FALL 2011 Newsletter
High-Definition & Megapixel Cameras
Find the answers to all of your questions
Are you considering the deployment of HD or MegaPixel cameras? Are you reluctant to engage this technology because of the complexity of choices? We can help by clarifying some common terms and technologies.
Q: Describe the basics of HD and megapixel video, as well as the advantages each offer.
A: Megapixel cameras have one million or more pixels, providing more detailed resolution than a standard resolution network or analog camera. IP-based networked cameras are available in a variety of megapixel resolutions from 1.3 to 10 or more megapixels. While all megapixel cameras are HD or higher resolution, not all HD cameras are megapixel. HD video refers to one of two specific resolutions; either 720p or 1080p, numbers which refer to the pixels of vertical resolution (compared to 480p for standard resolution). Since by definition a megapixel camera has no less than one million pixels, a 720p camera is not megapixel, though it is HD. The small p stands for progressive (as opposed to interlaced) scanning whereby all the lines of each frame are drawn in sequence. With interlaced scanning the odd and even lines of each frame are drawn alternately. Progressive scanning can help increase picture clarity by reducing motion blur.
Network megapixel and HD cameras connect to a networked system using Internet protocol. Megapixel images require additional bandwidth to manage the volume of data, although compression standards such as H.264 can minimize the impact, as can the use of frame rates that are less than real-time (30 frames per second). Because they offer significantly higher resolution, in certain applications, the number of megapixel and HD cameras can be reduced without any loss in information. Additionally, the superior resolution enables better identification of details such as license plate numbers.
Q: How are HD and megapixel cameras changing or evolving to incorporate emerging technologies? What are some of those new technologies?
A: HD and megapixel cameras are providing higher resolution images, but resolution is only one factor in image quality. Intelligence inside the camera can work together with HD image sensors to provide images that are better in several ways. For example, image processing manages the dynamic range of a video image, which is the span of gradations from the lightest to the darkest areas. Intelligence inside the camera uses natural contrast image correction to optimize contrast of each pixel and to faithfully reproduce objects in any area and position, resulting in better images despite extreme lighting conditions. Other image processing technologies can transform dark areas into natural, high-contrast images like those seen by the human eye. Intelligence inside the camera also enables us to install and set up video analytics solutions, using in-camera functions such as face detection, advanced motion detection and auto tracking functions.
New technologies and trends include using higher profiles to reduce bandwidth/storage needs while increasing picture quality. The higher quality processors being utilized enable PoE and eco friendly functions while enabling real-time, multi-stream H.264 megapixel output. The ultimate objective is to take security cameras beyond simple webcam functionality and closer to professional/broadcast cameras. It’s technology innovations like these that are transforming and expanding system capabilities while simplifying system design.
Q: Which applications are best suited for HD and megapixel cameras?
A: Success of many applications in the past has eluded the best system designs involving standard-resolution cameras. Higher-resolution imaging puts many of those applications in reach. Image quality can come into play in applications such as point-of-sale transactions, where the cash denomination must be legible, or for reading suits on playing cards in a casino. In outdoor applications, higher-resolution video can enables license plates to be legible across a dark parking lot. Higher resolutions work together with advanced image processing technologies to enable operators to make out important image details even in dark or back-lit areas. The ability to cover larger areas with fewer cameras (while providing better functionality) can make systems more affordable for easier cost justification and a faster return on your investment. Every advanced system function in the marketplace would be impacted positively by an improvement in image quality.
Q: What sort of special equipment or technologies are required for use with HD and/or megapixel cameras?
A: As mentioned above, bandwidth capacity and storage requirements have to be considered when incorporating higher-resolution video into a system. On the other hand, the use of fewer cameras can translate into an overall need for fewer components and less overall system infrastructure. You will need a video recorder that is capable of recording HD/MegaPixel cameras. Network Video Recorders (NVR) record IP based (HD/MegaPixel) cameras only while Hybrid NVR’s can record your existing analog cameras and the new HD/Megapixel cameras.
Q: What percentage of installed cameras today are currently HD and megapixel cameras? Where do you see that number in the next couple years?
A: We are definitely seeing a lot of interest in megapixel camera technologies for all the reasons mentioned above. The number of megapixel cameras sold in the next several years will grow exponentially, and most of the growth will be in the lower-megapixel range (1.3 to 3 megapixels). Higher quality images are a core advantage of IP-based systems over analog systems, so the industry's transition to more IP-based systems will boost interest in megapixel technologies. HD cameras will also do well in some applications, driven by a striking improvement in image quality and frame rate that will appeal to a large range of customers.
Q: What are the hottest trends in HD and megapixel cameras and/or video?
A: You hear a lot about higher and higher numbers of pixels, but the core opportunities for our customers are in the range of 1.3 to 3 megapixel cameras. These cameras provide a noticeable improvement in image quality and can be incorporated into systems easily, especially given H.264 compression that helps to keep bandwidth and storage needs low. In addition, more functions are now being deployed camera-side, such as edge recording and better image processing. This enables the benefits of a network camera without loading down the network for recording. Cameras can now detect faces, optimizing lighting and dynamic range settings for people, in addition to searching for motion or other analytics.
Q: What three questions or considerations should you keep in mind when selecting HD and megapixel cameras?
A:
(1) Weigh product claims carefully and insist on a demo of a real application before committing to a technology.
(2) Default to products that are robust and “tried-and-true,” and depend on well-established and dependable supplier companies.
(3) Choose products that work together as an integrated system – you don't have to reinvent the wheel.
Contact your account representative today for assistance in selecting the best solution for your security needs.
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