How Network Cameras Operate

Network cameras, also known as IP cameras, transmit images via the TCP/IP standard, common in IT network technology (no analog video cable necessary). The images are not transmitted using the old PAL television standard; instead, they are compressed digitally. MOBOTIX network cameras also possess an integrated, very high-performance Linux computer, which performs all the image editing, image/audio compression, event storage and alarm signaling.

• Inexpensive universal image transmission: Any IT components, such as WLAN, DSL, ISDN, GSM and Ethernet, can be used to transmit images inexpensively. Cameras can even be accessed from anywhere in the world via leased lines or the Internet. Special analog cabling is not necessary. Since there is no need to adhere rigidly to the analog video standard, there are no longer any restrictions on image resolution. Consequently, the first mega pixel security cameras are now available. For further information, go to Image Formats and Image Compression.
  
• License-free web technology: Images from network cameras can be accessed via the Internet using the existing web browser on any PC (Explorer, Netscape). Regardless of the operating system and the number of camera users, there are no software and maintenance licenses needed.
  
• High security: Unlike an analog video cable that can be "tapped" relatively easy by electromagnetic means, network cameras can be protected in a number of different ways. Alongside established software encryption technologies like PGP (Pretty Good Privacy), they also support secure VPN routers (Virtual Private Network) via the Internet. For further information, go to Security.
  
• Unlimited expandability: There are countless computers networked within large companies, saving data centrally on the company server. It is also possible to network hundreds of cameras in precisely the same way. The network structure allows the camera system to be expanded without any difficulty. If necessary, it can also be done on a wireless basis using a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network).