How to stream MPEG-4

14AXIS 210/210A/211/211A - Video Streams

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 (Realtime 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 alterna- tive 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 e.g. 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 net- work. 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 simul- taneously 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 e.g. the Internet.

210A, 211, 210, 211a specifications

Axis Communications is a renowned brand in the field of network video solutions, providing innovative products for surveillance and security. Among its diverse range of offerings, the Axis 211A, Axis 210, Axis 211, and Axis 210A stand out as notable models that cater to various surveillance needs.

The Axis 211A is a versatile network camera designed for indoor environments. It is equipped with a 1/3-inch CCD sensor, providing excellent image quality and clarity. With a resolution of up to 640x480 pixels, it delivers detailed video and still images. The camera supports Motion JPEG and MPEG-4, allowing for flexible video streaming options. One of its key features is the built-in audio capability, which enables two-way communication, making it ideal for monitoring sensitive areas or communicating with individuals in the camera's field of view.

The Axis 210, similar to the 211A, focuses on delivering reliable surveillance in indoor settings. It possesses a compact design that facilitates easy installation in various locations. The camera also features a 1/3-inch CCD sensor, ensuring good low-light performance. Its robust web-based interface allows users to adjust settings easily, and with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, it simplifies connectivity by requiring only a single cable for power and data transmission.

The Axis 211 is designed for outdoor and indoor applications, equipped with an IP66-rated housing that provides protection against dust and water. This feature makes it suitable for demanding environments. With a resolution of 640x480 pixels, it captures clear images while offering remote access capabilities via a standard web browser. Additionally, it supports two-way audio and features like motion detection, enhancing security monitoring.

Lastly, the Axis 210A is another noteworthy model, featuring an integrated microphone and speaker, ideal for applications where audio surveillance is essential. It maintains high-quality video transmission with the same CCD sensor technology as its counterparts. The camera's ability to offer real-time alerts and notifications makes it a valuable addition to any security setup.

In summary, the Axis 211A, 210, 211, and 210A models are equipped with robust technologies and features that cater to various surveillance requirements. From indoor settings with audio capabilities to outdoor environments with protective housings, these Axis models deliver flexibility, high image quality, and reliable performance, making them excellent choices for both residential and commercial security applications.