VisionView

When it comes to high-definition cameras, a few things come to mind: increased quality of image; if one is implementing it, increased cost, and size of hardware in the production environment. Of course today many people see HD as essential and feel that the pixels mean everything. There are even  8 mega-pixel cellphone cameras coming to market. However, as any good camera enthusiasts or professional will know, mega-pixels play a very small role. In fact if one combines poor lensing with high mega-pixel cameras, imaging can often suffer more and look worse with a high-definition choice. A paradox is reached when one wants to combine the enhanced images of high-definition with a minimal space. Often times, in these tight quartered, environments there is little room for quality lensing in addition to the bulk of a high resolution camera.

The Sony FCB-H11 combines quality lensing(10 x zoom, f=5.1mm (wide end) to 51 (tele end)F1.8 to F2.1) with a 1/3 inch CMOS sensor and supports 720P and 1080I as well as standard definition formats. All of this fits into a 1 7/8 x 1 3/4 x 2 7/8 inches (47.2 x 43.1 x 72.2 mm) and the whole camera weighs less than 5 ounces. The camera supports various HD outputs- YPBPR and HD-SDI - and standard definition outputs- RCA Video and S-Video. Communication for zoom and focus can be controlled via RS-232(serial bus or SONY Visca) and RS-485. This enables enhanced remote video capture, perfect for human inaccessible areas. This is all contained in a sleek black case for discrete placement and added durability.

FCB-H11 with Housing

When it comes to placing security cameras at an installation site. Cost is the most prevailing factor. With enclosures and cabling adding to already costly cameras, providing visual security can seem like an expensive task. But when seen in the light of not only the safety benefits but the reduction of legal liability it can pay huge dividends when it is actually needed. The question of integrators is how to balance this. You do not want to break the bank on coverage but also you do not coverage that has no value. Too low a resolution or fixed focal lengths can become useless to law informant officials for identifying assailents. Too much interest is placed on frame rate. People think they need live video when in fact what they really need are high clarity pictures.

In most crimes captured on video there are plenty of witnesses to the actions but witnesses provide inaccurate descriptions of perpetrators. High quality video can seem costly, but it is not as out of reach with the security camera market as it once was not to mention components such as heater blowers to allow the images to be captured out doors. There are a new array of bundled products on the market that feature high definition cameras with weather resistant housings. Whether you have active or recorded security, image quality, not frame rate is the most important asset. And of course location of your security cameras. RS-485 and RS-422 allow for massive length in cable and with IP-55 rated housings you can place your view point in the most extreme areas. Insuring excellent, valuable images and promoting safety throughout your location.

There are many solutions today for medical cables and connectivity. However, not every cable solution will provide the actual connectivity required. There are two key factors that should be considered when selecting a cable.

The first item of consideration is the manufacturer of the cable. If you are purchasing the cable from the camera manufacturer, you will be certain to get the connectivity that you are looking for, however you may not get the best price or the desired cable length. Most camera manufacturers subcontract their cable assemblies out to cable manufacturers. This will lead to higher pricing due to multiple delivery channels.

The second item to consider when purchasing directly from the cable manufacturer is their understanding of the camera and its connectivity (pin outs, shielding, and length requirements). If this is not taken into account, you will certainly have a cable, but not necessarily the desired solution.

The use of a Value-Added Distributor and/or System Integrator will provide your best solution and value. They have the knowledge base of both camera and cable manufacturers, an in-depth understanding of what key connectivity factors are important, and can provide competitive pricing.

Here is a form that will help you and your value-added distributor decide what cables best meet your needs.

A small sample of available cables include:

• Daisy Chain Cables
• S-Video Cables
• RS-232 Cables
• BNC to BNC

Test

Houses of Worship looking to convert their infrastructures from standard-definition to high-definition but still need high levels of flexibility now have another option to choose from, with Sony’s new EVI-HD1 high-definition robotic camera. The new camera can be used in a variety of applications throughout a church’s complex or in smaller multi-purpose rooms, for distance learning, videoconferencing and even training and communicating with church personnel.For example, in a videoconferencing or distance learning scenario, the EVI-HD1 can be used to “bring in” guest speakers during a service or a community event, having them appear “virtually” rather than incur travel expenses and time to appear in person.

The single chip-based, pan/tilt/zoom camera features multi-format capabilities to output both standard- and high-definition video so users can easily migrate from standard-definition to HD.

“This camera’s flexibility not only lets users decide how and when they wish to migrate to high-definition, but it expands the range of affordable HD solutions available from Sony,” said Robin Richards, Sony Electronics’ segment marketing manager for houses of worship. “The camera can meet SD systems’ needs today, while still being compatible with tomorrow’s HD systems.”

The camera uses a 1080i CMOS sensor that delivers exceptional high-definition resolution in 720p, 1080i or 1080p. The camera can be used with compatible codecs and systems from other manufacturers, due to its ability to output standard-definition video (YC and composite), high-definition analog component (Y, Pb, Pr) or digital HD-SDI.

The EVI-HD1 camera also outputs 16:9 images in 480i or HD formats, and it incorporates a 10x optical zoom lens with a 70-degree horizontal field of view, making it ideal for conference rooms, overflow rooms and even small sanctuaries. The EVI-HD1 is also equipped with high-torque, high-speed direct drive motors that enable smooth, fast and quiet pan/tilt operations.

The camera’s pan/tilt/zoom controls can be operated by an easy-to-use supplied IR Remote Commander® unit or via the RS-232C interface (VISCA™ protocol) with a host of commercially available controllers.

The unit, currently available, builds upon Sony’s EVI lineup, which includes the popular EVI-D100 model, and expands Sony’s full line-up of PTZ-capable cameras, which includes the BRC-300 and BRC-H700 cameras.

COURTESY OF SONY ELECTRONICS INC. 2008

http://pro.sony.com/

AEGIS ELECTRONIC GROUP, INC.

http://aegis-elec.com/products/sonyevihd1.html

P/T/Z cameras (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) are popular when it comes to implementing Security/Surveillance applications whether it be for commercial or private use.  With as many PTZ cameras as there are out in the market, why choose Sony’s EVI-D70?

1. Sony already has a long standing reputation of producing-high quality color video cameras.
2. Pan/Tilt/Zoom capable in a compact, easy to use package
3. WIDER P/T/Z range and FASTER Pan/Tilt mechanism
   • 340 Degrees Pan/120 Degrees Tilt
4. 216x Zoom Ratio giving exceptional clarity
   • 18x Optical, 12x Digital
5. Excellent Low-Light Sensitivity: Minimum Illumination Less than 1 lux
6. 1/4″-type EXview HAD CCD
7. Horizontal Resolution
   • 470 TV Lines (EVI-D70/D70/W)
   • 460 TV Lines (EVI-D70P/D70P/W)
8. Auto IR Cut Filter Removal for Low-Light Environments
9. Auto Power-Off/Night Power-Off Function
10. Alarm Function
11. E-Flip Functions
    • Ceiling-Mount or Desktop Installation
12. 37mm Mount for Optional Wide Conversion Lens
13. Fully Controllable Remotely via RS-232C (VISCA) or RS-422
14. Six-Position Preset
15. Daisy Chain Capability
    • Up to 7 cameras
16. EVI-D30/D31 Emulation Mode
17. Is available in either BLACK version or WHITE version.

The EVI-D70, as shown above, has a flexibility that other cameras lack.

• With the E-FLIP function, users are given the option of mounting their industrial camera via ceiling or desktop, whereas, other cameras come in either/or but not with both.
• Very QUIET Pan/Tilt Movement
• The camera has THREADS giving the user the ability of screwing on lens adapters, other cameras do not.
  • Wide Conversion Lenses increase camera’s field of view making it ideal for surveillance of parking lots or other large areas.
  • 2x lenses can also be screwed on giving more zoom power
• ICR feature puts camera into Black/White mode making it a Day/Night Camera
• RS-422 AND RS-232C (VISCA) control.
  • RS422 (differential) was designed for greater distances and higher Baud rates than RS232. In its simplest form, a pair of converters from RS232 to RS422 (and back again) can be used to form an “RS232 extension cord.” Data rates of up to 100K bits / second and distances up to 4000 Ft. can be accommodated with RS422. RS422 is also specified for multi-drop (party-line) applications where only one driver is connected to, and transmits on, a “bus” of up to 10 receivers.
• Smooth Joystick Controller (RMBR300) makes the camera attractive for “On the Fly” controlling
• ACCESSORIES include:
  • PTZ 3-Axis Joystick Control Panel
    • CP-ITV3-EVI-BR
  • PTZ Frame Grabbers
    • CYBEROPTICS PXC200AL
    • INTEGRAL 3043 - FLASHBUS SPECTRIM LITE
    • VIEWCAST OSPREY - OSPREY210
  • PTZ Housings
    • EVI-RDP7
    • EVI-FDP8C3
  • PTZ MOUNTS
    • WM30B - BLACK P/T/Z WALL MOUNT
    • CM70B-18 - BLACK P/T/Z CEILING MOUNT
  • LENSES

The Sony BRC Series of high performance color Pan/Tilt/Zoom Cameras (PTZ) all have outstanding picture quality, versatile interfaces and precise movements, making all three BRC cameras ideal for remote video shooting applications.

Both the BRC-H700 and BRC-300 have already been highly successful worldwide, satisfying user needs for high-definition (HD) and standard-definition (SD) applications, respectively. However, Sony recently introduced their new HD/SD capable BRC-Z700, which comes equipped with three 1/4-type HD ClearVidTM CMOS Sensors in addition to incorporating a newly designed smooth P/T/Z mechanism for precise camera control.

The primary differences between the three BRC cameras;

• BRC-300 ~ Standard Definition ~ 1/4.7″-type advanced HAD 3CCD only

• BRC-H700 ~ High Definition ~ 1/3″-type HD 3CCD only

• BRC-Z700 ~ Both HD and SD capable ~ 1/4″-type HD ClearVid 3CMOS

Moving past the BRC-300, what is the difference between the BRC-H700 an the BRC-Z700?

• All BRC cameras have a very wide pan range of 340 degrees and a tilt range of 120 degrees.
• All BRC Series cameras are capable of capturing not only fast-moving objects, but also slow-moving objects without rocking vibration.

BRC-H700 ~ HD Color Camera

• 1/3″ 3CCD
• 1,120,000 total pixels
• 16 Presets for predefined P/T/Z positions
• HD Component (Y/Pb/Pr), RGB
• Pan and tilt speeds are variable within the range of 0.25 to 60 degrees per second
• Image Flip Function
• Features a 12x optical autofocus zoom lens with an optical image stabilizer, allowing users to clearly capture small or distant objects.
• Has the widest viewing angle in the BRC Series, allowing users to capture wide areas of a scene such as audiences at concerts or in auditoriums.
• Has high sensitivity, it can be operated in shooting environments without ideal lighting

BRC-Z700 ~ HD/SD Color Camera

• 1/4″ 3CMOS
• 1,120,000 total pixels
• 16 Presets for predefined P/T/Z positions
• HD Component (Y/Pb/Pr), RGB, Composite, Y/C
• Pan and tilt speeds are variable within the range of 0.22 to 60 degrees per second
• Image Flip Function
• Features a 20x optical autofocus zoom lens with an optical image stabilizer, allowing users to clearly capture small or distant objects.
• Dual HD/SD outputs and an enhanced Pan/Tilt mechanism that operates with extremely smooth and precise movements.
• Combination of the new DSP and the ClearVid CMOS Sensors allows the camera to achieve both higher resolution and higher sensitivity compared to cameras equipped with conventional CMOS sensors.
• Has a “Color masking” function that allows users to adjust specific colors in the image more precisely, while the “color detail” function allows users to smooth over skin tones.

IDEAL BRC CAMERA APPLICATIONS:

• Remote Video Shooting Applications including;
  • Houses of Worship, Auditoriums, Teaching Hospitals, Boardrooms, Sporting Events, Trade Shows, Concerts, etc.
• Broadcasting Applications including;
  • Recording of television programs, Weather Camera

BRC CAMERA ACCESSORIES

• BRC-H700
  • Interface/Video Cards (HFBK-HD1, HFBK-SD1, HFBK-XG1, HFBK-TS1)
  • Optical Multiplex Card (BRBK-H700)
  • Optical Fiber Cables (CCFC-M100HG)
  • Optical Multiplex Unit (BRU-H700)
• BRC-Z700
  • Interface/Video Cards (HFBK-HD1, HFBK-SD1, HFBK-XG1, HFBK-TS1)
  • Optical Multiplex Card (BRBK-MF1)
  • Optical Fiber Cables (CCFC-M100HG)
  • Optical Multiplex Unit (BRU-H700)
• BRC-300
  • Interface/Video Cards (BRBK-301, BRBK-302, BRK-304)
  • Optical Multiplex Card (BRBK-303)
  • Optical Fiber Cable (CCFC-M100)
  • Optical Multiplex Unit (BRU-300)

Industrial security cameras found in high traffic areas are typically susceptible to vandalism. In order to deter such violence against industrial security cameras, manufacturers offer “anti-vandal camera housing”. Anti-Vandal security camera housing is constructed of die-cast aluminum and has an anti-vandal polycarbonate dome that withstands high impacts.

The housing is dust-proof, water resistant and shock proof, making an anti-vandal camera ideal for many applications including uses in: warehouses, parking lots, correctional facilities, power plants, banks, hotels, churches, stadiums, airports, bus terminals, schools, etc. Anti-vandal security camera housings are typically found in a mini-dome design due to their small, sleek design and virtually flush ceiling or wall mount appearance.

There are a couple ways of going about making a vandal resistant security camera. If you already own a camera then there is a chance housing units are available for purchase depending on the security camera owned. The second choice is to purchase the camera, housing and mounting as a set, based on your needs.

Industrial security cameras are available in a wide variety of combinations for a wide variety of applications. There are anti-vandal security cameras available for indoor only use, outdoor only or both. Cameras can be either fixed for one location or can have Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) capabilities. The dome housings are available in clear or tinted colors. Most security cameras are IP Network ready and some can be operated by remote control. Depending on the use, security cameras are available in color, black and white or both. Some have Night/Day camera capabilities while others have either one or the other.

A few examples of anti-vandal security camera housings available are; Videolarm’s IRM7TF, an IP Ready Indoor Tinted Vandal-Resistant Dome and the RHW75C2N is an IP Ready Vandal-Resistant Rugged Outdoor Dome model.

Depending on the direction one goes in terms of purchasing only the housing or purchasing a full anti-vandal security camera kit, customized housings are also available to meet the requirements for any application.

Capture video that you never thought possible - Even in the most unusual or demanding situations this helmet or onboard camera can easily record what has been unavailable to you until now.

This versatile helmet cam/onboard cam from ELMO operates as a tiny, portable video recorder and remote head industrial camera all-in-one. From personal to professional needs, recording solutions from this wearable OR onboard SUV-Cam will capture the moment.

This technologically-advanced product is a high speed, micro camera device with a rugged exterior, ideal as a police camera system, complete with helmet mounting capabilities.

Offering one-push button recording and playback functions with frame by frame viewing capacities, the Elmo SUV-Cam is perfect for any type of industry use including professional athletes or your average person - even as advanced surveillance equipment. The Elmo SUV-Cam also offers waterproof digital cameras.

Suggested to be one of the most innovative creations of this time, the Elmo SUV-Cam is ready to capture the scene, whether standing still or in fast motion.