The IP video market has developed steadily since 2009, with many customers asking about IP equipment but few actually deploying it. Buzzwords like HD and megapixel are common, with emerging interoperability standards moving the industry in the right direction.
The IP video market has developed steadily since 2009, with many customers asking about IP equipment but few actually deploying it. Buzzwords like HD and megapixel are common, with emerging interoperability standards moving the industry in the right direction.
The advantages and disadvantages of IP have been covered extensively. This article will focus instead on the maturity of network video and its future.
Video surveillance has a well-established history, particularly for analog technology. IP is an exciting new development, marking a vastly different type of technology from analog. There are many engineers and professional video companies which have yet to embrace the IP. Several factors affect the uptake of IP, including cost, unknown reliability, maintenance and the “Do I need it?” factor. Time will only tell how quickly IP is adapted.
Service Matters for IP
End user concerns about network video are understandable. IT technologies and software connect to the Internet. This allows IP products such as network cameras to be more flexible and scalable, with a lower cost of installation. However, they need to be managed by comprehensive surveillance software, along with complicated network settings and being capable of remote upgrades.
Network requirements make IP video a headache. In fact, network cameras are no longer simply about product capability, but about service. Therefore, how to offer effective service will be a key factor to gain market share in this segment, rather than resolution and price. Service should cover not only maintenance but also after-sales service. This includes the ability to respond quickly to market demands, refine products, interface with standards and so on.
Technology Strength
Sunell takes a proactive approach toward technology breakthroughs, aiming to be a leader. We devote 40 percent of its 90 R&D staff to the IP field.
To better serve our customers, we enhance product quality and lower service costs.
The Sunell megapixel PTZ speed dome features the latest technologies, utilizing a Sony megapixel CCD. Sony's image sensors are regarded as the benchmark for CCDs. Sunell worked close with Sony to best integrate its CCD into our cameras. This is not as simple as putting an analogue CCD in an IP module, then placing it into a PTZ housing.
Designed from the ground up with just one PCB for all in-house technology design, the megapixel speed dome emphasizes quality. Sunell's development roadmap is packed with innovation, using newer CMOS technology from Sony, the world's undisputed leader. Other cameras are in production, including 2-megapixel and 5-megapixel PTZ cameras.
Enhancement and Compatibility
Sunell invests greatly to enhance product stability for both software and hardware. We have a series of rigid testing procedure, such as aging, pressure and actual environment testing. This reduces equipment malfunction rates, even when cameras operate 24/7. Furthermore, we follow IP standardization and uniformity. We believe that following industry standards is the way to save our customers money, such as maintenance fees.
With more standards issued by the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF), the Physical Security Interoperability Alliance (PSIA) and the HDcctv Alliance, we foresee IP standardization in the near future. As a member of ONVIF and a would-be member of PSIA, our network camera supports both standards' protocols. This includes RTSP, RTP, RTCP, HTTP and SOAP, enabling greater compatibilities with surveillance software.
Technology steps should always be taken in moderation. Sunell has a reserved but pragmatic approach to not run before you can walk. With more than two years invested in IP technology, we look forward to a bright and productive future in the network camera market.