DIPOL Weekly Review - TV and SAT TV, CCTV, WLAN

No. 20/2009 (May 18, 2009)

Swine flu caught on camera.

Due to the threat of A/H1N1 virus pandemic, airports introduce systems for monitoring passengers with the use of thermal cameras. The first time such systems were installed at airports in China and Singapore during the SARS epidemic in 2002/2003.
Thermal cameras are able to detect small changes in temperature, so the effectiveness of this method is high. The pictures below come from the IRI2010 thermal camera of IRISYS, with a sensitivity of 0.3 degree Celsius. The camera can provide both traditional video and infrared mapping.
Once programmed - alarm threshold set above normal human body temperature (36.6 degrees Celsius) - the camera can alert airport personnel by displaying a message on the screen and playing alarm sound. This way the system detects people having higher body temperature, who should be further examined.
According to the manufacturer of this unit, in connection with the A/H1N1 virus there has been an increased demand for this type of equipment.
Thermal cameras are mounted not only at airports but also in some factories. Another application of thermal cameras is checking electrical connections and thermal insulation of buildings.
Pure video
50% video, 50% thermovision
Pure infrared mapping
The IRI2010 camera from IRISYS allows to display traditional video and infrared mapping

The uniting force of antennas.

Antennas are both symbolic and technical means of communication, linking different worlds, through the air or even outer space, making bridges between distant countries and continents. They connect the inhabitants of large cities, Mongolian steppe, as well as polar explorers, providing access to information and ensuring security.
The pictures below were sent to Engagingly about Antennas 2008.
Since June 1 we invite everyone to send entries to the 2009 edition - you can find the rules of participation here.
Cable TV is too expensive ...
Tomasz Leszczewicz
Antenna in Mongolian grassland
Piotr Szydlowski
Global range
Grzegorz Kupis

Central power distribution in multiswitch systems.

Modern multiswitch installations should be powered from one central point. This solution is easier to implement, without the need of supplying 230VAC to every installation box with the multiswitch.
The leading manufacturers of multiswitches implement this kind of power distribution in their products. TERRA multiswitches MSV-5xx can be centrally powered with the power supply integrated into the amplifier SA-501 R70501, whereas MSV-9xx multiswitches can cooperate with the amplifier SA-901 R70901. In both cases the power is provided through H lines.

Installing MSV multiswitches we have to balance the currents. For example, using the SA-901 amplifier of 2 A capacity, with LNBs consuming 2x300 mA, we still have 1.4 A left (2 A - 2*0.3 A = 1.4 A). So, from one SA-901 amplifier we can power up to 14 MSV multiswitches (each consuming about 100 mA).
Amplifier for 9-input Multiswitches: Terra SA-91L (class A)SAT/TV Splitter: Terra SD-504 (class A)SAT/TV Tap: Terra SD-510 (class A)Switching Power Supply: Terra PS182F (18 V / 2 A, for MS/MSV multiswitches)9/4 Multiswitch: TERRA MS-9529/4 Cascadable Multiswitch: TERRA MS-951Amplifier for 9-input Multiswitches: Terra SA-91DL (class A)
Implementation of central DC power system in multiswitch installation based on TERRA equipment

Video surveillance in schools.

The cameras used in schools may be exposed to malicious actions of some students (e.g. changing direction of operation, or even trying to destroy the device). For that conditions, the ideal solution is provided by vandal-proof dome cameras, like color cameras M10744 and M10746, mounted directly to the ceiling or wall.
The cameras are easy to mount and maintain - it is enough to wipe their domes. Due to closing of the camera and lens inside the dome, such camera ensures discrete observation - it is difficult to notice the direction and angle of observation. The cameras enable choice of lenses, so they may be adjusted to the task. It may be utilized e.g. in the case of monitoring long corridors, where large focal length of the lens will be indispensable for ensuring identification of persons.
Of particular importance is monitoring of the entry to the building. The cameras in those places should enable clear identification of people entering the school. They should be placed close to the entry or have lens with large focal length, to cover only the door.
Because of the risk of overexposure (sudden changes of light by the door), for this purpose there are recommended cameras with Wide Dynamic Range technology, e.g. SN-586C/B WDR M11208.

More in the article Video surveillance in schools
Example of mounting theM10600 camera on a wall - it is difficult to notice the area of operation

Overexposed images from CCTV cameras.

Image overexposure is a frequent problem occurring in practical implementations of CCTV systems.
Only high-quality cameras with WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) sensors are performing well in the conditions where strong light is directed straight at the camera lens. Below there is the list of cameras equipped with this kind of image sensor:
  • Color Day/Night Camera SN-586C/B WDR M11208
  • Speed Dome Camera T2-SB36 M1224
  • Speed Dome CameraC4399/FCB-EX1010P M12291
  • IP Speed Dome Day/Night Camera ACTi CAM-6621 K1215
  • IP Speed Dome Camera ACTi CAM-6630 K1216
  • IP Speed Dome Camera PiXORD P463DW K1236
Cameras with Wide Dynamic Range sensors can individually analyze each pixel (or group of pixels). It allows to precisely adjust exposure parameters - the cameras are resistant to overexposure from direct light or that reflected from an object.

Below - on the left side there is an image from a camera with Wide Dynamic Range sensor, resistant to overexposure - it allows to identify the outside objects, while the image on the right - from a standard camera - is practically useless for that purpose.
Color CCTV Camera SN-485C Sunell (with audio module)
Comparison of a WDR and a standard camera

New indoor cameras from ACTi.

One of the most popular manufacturers of IP cameras - ACTi Corp. - in response to customer suggestions modified two camera models which enjoyed great popularity: VGA camera ACM-4100K1501 and 1.3 Mpix camera ACM-4200K1510. The new, upgraded models are ACM-4001 K1503 and ACM-4201 K1514.
The main change is the supplying voltage - not 3.3 VDC, but typical for CCTV systems 12 VDC (both K1503 and K1514). Additionally, the cameras support PoE technology compliant with 802.3af standard. It allows to use PoE injectors or PoE power supply M1890 - the system is much easier to install, with a single UTP/FTP cable.
The K1503 camera has also been equipped with exchangeable lens with CS mount, which allows to use more suitable lens in some specific conditions.
Megapixel IP Camera: ACTi ACM-4201 (1.3 MP)
1.3 Mpix ACTi camera - K1514

Expansion of existing network infrastructure - TP-LINK TL-WA501G N2940 - wirelessly, easy and quickly.

Increasingly, businesses and companies use computers installed in large warehouses, halls, shop floors etc. Then the simplest way of providing network connectivity is to use wireless systems. With powerful features, easy setup, reasonable price and high reliability - the perfectly suited tool for this purpose is the access point from TP-LINK - TL-WA501G N2940.
Access Point TL-WA501G complies with 802.11b/g standards, has many functions and modes of work. These features of the AP make it an ideal tool for building small cells of WLANs. Due to WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK, TKIP/AES encryption procedures and MAC addresses' filtration the device can ensure high security levels. Possibility of connecting external antenna makes the device even more versatile equipment. User-friendly interface and simple configuration will not bother even non-experienced users.
Access Point: TP-Link TL-WA501G <br />(AP/APC/WDS 2.4GHz, eXtended Range)Access Point: TP-Link TL-WA501G <br />(AP/APC/WDS 2.4GHz, eXtended Range)
Expansion in one location. The advantage of bridge connection (Point to Point) is lack of service for wireless adapters and APs in client mode, which improves efficiency and security of the link.
Router TP-Link TL-R460 (4 LAN / 1 WAN ports)Access Point: TP-Link TL-WA501G <br />(AP/APC/WDS 2.4GHz, eXtended Range)Access Point: TP-Link TL-WA501G <br />(AP/APC/WDS 2.4GHz, eXtended Range)Access Point: TP-Link TL-WA501G <br />(AP/APC/WDS 2.4GHz, eXtended Range)Access Point: TP-Link TL-WA501G <br />(AP/APC/WDS 2.4GHz, eXtended Range)
Expansion in several locations. Point to MultiPoint mode eliminates connections with wireless adapters
and APs in client mode, improving efficiency and security of the link.

Wireless IP CCTV system at a parking lot.

It is difficult to do wired installations covering large areas. The solution to the problem is use of wireless transmission. Such an installation can cover even a very large parking lot, reducing the risk of car theft or other damage.
To create a professional CCTV system at a parking lot, one should use high quality equipment and software:
  • Fixed cameras mounted on fences in order to record possible attempts of illegal entering, e.g. megapixel IP camera ACTi ACM-1231 K1511,
  • Speed dome cameras situated in the central part of the parking lot, allowing the staff to focus on any important events taking place in the whole area, e.g. IP speed dome camera ACTi CAM-6630 K1216,
  • NUUO software package for recording and analyzing the IP video. Thanks to motion detection and counting capability, the surveillance management software can alert the staff about any change or disappearance of objects, providing perfect support for their service,
  • Set of devices for wireless transmission of the digital video from camera points to the monitoring post/center with recording server. Example pair of devices for creating point-to-point connections: ULTIAIR 419KC N2300 + ULTIAIR 319KC N2310.
Wireless Access Point: ULTIAIR 319KCOutdoor IP Camera: ACTi ACM-1231 (1.3 MP)Wireless Access Point: ULTIAIR 319KCWireless Access Point: ULTIAIR 319KCIP Speed Dome Day/Night Camera: ACTi CAM-6621 (MPEG-4) - CLEARANCE SALE!Wireless Access Point: ULTIAIR 319KCOutdoor IP Camera: ACTi ACM-1231 (1.3 MP)Wireless Access Point: ULTIAIR 419KCWireless Access Point: ULTIAIR 319KCOutdoor IP Camera: ACTi ACM-1231 (1.3 MP)Outdoor IP Camera: ACTi ACM-1231 (1.3 MP)
Example IP CCTV system at a parking lot

Kwietny Bieg (Flower Run) 2009.

Flower Run is a grassroots initiative - relay race around Poland taking place every year at the end of May and the beginning of June. The runners do a lap of 3530 km - along the borders of Poland.
An identical distance is covered by the runners of its "city edition" - around Blonie Park in Krakow. As usual, among them will be the runners from DIPOL, who, during 24 hours, will cover a distance of 236 km.
More about Kwietny Bieg - in Polish only.
The winning picture in 2008, taken by Mr. Aleksander Gucwa - "Flower Run in Sekowa"
We have written about:

How to use wireless connectivity to develop the network at home or office. Internet access is nowadays indispensable at home and office. It can be easily distributed among many users by wireless means. If the connection is provided by the ISP (cable TV, DSL, or other operator) via Ethernet interface (for example cable modem with RJ-45 socket), the user will need suitable router, e.g. TL-WR542G N2950 (54 Mbps) or N2953 (108 Mbps)...
- archive DWR of Sept. 8, 2008

Wall plates for Twin (PVR) receivers in multiswich systems. Twin receivers equipped with hard drives (with PVR facility) require two independent satellite signals (provided via two cables, e.g. TRISET-113 E1015). The R694140 wall plate has two satellite paths...
- archive DWR of June 9, 2008

How to set OSD cameras? Application of DSP (Digital Signal Processor) allows to enhance the array of camera adjustments...
- archive DWR of Feb. 18, 2008

Index of published issues
ULTIAIR - efficient and secure wireless data transmission