Rugged IP Cameras Deliver HD Image Quality in Extreme Conditions

Editor Insight

Because of variations in operating conditions, the design and build of outdoor or extreme-environment video surveillance cameras must be able to cope with or withstand sometimes extreme changes, such as in temperature, humidity, dustiness and corrosiveness. Explosions ( oil/gas ), vibrations ( mobile/locomotive ) and acts of vandalism ( public surveillance ) are other user scenarios that often test the reliability and performance of every part and component of a surveillance system.

Clearly, these unique industrial design and durability needs cannot be fulfilled by every solution provider. In addition to meeting "minimum" temperature ( 50°C ) and humidity ( 90% ) requirements for electronics, specific IP and NEMA ratings are key considerations in getting the water, dust, voltage variation and signal interference resistance that your surveillance system needs to monitor and record 24/7 without interruptions in your extreme operating environment. Other national or industry-specific certifications, such as CNS, UL, IEC and BSI, will also help you make a better informed, purchasing decision in getting the required outdoor or extreme-environment surveillance camera.

Three Tips to Choose a Qualified Rugged IP Camera?

Industrial-Grade Reliability for Worry-Free Operation

Many CCTV systems are required to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in harsh environments as part of mission-critical video surveillance applications, such as oil and gas, railway, ITS, and city traffic systems. In order to provide a constant stream of video images, system reliability is absolutely essential. IP surveillance products must be able to operate in temperatures ranging from -40 to 75°C without a heater or fan, have level 3 EMI/EMC protection, IP66 rain and dust protection, and key industrial certifications ( Ex: EN 50121/50155, NEMA TS2 ), and be robust enough to deliver non-stop IP video streaming and recording functionality. It is also good practice to insist on a solid 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Image Quality is the Key to All Solutions

The baseline by which all CCTV systems are measured is image quality. Good industrial-grade IP cameras should be equipped with H.264 technology with up to 1280 x 720 HD resolution at 30 FPS and support advanced image enhancement technologies, such as WDR (Wide Dynamic Range), DNR (Dynamic Noise Reduction), BLC (Back Light Compensation), and de-mist to provide clear, high quality images. In addition, when network bandwidth is limited, intelligent frame rate control and advanced bit rate flow control technologies such as DynaStream and CBR Pro enhance image quality for smoother video transmissions, and increase the frame rate in response to security violations.

Don't Forget Integration is Part of The Cost

Many people overlook the fact that integration with existing systems can result in a huge cost in both time and productivity. To avoid being surprised by unexpected obstacles, insist on interoperability and compatibility when evaluating suitable IP cameras. Compliance with ONVIF specifications is key since ONVIF-compliant products provide greater deployment flexibility, and a well-designed SDK that provides CGI commands, APIs, and OCX component gives engineers a big advantage when integrating event videos into surveillance management and SCADA systems. Third party software integration with leading NVR/CMS/VMS software is the last mile to make integration complete.

Application Cases from Around the World

Taipei Metro goes IP, with industrial-grade durability

Averaging 1.6 million passengers per day, Taipei Metro is one of the busiest transportation systems in Asia, and has become an important driver for business and lifestyle in the island nation. In addition to ensuring smooth and reliable operations, the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation keeps an watchful eye on the security and safety of its riders. Therefore, in 2010, the rolling stock IP surveillance system was implemented on Taipei Metro carriages to record videos, as well as provide live view to each train driver. This enabled recording of live video images which could be used as evidence upon necessity, thereby increasing security for passengers... More

More Cases:

Focus Product

Moxa - VPort 36-1MP-T
VPort 36-1MP-T
  • Industrial-grade -40 to 75°C operating temperature, without heater or fan
  • HD Resolution (1280 x 720)
  • DNR/BLC/WDR technologies for superior image quality
+ more
Moxa - VPort P06-1MP-M12-T
VPort P06-1MP-M12-T
  • Compliant with EN 50121-3-2 and essential sections of EN 50155
  • Industrial-grade -40 to 75°C operating temperature, without heater or fan
  • 1/2.7" progressive scan camera with maximum 1280 x 800 resolution at up to 30 frames/second
+ more
Moxa - VPort 16-M12 Series
VPort 16-M12 Series
  • Rugged design with EN 50155 compliant metal housing and glass lens cover
  • 1/3" CCD camera with maximum resolution of 800 x 600
  • CBR Pro for good image quality in limited bandwidth environments
+ more