Canon USA Introduces Full HD IP Security Cameras
Digital imaging solutions vendor Canon USA has announced its first line of full HD IP security cameras: the VB-H41 (a pan/tilt/zoom IP camera with 20x wide-angle zoom lens); VB-H610VE (a fixed vandal-resistant IP66-rated IP dome camera); VB-H610D (a fixed indoor IP dome camera); and VB-H710F (a "box" style fixed IP camera).
All four models feature low-light performance; a Canon aspherical wide-angle zoom lens with optimal lens coating technology; and a 2.1 megapixel, 16:9 aspect ratio widescreen CMOS image sensor. They are powered by a pair of proprietary Canon DIGIC processors: the Canon DIGIC DV III image processor for picture quality, color accuracy, reduced noise, and low power consumption; and the second-generation Canon DIGIC NET II network video processor, a compression, encryption, and transmission engine for full 1920 x 1080 HD up to 30 fps simultaneously in both H.264 and M-JPEG. A Smart Shade Control feature selectively brightens dark areas while maintaining accurate exposure of bright areas in high-contrast scenes.
Each of the cameras also features built-in Video Analytics for moving, removed, and abandoned object detection as well as passing (or "tripwire") detection. Users can adjust detection characteristics such as sensitivity, area, and duration, as well as configure alarms and notification functions. Passing detection can, for example, issue an alert if a person or object moves past a user-preset line or polygon in the camera image, such as a doorway, window, driveway, or other boundary. All four cameras also feature Camera Analytics, which include detection of camera tampering and sound-level detection in the vicinity of the camera that may indicate vandalism or sabotage.
A Privacy Mask function blocks sensitive locations (such as ATM keypads or computer monitors) from the cameras' view while still allowing for a full range of motion. The cameras also feature two-way audio connectors for bi-directional sound communication, built-in Management Tools, and a Web Viewer function for remote video monitoring. The cameras ship with RM-Lite 2.0, Canon's free network video and recording software for up to four cameras. A built-in SD Memory Card slot (supporting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards) allows users to record still images or H.264 video during network outages, scheduled event triggers, or manually through Admin Viewer (VB Admin Tools are resident on each camera's web server). An Auto IP feature can automatically assign each camera a private IP address, allowing for connectivity without configuring each camera's network setting.
The cameras' Viewer PTZ feature allows a computer operator to magnify video from the camera for a closer look at specific image details. Because the video is HD, video quality remains usable even when magnified. The models are also equipped with Digital PTZ, which uses the camera to trim or crop sections of the HD video image; the cameras can then digitally encode and transmit just those cropped areas, saving bandwidth.
Additional details of each camera model:
VB-H41
Featuring a new structural design for increased durability with improved bearings and a flexible-cable assembly, the VB-H41 includes a Canon 20x optical zoom lens with 12x digital zoom, a wide 60.4-degree angle of view, and an improved Auto Focus algorithm to enhance focusing accuracy in various difficult shooting conditions. Working together with a built-in thermal sensor, the VB-H41 Auto Focus algorithm also corrects for temperature changes in the installation environment. An electronic Image Stabilization feature minimizes blur that can be caused by vibration in the installation base, and the VB-H41 supports select third-party USB joysticks for controlling PTZ and presets. The VB-H41 can capture image detail in low-illumination environments down to 0.4 lux at F1.6 and 1/30 sec. in color and 0.02 lux at f/1.6 and 1/30 sec. in black and white. MSRP: $2,899.
VB-H610VE
The VB-H610VE fixed vandal-resistant camera is housed in a clear polycarbonate dome mounted to an aluminum body; this unified enclosure has a dust and water-resistance rating of IP66. The enclosure can also absorb violent impacts. Inside the enclosure, the VB-H610VE lens is mounted in a damping mechanism to protect it against heavy blows. An optional heater allows the camera to be used in temperatures down to -22 degrees Fahrenheit. The VB-H610VE also features a built-in Canon 112.0-degree wide-angle 3x optical zoom lens for clear, high-quality images. The VB-H610VE can capture image detail in low-illumination environments down to 0.3 lux at F1.2 and 1/30 sec. in color and 0.015 lux at f/1.2 and 1/30 sec. in black and white. MSRP: $1,569.
VB-H610D
As with the VB-H610VE, this camera has a built-in Canon wide-angle 3x optical zoom lens with an ultra-wide 112.0-degree angle of view, designed for use in areas with severe space restrictions such as stairways, narrow halls, and elevators, as well as vast, wide-open spaces. The lens's aspherical optical composition and optimal lens coating technology enables it to produce high-quality sharp images with minimal distortion and flare. A Remote Adjustment Function allows users to change the camera's angle of view (including pan, tilt, rotation, zoom, and focus) from any remote PC, thereby eliminating the time and expense of on-site adjustments involving labor, transportation, and equipment. The VB-H610D can capture image detail in low-illumination environments down to 0.3 lux at F1.2 and 1/30 sec. in color and 0.015 lux at f/1.2 and 1/30 sec. in black and white. MSRP: $1,289.
VB-H710F
Designed with a traditional rectangular "box" look, the VB-H710F features a built-in Canon wide-angle 3x optical zoom lens with an ultra-wide 112.0-degree angle of view. A built-in motorized focus and zoom function enables users to adjust those settings, convenient for challenging and/or large installation environments. The VB-H710F can capture image detail in low-illumination environments down to 0.3 lux at F1.2 and 1/30 sec. in color and 0.015 lux at f/1.2 and 1/30 sec. in black and white. MSRP: $1,159.
Initial shipments for all new models are scheduled to begin in December 2012. For more information, go to the Canon USA site.