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

No. 12/2012 (March 19, 2012)

Seen at CeBIT 2012.

This year's CeBIT trade fair for IT and telecommunications was held in Hanover between March 6 and10.
CeBIT, as an independent event, started in 1986. The 80's were the years of emerging GSM, PC, and network technologies. The European telecommunications infrastructure was leading in the world, well suited for the implementation of the Internet. The personal computers from Europe, Amstrad and ZX Spectrum, had performance equal to that of the competing solutions produced in the U.S. The GSM standard was developed in Europe that was originally the largest GSM market, and the world leaders in the production of mobile devices were Scandinavian companies.
The developments inflamed imagination, everyone wanted to participate in the sharing of profits. In those days the trade fair was visited by more than 800,000 people, and more than 8000 companies were showing their products. At CeBIT Bill Gates presented the latest versions of Windows OS, and Intel - the latest processors.
It was 20 years ago...

In 2012 the fair was visited by about 300,000 people, who visited stands of 4200 exhibitors. Among the exhibitors from Europe, there were only IT service companies - manufacturing companies have disappeared...

CeBIT has ceased to be a good place to present new products, because the European infrastructure has become obsolete and the market stagnant, so the big players prefer to show up at CES in Las Vegas or in Hong Kong and promote their products on much more promising American and Asian markets.

At this year's fair there were more companies from Singapore or Hong Kong than from France or Spain

At CeBIT 2012, there were few products representing the future-oriented wireless technology, LTE, because in many European countries it is only in the testing phase.
Major projects in the field of "Cloud computing" are not carried out by European companies, so this technology was shown mainly on posters.
Streaming TV, a great success in North America, is only starting in the U.K., the most advanced European market, and implemented by American companies.
Similarly, fiber optic networks reaching the end users - they are built in Asia and the USA. So far, Europe debates how to force operators to implement this technology.
Huawei was one of the few companies presenting a full range of modern products and solutions.
The picture shows the concept of data center based on a system of containers with servers.

The only group of exhibitors which grows every year are various government agencies and representatives of regions. They present their achievements in computerization or promote investments in their regions.

Asian manufacturers presented many SOHO (Small Office / Home Office) network devices.
The undisputed leader in broadband access to the Internet is TP-Link.

Is it a good field for setting a world record?
Prices for the Internet access in Europe, in the twenty-first century, at telecommunications fair!

CeBIT 2012
In 2000, the European Council adopted the so-called Lisbon Strategy - the aim of the plan
for a period of 10 years was to make Europe the most dynamic and competitive economic region in the world, growing faster than the United States and Asia. There is no need for a report how effective the plan was -
- it was enough to visit this year's CeBIT.

Recording speed or resolution?

The key parameters of DVRs are recording speed and resolution.
Today, 4CIF resolution is a basic standard. If a DVR is not able to save images of this resolution, it should not be taken into account when selecting the surveillance equipment.
All DVRs offered by DIPOL can record video of 4CIF resolution (704x576 pixels). Each of the DVRs can use H.264 compression, recording up to 70% more material on the same hard drive(s) in comparison with previous codecs.
CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X04 (H.264, 4 channels)
CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X08 (H.264, 8 channels)
CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X16 (H.264, 16 channels)
Trend 250x04
M72504
Trend 250x08
M72508
Trend 250x16
M72516
Recording speed may vary depending on the type of the system. For single-family houses, small businesses, offices etc., 6 fps speed is more than satisfactory. This requirement is fulfilled by Trend DVRs.
A cheaper alternative for users not requiring advanced network control is ATU DVR M71000, capable of recording 4CIF@12fps video.
More advanced systems can be based on Hikvision DVRs from 73XX series.
Fully professional analog CCTV systems should record 4CIF video at frame rate of 25 fps, in each channel. This gives a complete picture of the situation, enabling the identification of people and thorough analysis of events, even in very dynamic scenes. Signal DVRs provide the highest quality of recordings and ensure advanced management of video surveillance systems.
CCTV Network DVR: SIGNAL DL-8308 (H.264, 8ch-4CIF-25fps, HDMI)
CCTV Network DVR: SIGNAL DL-8316 (H.264, 16ch-4CIF-25fps, HDMI)
SIGNAL DL-8308
M78308
SIGNAL DL-8316
M78316
To obtain the highest possible quality of the video digitally recorded with resolution of 4CIF, the analog camera should be capable of at least 540 TVL resolution.

No more problems with remote control of devices hidden in cabinets.

The use of modern and esthetic cabinets for electronic devices may cause problems with remote control. In such situations, it is necessary to use special IR benders.
IR Remote Control Bender: Signal IRB-600U (3-way)
IR bender Signal IRB-600U R94130 retransmits infrared commands from remote controls of the devices, without the need for the line-of-sight between the remote controls and the IR sensors of the devices.
Typical application of Signal IRB-600U IR remote control bender
The sensor of the Signal IRB-600U R94130 IR bender receives IR commands from any remote control and distributes them to three IR transmitters. Each of them can be placed in front of different device (e.g. on the window/door of the cabinet, glass case etc. housing the devices, from inside). This way, any of the target devices can receive the user's commands without problems caused by location behind the window/door (lack of reaction, shorter range, need for very precise pointing etc).
Signal IRB-600U can be used in various situations where there is a need to increase the operational range and angle of remote controls of some devices.
An important feature of the device is power supply from a USB port. This means that the IR bender can be powered from the TV or any of the controlled devices equipped with USB port, so it does not need an additional power supply and next power outlet.

Optical fibers - fusion or mechanical splicing?

Optical fibers can be connected ​​by fusion splicing, with the use of a fusion splicing machine, or by employing mechanical means, e.g. ULTIMODE mechanical splices.
The great advantage of ULTIMODE L5550 mechanical splices over traditional fusion splicing is low initial cost. In order to implement properly the ULTIMODE FAST-MS1 L5550 mechanical splice, the installer needs only CLAUSS L5903 stripper, precision fiber cleaver L5801, and cleaning accessories.
In the case of fusion splicing the required initial investment (buying a fusion splicing machine) is many times higher, of the order of 5000 EUR.
The advantage of the mechanical splices is the possibility of their application by inexperienced installers - the gel inside the splices compensates for the adverse effects of imprecise cleaving. Each ULTIMODE splice can be used again for three times without loss of transmission parameters. In the case of fusion splices any inaccurate cleaving or incorrect cleaning will lower transmission parameters with no possibility of correction.

The comparative table below presents the main features of ULTIMODE mechanical splices and fusion splices.
Features ULTIMODE mechanical splices
Fusion splices
Initial cost
low high

Installation complexity,
required qualifications

Simple installation,
no special skills required

Simple installation,
working practice required
Power supply
not required
required
Insertion loss
< 0.15 dB (typ. 0.1 dB)
< 0.1 dB
Installation time
ca 30 seconds ca 30 seconds

Transmission of CCTV signals using twisted pair cables.

The number of CCTV systems with transmission based on twisted pair cables is continually growing, especially in the case of larger installations. Signal transmission by a twisted pair cable is cheaper than transmission by a coaxial cable and ensures good quality because the signal is transmitted differentially. It means satisfactory reduction or even elimination of interference.
Day/Night Box Camera: u-cam 600 (600TVL, Sony Super HAD II, 0.01 lx)Video Transmitter/Receiver (Balun): 1VP-B (BNC, angular, 2pcs)Video Transmitter/Receiver (Balun): 1VP-A (BNC, 2 pcs)Video Balun Set: 1VP-C (2 pcs., BNC lead) CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X04 (H.264, 4 channels)
Video transmission from one camera over a distance up to 400 m
Day/Night Box Camera: u-cam 600 (600TVL, Sony Super HAD II, 0.01 lx)4-channel Passive Video Balun: Etrix 4VP4-channel Passive Video Balun: Etrix 4VPCCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X04 (H.264, 4 channels)
Video transmission from four cameras over a distance up to 400 m
Day/Night Box Camera: u-cam 600 (600TVL, Sony Super HAD II, 0.01 lx)8-channel Passive Video Balun: Etrix 8VP8-channel Passive Video Balun: Etrix 8VPCCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X08 (H.264, 8 channels)
Video transmission from eight cameras over a distance up to 400 m
Day/Night Box Camera: u-cam 600 (600TVL, Sony Super HAD II, 0.01 lx)Video Transmitter-Receiver Set: 1VAP (BNC, DC-2.1/5.5)SMPS AC/DC Adapter ZI-1000 12V/1A (for CCTV cameras)CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X04 (H.264, 4 channels)
Transmission of video and power supply
Day/Night Box Camera: u-cam 600 (600TVL, Sony Super HAD II, 0.01 lx)4-channel Active Video Balun: Etrix 4VA-T (transmitter)4-channel Active Video Balun: Etrix 4VA-R (receiver)CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X04 (H.264, 4 channels)
Video transmission from four cameras over a distance up to 2400 m
High Speed Dome Camera: PH-33 (3.5-111.5 mm, 540 TVL, Sony Super Had CCD, 0.7 lx)Audio Module: MP-6/D (microphone w/ balanced output) Active Video-Audio-Data Balun: Etrix 1VADA-R (receiver)CCTV Network DVR: TREND 250X04 (H.264, 4 channels)Active Video-Audio-Data Balun: Etrix 1VADA-T (transmitter)
Transmission of video, audio, PTZ commands over a distance up to 2400 m (PTZ camera)

How to implement a video monitoring system with "no entry" area?

Solutions based on typical motion detection are often insufficient, because the operator gets too much false alarms, even caused by rain, snow, wind. Frequent false alarms cause the operator to relax their vigilance, thus some important events may remain unnoticed.
Digifort video surveillance software packages K3002, K3003, K3004 allow for integration with Digifort VCA K3040 advanced image analysis module equipped with intelligent tools for alerting the operator about an intrusion into the protected area.
Presentation of the application alerting the operator on intrusion detection in the forbidden zone
The VCA module triggers an alarm after a classified object has just appeared in a set zone (there are definable classes of objects: cars, people, animals etc.). This features allow for precise definition of the protected area and objects that should be taken into account, so the operator is alerted only when necessary.

Digifort VCA K3040 image analysis module can perform the following functions:
  • Face detection,
  • Detection of left (new) objects,
  • Detection of taken (moved) objects,
  • Detection of objects exceeding a set speed limit,
  • Loitering detection,
  • Camera tampering,
  • Setting virtual barriers,
  • Direction control,
  • Object classes registration, counting and searching,
  • Event search and reporting.
Trial versions of the K3001, K3002, K3003, K3004 Digifort video surveillance software packages and the Digifort VCA K3040 image analysis module are available here: Digifort.

802.11n devices win the market.

Wireless devices that support n standard have become the most popular category of home networking equipment. Very popular are "N Lite" TP-Link devices supporting wireless transmission speeds up to 150 Mbps (the maximum transmission speed of devices with a single path/antenna).
Advantages of home networks based on TP-Link "N Lite" devices:
  • Efficient transmission of multimedia files, as well as other large files. The transmission is up to 3 times faster compared to 802.11g (54 Mbps) and 15 times faster than in the case of 802.11b (11 Mbps),
  • Backward compatibility, i.e. support for previous wireless standards - all computers/laptops/handhelds/printers etc. equipped with b/g cards will normally connect to the network,
  • Simple configuration thanks to QSS function (Quick Secure Setup), allowing user to quickly add wireless devices to the existing WiFi 802.11n network.
Some 802.11n TP-Link devices (150 Mbps):
Access Point: TP-Link TL-WR740N (w. router, 4p-switch, 150Mb/s 802.11n)
Wireless ADSL2+ Modem Router: TP-Link TD-W8950ND (integrated with 4-port switch and 802.11n AP)
Wireless USB Adapter: TP-Link TL-WN722N (802.11n, 150Mb/s)
Access Point/ Router
TP-Link TL-WR740N
N3252
ADSL2+ Modem Router
TP-Link TD-W8950N
N2908
USB Adapter
TP-Link TL-WN722N
N2922
New products offered by DIPOL
Power Strip (1U, 230VAC, 8 outlets, for 19
Megapixel IP Dome Camera: Sunell SN-IPV54/12UDN (1080p, OUTDOOR, vandal-proof)
Rechargeable Battery MW 18-12S (12V, 18Ah)
UTP Patch Cable Cat5e (0.5m, yellow)
Power Strip 1U, 230VAC,
8 outlets, for 19" RACK
R9120231
2 MP IP Dome Camera
Sunell SN-IPV54/12UDN
K1690
Rechargeable Battery
MW18-12S 12V,18Ah
M1884
UTP Patch Cable
Cat5e, 0.5m, yellow
J21002
Worth reading:
TERRA system for Euro 2012. The owner of one of the hotels located near Warsaw decided to prepare for the upcoming 2012 UEFA European Football Championship. To attract foreign fans to his hotel, he decided to expand the TV system with a headend offering foreign broadcasts. He decided to use a professional and easily expandable in the future Terra MMH-3000 headend.
Three base units UC-380 R81700 contain 21 modules: 6 QPSK CI stereo receivers RDC-313 R81710, 12 MPEG-2 TS decoders/VSB modulators DM-313 R81712 and 3 VSB modulators MT-310 MT-310 R81708. The circuitry distributes 18 TV channels in English, German, French and Polish. These are news, sports, music, and children channels...
View of the Terra MMH-3000 headend installed in the hotel
How to extend multimode transmission range? In connection with the relocation of the headquarters, a company was forced to extend the fiber optic link connecting the old head office with the warehouse. The old headquarters was located about 1 km from the warehouse. Due to the small distance the owner decided to use a multimode optical fiber at that time. After changing the location, the distance increased to 10 km...
Optic link connecting the new office with the warehouse
Home Gigabit LAN and high speed WLAN - TP-LINK devices. New functions of home and office LAN and WLAN networks associated with the transmission of video streams require more bandwidth than provided by the traditional Fast Ethernet.
It is recommended to build modern LANs even when the external links have low capacity, because the LAN parameters are important to transfer audio-video files from local servers to the playback devices (computers, televisions etc.) and CCTV images from cameras to the DVRs or recording servers...
Panorama IP Camera: PIXORD PD636E (2MP, H.264, Fish-Eye)