AXIS 215 PTZ/AXIS 215 PTZ-E - Video and Audio 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 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 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 network. This means that the video stream goes independently to each user, and each user gets their own stream. A benefit of unicast- ing 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 users. This technology is used primarily on delimited net- works (intranets), as each user needs an uninterrupted data flow and should not rely on network routers.

AXIS Media Control

For accessing live video (MPEG-4 and/or Motion JPEG) and audio from AXIS 215 PTZ/AXIS 215 PTZ-E, the AXIS Media Control (AMC) in Microsoft Internet Explorer for Windows is recommended. 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.

See AXIS Media Control User’s Manual, available from the support pages on the Axis web site at: www.axis.com

Note: AXIS 215 PTZ-E does not support audio and does not have I/O ports.

How to stream MPEG-4

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

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

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Axis Communications 215 PTZ-E MPEG-4 protocols and communication methods, Axis Media Control, How to stream MPEG-4
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215 PTZ-E specifications

Axis Communications 215 PTZ-E is a robust and versatile surveillance camera designed for enhanced monitoring capabilities across various environments. This camera exemplifies Axis's commitment to quality and innovation in the field of video surveillance. With its PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) functionalities, it allows operators to cover expansive areas, making it an excellent choice for outdoor surveillance applications.

One of the standout features of the Axis 215 PTZ-E is its exceptional image quality. It is equipped with a high-resolution sensor that delivers clear and detailed images, even in varying light conditions. The camera supports multiple video resolutions, ensuring that users can select the resolution that best fits their requirements, whether that’s for detailed analysis or general monitoring. Additionally, the camera’s ability to function effectively in low-light environments makes it ideal for 24/7 surveillance.

In terms of its design, the Axis 215 PTZ-E is built to withstand the elements. It is housed in a weather-resistant enclosure, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The camera also features built-in heaters and fans, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the temperature variations in its surroundings.

Axis has incorporated advanced technologies in the 215 PTZ-E that enhance its operational capabilities. The camera comes equipped with powerful 18x optical zoom, allowing users to zoom in on distant objects without sacrificing image quality. This is particularly useful for monitoring large areas or for identifying specific objects or individuals from a distance. The PTZ functionality grants the camera the ability to pan 360 degrees and tilt 90 degrees, offering comprehensive coverage and the flexibility to follow moving targets.

Motion detection features are also integral to the Axis 215 PTZ-E. The camera can be programmed to trigger alerts or recordings upon detecting movement, thereby enhancing security by ensuring that all suspicious activities are monitored closely. Furthermore, users can set predefined patrol paths, allowing the camera to automatically navigate specific routes, reducing the need for constant manual operation.

With its open architecture design, the Axis 215 PTZ-E is compatible with a wide range of third-party software and systems, making it a flexible choice for diverse surveillance setups. It also supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), simplifying installation and reducing the need for additional cabling.

In summary, the Axis Communications 215 PTZ-E stands out as a powerful surveillance tool equipped with high-resolution imaging, durability for outdoor use, advanced PTZ capabilities, and integration flexibility. Its combination of features makes it an ideal solution for comprehensive security monitoring in various settings.
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