Sony IP video surveillance

Sony introduces two new intelligent 360 degree speed dome cameras - the SNC-RX530 and SNC-RX570
Sony introduces two new intelligent 360 degree speed dome cameras - the SNC-RX530 and SNC-RX570

With the introduction of the SNC-RX530 and SNC-RX570, Sony now offers a complete family of intelligent network speed dome cameras. The new SNC-RX530 sits at the entry-level, with the established SNC-RX550 as the mid-range solution and the new SNC-RX570 at the high end.  This choice allows users to select the model that offers the optimum price/performance ratio for their surveillance needs. The original SNC-RX550 has a 26x optical zoom, enabling it to zoom in on small or distant objects with exceptional clarity.  The new models offer different zoom capabilities to match different application needs.  For example, the SNC-RX530 has an 18x optical zoom for less zoom-intensive surveillance activities, while the SNC-RX570 has a massive 36x optical zoom for applications that need the best-possible performance. All three models also offer a 12x digital zoom that, when combined with the optical zoom, expands the maximum zoom capability even further to 216x (RX530), 312x (RX550) and 432x (RX570). Furthermore, these high-performance, highly versatile cameras also offer fast 360º endless panning and a tilt range of 90º.  This allows users to precisely monitor almost any object surrounding the camera.  And with the Auto Flip function, they can also "chase" a target passing under the camera, such as a person walking or running down a corridor. Advanced functionality - across the family All SNC-RX models are equipped with a 1/4-type CCD featuring Exwave HAD technology.  This provides high sensitivity at low light levels - even infrared conditions when used with the Day/Night function - making the cameras suited to 24x7 outdoor security applications, such as car-park monitoring. Users can choose from three video compression formats: JPEG, MPEG4 and H.264, as well as three different picture sizes: VGA, QVGA and QQVGA.  Plus, both JPEG and MPEG4 video can be streamed simultaneously; JPEG over a local network for recording and MPEG4 over the Internet for monitoring. Furthermore, on the new SNC-RX530 and SNC-RX570 - and with the latest firmware update for the SNC-RX550 - camera intelligence has been taken to the next level.  The Intelligent Motion Detection function now has a modified GUI and a detection algorithm that keeps more consistent ID tags on moving objects.  While Intelligent Object Detection features an improved detection algorithm with sensitive auto-iris adjustment that reduces false alarms. Bi-directional audio has also been improved.  Users can still monitor audio from the camera side (via an optional microphone) and play out live or pre-recorded audio (via an optional speaker), but an improved audio upload tool means they can now also transmit audio to multiple cameras at the same time.

Sony Professional unveils the world's first high-definition intelligent PTZ network security cameras
Sony Professional unveils the world's first high-definition intelligent PTZ network security cameras

Sony Professional introduced the industry's first HD pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) IP network security cameras. The cameras are part of the new SNC-RH series camera line-up and have the ability to pan 360 degrees, while capturing and streaming HD video at up to 30 frames per second. The SNC-RH series is the most advanced range of Sony's IP-based network security cameras. The new models - the SNC-RH124P for indoor use and SNC-RH164P for outdoor use - are the first in their class capable of transmitting HD images using H.264 video compression technology. This allows the transmission and storage of digital video using less bandwidth than previous video compression solutions. As a result images from the cameras can be easily connected to a network server, such as Sony's NSR-1000 Series, and displayed in high definition, offering the highest quality image representation. "High-definition imaging and intelligent video analysis are two key features in the new cameras that are driving the market transition from analogue to IP video security technology," said Yu Kitamura, EMEA Product Manager, Video Security, Sony Professional. "When combined with the ability to transmit high-definition video using advanced video compression signals, Sony provides a complete HD security system from camera to recorder to display. This gives users added flexibility to deploy HD cameras in a growing number of industries and applications." The new cameras feature advanced DEPA™ (Distributed Enhanced Processing Architecture), which supports intelligent operation. DEPA technology has moved on significantly since it was first deployed  2006, Sony's embedded intelligent video analysis technology in the HD PTZ cameras is DEPA Advanced providing the highest quality image detection and, critically, recognising if the camera has been tampered with. Moreover, the cameras are capable of dual streaming images in HD using H.264 or MPEG4 compression technology and feature an easy-to-use speed-dome design that can be rapidly assembled and deployed. Usability is further enhanced in the SNC-RH124P security camera by IEEE p802.3 compliant High Power over Ethernet (hPoE) operation. One of the first cameras to support this standard, the cameras can be operated using a single Ethernet cable without requiring additional power supply. While, for users that need to capture moving images in low-light conditions, the new cameras are equipped with XDNR(TM) (dynamic noise reduction) technology that virtually eliminates image blur during low-light video capture, and visibility enhancing technology. Developed to improve performance in challenging lighting conditions, surveillance in high-contrast situations is improved significantly. The European launch of the cameras was held at IFSEC 2009 in the UK at the NEC. Also on show were Sony's new SNC-RS series of standard-definition PTZ cameras and a new encoder range.

Sony SNC-RZ50P - Intelligent all-in-one IP network camera with integrated PTZ
Sony SNC-RZ50P - Intelligent all-in-one IP network camera with integrated PTZ

The SNC-RZ50P is an intelligent Pan/Tilt/Zoom camera. Building on the performance and versatility of the best-selling SNC-RZ30P, Sony's SNC-RZ50P offers increased functionality that allows users to benefit from intelligent monitoring in a wide range of surveillance applications. The intelligent motion detection and intelligent object detection improve workflow and are the largest single differentiator in the new platform of network cameras. In addition, this product can be to upgraded to support Sony Intelligent Video Analysis using a free firmware upgrade.Additional improvements include dynamic frame integration, which captures moving and static objects in a precise way, while retaining superior sensitivity. The inclusion of a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) chip and dual video codecs open new possibilities and allow Sony products to bring even more to monitoring systems.Pan, tilt and 26x optical zoomThe SNC-RZ50 incorporates pan, tilt and 26x optical zoom capability to provide large field of view and a combination of overview and detail. With a pan and tilt speed of 300 degree per second, you can move to a desired area instantaneously. Up to 16 preset positions can be set with return accuracy of ±0.064 degree.Day/night functionWith the use of day/night function, the SNC-RZ50 offers high sensitivity (minimum illumination 0.3 lux) and excellent visibility in poor and varying light conditions.Multiple compression formats (JPEG, MPEG4, H.264)Depending on application and available bandwidth on a network, you can select your optimum codec from above three codecs. Typically, the compression ratio of MPEG-4 is approximately four times higher than JPEG, while H.264's compression ratio is approximately twice that of the MPEG-4.MPEG-4 and JPEG dual encoding capabilityThe SNC-RZ50P can generate MPEG-4 and JPEG images simultaneously. While JPEG stream can be recorded and monitored locally, where available bandwidth is sufficient, MPEG-4 can be transmitted over the Internet even under limited bandwidth.

Sony SNC-P5 integrated IP network camera
Sony SNC-P5 integrated IP network camera

Affordable and versatileThe Sony SNC-P5 is an integrated IP network camera incorporating pan and tilt capability with an x3 optical zoom. It is able to stream either MPEG-4 or JPEG video streams across the network at 30 frames per second at 320x240 image size. The SNC-P5 also has the option of Compact Flash and Wireless Cards. Microphone and speaker connections are provided for bi-directional audio along with a composite video output for local viewing or recording.FeaturesAll-in-one MPEG-4 based IP network colour cameraThe SNC-P5 incorporates a 1/4 type progressive scan CCD, built-in microphone, and 100Base-TX/10Base-T (RJ-45) network interface in a compact and stylish body. A built-in web server allows a PC running a standard web browser to monitor live images and manage the camera.Pan, tilt and zoom functionSNC-P5 incorporates pan, tilt and zoom function with pan range of 120 degree, tilt range of 75 degree, with 3x optical zoom, allowing you a wide range of monitoring with clear detail image.MPEG 4 and JPEG compression formatThe SNC-P5 utilizes the MPEG-4 compression format that achieves high-compression ratios, allowing smooth moving images to be streamed over a wide range of bandwidths. Because of its high-compression ratios, users can monitor high-quality moving images without delay even at low bandwidths.High frame rateThe SNC-P5 produces images with a maximum frame rate of 30 fps at 320 x 240 QVGA size in both MPEG-4 and JPEG modes, allowing clear and smooth images to be viewed. The frame rate can be fixed or set to a variable rate that automatically adjusts to the available bandwidth.Benefits Bi-directional audio monitoringIncorporating a built-in microphone and an external microphone input, the SNC-P5 allows users to monitor audio in addition to video images. Using an external microphone, the SNC-P5 is capable of picking up sound from a distance.Adaptive rate controlTo implement the Quality of Service (QoS) technology on the network, the SNC-P5 provides adaptive rate control function which automatically varies the bit rate of audio and video data corresponding to changing network conditions and selects the most appropriate frame rates. This function helps prevent audio and video breakup.Multi casting capabilityThe SNC-P5 has a Multicasting capability that enables efficient video and audio streaming to a large number of users without overloading the network.Alarm functionThe SNC-P5 is equipped with a built-in motion detection function that can generate an alarm through an alarm-output port or trigger various actions. Unlike conventional activity detection, the SNC-P5 uses vector information to detect motion, achieving robustness against noise components.

Sony introduced new line of mini dome security cameras at Security Essen 2010
Sony introduced new line of mini dome security cameras at Security Essen 2010

Sony Professional announced new additions to its X series security camera range, further enhancing its powerful line-up of solutions. At Security Essen 2010 Sony Professional showcased five new models from its X series of cameras, as well as its new Plug and Play NSR-S20 recording solution for X series cameras.The latest additions to the X series camera range are compact in size but boast excellent full HD and HD picture quality by incorporating Sony's Advanced Distributed Enhanced Processing Architecture (DEPA). New models include a fixed camera, the SNC-CH110; two mini dome cameras, the SNC-DH110 and SNC-DH210; and two impact-resistant mini dome cameras, the SNC-DH110T and SNC-DH210T.X series cameras are some of the world's smallest HD cameras, allowing them to be fitted into the smallest of spaces for discrete use. The cameras' ultra compact size and a compelling price point are attained with no compromise on the power or performance available. Moreover, the cameras are extremely energy-efficient; consuming an estimated 75% less energy than a conventional 11.2w full HD fixed box camera. An innovative design for quick installation, variety of colours including silver, black or white, and full HD quality means that the new cameras are particularly suited to use in retail applications. The innovative Stream Squared function of the X series in particular allows simultaneous streaming of two 4:3 aspect ratio videos in user-selectable SD resolutions. An entire image or a part of an image can be selected from the original view and resized to SD resolution. This means it can stream a wide-angle view and a close-up shot at the same time. It is perfect for keeping a close eye on high-risk spots while keeping the wider picture in sight simultaneously. With this feature, the 720p X series cameras can replace two SD cameras installed in the same line of view - saving on costs. Bruno Winnen, Head of Video Security, Sony Professional commented: "HD remains a key focus for Sony and Security Essen 2010 is the ideal platform to demonstrate Sony's understanding of the security market and the needs of our customers. The latest line up of cameras creates easy migration to IP and the Plug and Play NSR offers a versatile and reliable recording solution. The full HD family of cameras across the X series combine cost-effective, entry level cameras with fixed and mini dome versions to create a truly innovative portfolio."   See images with captions   

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