No. 33/2010 (Oct. 11, 2010)
10 trends in CCTV.
At the beginning of the year, IMS Research company, which employs many analysts in countries such as USA, China and England, prepared a report on the expected worldwide market growth in CCTV industry in 2010.Let's compare the predictions with reality.
The report presented 10 main directions of development:
- significant increase of interest in VSaaS i MVaaS. Video Surveillance as a Service (VSaaS) and Managed Video as a Service (MVaaS) are subscription-based services that outsource the management, operation, and storage tasks of video surveillance systems. The entity requesting the service expects implementation of the latest hardware, software, and organizational solutions. The management software is usually installed on a remote server, which also stores the video footage;
- due to the relatively low price of memory chips, more and more cameras will store data on SD cards. The number of users of such implementations is to increase significantly;
- according to IMS Research, the most interesting market in 2010 will be Brazil, due to development of infrastructure and increased expenditure on CCTV in connection with the soccer World Cup in 2014 and the upcoming Olympic Games in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro;
- fall in prices of IP cameras;
- growing use of intelligent software;
- increasing competitiveness in video surveillance market will effect in many mergers and acquisitions;
- HD cameras will significantly increase market share;
- rising number of megapixel and HD cameras will boost popularity of H.264 codec;
- open standards, such as ONVIF and PSIA, will accelerate the transition from analog to IP systems. Thanks to standardization of IP cameras they will become "plug and play" devices. It will reduce the number of problems associated with configuration of IP CCTV systems;
- video management software developed in 2010 will give users more opportunities related to image analysis and management of video footage.
So far, we fully agree with the following points of the report:
- VSaaS, MvaaS - is a marked tendency in video surveillance. It is easier for investors to lease complex systems based on network transmission and image analysis than to install and manage them. There is nothing else to do but wait until the end of the year and see how the CCTV market will change;
- increase in sales of megapixel cameras in comparison with IP cameras with lower resolution. This is connected with the development of modern network infrastructure allowing to send increased amounts of data without overloading the network, and the use of H.264 encoding minimizing the bandwidth in comparison with MPEG4 and MJPEG.;
- more and more customers ask for cameras with SD cards - the prices are not much different from those without memory cards and the cameras save information that would be lost in the case of a network failure;
- increased requirements for transmission of images from surveillance cameras and the growing importance of software lead to organizational changes. For example, Panasonic Systems Solutions (PSS) and Panasonic Communications Company evolved into the Panasonic Systems Network (PSN), while Siemens Security Solutions began a strategic partnership with Bosch Security Systems;
- prices of IP cameras fell on average by about 10% compared to the last year;
- increased importance of the Brazilian market has resulted in the presence of the local companies in the world rankings of the largest distributors as well as suppliers (including video management software).

The most popular application of image analysis is ANPR
(Automatic Number Plate Recognition)
(Automatic Number Plate Recognition)
For the time being, there is no full range of standardized products. Among camera manufacturers, only Sony offers a wider range of uniform devices. Video management software developers still have not launched on the market ready-made versions supporting network devices using ONVIF protocol.
In general, the forecasts of IVMS Research indicated market trends for this year quite properly.
In general, the forecasts of IVMS Research indicated market trends for this year quite properly.
"Engagingly about Antennas" - we reward the authors of the best works and invite everyone to choose their own favorite pictures.
At the competition site we publish the list of 21 honored works whose authors will be rewarded with "Magic mugs". Readers' votes will determine the "open category" winner.DVB-T - support for antenna amplifiers.
In analog television systems the typical supplying voltage in antenna systems is 12 VDC. The DVB-T standard uses 5 VDC, so DVB-T antenna amplifiers have to operate at this voltage, especially when they are powered directly from inputs of DVB receivers. The inputs supply 5 VDC, eliminating the need for additional power supplies in simple antenna systems.Generally, the best solution for DVB-T antenna systems is application of universal equipment that can be powered with 12 VDC or 5 VDC. The examples are the shielded antenna preamplifier LNA-101 B4007 (15 dB) and the AB series of outdoor antenna amplifiers from TERRA.
Using such universal equipment we can use different power sources. Depending on our needs, we can choose an amplifier with suitable maximum output level, gain, number of outputs etc. The basic specifications of TERRA AB amplifiers are shown in the table below.
Name | AB010 | AB011 | AB012 |
Code | R82002 | R82003 | R82004 |
Operating band | UHF | ||
Gain [dB] | 15 | 27 | 22 |
Number of inputs | 1 | ||
Number of outputs | 1 | 3 | |
Noise level [dB] | 0.8 | < 1 | |
Max. output level [dBuV] | 98 | 108 | 103 |
Gain switch [dB] | - | 14/27 | 7/22 |
Return loss [dB] | > 10 | ||
Power [V * mA] | 4.5-12 * 30 | 4.5-12 * 60 | |
Operating temperature [°C] | -20...+50 | ||
Dimensions/Weight [mm/kg] | 89x107x43 / 0.18 |
Modernizing an existing antenna system in conjunction with the introduction of DVB-T, the user can take the following steps:
- replace old, big and little aesthetic set of antennas for analog TV (usually with long Yagi-Uda antennas) to a much smaller, compact antenna, fully suitable for reception of DVB-T (the tests conducted in areas covered by DVB-T signals prove the fact that in most cases the signals can be picked up easily with such antennas). We recommend to use outdoor antenna Signal A6040. The antenna comes with a set of accessories allowing to mount it on a pole or a building facade;
- replace old wiring - digital signals, especially carrying high-resolution video, are sensitive to the transmission channel interferences. Therefore, it is better to exchange the cables and connectors of the previous generation. We recommend reliable coaxial cable Triset-113 E1015 and PCT or Platinum connectors;
A professional installer should check signal parameters in antenna outlets and, if necessary, diagnose weak points of the system using suitable DVB-T meter. The correct picture on the TV screen is not enough. The most important parameters of digital signals are bit error rate (BER) and modulation error ratio (MER).
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MER and constellation diagram |
Modern antenna system - multiswitch and cardsplitter.
The antenna system shown in the diagram allows reception of terrestrial television broadcasts, FM radio stations, and satellite signals from two satellites (FTA channels and pay-TV platform - using one card and several receivers), as well as to monitor the CCTV camera.Two Quatro LNBs (A98257) connect with R70808 multiswitch (via eight coaxial cables TRISET-113 E1015). In the diagram below, the inputs of the multiswitch connected with the second LNB (for a second satellite) are not visible (they are physically placed in the second row, behind the first). Possible application of two-tuner PVR receivers requires to install two TRISET-113 E1015 cables from the multiswitch to the R694140 outlets. This will enable simultaneous viewing of one program and recording of another. The example installation distributes signals for three "single" receivers and one two-tuner receiver.
To receive channels of a digital platform on several TVs (up to 8), the subscribers can use single smart card (and subscription) but as many suitable sat receivers as the number of TVs, each equipped with Wireless Client Card for Clone+ (A9911). The original smart card is not put to any receiver, but to the central unit - Clone+ Wireless Smart Card Splitter (A9910) - which wirelessly transfers subscription rights to the Clone+ client cards.
The antenna system is additionally used for distribution of the image from a CCTV camera (at gate, entrance etc.). The image from the camera can be watched on any TV set.
Clone+ is compatible with the following encryption systems:
- Conax,
- CryptoWorks,
- Irdeto,
- MediaGuard,
- Viaccess.
Clone+ cardsplitter supports many digital platforms, such as: Digital+/Astra (Spain), Canal Digitaal (Holland), CanalSat (France), Meo (Portugal), Cyfra+ (Poland), Telewizja Na Karte (Poland), Orange TP (Poland), SCT, Free-X TV.

Radial multiswitches of MSR series: 5/4, 5/8, 5/12, 5/16, 5/24, 5/32, 9/8, 9/12, 9/16, 9/24, 9/32
TERRA multiswitches feature high quality and reliability. They are the best choice both in the case of small and large SMATV systems. Highest quality workmanship and carefully selected components make the multiswitches fully professional equipment. Thanks to very rigorous quality control the multiswitches are virtually trouble-free.
Distinguishing features:
TERRA multiswitches feature high quality and reliability. They are the best choice both in the case of small and large SMATV systems. Highest quality workmanship and carefully selected components make the multiswitches fully professional equipment. Thanks to very rigorous quality control the multiswitches are virtually trouble-free.
Distinguishing features:
- very low and stable error rate for SAT signal modulation (MER) and perfect separation between inputs and between outputs (> 30 dB)
- smoothly adjustable gain, depending on the output, -3 to +3 dB (terrestrial TV) and 1 to 8 dB (SAT TV)
- high maximum output levels (93 dB - SAT TV, 91 dB - terrestrial TV)
- low power consumption: 4 W without external devices, 30 W max

Example configuration of a high performance video surveillance system
A perfect basis for video surveillance in those places are Hikvision-Ultimax DVRs of 8100HFI-S series, i.e. the 8-channel model M78080 and 16-channel model M78160.
They can record images with 4CIF (704 x 576) resolution at 25 fps in each channel. There are also available lower resolutions (2CIF, CIF, QCIF). The parameters allow to create advanced CCTV systems. Local recording and network transmission are based on H.264 algorithms, providing good video quality at substantially lower bitrates than the previous standards, saving available disk capacity and bandwidth of the network.
Excellent networking solutions, intuitive operation and free, dedicated software packages - make the Hikvision-Ultimax DVRs the optimum choice of CCTV professionals and responsible investors.
They can record images with 4CIF (704 x 576) resolution at 25 fps in each channel. There are also available lower resolutions (2CIF, CIF, QCIF). The parameters allow to create advanced CCTV systems. Local recording and network transmission are based on H.264 algorithms, providing good video quality at substantially lower bitrates than the previous standards, saving available disk capacity and bandwidth of the network.
Excellent networking solutions, intuitive operation and free, dedicated software packages - make the Hikvision-Ultimax DVRs the optimum choice of CCTV professionals and responsible investors.
For excellent recordings there are also necessary high-quality cameras. The perfect solution for places where the cameras are exposed to vandals is the day night model SN-FXP3200MIR M10790 equipped with Super HAD CCD II sensor from SONY.
The camera produces a natural-color rendition of the original scene and, thanks to a high resolution of the video (550 TVL), it is possible to distinguish fine details. In addition, the quality of the camera image can be improved by proper adjustment of the dynamic range, which allows to avoid the effect of a too dark object or too bright background. This feature allows to set optimum exposition of the image sensor so that both dark and bright objects are well recognizable.
Color cameras n-cam 640 M11273 and n-cam 680 M11274 capture high resolution video (600 TVL) by using high-tech imaging technology and special processing algorithms. Due to enhanced resolution they provide superior images with fine detail.
The camera produces a natural-color rendition of the original scene and, thanks to a high resolution of the video (550 TVL), it is possible to distinguish fine details. In addition, the quality of the camera image can be improved by proper adjustment of the dynamic range, which allows to avoid the effect of a too dark object or too bright background. This feature allows to set optimum exposition of the image sensor so that both dark and bright objects are well recognizable.
Color cameras n-cam 640 M11273 and n-cam 680 M11274 capture high resolution video (600 TVL) by using high-tech imaging technology and special processing algorithms. Due to enhanced resolution they provide superior images with fine detail.
The DVRs can cooperate with System Control Unit DS-1003 M77920 that enables the operator to control both the DVRs and the connected PTZ cameras.
The high speed dome camera PH-10H M1192 is one of the smallest PTZ cameras on the market. The camera features Interline Transfer Sony CCD sensor with horizontal resolution of 500 TVL in color mode and 570 TVL in B/W mode. Its zoom lens has focal length changeable from 3.8 mm to 38 mm. The camera is controlled via advanced OSD menu, containing many useful functions. There is the option to increase sensitivity of the camera using Sense-UP function. SSNR function reduces noise in the image, which essentially saves disk space when recording the video.
The high speed dome camera PH-10H M1192 is one of the smallest PTZ cameras on the market. The camera features Interline Transfer Sony CCD sensor with horizontal resolution of 500 TVL in color mode and 570 TVL in B/W mode. Its zoom lens has focal length changeable from 3.8 mm to 38 mm. The camera is controlled via advanced OSD menu, containing many useful functions. There is the option to increase sensitivity of the camera using Sense-UP function. SSNR function reduces noise in the image, which essentially saves disk space when recording the video.
IP video surveillance of a restaurant's vicinity - ACTi cameras.
The monitored area consists mostly of poorly lit places such as the street and parking lot, where people were at risk of violence.The system uses ACM-3511 K1315 cameras with mechanically switching IR filters and IR illuminators allowing to operate even in complete darkness, and vandal-proof ACM-7411 K1313 cameras in especially vulnerable points. Thanks to the possibility of powering these cameras from PoE switch, each camera needs to be connected only by one UTP cable.
The video footage is recorded on the server running free of charge 64-channel ACTi NVR Professional software. Recording is done using a defined schedule and motion detection functions.

A block diagram of the system
New functions of CCTV cameras - HLC.
HLC (Highlight Compensation) is the function that reduces over-exposure of the image by a strong spotlight (car headlights, flashlight etc.). With software elimination of the overexposed parts of the image, the camera provides better contrast between the remaining fragments of the image.![]() | ![]() |
Camera image without HLC | HLC in action |
Long-range WLAN antennas - TRANS-DATA.
To improve the energy balance one can increase the output power or increase the gain of antennas. Both methods have limitations, but in the case of long-distance links the best solution is application of high-gain antennas with low angles of radiation (to minimize interference with other transmitters).TRANS-DATA antennas perfectly meet the requirement. TRANS-DATA 5GHz KZP32 A743030 is a directional antenna for outdoor applications, cooperating with transceivers in 5 GHz band. The antenna features 32 dBi gain within the 5150-5850 MHz band, so it can be used for creating long-distance point-to-point links (even above 30 km). The antenna is made of materials resistant to weather conditions. Its perforated reflector reduces the resistance to wind.
We have written about:
Wi-Fi network based on TP-LINK devices - part 2. If the Internet connection is provided by an ISP (cable TV, DSL, or other operator) via Ethernet interface (it may be for example cable modem with RJ-45 socket or just such a wall socket connected to Ethernet cable), the user can share the broadband connection in their local network.
For this purpose the user will need...
Wi-Fi network based on TP-LINK devices - part 2. If the Internet connection is provided by an ISP (cable TV, DSL, or other operator) via Ethernet interface (it may be for example cable modem with RJ-45 socket or just such a wall socket connected to Ethernet cable), the user can share the broadband connection in their local network.
For this purpose the user will need...

TP-Link TL-WR542G 54Mbps is a wireless router that comprises router, firewall, and access point. It provides a quick and convenient way of building wired and wireless network based on one external broadband service. The network, consisting of a number of computers, is additionally protected by firewall.
Online monitoring of a marketplace. The simple video surveillance system employs Aviosys 9070 IR K1162 and Aviosys 9070 CS K1161 IP HD cameras equipped with Tokina 16-48 mm F2.0 M2237 lenses. The K1161 camera has been put into water-proof Marathon M5406 housing equipped with heater that prevents fogging of the lens. The camera is connected to RouterBoard 450g N24505 run by MikroTik license level 5 system, placed in versatile outdoor housing for WLAN devices - N93400...
How to receive programs from satellite pay-TV platform throughout the home, using a single smart card? To receive channels of a SECA MediaGuard digital platform on several TVs (up to 8), the subscribers of Cyfra+ (Poland), Digital+/Astra (Spain), Canal Digitaal (Holland), CanalSat (France), Meo (Portugal) can use single smart card (and subscription) but as many suitable sat receivers as the number of TVs, each equipped with Wireless Client Card for Clone+ (A9911). The original smart card is not put to any receiver, but to the central unit - Clone+ Wireless Smart Card Splitter (A9910) - which wirelessly transfers subscription rights to the Clone+ client cards...
Index of published issues
How to receive programs from satellite pay-TV platform throughout the home, using a single smart card? To receive channels of a SECA MediaGuard digital platform on several TVs (up to 8), the subscribers of Cyfra+ (Poland), Digital+/Astra (Spain), Canal Digitaal (Holland), CanalSat (France), Meo (Portugal) can use single smart card (and subscription) but as many suitable sat receivers as the number of TVs, each equipped with Wireless Client Card for Clone+ (A9911). The original smart card is not put to any receiver, but to the central unit - Clone+ Wireless Smart Card Splitter (A9910) - which wirelessly transfers subscription rights to the Clone+ client cards...
Index of published issues