for HD video surveillance and large-scale monitoring systems.

Solution
To run a coffee shop in a smart way and secure property from theft, the shop owner chooses AVH800 as storage device, working with AVM328A, AVM357A, AVM301, and AVN80X IP cameras. In this case, AVN80X is installed at the cashier and kitchen to monitor the employees. AVN80X is megapixel IP camera, which supports high resolution recording to see details; if needed, the owner is allowed to communicate with the employees via speaker. AVM328A is installed for indoor use because of its slim and elegant appearance, so customers won't notice a camera is there. On the other hand, he sets up AVM357A to monitor outdoor area. It supports water proof, so it enables the owner to check the situation no matter whether it rains or shines.

Benefit
The owner concludes that: "I can fully trust the surveillance system. With this system, I am able to check every corner of the store from my iPhone. In addition, I can talk to my staffs by the built-in speaker anytime, and no need to make phone calls anymore. The most remarkable thing is that Push Video just helped me catch a thief, who broke into the shop at 4:00 am!"

Hikvision launches HD IR cube IP camera series for homes and businesses

Editor / Provider: Hikvision | Updated: 9/17/2013 | Article type: Security 50

Hikvision introduces its series of HD IR Cube IP cameras, the most recent addition to its expanding 2-line high-definition IP camera line. Both the 3MP DS-2CD2432F-I (W) and the 1.3MP DS-2CD2412F-I (W) IR cube network camera models are elegantly designed to safeguard homes, offices, stores, and other small and medium-sized enterprises.

These cameras are embedded with a passive infrared (PIR) motion detection sensor. This allows the cameras to detect an individual when they are within an 8-meter range of the unit and also automatically triggers an alarm response. The series also features a DI/DO interface for the user to connect to a variety of external audible & visual alarm devices for further security control purposes. Along with Hikvision's mobile dedicated software (iVMS 4500), these cameras provide complete control and remote management benefits to users. In the event of a break-in or other unauthorized access, the connected alarm device is instantly activated, while event recording is simultaneously event triggered to generate instant notification. Ultimately, this allows owners the ability to take whatever proactive response they deem necessary. Additionally, this series includes the latest 1/3” progressive scan CMOS, enhanced IR LEDs with up-to 10m of IR range, and powerful image processing functionalities like DWDR, 3D DNR and BLC. Furthermore, this series provides clear and sharp HD images under any lighting conditions.

Another noticeable feature of this series is WPS (Wi-Fi protection setup) connection which greatly simplifies Wi-Fi installation. Users need to simply push the WPS button to establish an automatic wireless camera connection. Additionally, a built-in SD/SDHC/SDXC card storage with up-to 64GB capacity further ensures continuity during network disconnection.

The cameras will be available for order in Q4, 2013.

Axis IP surveillance and NUUO NVRs supply for Czech Republic banks

Editor / Provider: AXIS Communication | Updated: 9/17/2013 | Article type: Commercial Markets

Mission
Equa bank a.s. is a modern banking institution in the Czech Republic operating 12 branches with more than 50,000 clients. The company entered the Czech market in July 2011 after taking over Banco Popolare Ceská republika, a. s. During reconstruction of 6 branches owned by the previous bank, management needed to resolve several video surveillance system issues. The existing analog camera monitoring system was unreliable and the bank needed to elaborate a user-friendly and reliable solution while keeping the cost as low as possible.

Solution
MC Systems & Services s.r.o, as one of the suppliers of bank security systems, decided to design a completely new system based on IP. Eight to twelve AXIS P3304 Network Dome Cameras with 1 MP resolution and WDR (wide dynamic range) were installed at each of the 6 branches. Camera recordings are stored at the branch in a compact NUUO Mini or NUUO Titan video management (NVR) network storage system, allowing the connection of up to 16 cameras.

Result
The installed camera system provided Equa bank branches with an economical, user-friendly and simple video surveillance solution. Axis network cameras provide high-quality imaging with high resolution and wide dynamic range, and thanks to local NVR storage the capacity of the data network is not overloaded. Authorized personnel, either at the bank branch or at the bank headquarters, may easily access video recordings online at any time. Technicians may also perform remote maintenance or make minor corrections to the camera surveillance system via the network connection.

Tradition, or the future?
Banks were among the first places that camera surveillance and monitoring systems were installed in the 1970s. Monitoring and surveillance technologies have been subject to rapid developments and the introduction of IP cameras brought many advantages. “Traditionally, banks use analog, but rather well designed camera systems. If the camera system needs to be expanded, we usually recommend building a digital system in parallel with the analog system, as the digital system represents a better choice for the future. Both systems can easily work together, and if a camera needs to be replaced, a digital camera is installed instead,” says Milan Urbánek from MC Systems & Services s.r.o. “However, in the case of Equa bank, we have recommended installation of a new IP digital system because the original analog system was unreliable and could not be easily extended.”

Clearly usable imaging
What benefits has the IP camera system brought to Equa bank branches? First of all, high-quality imaging. AXIS P3304 Network Cameras offer a 1 MP resolution and wide dynamic range (WDR), which further improves video quality even under high light contrasts, which are common in many banks as a result of numerous high gloss surfaces. Another benefit is easy online access to video recordings. NVR recordings stored in NUOO storage may be easily accessed online by authorized personnel when needed, plus under regular operation the capacity of the data network is not overloaded.

Savings, expandability and reliability
The network solution brought installation cost savings as ethernet cable was both used to supply power to the cameras and to transfer video signal. The compact NUOO storage replaces expensive servers and allows the user to connect additional IP cameras without significant cost in the future. Because the system is very reliable and camera settings or corrections may be performed by a technician online, the system maintenance costs are also significantly reduced. “We and our clients believe that human labor is expensive,” says Milan Urbánek, “and therefore, we are very pleased that this system is effective and virtually maintenance-free, aside from one annual preventive inspection.