How to stream MPEG-4

AXIS 214 PTZ - Video and Audio Streams 17

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 e.g. the Internet.

Unicasting should be used for video-on-demand broadcasting, so that there is no video traffic on the network until a client connects and requests the stream. However, as more and more unicast clients connect, the traffic on the network will increase and may cause congestion. Although there is a maximum of 20 unicast viewers, note that all multicast users combined count as 1 unicast viewer.

RTP/RTSP

This unicast method is RTP tunneled over RTSP. This can be used to exploit the fact that it is relatively simple to configure firewalls to allow RTSP traffic.

RTP/RTSP/HTTP or RTP/RTSP/HTTPS

These two methods can also be used to traverse firewalls. Firewalls are commonly configured to allow the HTTP protocol, thus allowing RTP to be tunneled.

AXIS Media Control

The recommended method of accessing live video (MPEG-4 and/or Motion JPEG) and audio from the AXIS 214 PTZ is to use the AXIS Media Control (AMC) in Microsoft Internet Explorer in Windows. This ActiveX component is automatically installed on first use, after which it can be configured by opening the AMC Control Panel applet from the Windows Control Panel. Alternatively, right-click the video image in Internet Explorer.

AXIS 214 PTZ specifications

Axis Communications, a pioneer in network video solutions, has made significant strides with the release of its AXIS 214 PTZ camera. This robust camera is designed for professional applications requiring remote pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities, providing excellent versatility and control in surveillance scenarios.

One of the standout features of the AXIS 214 PTZ is its ability to deliver high-quality video with a resolution of up to 720x480 pixels. This ensures that users are able to capture clear and detailed footage, which is essential for effective monitoring and incident identification. The camera also has a wide dynamic range, allowing it to perform well in varying lighting conditions, which can often be a challenge in outdoor settings.

The PTZ function allows users to control the camera's movement remotely, making it possible to monitor large areas with just one device. It can pan a full 360 degrees and has a tilt range that enables it to cover a significant vertical span. Coupled with a 10x optical zoom, users can focus in on specific details, whether it be a facial recognition task, reading a license plate, or just monitoring activity in a specific area.

In terms of connectivity, the AXIS 214 PTZ is equipped with Power over Ethernet (PoE), enabling both power and data to be transmitted over a single cable. This simplifies installation and can reduce installation costs, as the need for separate power sources is eliminated.

Axis’s proprietary technologies enhance the AXIS 214 PTZ's functionality. The camera features Axis’ Zipstream technology, which optimizes bandwidth and storage consumption without compromising video quality. This is particularly beneficial for users managing multiple cameras across large facilities, as it helps to efficiently store and retrieve crucial footage.

Moreover, the camera is designed with weather resistance in mind. With an IP66 rating, it can withstand tough environmental conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use. This durability means users can rely on it in various weather scenarios, from rain to extreme temperatures.

In summary, the Axis Communications AXIS 214 PTZ is a feature-rich surveillance solution that combines high-quality imaging, remote control capabilities, efficient power management, and resilient construction. Its advanced functionalities make it an ideal choice for organizations looking to enhance security and monitoring in diverse settings.