Despite the global recession, Korean manufacturers continue to innovate. Delivering competitive products with advanced functions, slick designs and affordable prices are common goals.
Camera manufacturers are studiously developing reliable HD and megapixel network cameras. DVR manufacturers are providing H.264 models that support larger channel counts with D1 resolution and HDMI streaming. Hybrid and NVR solutions are also on many vendors' R&D road maps. Intelligent functions can be seen in more edge devices and DVRs, and software offerings are becoming more user-friendly with GUIs and powerful features.
In terms of environmental friendliness, video door phones and IR illuminators are on their way to be more energy-efficient.
While most of the companies are moving toward IP-based technologies, advances and investments in developing more scalable analog solutions still press ahead. With more Korean companies looking to increase efforts in branding, service improvements will be a key part of their corporate strategies.
The following eight Korean companies are presented in alphabetical order.
“We expected 10 percent growth this year, with the help of our new high-end H.264 standalone DVR series released at end of 2009,” Cha said. Strategy and Core Competence The company has extensive know-how in managing video codecs and application software, making its offerings competitive. It also understands networking, which will be applied for its NVRs and network cameras, Cha said. CIT conducts business by building exclusive partnerships in each country. This practice protects both the market and its customers, Cha said. Future Outlook |
Strategy and Core Competence Hitron has an extensive video lineup. Its speed domes include video analytics and software integration with DVRs. Other edge devices have high resolution of 650 TVLs, as well as day-night abilities with DNR and WDR, including smart analytic functions. In displays, Hitron's LCD monitor can go up to 700 TVLs, suited for viewing high-resolution footage. The company is also committed to network solutions and interoperability. It joined ONVIF and offers compliant products, increasing its functionality. Future Outlook Hitron recognized the importance of ONVIF, as network video uptake is set to surpass analog surveillance within the next three to four years. “Now we are pouring our energy and effort into here,” Jung said. |
Strategy and Core Competence Nadatel adapted to market trends by updating its hardware platform and operating system this year. This change helped shorten development time and extended product ranges, Eom said. As the recession has affected customer purchasing behavior, Nadatel extended its low-cost and middle-range product lineup to reflect demand, Eom said. This enabled revenue to hold steady. It also switched from DSPs to SoCs to reduce costs but offer the same functionality to customers. Future Outlook |
Strategy and Core Competence Its recent product launches include a dual-CCD true day/night camera, which it developed on its own. Another offering is its triple camera, combining three cameras with IR illumination in one. It enables simultaneous wide-area and close-up monitoring, viewed on multiple screen in a single monitor, to capture all details, Park said. Neocom is focused on transportation, launching a four-channel mobile DVR. Future Outlook Neocom plans to expand internationally by entering North and South America, Park said. |
This customization is applied to its OEM and branded business. “By mixing both strategies, it allows Pravis to grasp more business opportunities in each country,” Kim said. Strategy and Core Competence The company's current product lineup emphasizes IP and new solutions. It will release embedded NVRs and HD cameras in the third quarter of 2010. Future Outlook The company also plans to expand its line of HD DVRs, HD cameras and embedded NVRs. |
Due to the global economic crisis, growth slowed for Ronix in 2009. This year, with a more comprehensive product line, the company expects growth of more than 50 percent, said In-Gyun Kim, President. The majority of sales were generated from its branded products, with the remaining portion generated from OEM sales. Strategy and Core Competence Another development emphasis is weatherproof cameras. The cameras are IP68-rated and include WDR, 3-DNR and day/night technology. In 2009, Ronix planned to expand market share worldwide. It is adopting the HDMI standard for its new products, which include an HD converter and analog viewer for full HD output, Kim said. Future Outlook |
This growth coincided with the launch of its branded business, which had been exclusively OEM-based until 2008. It stays competitive with its R&D know-how. “We always consider three years into the future for technology, based on the marketing environment and surveys of customer opinion from around the world,” Lim said. Strategy and Core Competence Future Outlook |
In 2009, sales were affected by the global economic downturn, said James Shin, Sales Executive MD. However, the company expects more than 30 percent growth this year, due to the market rebound. Strategy and Core Competence The company understands how to integrate CMOS technology for megapixel cameras. “While focusing on analog cameras for the moment, we will continue to develop a comprehensive product line, such as network cameras and underwater cameras,” Shin said. “We offer 5-megapixel cameras in Germany.” Future Outlook Despite fierce price wars, Xtron will uphold high production standards. “Ensuring quality helps maintain long-term relationships with customers,” Shin said. |