10 Apr 2013
DRS will offer the WatchMaster IP Elite and WatchMaster IP Ultra pan-and-tilt camera system in both resolutions

DRS Technologies, Inc., a Finmeccanica Company, announces the availability of its WatchMaster® IP 3000 and 6000 Series of affordable thermal imaging cameras for Security and Surveillance Systems Integrators. The enhanced features, versatility of options and capabilities of the new 3000 and 6000 Series cameras will build on the success of their predecessors, the WatchMaster® IP Elite and IP Ultra, which were introduced in 2012.

Maintaining WatchMaster® brand staples such as; industry leading low power consumption of less than 12.95 watts, signature light-weight and compact packaging, exceptional image clarity and affordable pricing, the 3000 and 6000 Series are equipped with all-new Image Contrast Enhancement (ICE) capabilities for additional local area processing and edge enhancement, an assortment of lens options and both IP and Analogue connectivity for greater versatility. The 3000 Series outputs a 320 x 240 resolution video image in three lens options while the 6000 Series is a 640 x 480 resolution imager with five available lens options. DRS will offer the fixed-mount WatchMaster® IP Elite, as well as the WatchMaster® IP Ultra pan-and-tilt camera system, in both resolutions.

The WatchMaster® IP 3000 and 6000 Series, developed by the Network and Imaging Systems (NIS) division of DRS Technologies, deliver security Systems Integrators a competitive edge by providing 24/7 affordable thermal camera solutions that outperform image intensifiers, LED infrared illuminators, and other conventional low-light surveillance technologies. These thermal camera systems detect long-wave infrared energy to produce exceptionally clear images at extended distances, employing an advanced 17 µm pixel pitch focal plane array. At the core of WatchMaster® IP cameras, the uncooled vanadium oxide detector with DRS’ patented advanced absorber superstructure that senses infrared waves (heat), rather than visible light, providing an ideal solution for the most challenging of environments.

“The foundation of DRS Technologies is rooted in our dedication to continuous innovation and tireless efforts to meet and exceed customer expectations,” said NIS President Mike Sarrica. “The evolution of the WatchMaster® IP line of products has been moulded by end-user needs, which ultimately drive industry standards. As such, our product roadmap has been designed to anticipate market demands as we endeavour to provide Systems Integrators with the necessary tools to ensure their projects’ success and end-user satisfaction.”

The WatchMaster® IP Elite and IP Ultra 3000 and 6000 Series incorporate tamper-resistant IP66 enclosures for outdoor applications. All four systems are conformant with Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF™) standard Profile-S for interfacing IP-based security devices and are also IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE) compliant. ONVIF is a trademark of ONVIF, Inc.

The next generation of IP and Analogue thermal cameras from DRS Technologies will be on display at the 2013 ISC West exposition, April 10-12 at the Sands Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nev. WatchMaster® IP Elite 3000 and 6000 Series, as well as WatchMaster® IP Ultra 3000 Series are available for immediate demonstration and purchase. WatchMaster® IP Ultra 6000 Series is scheduled for third quarter 2013 volume production.