April 16, 2007
Will Vuze threaten traditional TV? In 2002 American computer programmer Bram Cohen
wrote a program that changed the way of downloading files. As opposed to popular
"http" protocol the users don't have to retrieve data from
one server. This eliminates the risk of reducing transfer rates when many users
want to get the same service. After the session is set up, the next user is
switched to that one who has already received the data (at list the part of the
file which is currently needed). With many people downloading the file at the
same time, they will also be uploading the data to other users, speeding up the
download time and not overloading the original server. The new protocol has been
named as BitTorrent. It became the basis for commercial and free software for
downloading and sharing multiple files, mainly multimedia and films. One of the
most popular BitTorrent clients is Azureus, released in 2003.
Recently came to light Vuze client, based on Azurus, and dedicated for
DVD-quality and high-definition video content. The authors of the program
provided digital rights management protection, and made distribution deals with
12 television, film and media companies, including BBC. So they started next
commercial venture that will enable Net users to get HD video content.
After the pioneering steps of YouTube and Apple TV initiative, it is
the next undertaking strengthening the position of IPTV as future technology for
TV distribution. This distribution platform may, first of all, threaten
profitability of DVB-T infrastructure (just starting in many countries) and
cable TV networks.

Planex presented family of devices with implemented BitTorrent protocol at
CeBIT.
The picture shows BRC-W14VG-BT router.
Reception of broadcasts from four satellites in SMATV systems.
Apart from main Astra and HotBird directions there are other satellite
positions that may be interesting for many users of satellite
installations, e.g. foreigners from around the world staying at hotels
or in their apartments in different countries. The problem can be solved
by employing multiswitches dedicated for cooperation with four
converters. There may be used e.g. two sat dishes, each with double LNB
mount. Multiswitches used in such installations are controlled by DiSEqC
signals, thus the necessity of using sat receivers having this feature.
We advise to use the family of professional multiswitches from
Signal: 17/4
R694495, 17/6
R694496, 17/12
R694497
17/16 R694498.
The signals from the multiswitches are distributed to subscriber outlets
R694100,
allowing reception e.g. from Astra, HotBird, Amos and
Sirius.
Signal
multiswitches

Example installation with 17/12 multiswitch.
Distribution of CCTV images in antenna
installation.
There is possibility of integrating the existing (or being built) signal
installations in a house: terrestrial TV antenna system, satellite
installation, CCTV system, at little cost. The signal from terrestrial
antennas is combined with modulated signal from DVR, amplified, and
then, in turn, combined with satellite signal.
Such system enables the residents to get FM, terrestrial TV, and CCTV
signals that convey images from the installed cameras. Additionally, in
one of the rooms there is available satellite signal. The employed CPD
- 501 DVR allows recording images from
4 cameras and access of the video data through the Internet. The DVR
features motion detection - it saves up disc space and extends recording
time up to several weeks.

The images from cameras in quad mode are transmitted on one of TV channels
and available in all rooms.
Discreet surveillance of parking lots.
Lighting of parking lot fences with typical lamps placed on high posts
is generally expensive, due to the cost of many needed posts and their
installation. It would be much more effective to install horizontally
operating floodlights, but it is usually unacceptable because of the
neighboring buildings, roads etc. - the light could dazzle the people in
the area. The proper solution is use of IR illuminators. The IR
spectrum is not visible for human eye, so it allows discreet observation
of the area and using optimal configuration of the lighting system. For
illumination of long sections we advise strong IR lamp IR-150
M1650
with 100m range of
operation (notice:
the beam is 20-30 degrees wide). Usually we mount fixed cameras along
the fence, connected to DVR with motion detection function. Separate
cameras are used for monitoring of entrance(s)/exit(s) and the sentry
box. It is also advised to install one high-speed PTZ camera in the
center of the plot, which will be used for observation and
identification of people moving in the area.

Scheme of parking lot surveillance. The blue spots indicate locations of
installed cameras.
IP CCTV - large-scale monitoring. The board of Tampa
Bay Baseball Club in USA decided to employ ACTi devices for video
surveillance system protecting their stadium. There were chosen
IP cameras, connected to
LAN infrastructure (an option of using analog cameras would require
building extensive network of coaxial and fiber-optics cables).
The whole installation consists of:

Monitoring of Tampa Bay
baseball stadium using ACTi cameras.
Professional IP CCTV
software from ACTi. NVR 2.0 software pack available at ACTi
site is an ideal solution for professional IP CCTV systems. Its
architecture is based on server-client principle, which allows to use
remote terminals. This solution enables the administrator to optimize
cooperation of many operators, with assignment of administration
authority. The program is available for 16, 32, 48 and 64 video
channels, the first option is free. It gives the installer/user the
opportunity of creating professional installation employing up to 16 cameras
without paying for the managing system.

Screenshot from NVR 2 .0
MJPEG/MPEG-4
video server: Pixord P1401 K2131. Pixord company has launched on the
market video server supporting MPEG-4 SP video compression, available
for a very competitive price. The server enables the images to be viewed
and recorded within LAN, with the resolutions:
D1 (720x576 for PAL, 720x480 for NTSC), CIF (352x288
for PAL, 352x240 for NTSC) and QCIF (176x144 for PAL, 176x112 for NTSC),
at 25 fps for PAL and 30 fps for NTSC.
The device has a number of additional functions, among other things:
video conferencing, e-mail notification and sending data to ftp server
triggered by motion detection, and time synchronization with global NTP
server. Application of video server allows access to images from
existing analog CCTV installation directly through LAN. MPEG-4 SP
compression does not require high network capacity, ensuring good
quality of video and audio. The set includes free software pack for live
monitoring and recording both video and audio on PC.

Video server MJPEG/MPEG-4 Pixord P1401
K2131
New TP-Link TL-WR543G with WISP
function. This router integrated with 4-port switch and access point
(AP) has been also equipped with
WISP function. The feature allows sharing WiFi
connection among the integrated LAN ports (the device works as client
station routing wireless traffic to LAN ports).
This AP enables the user to build LAN based on wireless transmission. It
makes a good solution for home and business, easy to configure via www
interface.

TP-Link
TL-WR543G operating in Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISP) mode.
WDS mode. Wireless Distribution System is the way of providing
wireless bridges. When an access point or wireless router supports WDS
function, it is possible to link wirelessly several such devices: the
second and each next AP gets signal from its predecessor, regenerates
it, and sends it further within the range. The distribution network uses
static routing, basing on MAC addresses of the connected access points.
The APs working in WDS mode are transparent to Address Resolution
Protocol (ARP) - they don't mask MAC addresses.
There is a limit of 6
slave access points. This mode of operation may also be used for Point to Point (with
directional antennas) or Point to Multipoint network topology. It
is advised to employ the same type/family of APs to avoid possible
problems with cooperation of equipment coming from different
manufactures.
WDS mode tests.

Access points using WDS mode.
April 10, 2007
Widespread adoption of RFID.
RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification)
uses 125 kHz – 134 kHz (LF- Low Frequency), 13.56 MHz
(HF - High Frequency), 865 MHz - 952 MHz (the most popular - UHF),
and
2.4 GHz frequency bands. This technology is used in transportation,
stock management and control, for identification of people and animals.
In RFID system individual objects are equipped with
identifier (called a tag) containing a unique electronic code,
the interrogator (a transceiver with
antenna and decoder), and managing software.
There are two kinds of tags,
active and passive. The passive ones don't need any battery. When the
RFID tag passes through electromagnetic zone of the interrogator (reader), it
uses its energy, detects the reader's activation signal and sends the code. The
reader decodes the encoded data and passes them to the host computer for
processing.
In the current year there is planned start of the largest RFID
program, which will outdistance the present American leadership in that
technology. China government want to introduce personal ID cards
containing data encoded in RFID tags. Among other things, it will allow to
perform remote control of the documents.

UHF RFID antennas (865 MHz – 952 MHz) at the stand of MTI company
- Cebit 2007
DSB / VSB TV modulators.
The result of amplitude modulation
(AM) is coming into existence two signals, the useful one in the
anticipated frequency band and the image signal that locates in the
channel lying below.
The spurious signal occupies additional channel, not being needed for
demodulation purposes. So each signal distributed this way takes up two
channels. Having to distribute a greater number of programs and such
signals, the number of available channels becomes an impassable barrier.
The solution to this problem is employing, instead of simple dual side
band (DSB) modulators, more sophisticated vestigial side band (VSB)
devices, e.g. MT-30A
R871731
(mono), MT-30C R871733
(A2 stereo).

The spectrum of DSB - AM and VSB - AM signals
CCTV cameras in theater. The basic
problem that affects CCTV cameras in theater is great variability of
stage lighting, both in color and intensity, from complete darkness to
bright illumination with powerful spotlights.
Music Info company, that
designs and installs professional audio/video equipment in theaters and
concert halls, was faced with the challenge of implementing modern
audiovisual system in the National Helena Modrzejewska Old Theater in
Krakow.
After a series of experiments it has turned out that standard cameras
are not suitable for the job, and the best choice is color day/night
camera SN-587C/A/10 SWD
M11205 with Pixim image sensor, mechanically switching IR
filter, and versatile configuration possibilities.
Automatics of the camera individually
adjusts the time of exposition for each pixel alone - every pixel makes
a micro-camera itself. The main task of the system consists in
monitoring of the stage and wings to enable stage managers and support
services (sound and lighting operators) to follow the action and react
in time according to the scenario.
The camera can automatically switch into night mode, but the reaction
time (7s) is not acceptable in dynamic theater environment. The problem
has been solved by implementing manual control of the filter - it is
controlled by the staff simultaneously with darkening the stage. Due
to unique feature of remote adjustment of camera's parameters, the staff
may program them according to specific lighting requirements of
individual productions (the feature has been described in the March 12th
issue).
Use of UTP/FTP cable allows transmission of video (employing matching
transformers), control of IR filter and configuration of the
camera via RS-232 interface.
For IR illumination there are used IR lamps
M1650,
M1654.

Remote configuration and control of IR filter in the cameras SN-587C/A/10 SWD
M11205
Video surveillance of chain stores. When the distances among the
individual camera locations and between them and the monitoring center
are large, IP monitoring is the best possible solution. The presented
below camera IPR-200 K1120 is
exceptionally well prepared for monitoring of shop entrances. The
implemented MPEG-4 ASP compression allows transmission of high quality
images over the Internet, they can be also effectively recorded.
Integrated IR illuminator enables the camera to render quality images
even in complete darkness. The camera housing has been equipped with
heater and fan, and due to IP66 protection level it allows
all-year-round operation.

Monitoring of retail stores
Video conference with Pixord cameras. The
models P400
K1131,
and P400W
K1132 (wireless
version), due to audio channel (built-in microphones), provide
possibility of video conferencing. The minimum set consists of two
such cameras connected to PCs. No additional software is needed, unlike
with internet cameras, neither special services like Skype. The
conference is performed through internet browser. We log on the camera
entering its IP address and choosing Video Conference bookmark. The
first camera (at our location) is being set automatically, the second we
configure entering its IP, model and transmission mode.
The conference may take place in a LAN or via the Web (proper
redirection of ports is essential in the case when cameras are behind NAT).
The video data can be transmitted at frame rate up to 30 fps with D1
resolution (720 x 576), ensuring much better quality than typical
applications based on internet cameras. The video conference may be
recorded in the PC as AVI file, directly from browser. An interesting
feature is possibility of recording both images and sound tracks.
Aside from conferencing, the cameras may perform regular tasks in CCTV
monitoring system (recording of events on the server and remote viewing
from any place on the network/the Web).

Video conference
New firmware for WAP-354NB
N2515.
Now in
download
section there is available the latest version of the firmware for
this cheap but a multi-purpose device. There have been corrected some
applications such as searching for available devices in Client mode,
operation at preset AUTO channels, and improved encryption and
statistics tools. The main improvement in this release is better
stability of the WAP-354NB and expansion with WMM (IEEE.802.11e). The
list of all alterations is obtainable after unpacking the file. The
update is recommended for all users of the device.
Download the file>>.

Access point with router - WAP-354NB
Remote monitoring solution for one-family house - TP-Link TD-8840.
Broadband internet access is the base for organizing cheap and effective
video monitoring system, allowing remote surveillance of the house. We
propose to use the router TD-8840
N2905,
sharing ADSL service in the home. It consists of ADSL modem (Annex A)
compatible with ADSL/ADSL2/ADSL2+ standards and 4-port switch. Its WAN
port (RJ11) is directly linked with phone line. To one of LAN ports
(RJ-45) there can be connected IP camera, e.g. Pixord P300 K1130.
After detecting motion in programmed area, the camera will automatically
send e-mail to the address set by the user. The attachment will include
high quality JPEG picture showing the true situation.
In case of employing an existing analog camera, it may be connected to
the router by DVR, e.g. CPD-503 (LAN) M85050.
As TD-8840 supports DDNS, it is possible permanent access to the
router and the linked devices (DVR, IP camera etc), irrespective of
changing public IP address.

Remote video monitoring of one-family house with the router TP-Link
TD-8840.
April 2, 2007
High Definition – camcorders.
Large screens of
high-definition televisions require
adequate quality of the content and generate rising demand for HD video. Apart
from growing interest in HDTV broadcasts it creates a boom for video players,
recorders, and camcorders. Last year the leading manufacturers of camcorders (Panasonic,
Sony, Samsung) adopted new standard for video cameras - AVCHD (Advanced
Video Codec High Definition). It means MPEG-4
AVC/H.264 for video, and Dolby Digital AC-3 plus PCM for audio
compression. The standard allows direct playing of recorded content with Blu-ray
players,
e.g. those embedded in Sony PS3 console. But so far, the most popular
way of playing the recordings is using a PC with installed firmware, included by
the manufacturer.
At CeBIT, one of the leaders, Panasonic, showed new camcorders, HDC-SD1
(with SDHC card) and HDC-DX1 (MiniDVD), for about $1150 each. The
camcorders are equipped with 3CCD image sensor and F1.8 lens with 12x optical
zoom.

The camcorder from Panasonic made impression on the judges of design
competition,
winning one of the prizes at CeBIT.
New modulators from TERRA.
The modulators MT-21p
R871721
and MT-22p
R871722,
due to high quality and reliability, are
very popular with customers. They feature quite high output level (85 dB),
allowing to combine signals from up to six such devices and split the
resulting signal into six outlets, without a need of using an amplifier
(when the cables are not longer than 50m). The MT-21p version uses
channels 21 - 69, whereas the MT-22p operates between 6 - 12 or S9 to S17.
In each case there is possibility of choosing 4.5; 5.5; 6; or 6.5 MHz
sound subcarrier. Other useful functions include fine tuning (+/-2.25 MHz
from the chosen channel, with 0.25 MHz step), and adjustment of
modulation factor (+/-6%).

Example application of MT-21p
R871721 modulator.
Reduction of maximum output level. Every broadband amplifier,
increasing signal level, also puts interferences at other frequencies.
The number of the interferences (intermodulation products) grows with
the amount of amplified signals (channels). Their levels at the output
depend on gain of the amplifier. Due to those intermodulation products,
the maximum output level should be reduced according to the tables given
below. As the point of reference there are used the parameters given by
producers:
IMD2-60dB (60 dB ratio of signal to intermodulation products for AM/FM
modulation), and IMD3-35dB (35 dB ratio of signal to intermodulation
products for QPSK modulation).
In practice, choosing an amplifier for required (calculated for the
specific installation) output level, we have to reduce maximum output
level by the adequate factors from the tables.
|
Number of programs |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
8 |
12 |
16 |
20 |
|
Level reduction [dB] |
0 |
2 |
3.5 |
4.5 |
5 |
5.5 |
6 |
8 |
9.5 |
10.5 |
Reduction of maximum output level according to number of channels
distributed in installation.
|
Number of amplifiers |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
Level reduction [dB] |
0 |
3 |
4.7 |
6.9 |
Reduction
of maximum output level according to the number of amplifiers working in
cascade.
Power supplies for large CCTV systems. Powering of several or
more cameras with heaters from typical 12 V DC power source is usually
troublesome. The current requirement for one such camera may exceed 1 A,
and voltage drops along long cables may be the cause of unstable work of
the system.
Most power supplies on the market can provide output current up to 2.5 A.
So, in the case of 16 cameras, several pieces would be needed, whereas
it is recommended to power the whole system from one point. The
recommendation arises from practical requirements like proper protection
against intruders etc. and loss of AC power (application of a UPS).
That's why a good solution for larger CCTV installations is the new
power supply
DRA-120 M1835.
One of the advantages of the supplier is possibility of parallel work -
the total output current may then reach 30 A. Such capacity enables the
designer to use e.g. 16 cameras in housings with heaters, DVR, and
several IR illuminators. Notice! All the suppliers have to set at the
same voltage level.

Application of the power supplies DRA-120 M
M1835
Camera housings with hidden cables. Most cases of vandalism and
intentional sabotage of video surveillance systems are damages of
cabling. This problem should be solved as early as when designing the
system, through choice of housings that will protect signal and power
cables. Many standard housings and some ceiling cameras are currently
available as versions with hidden cables.
Such constructions allow to insert the cables directly into camera
brackets and the wall conduits. Fully enclosed cabling means elimination
of the weakest points present in many former CCTV installations.
In the figure below, the red lines show the routes of the cables.

Routes of cables in vandalproof cameras / camera housings.
Monitoring of elevators –
wireless installations. The customer having problems with vandals
braking elevators ordered CCTV system that should allow identification
of offenders. The installation has been designed and made by
Telcom,
a renown company from Krakow (CCTV and alarm systems, sat TV
installations).
There have been employed vandalproof cameras SN-VP580DC/A
M10742, characterized by
high quality of image and rugged mechanical construction. Video
transmission is based on analog transmitters working in 2.4 GHz band (TR02-S
M1525,
RT02-S
M1528),
with the antennas
ATK-P1
A71290.
The received video is registered on DVR and
distributed to the residents through existing antenna/sat TV
installation.
So far, there are any more acts of vandalism.

The idea of using 2 .4 GHz transmitters for monitoring of elevators.

Pictures of the installation.
Monitoring of stadiums and mass events - revolution
in resolution. Megapixel cameras
ensure much higher resolution in comparison with standard IP devices. It
allows to use digital zoom, preserving details that are needed for
identification of persons.
Megapixel cameras manufactured by IQinvision render images of resolution
from 1.3 Mpix (1280 x 1024)
K1401
to 5.0 Mpix (2536 x 1920)
K1431.
There is also available 2.0 Mpix model
K1412.
That makes difference - standard PAL camera has 0.4 Mpix resolution (720 x 576).
The cameras from
75x series have been equipped with mechanically driven IR filter, which
guaranties good picture parameters during the day and night. The
difference between the standard and the new camera - mainly in the field
of observation, provided similar linear resolution, can be seen in the
picture below.
Dipol is the Polish distributor of IQinvision products - the cameras will
be presented at the trade fair Intertelecom in Lodz.

Comparison of the images from 2 Mpix camera and standard PAL camera
working at D1 resolution. The frame marks out the field of the standard
camera.
Professional software pack for IP CCTV from Pixord - special offer.
The PiXORD 6016 16-CH Recording Software is included to every
Pixord product. It enables the administrator to
view and record up to 16 images (channels) at the same time. The program
has been divided into two groups of utilities: Pixord Viewer and
Pixord Recorder. Due to such concept the computer is not busy with image
processing when the user needs only to perform recording. The Pixord Recorder
program provides three modes of registration: continuous, according to a
schedule, triggered by motion detection. The Pixord Viewer allows
viewing of images in many combinations. Configuration of the system
consists in pressing the "search" button in the Pixord
Viewer menu - the utility will find active cameras in the network. System
requirements: P4 2.4 GHz, min. 512 MB RAM, SVGA graphics adapter, Windows 2000/Windows XP Professional/Windows 2003
server. Continuous recording of one video channel with good quality
requires ca. 1.5 GB of disc space per day.
Pixord cameras

The window of the program managing Pixord IP CCTV system.
Using OSBRiDGE devices for Point to
Point connections. The OSBRiDGE device marked 5GXi
N25045 is
a combination of Access Point with directional antenna, a ready to use
component to build networks of that topology. Its outdoor housing
complies with IP65 rating. Power supply is provided via PoE
adapter compliant with 802.3af standard. OSBRiDGE 5GXi has two
independent, parallel radio channels based on Atheros AR5006 WLAN
chipsets using XR technology.
Employing two devices one gets possibility of setting point-to-point
connection. The integrated antenna with
23 dBi gain allows to create long-distance links.
The software includes elaborate statistics tools providing information
on the current status of connection and the interfaces.

Client station Osbridge 5GXi
Popular GW-AP54SP-P already with APPro54G.
Access Point marked as (code)
N2626
is now also available with APPro54G
software as
N2637
version. It
features more complex and versatile structure of control and
configuration of Access Point. It provides many functions not
implemented in similar equipment. Buying this product, the
customer becomes licensed user of the software pack that is already
installed in the AP. There is only needed online activation, prompted at
the first logging.
GW-AP54SP-P has large RAM memory (16 MB) and FLASH ROM (2 MB). The
AP has two LAN ports, and chipset with radiator - quite unusual within
its product category. It shows good stability and efficiency, also under
the demanding APPro54G utility. The device is an ideal tool for use in
small WLANs operating in 2.4 GHz band.

Access point GW-AP54SP-P controlled by APPro54G
software.
March 26, 2007
CeBIT 2007 - decline in European telecommunications. At this year's CeBIT it was difficult to find European producers of telecommunications devices. Now, the major league form
Asian and American corporations and the player that, though also comes from
Asia, may be considered as a sole similar innovation power - Korean Samsung.
In the field of wireless technologies there were also seen some Israeli
firms. At the same time Philips loses its leading innovation position, and
mobile solutions from Nokia and Ericsson are getting behind those presented
by Samsung and Alcatel.
It is the result of great demand for new technologies on Asian and American
markets. Korean producers, having implemented new solutions on their own
market, successfully install them in Europe
(WiBRO, DMB). American companies take advantage of big and homogeneous
national market, and dominate WiMAX business, whereas European governments
lobbied by cellular operators are reluctant to giving concessions for their
competitors who want to build WiMAX backbones.
As European HDTV broadcasters are just starting up, promotion of new
devices is done in Asia and America (PS3 and Xbox 360 consoles, HD DVD and Blu-ray
players).
Simply Europeans have too few HDTV sets as yet.
The monopolies that dominated European small national telecommunications
markets until recently,
omnipresent red tape and necessity of getting numerous concessions, licenses
and permissions - plus governments' susceptibility to lobbing, low
innovation level and generally high costs of production - all these
factors cause collapse of European telecommunications.

The state of European telecommunications does not look good -
report from CeBIT 2007
Remedy for long cables in satellite TV installations
- amplifiers. In the case of
installations where signal cables reach 100m or one uses satellite
signal splitter it is recommended to employ the amplifier SA-001
R85101.
The device amplifies sat IF signal and passes signals needed for
converter control. SA-001 features up to 22 dB gain and high
maximum output level: 104dB. The amplifier does not pass terrestrial TV
signals.

The sat IF signal amplifier
SA-001 R85101
should be installed as close to the LNB as possible.
SilverLine - new generation of antenna amplifiers.
AMS, renown producer of RF amplifiers has launched on the market new line
of the equipment. Modern construction, low susceptibility to
interferences and interesting design place the products in the leading
position in Europe. It is a challenge to other manufacturers, will they
take it up?
New series
AWS-114X
has been designed for use in individual antenna installations. The
amplifiers are put into Zn-Al cast housings that guarantee excellent
shielding effectiveness. The device's structure consists of two stages,
with gain adjustment after the first one. This solution allows to use
full energy of the input signal and improves noise parameters of the
device.
The gain adjustment in the AWS-114X series has been realized by active
element, which makes possible to reach fixed frequency characteristics
within whole range of regulation. The adjustment is made after partial
removing the cover - such construction improves shielding effectiveness
(no holes in the housing).
The amplifiers can be powered with an external power supplier or via
signal cable from output's side, using a RF/DC separator. It is also
possible to power preamplifiers (12V), by setting jumper that is
available after removing the housing.

SilverLine - new series of antenna amplifiers -
AWS-114X
Modern CCTV systems based on CPD DVRs. Modern CCTV installations
should enable the user to record images from cameras with good quality,
control PTZ features, and ensure long time of recording. The next
important features include quick viewing and easy copying of registered
data. Up-to-date DVRs also have be controlled via the Internet.
All these features are provided by the system based on the DVR
CPD 507
M8537 equipped with built-in DVD
recorder. The DVR can cooperate with 500 GB HDD
M89250,
and Drive Array
M8540 capable of installing three disks of total capacity
1.5 TB. Parallel to MPEG-4 compression such system can record highest
quality video data for 20 days. At the same time there is possibility to
save instantly alarm events on DVD or pen drive.
CPD may control PTZ cameras
(e.g. M1222),
using popular Pelco-D protocol. The system with the DVR is fully
controlled, both locally (with the keys on the front panel or remote
control) and through the network (LAN or WAN). After logging into the
system through client program or a browser (e.g. IE), the user (having
administrator privileges) has full control over the system.

Application of CPD recorders in CCTV systems.
Expansion of video door entry system. The video
door entry system KVS 08101
S972000 from Alcad may be used
as the platform for building monitoring systems capable of recording
video and audio. Such systems utilize the original camera that is well
protected by armored housing.
Signals from the camera and microphone, and from other cameras, e.g.
N-Cam 115 M11234,
U-Cam
M1128,
CX-412D
M10730,
deployed at the needed locations, are registered by digital
video recorder CPD-560
M85039.
The signal from the DVR (e.g. images from four cameras in quad split) can
be brought into community antenna installation by RF modulator. This way
all residents will be able to watch the images on their televisions.
The installation also uses video signal multiplexer/s RV-4/8
M1704,
sequence switch/es M4054,
and modulator/s Signal Digital Classic
R95176.
Notice! The diagram shows one more solution that is often
implemented in small installations: thanks to use
M4054 sequence switch the monitor of
the system displays signals from two cameras. The first one is the
original camera, the second - additional outdoor camera shooting
much wider area. This way the user gets sequentially changing video from
both cameras (the rate can be adjusted in the switch).

Expansion of video door entry system.
New IP camera from ACTi. The new device from ACTi
is dome camera CAM-7321
K1311. The main features
of this model are Sony image sensor with 540 TVL video resolution and
vandalproof casing prepared for mounting on a wall or ceiling.

The camera ACTi CAM-7321
K1311
Modernization of analog CCTV installation –
airport in Thailand.
How to modernize existing analog
installation to get functionality of digital system?
An example is the solution implemented at airport in Thailand, where such
installation has been updated to IP video monitoring system.
When there was a need of monitoring 19 bank branches deployed at the area
of the airport, the board did not accepted laying new cabling. It had to
be utilized existing fiber-optic cables for the transmission of images
from additional cameras. Due to using 60
ACTi videoservers
K2112, the images from analog cameras are transmitted via
the existing infrastructure to the monitoring center. As the
registration system has been based on DVRs, there are applied 60 ACTi
transcoders
K2411,
which convert MPEG-4 stream into analog video that is recorded by
the recorders. Such concept allows to use the software that has been
previously installed for control of the DVR system.

IP CCTV system at airport in Thailand (source: ACTi corp.)
Monitoring of distant warehouse with wireless Pixord
camera.
The wireless cameras Pixord P400W
K1132
can be used for monitoring of remote
places. At the location of monitoring center it will be needed Access
Point AWAP-608
N2646
working in AP mode.
Pixord
P400W connects wirelessly with AWAP-608 at 2.4 GHz, in b/g standards, in Infrastructure
mode. There is possibility of using 64- or 128-bit WEP encryption
protocol.
Connection of AP to LAN in the building makes possible to view images from
camera with any PC in the network.
If the distance between buildings is too large there may be employed
second AP, AWAP-608
N2646,
which should be installed at the edge of the
warehouse and set in AP Repeater mode, enabling to increase range
of the AP at monitoring center.
The range of the system can be extended by using outdoor antennas. For the
first AP, at the headquarters, there may be connected directional panel
antenna, e.g.
A7127,
for the second, at the warehouse omnidirectional one, e.g.
A72531.
The AP at the warehouse will use it for getting connection with the
headquarters and the wireless cameras deployed on the spot.
The Pixord camera can be also connected to LAN - this option has been
described in the previous issue.

Diagram of example application of wireless camera P400W
K1132 and AP
AWAP-608 N2646
March 19, 2007
CeBIT 2007. This year's CeBIT is ending now. The trade show has attracted
about 6000 exhibitors.
For the first time the organizers have run new information network, CeBIT - TV.
There are available three news channels: Use (for all users of the
newest technologies), Create (for technical experts), Trade (for sales
specialists).
To get access to the programs the interested persons should register -
send their e-mail address, click on the link in the reply, and activate their
account with the key received. Unfortunately, the broadcasts are available only
in German.
CeBIT - TV
Report on the trade show in the next issue.

SHARP LCD HDTV 1080p - the largest in the world television of this
kind, presented at CeBIT.
SMATV installation for reception from two satellites - a standard
feature in modern buildings. The installation shown below allows
reception of all terrestrial broadcasts, and satellite programs from
Astra and HotBird. There are used high quality channel amplifiers ZG
R90517, which equalize input levels of
terrestrial signals, ensuring proper parameters for distribution. Due to
employing taps/splitters from
SS-5xx series
it is possible to make such installation in multi-staircase buildings.

Diagram of SMATV installation suitable for multi-staircase buildings.
Video monitoring of parking lots. Identification
of vehicles driving in and out of parking lots is becoming increasingly
more popular. For that purpose one should use cameras which are not
blinded by strong car headlights, e.g. VC-412A
M1126. The camera has HIGH LUM CANCEL
function - the overexposed fragments are blackened and do not spoil
general quality of the image. The black spots cover the very bright
elements, in this case the working headlights.
Another type of cameras often used at parking lots is M11251.
These cameras ensure good image quality, wide viewing angle, capability
of working at night without any additional lighting, and are easy to
install - on the ceiling or on the wall of any building or similar
structure. The last feature is possible due to special mechanical
construction.
In the case of gas/petrol stations and large parking lots, where there is
a need of quick search and identification of license numbers, we advise
to build video surveillance system based on
GeoVision equipment. The producer offers additional application
that expands the main monitoring system by special features enabling
precise reading of license plates (License Plate Recognition).

Color camera VC-412A
M1126

GeoVision system - the application for recognition of license plates.
Control of PTZ cameras with two consoles. PTZ
cameras give immense possibilities for configuring CCTV system according
to current needs of the administrator. Thus the growing popularity of
this kind of equipment. Pre-programmed PTZ camera is able to scan
important spots (presets), and, when there is a need, it may be
controlled by the operator to exercise detailed observation of alarming
situations (e.g. suspicious suitcase on a station, aggressive fans at a
stadium etc.)
Configuration and control of the PTZ cameras is usually performed
through dedicated consoles. The consoles, equipped with a
keyboard, and a joystick which allows 3-dimentional control, ensure
perfect operation of such cameras.
The diagram below shows example of CCTV installation based on Eyeview
equipment.
It is built there with two analog PTZ cameras,
XPOWER-M5
M1221 and TPOWER-S2
M1222, and the consoles (system control
units) KB-2000-3A
K9152. It should be emphasized that both
consoles can be operated simultaneously, without a clash. One of the
consoles is the "Master" and that receives the signal from the cameras (Port 1
of the device on the left). The second console is connected to the Port
2 of the Master and works in "Slave" mode. Such connection enables the
operators to drive the cameras from both devices without a risk of
conflict.

Control of
PTZ cameras with two consoles.
New
ACTi cameras - a comparison. There
are on the market new IP cameras from ACTi: ACM-1311 K1117
and ACM-1431 K1118.
They have been equipped with IR illuminators that allow for video
monitoring even in complete darkness. The cameras use mechanically
driven IR filters that are automatically made inoperable when the
lighting is lower than 4 lx. The advantages of the ACM-1431 model are:
dust and water proof IP66 housing, 540 TVL resolution, lens with
adjustable focal length and longer range of the illuminator. Both models
ensure bi-directional audio transmission and possibility of PoE powering
- i.e. via typical UTP/FTP cable.

ACTi cameras with IR illuminators.
4 in 1 - the cameras Pixord P400 and
P400W. It often happens that one wants to view images from IP CCTV
cameras from another location and with another PC, not that one which
normally has been prepared for this job.
The problem is that the owner of the PC may not be willing to install
the needed software, or simply there is not enough time to do it.
The trouble does not exist with Pixord cameras P400
K1131 and P400W
K1132, which allow simultaneous viewing
of four images via common browsers. It will be only needed some
preparation of the installation.
If the cameras work in internal network (behind NAT) and one wants to
get access from outside, there will be necessary to redirect the
router to one of the cameras. The network settings of the camera have to
include IP addresses of the rest three Pixord IP cameras.
Such configuration of internet connection and the cameras makes possible
to view the images from any computer with internet access, just using a
browser. All one needs is the camera IP address and the password. After
establishing the connection, a simple utility embedded in the camera
will allow to choose one or all the four images.

Viewing images with IE
Monitoring of widely scattered sites in cities.
In many cities there are working video surveillance systems. City
governments find them very useful and the number of monitored cities is
continually growing.
Our company provides many solutions to specific problems connected with
installing such systems. The most common problems include transmission
of video signal from distant cameras to the monitoring center and
control of the cameras.
IP-based CCTV systems are in the
mainstream of the implemented installations. At the current stage of the
technology, transmission of digital data via IP networks is a standard
service. There should only be guaranteed proper bandwidth of the
links. The trouble is when CCTV installation becomes extremely
widespread or includes areas which still do not ensure proper
transmission capacity. Then the only universal solution is building new
network, and it will be of course a WLAN one.
For transmission of video and control signals there may be used
Access Points integrated with
antennas and powered over Ethernet cable (PoE). The best solution for
transmitting infrastructure is a system built with sector stations.
Due to separate sectors such system is easier to manage.
In the diagram below the system includes four sector base stations that
cover all directions (360°).
As the PTZ camera there may be recommended high speed IP camera from ACTi,
the model CAM-6621 K1215.
Its Pan/Tilt mechanism allows for quick rotation with angular speed up to
400º/s, with 0.225º
resolution. Combining it with powerful optical zoom, the operator gets
ideal tool for monitoring a vast area. The employed SONY
¼'' Progressive CCD sensor ensures high quality images during the
day and at night.

City surveillance system based on WLAN solutions and ACTi cameras.
RF cables for WLAN installations.
There are available on the market several renown and well-tried products: H-155
E1170,
RF-5
E1177, Tri-Lan-240
E1171,
and Nordix MWC 6/50.
TRF-5 and H155 cables can only be used up to 2.4 GHz - for higher
frequencies their attenuation considerably grows reaching ca. 100dB at
5.8 GHz, with simultaneous deterioration in impedance matching.
The cables Trilan -240 and Nordix can work up to 6 GHz. Due to so high
band their core conductor is made of solid metal that makes them more
rigid in comparison with the popular cables up to 2.4 GHz. However, due
to much less attenuation, they may be indispensable for 2.4 GHz band as
well, when the distance is quite long. The signal loss in TRILAN cable
is ca 20% lower than in H-155.
| |
RF-5 |
H-155 |
TRILAN-240 |
Nordix MWC 6/50 |
|
|
E1177 |
E1170 |
E1171 |
- |
| 2.4GHz |
48.8 dB |
49.6 dB |
40 dB |
42.8 dB |
| 5.3GHz |
- |
- |
62 dB |
65.8 dB |
| 5.8GHz |
- |
- |
65.2 dB |
68.9 dB |
Attenuation at typical frequencies for popular
WLAN cables
New software for WA2204C. The
access point
WA-2204C
N2647
is compliant with 802.11b/g standards, it can work in AP,
AP Client, WDS (Repeater) modes.
The
functions of the AP make it suitable tool for creating small base cells
of WLAN.
There is available new update of the firmware (apv142), which
improves operation of the device and adds new functionality:
- new WLAN drivers,
- ACK setting,
- watchdog,
- isolation of WLAN users.
Notice! It is essential to ensure proper order
of loading the updates, according to the instructions contained in the
compressed file.
The new firmware is available
here.

Access Point WA2204C
N2647
March 12, 2007
What hinders multimedia in mobiles? Not
so long ago the main obstacle for development of multimedia applications was
comparatively low bandwidth of cellular networks. Implementation of HSDPA
technology (throughput up to 14.4 Mbps) removed this barrier. So growing number
of laptops, smartphones, PDAs etc. support video transmission.
At present, a bigger problem is powering of the devices. Bright color
display, high-speed processor, big memory - all these components require
to use more powerful battery.
Research and development work is still in progress, the newest solutions
that are especially promising for using in laptops are provided by fuel cell
technology. Fuel cells directly convert chemical energy into electricity.
DBFC battery (Direct
Borohydride Fuel Cell),
or that supplied with methanol
DMFC (Direct-Methanol Fuel
Cell) enables the device to work 2-3 times longer than to-date
common batteries.
Another method of prolonging the operation time of mobile devices is
reducing energy consumption. As regards displays, great expectations are placed
on OLED technology (Organic Light-Emitting Diode).
New processors are manufactured in 65nm technology instead of the older 90nm or
130nm. It makes possible to miniaturize the structures that at the same time
require less energy. This tendency is reinforced by SoC (System on a Chip)
concept, consisting in integration of all the device's functionality in one
chip.
For data storage there are often used flash cards, but in case when a
higher capacity is needed it will be place for interesting concept of hybrid
hard discs. Samsung showed such hybrid disc that combines standard HDD
technology with flash memory. The 2.5" series includes 80, 120 160 GB discs. For
example, the 160 GB
hybrid hard disc has been equipped with 256 MB flash memory that
functions as temporary memory. The producer maintains that the mixed solution
saves 70 – 90% energy in comparison with standard HDD, so will be an
important contribution to the development of mobile devices.

Flash memory cards allow miniaturization and longer operation time. Camcorder VP-MM12 records
video with 720 x 576 resolution at 25
fps. MPEG4 compression enables the recorder to store 2-hour video
recording on 2 GB memory card.
DiSEqC standards.
Frequent questions on DiSEqC
communication protocol are the reason we shortly describe its variations.
The main center being the authority in this standardization area is
Eutelsat.
Currently there are accepted the next four standards:
- DiSEqC 1.0 - digital signal switching among up to 4 satellite
sources (converters),
- DiSEqC 1.1 - digital signal switching among up to 16 satellite
converters,
- DiSEqC 1.2 - digital signal switching among up to 16 satellite
converters, and control
of a motor drive system for positioning the dish,
- DiSEqC 2.0 - digital signal switching among up to 16 satellite
sources, and control of a motor drive system for positioning the dish,
with bi-directional communications (confirmation of commands'
execution).
The standards are back compatible, e.g. a DiSEqC 2.0
receiver can control DiSEqC 1.0 switches used in older installations,
but a DiSEqC 1.0 receiver cannot control motorized features.
DiSEqC
switches.

Application of Golden Interstar 4/1
R852507 switch for reception from four
satellite positions.
How to power CCTV cameras through long cables.
Voltage drop on power cables is one of the most frequent reasons for
improper operation of CCTV cameras.
Having similar lengths of cables going to a number of cameras from a
central point it is possible to compensate the voltage drop by
increasing output voltage of the power supply (if it is adjustable).
Unfortunately, it is not advised (without additional means) in case of
quite different lengths of the cables - the camera/s connected through
the shorter section/s could be destroyed.
A better solution is provided by special power supply
AWZ-820 M18289
having three independently regulated outputs. The cameras can be grouped
according to distances from the power supply and each of the three
possible groups may be powered with different output voltage adjusted
proportionally to the distance assumed for the group. This way one power
supply may solve the problem of powering a larger camera system..
Notice! The number of cameras that may be connected to the power
supply has to be calculated by the installer basing on power
requirements of the cameras used and the capacity of the supplier.
Long cables also affect video transmission. There may be needed video
signal amplifiers, especially when there is a need of splitting the
video signal onto two monitors. It has been prepared
VCA-1/2000
M1842
amplifier for such applications.

Use of the power supply AWZ
M18289
enables the installer to adjust output
voltages according to grouped lengths of cameras' power cables. To
amplify video signal there may be employed
the amplifiers
VCA-1/2000
M1842.
Remote configuration of
SN-587C/A/10 SWD cameras. Professional analog
cameras enable the installer/user to adjust many parameters to ensure
quality images in various lighting conditions. The older equipment had
plenty of knobs and switches. Nowadays the popular solution is OSD menu
and typical set of several keys.
Sunell company is ahead of the common solutions. In the professional camera SN-587C/A/10
SWD
M11205
(based on
Super Wide Dynamic image sensor) there is possibility of remote
configuration via PC. The camera employs RS-232 protocol. The
manufacturer supplies special cable for programming the camera.
Such possibility of remote setting gives the installer good opportunity to
exercise all functions of the camera on the spot, especially when the
device is mounted in hardly accessible place.

At first it should be installed Camera Control utility program in PC, then
I/O port of the camera has to be connected with RS connector in the PC.

Remote control utility allows quick and convenient adjustment of the
M11205 camera.
Any motion? - The camera Pixord P300 sends email notification with
enclosed picture.
Video motion detection system
implemented in the camera Pixord
P300
K1130
and the enclosed software allows sending such alerts to the appropriate
users.
It is possible to set two areas of motion detection. As an example, the
user may choose the door and window, as the objects are generally
vulnerable to forcing and normally there shouldn't be there false alarms
caused by e.g. flow of air from air conditioning system. Additional
flexibility of the system is provided by adjustment of motion detection
sensitivity.
If the camera detects motion in the set areas, it will automatically send
email to the address assigned by the user.
The attachment will include high quality JPEG picture showing the reason
of the alarm. Taking into consideration the fact that most of commercial
email hosting services and Web portals offer (often free) SMS alerts on
a new email, it gives cheap opportunity to combine monitoring and alarm
functionality in one device.
Configuration possibilities of the camera include the next actions taken
after triggering alarm within set areas of motion detection:
- sending JPEG picture on email address or FTP,
-
recording
images on SD card mounted in the camera,
- sending MJPEG stream (video and sound) to on-line users and the
recording computer.
Simple configuration procedure is performed by internet browser.

Motion area setting window. After triggering alarm within set areas the
camera Pixord
P300
K1130 can send JPEG pictures, record
images on SD card, send MJPEG stream to on-line users
and the recording computer.
WA-2204C - client device.
Access Point
WA-2204C
N2647
is compliant with 802.11b/g standards
and supports AP,
AP Client, and WDS (Repeater) modes. It is based on well-tried
RTL8186 processor from Realtek and superb RF chipset.
Functions of the AP make it suitable tool for creating small base cells of
WLAN. Thanks to available encoding methods: WEP, WPA, WPA2, and MAC
addresses filtration, the system will ensure high security level. The AP
is especially recommended as cheap APC device. It allows operation as
transparent Client for one PC unit.

Access Point WA-2204C
New functions of the VoIP router VTL-AT100. The VoIP
router
VTL-AT110 N8060 supports QoS function
and has one FXS port for connecting regular analog phone or fax. This
solution permits the user to connect the PC and phone to the Internet
via one device. Quality of Service function ensures proper quality of
voice even when LAN port demands high throughput.
VTL-AT110 has a broad choice of functions that are usually made available
by the ISP, like call waiting service, call divert etc.
The device supports popular codecs such as ILBC, G.726
(16,24,32,40), G.729AB, G.711.
The newest software also supports BRIDGE mode. This mode allows easy
application of the router in extensive networks. The new firmware is
available
here.

The VoIP router VTL-AT100

March 5, 2007
Will Apple change our habits? During Macworld Conference & Expo 2007,
held in January 2007, Apple introduced to the public its latest item. As
any new Apple products, the "Apple TV" is being anxiously awaited on the market.
Curiosity about it is arousing due to delay and postponed market launch from
February to mid-March.
"Apple TV" is equipped with wireless adapter compliant with 802.11 b/g/n
standards and 40 GB HDD which allows collection of 50 hours of 720p HD video.
The device is intended to be connected to home HD television and cooperate with
any PC with WLAN card.
The concept adopted by the producer consists in creating its paid film
library from which the users will download chosen videos via the Web, employing
their PCs and using the Apple TV for transmission of the signal to their HD
televisions. The transmission from PC to Apple TV will be set automatically,
thanks to wireless connection and iTunes software platform.
If American customers, for who the service is being prepared, accept
such service, it will be set up internet video shop offering films (for ca $10
apiece) distributed by Apple for home use on HDTV sets.
Prospective users are curious about ways of protection of the system - it
is said to be special version of H.264 encoding. However, the revealed
characteristics show that the device will be compatible with standard H.264 (MPEG-4 AVC)
as well, enabling the user to collect not only the films from iTunes Store.
"Apple TV" will cost $299. Has it a potential for changing the
way of distributing audio and video? The first results of sale will be known at
the end of March.
Antenna installation in multi-family buildings.
MATV/SMATV systems provide solution to the problem of individual
antennas on elevations of buildings. The solution presented below allows
reception of terrestrial TV programs and, after connection of satellite
receiver, satellite broadcasts, too.
The installation employs high quality ZG channel
amplifiers which equalize levels of received terrestrial programs,
enabling effective distribution of balanced signals even in
multi-staircase buildings, with use of
SS-5xx series taps/splitters.

AV switch – the remedy for coupling and
decoupling several devices. The audio/video switch Signal
E0530 is intended for distribution of
A/V signals among various components of home audio-video system. It
allows choice of signal source that is currently connected to TV set and
makes easier to record or copy the interesting content. All this is
possible without tiresome constant disconnecting and reconnecting the
equipment. To the television there can be connected: satellite receiver,
VCR, DVD player, video camera, DVD/HDD recorder, video game console etc.
The television is connected to TV/Monitor socket. The cooperating devices
are connected to A, B and C sockets. Selection of the input signal is
made by pressing adequate button (marked A,B,C or 1,2,3).
The AV switch also has 6 RCA sockets, three of them (OUTPUT) may be used
for linking another TV set or conveying the signal to a modulator, the
second three (marked TV OUTPUT) are suitable for connecting signal
from a camcorder, video entry system etc.
The device has been also equipped with selectors of the signal that should
be recorded (C-A; B-A) -
the VCR/DVR connected to A socket can record the chosen signal from B or C
source.
S-VHS and RGB signals (the latter selected with adequate button) are
also passed. Versatility and possibility of switching RGB signals are
distinctive