How to stream MPEG-4

AXIS 243Q Blade - Video streams 13

MPEG-4 protocols and communication methods

To deliver live streaming video over IP networks, various combinations of transport protocols and broadcast methods are employed.

•RTP (Real-Time Transport Protocol) is a protocol that allows programs to manage the real-time transmission of multimedia data, via unicast or multicast.

•RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol) serves as a control protocol, to negotiate which transport protocol to use for the stream. RTSP is thus used by a viewing client to start a unicast session, see below.

•UDP (User Datagram Protocol) is a communications protocol that offers limited service for exchanging data in a network that uses the Internet Protocol (IP). UDP is an alternative to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). The advantage of UDP is that it is not required to deliver all data and may drop network packets when there is network congestion. This is suitable for live video, as there is no point in re-transmitting old information that will not be displayed anyway.

•Unicasting is communication between a single sender and a single receiver over a network. This means that the video stream goes independently to each user, and each user gets their own stream. A benefit of unicasting is that if one stream fails, it only affects one user.

•Multicast is bandwidth-conserving technology that reduces bandwidth usage by simultaneously delivering a single stream of information to multiple network recipients. This technology is used primarily on delimited networks (intranets), as each user needs an uninterrupted data flow and should not rely on network routers.

Deciding on the combination of protocols and methods to use depends on your viewing requirements, and on the properties of your network. Setting the preferred method(s) is done in the control applet for AMC, which is found in the Windows Control Panel. When this has been set, AMC will test all the selected methods in the specified order, until the first functioning one is found.

RTP+RTSP

This method (actually RTP over UDP and RTSP over TCP) should be your first consideration for live video, especially when it is important to always have an up-to-date video stream, even if some images do get dropped. This can be configured as multicast or unicast.

Multicasting provides the most efficient usage of bandwidth, especially when there are large numbers of clients viewing simultaneously. Note however, that a multicast broadcast cannot pass a network router unless the router is configured to allow this. It is thus not possible to multicast over the Internet.

243Q specifications

Axis Communications is a leading provider of network video solutions, renowned for its innovative products designed for various surveillance applications. Among their range of offerings, the Axis 243Q, 247S, 241S, Q74011, and 241QA stand out for their impressive features, advanced technology, and robust characteristics tailored to enhance security and monitoring.

The Axis 243Q is a high-performance network camera that excels in delivering exceptional video quality. With a resolution of up to 2048x1536 pixels, it supports high-definition video streaming, ensuring that even the smallest details are captured with clarity. This camera is equipped with Axis’ unique Lightfinder technology, which enables superior low-light performance, making it ideal for surveillance in poorly lit environments. Additionally, it features multiple compression formats, including H.264 and Motion JPEG, which help to optimize bandwidth and storage requirements.

The Axis 247S is a compact and versatile network camera that incorporates a seamless design suitable for various interior settings. It boasts a dual stream capability, meaning it can transmit two video streams simultaneously, which can be tailored for different resolutions and frame rates. This feature is particularly beneficial for resource management, allowing users to view lower-resolution streams remotely while saving storage space. Furthermore, the 247S’s built-in audio support allows for two-way communication, enhancing security collaboration.

The Axis 241S network camera is designed for reliable monitoring and high-quality video surveillance in both indoor and outdoor applications. With its weather-resistant housing, it excels in challenging environmental conditions. This camera offers multiple lens options and has infrared illumination capabilities, allowing for night-time surveillance without compromising visibility. The 241S's Power over Ethernet (PoE) support simplifies installation by allowing the camera to receive power and data through a single cable.

For a more advanced solution, the Axis Q74011 Video Encoder facilitates the integration of analog cameras into IP networks seamlessly. It converts analog video signals into digital IP streams, enabling the incorporation of traditional cameras into modern network infrastructures. This versatility allows businesses to upgrade their surveillance systems incrementally without having to replace existing equipment fully.

Lastly, the Axis 241QA camera combines the advantages of image quality with intelligent video analytics. It incorporates advanced algorithms for motion detection, line crossing, and object removal, enhancing monitoring efficiency. The camera’s lens is designed for up to 30 frames per second at full resolution, providing smooth and fluid video for critical surveillance applications.

In summary, the Axis 243Q, 247S, 241S, Q74011, and 241QA collectively represent Axis Communications' dedication to innovation, quality, and user-centric design. With various features such as high-resolution video streaming, adaptability to diverse environments, and advanced analytics, these models cater to a wide range of security needs across various sectors.