Siqura Pushes The Limits Of Technology At The Network’s Edge

Siqura is currently developing an advanced camera platform that puts entire video analytics systems in stand-alone devices at the edge of the network. Taking analytics to the perimeter of a surveillance system not only enhances the overall efficiency of the system but ensures more accurate and effective analysis of critical video material.

The camera platform will be released in the fall of 2011. The first available solution will be the Siqura 600 series, a collection of standard definition (SD) multi-streaming fixed box-style IP cameras designed to have superior wide dynamic range and excellent image control in low-light conditions. Subsequent camera models based on this innovative new platform will be released by the end of the year as the Siqura 800 series and will offer full HD (1080p) resolution.

Full intelligence at the edge

Using a dedicated DSP, Siqura 600 and 800 series cameras are embedded with field-proven analytics algorithms capable of detecting intruders as well as tracking and counting objects in both outdoor and indoor applications. These devices optimize detection performance by storing and transmitting the metadata or analysis parameters alongside the video material. This makes the output of these devices ideal for forensic examination.

Transmitting over any medium

To accommodate any streaming situation, from short segments to vast distances, and to resourcefully take advantage of the existing network infrastructure, Siqura 600 and 800 series solutions are capable of streaming Ethernet signals over fibre optic, coax, or Cat 5 cabling.

"Network cameras being developed today need to be able to handle IP traffic, regardless of the medium connecting them to the network", said Roger Decker, Director of Solutions and Marketing at Siqura. "That is why Siqura IP solutions can connect directly to a fixed network or wireless bridge via twisted-pair, coax, or fibre optic cabling. We want customers to be able to select hardware based on its ability to withstand variances on the network and to provide high-quality streams and not because of the kind of network it can connect to."

Guaranteed availability

In an effort to combat potential pitfalls, Siqura integrated its Camera Health Check into its 600 and 800 series. The Camera Health Check guarantees the availability of quality video material. It continually assesses the well-being of the camera by monitoring the camera's position and image quality. It conveys the status information via an intuitive dashboard-style user interface. When something is amiss, the application triggers an alarm to promptly alert operators. This, in turn, provides a proactive approach towards system maintenance, potentially reducing the unnecessary costs generally associated with scheduled upkeep.