Digital Video Design Guide

Digital Video Design Guide
Symmetry
9600-0435
Group 4 Technology 2006 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Group 4 Technology. Group 4 Technology cannot be held liable for technical and editorial omissions or errors made herein; nor for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance or use of this material. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference. In which case, the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Digital Video Design Guide 9600-0435 Issue 1.1 24th July 2006 ENVS and Symmetry are trademarks of Group 4 Technology Ltd. All trademarks acknowledged. Image compression software is based in part on the work of the Independent JPEG Group.
MPEG-4 Video components powered by ATEME
Contents
1 2 Preface ...................................................................................................................... 3 Chapter 1: Introduction to Digital Video ................................................................ 4
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 4 About the Symmetry Software ...................................................................................................... 5 Benefits of Digital Video................................................................................................................ 6 About MPEG-4 Compression ....................................................................................................... 6 Features and Benefits ENVS......................................................................................................... 7 ENVS Key Features................................................................................................................... 7 About the Network (IP) Camera Interface ....................................................................................... 9 Key Features ................................................................................................................................ 9 About the DVR Interface ................................................................................................................. 10 Feature Comparison Matrix............................................................................................................ 11 Features and Benefits Symmetry Software ............................................................................... 12 Symmetry Key Features .......................................................................................................... 14 Features and Benefits Video Storage Management Module ................................................... 15 Video Storage Management Module Key Features................................................................. 15
Chapter 2: Computer Requirements..................................................................... 16

Requirements for the Symmetry Software ................................................................................... 16 Supported Operating Systems.................................................................................................... 16 Database Server or Standalone Machine Requirements ........................................................... 16 Client Requirements ................................................................................................................... 17 Graphics Card............................................................................................................................. 17 Network Capacity........................................................................................................................ 17 Requirements for Video Storage Servers ..................................................................................... 18 Number of Video Storage Servers Required .............................................................................. 18 Windows Operating System ....................................................................................................... 18 Processor and RAM Requirements ............................................................................................ 18 Server Disk Space ...................................................................................................................... 18 Network Attached Storage.......................................................................................................... 18
Chapter 3: Designing the System ......................................................................... 19

Overview of the IP Camera Configuration Screen ....................................................................... 19 Overview of the DVR Setup Screens............................................................................................. 20 Overview of Screens used for ENVS Configuration .................................................................... 21 Using the Video Server Screen .................................................................................................. 21 Using the ENVS Camera Screen ............................................................................................... 23 Choosing the Camera Resolution ................................................................................................. 24 Background to Resolution Standards ......................................................................................... 25 Choosing the Camera Frame Rate ................................................................................................ 26 Checking ENVS Frame Rate/Resolution Capacity ....................................................................... 27 Selecting the Recording Policies .................................................................................................. 28 ENVS Disk Space ............................................................................................................................ 29 ENVS Disk Purging and Warnings ............................................................................................. 30 Managing the Network.................................................................................................................... 31 Estimating ENVS Camera Network Usage................................................................................. 31 Estimating IP or DVR Camera Network Usage .......................................................................... 32 Reducing Network Usage ........................................................................................................... 32 Changing the ENVS I-Frame Interval ......................................................................................... 34
Contents
Viewing the Actual Frame and Bit Rates for an ENVS Camera ...................................................35 Specifying ENVS Inputs and Outputs ............................................................................................36 Specifying the ENVS Overlay Information.....................................................................................37 Synchronizing the ENVS Date and Time .......................................................................................38 Setting Up Motion Detection...........................................................................................................39 Specifying the PTZ Controls and Presets for an ENVS Camera .................................................40
Chapter 4: Video Storage....................................................................................... 41

Choosing ENVS Video Forwarding Schedules .............................................................................41 Estimating Required Network Disk Space.....................................................................................43 Assigning Each ENVS and IP Camera to a Storage Server .........................................................45 Storage Folders................................................................................................................................46
5 6
System Design Worksheet..................................................................................... 47 Index ........................................................................................................................... i
1 Preface
This document is written for anyone who is responsible for marketing or specifying systems that use the Symmetry digital video software. It explains the components of Symmetry digital video systems, the benefits, features, and the factors that need to be considered during the design of such a system. It is essential to follow the guidance given in this book to achieve a satisfactory system design and to obtain the full potential from the system. An inadequate design may lead to poor performance, or in the worst cases, a system that does not function correctly. Viewing video can place significant additional requirements on the PC and network, and careful consideration needs to be given to system design. Factors such as PC requirements, camera resolution, frame rate, disk space and network usage need to be considered properly prior to installation. Symmetry uses a network for the transfer of video data, such as for viewing live video. Before starting any system design, it is important to gain detailed knowledge about the network. In particular, details of the network speed, spare capacity, type of data that is currently transferred, periods of greatest use and whether network response is critical to business operation must be known. Symmetry has been designed to minimize network usage, but it is still essential to consider the impact of the system on the network. This guide explains how to estimate the impact, and methods to reduce or limit network usage. The guide contains four chapters: Chapter 1 provides an introduction to digital video systems. Sales personnel who require an overview of the technology and the key selling benefits should refer to this chapter. It has been written in a "random-access" style, enabling the information to be read in any sequence. Chapter 2 provides the Symmetry minimum PC requirements. Viewing video can place significant demands on the PC hardware, and it is therefore important to consider the requirements carefully. It is recommended that the PC specifications exceed the minimum requirements whenever possible, since this may enhance overall system performance and allow the PCs to be used with future software developments. Chapter 3 describes the factors that need to be considered during system design. It starts with an overview of the configuration screens, then covers each of the main design topics. This chapter should be read in sequence. Chapter 4 explains the factors that need to be considered when using the Video Storage Management module to store video recordings on a network device.
Note: This guide is not an installation manual; this information is provided in other manuals. Details of installing an Edge Network Video Server (ENVS) are given in the ENVS Installation Instructions. For details of installing Digital Video Recorders or IP cameras, please refer to the appropriate manufacturer's information.
2 Chapter 1:
Introduction to Digital Video
Introduction
Video surveillance and monitoring are increasingly moving to digital solutions. The advantages of digital technology and the wide range of systems available make a digital solution an attractive choice for any organization needing to upgrade or implement a new CCTV system. Early CCTV systems were entirely analog, using cameras with a co-axial output, separate CCTV monitors, a traditional Video Cassette Recorder (VCR) for recording, and possibly a CCTV switcher to switch the video pictures to selected monitors. In these systems, control and surveillance software running on a PC is not used. Many legacy systems in use today are based on a similar architecture, but in most cases the VCR has been replaced by a Digital Video Recorder (DVR), which stores the recorded video in a digital format on a hard disk inside the unit (Figure 2-1).
Digital Video Recorder (DVR)
Analog cameras
Monitor
Figure 2-1: DVR Video Surveillance System Entirely digital solutions use cameras connected directly to the network (Figure 2-2). These are known as network, or Internet Protocol (IP), cameras. The cameras are managed, controlled and viewed from PCs, and all recordings are stored digitally on network storage devices. IP cameras do not normally have a facility for local storage of recordings.
Network (IP) cameras PC with Video Management Software
WAN/LAN Network
Figure 2-2: Digital-Only Video Surveillance System using Network (IP) Cameras Symmetry has an open approach to video hardware (Figure 2-3), which supports IP cameras, a wide range of DVRs and the latest development in digital video technology the Edge Network Video Server (ENVS). The ENVS is a network device for viewing and recording live video from up to four connected cameras.
Since it is a network device, any PC on the network running the Symmetry software can view live video from the cameras. A key benefit of the ENVS is its "store-and-forward" function, which enables recorded video to be stored locally, then forwarded to a network storage location during out-of-hours times. The ENVS compresses video from standard analog cameras into MPEG-4 digital format, which is the latest standard in digital video compression technologies designed to minimize network usage and storage requirements.
Client/server PCs running: The "Symmetry Video Essentials" or "Symmetry Video Management" software. The "Video Storage Management" Software.
Network (IP) cameras
WAN/LAN Network
Edge Network Video Server (ENVS)
Digital Video Recorder (DVR) Network Attached Storage (NAS) for Video Storage Management Module
Figure 2-3: Symmetry Combined Digital and Hybrid Analog/Digital Video System
About the Symmetry Software

Symmetry is software that allows digital video to be viewed, recorded and replayed. Symmetry is available as a video-only product, or as an integrated component of a comprehensive Security Management System, which can also include access control, intrusion, building control and other components. Symmetry can be used on a standalone PC, or on a client/server networked system. When used as a video-only product, up to nine clients can be used, and the server runs the freely-available Microsoft MSDE database engine. With its maximum database size of 2GB, MSDE has been designed and optimized for use on smaller computer systems. When used as part of an integrated security management system, between three and an unrestricted number of clients can be used, depending on the system purchased. In this case, the server supports MSDE or the full Microsoft SQL Server 2000/2005 database engine, which meets the needs of larger systems. There are two versions of Symmetry: "Symmetry Video Essentials" and "Symmetry Video Management". Symmetry Video Essentials enables up to 4 live images to be simultaneously viewed, and supports IP, DVR and ENVS cameras. Symmetry Video Management provides extended software features, such as the
ability to display up to 36 live video images at a single PC, camera sequencing, additional commands and the display of web pages. The user interface for both packages is similar and has been designed for simplicity and ease of use. An full comparison of features is provided on page 14. The "Video Storage Management Module" (page 15) enables recordings from ENVS or IP cameras to be stored in any network storage location, such as on a PC or Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. This software facilitates the "store-and-forward" function of the ENVS.
Benefits of Digital Video

The benefits of a digital video system include the following: Enables live video to be viewed, recorded and replayed from a PC anywhere on the network Allows long-term digital storage of recordings Feature-rich PC software brings significant management and control benefits Enables easy integration with other security or digital analysis software Reduces system cost in many cases Eliminates the need to handle tapes or disks No need for separate analog CCTV monitors; video can be displayed at PCs Recordings can be saved and distributed electronically Greater choice new products are mostly digital Allows digital signing gives confidence that a recording has not been tampered with
About MPEG-4 Compression

The ENVS and IP cameras use MPEG-4 compression before storing or transmitting the video data across the network. MPEG-4 is the most suitable compression technique for video that is to be transmitted over IP networks, and offers the best compromise between file size and picture quality. MPEG-4 video frames consist of I-Frames, followed by a series of P-Frames. An I-Frame is a complete picture at a point in time. Each P-Frame specifies only the changes in the video picture from the previous frame. MPEG-4 therefore tracks movement, which results in very efficient compression, but the level of compression varies depending on the amount of motion in the camera view. This can make LAN and hard disk usage difficult to estimate, but the advantages of MPEG-4 far outweigh any complexities of deployment. This Design Guide provides advice on how to estimate and minimize LAN and hard disk usage.
Features and Benefits ENVS
ENVS Key Benefits

Highest resolution available supports D1 (720x480) resolution Store and Forward Video can be stored locally, then forwarded to a network location Event-based recording minimizes unwanted recording Ability to integrate with access control and intrusion systems Enables connection of standard analog cameras for easy upgrade from analog to digital system Easy installation MPEG-4 compression Reliable and feature rich
The ENVS is a device for recording and streaming video from up to four connected cameras. An optional 80GB hard disk enables recordings to be stored locally to minimize network traffic. The ENVS is designed for use with the "Symmetry Video Management" or "Symmetry Video Essentials" software, which enable the pictures to be controlled, viewed, recorded and replayed from any PC on the network.
When used with the "Video Storage Management Module", a store-and-forward function allows any stored recordings to be forwarded to a network storage location during out-of-hours times. The ENVS accepts standard analog cameras. The signal is digitized and compressed into an MPEG-4 digital format before recording and transmission.
ENVS Key Features

A summary of key features of the ENVS is given below. Refer to the Feature Comparison Matrix on page 11 for a comparison of ENVS units, IP cameras and DVRs. Four composite video inputs (models with a single channel also available) Optional 80GB hard drive for video recordings Compatible with PAL and NTSC cameras Maximum D1 resolution (720x480 NTSC, or 720x576 PAL) Maximum 30 frames per second (NTSC), or 25 frames per second (PAL) Simultaneous viewing and recording for all four cameras at D1 resolution and 7 frames per second (NTSC) or 6 frames per second (PAL) User-configurable MPEG-4 compression Built-in 10\100Mbit Ethernet port (optionally supplied with a 4-port unmanaged switch for local network integration) Four monitor point inputs for connection to devices such as movement detectors
Two auxiliary relay outputs to switch devices such as wipers on or off Bi-directional audio channel per camera (enabled by future Symmetry software development) Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) controller port, using RS232/422/485 connection Motion detection zones can be defined for automatic motion detection Serial port for integration with other systems, e.g. to switch on recording at predefined times of the day or in response to an alarm condition Compact flash port (for future use) Maximum power consumption 1.1A @ 12Vdc Network transmission is Unicast
Figure 2-4: ENVS Overlay
About the Network (IP) Camera Interface
Key Benefits of Interface

Provides greater flexibility by allowing use of network (IP) cameras Common platform Avoids the need to use a separate user interface to view live or recorded video from IP cameras IP cameras can be included with other camera types in camera sequencing, commands and other operations The Video Storage Management Module can record and manage video from IP cameras
Figure 2-5: Axis IP Camera
The Symmetry software includes an interface for Axis MPEG-4 network (IP) cameras, such as the 211 or 211A. This interface is provided "as standard" and enables live or recorded video from IP cameras to be displayed in the same screens as those used for ENVS or DVR cameras.
The interface also enables the Video Storage Management Module to record, store and manage video from IP cameras.
Key Features
A summary of key features of Axis IP cameras when used with the Digital Video Management software is given below. Refer to the Feature Comparison Matrix on page 11 for a comparison of ENVS units, IP cameras and DVRs. Built-in 10\100Mbit Ethernet port for connection directly to network Live Video can be displayed in the Symmetry Virtual Matrix screen Maximum of 30 frames per second (Axis 211 and 211A) Maximum 640x480 resolution (Axis 211 and 211A) MPEG-4 compression Web browser configuration tool Pan/tilt/zoom, camera motion alarms and input/output functions supported Axis cameras tested: 207W, 210, 210A, 211, 211A, 213, 214, 221, 225FD, 232D. Other cameras may function correctly. The following are not currently supported for use with Symmetry: 207, 216FD.
Please refer to the Axis Web site for further information. A license is required in the Symmetry software for each IP camera used. Note: Axis IP cameras can be set to MPEG-4 or M-JPEG mode. It is recommended that MPEG-4 mode is used, since recording of pictures from IP cameras is supported only when MPEG-4 mode is selected, and MPEG-4 requires much less network bandwidth at higher frame rates.
About the DVR Interface
Key Benefits of Interface

Common platform Avoids the need to use a separate user interface to view live or recorded video from DVR cameras DVR cameras can be included with other camera types in camera sequencing, commands and other operations Many makes and models of DVR supported Gives support for legacy systems Local storage of recordings
Figure 2-6: Proxima DVR
A DVR is a device that digitally records video from connected analog cameras. Recording is normally set up to be continuous, and all recordings are stored locally on the DVR's hard disk. Symmetry interfaces with a wide range of DVRs, as shown in Table 1. Table 1: DVRs Supported Make/Model Verint (Previously Loronix) Integral: DVX, Digital Sentry Dedicated Micros, Digital Sprite 2 NICE (All models supporting the version 8 SDK) Cieffe/ JCI Spectiva / DVN 5000 Proxima / DVN 3000 DVR Software 1 Version Tested 4.3 4.1.2.43 SR2 1.2 8 2.02b 4.0.1 2 1.1.00.1121 1.3.5 DVR SDK Version Supported 4.5 3.5 1.2.15.1 8 2.2 2.2 2.10 1.1 2.5.4
Bosch, DIVAR Pelco, DX8000 Hitron, ADR1600 Pro

1
The features in the SDK can be dependent on the version of software installed on the DVR.
Note: The above information was correct at the time of publishing this guide. If necessary, please refer to your local support representative for the latest information. Live video from any DVR camera can be displayed in the Symmetry Virtual Matrix screen in the same way as for any other digital video camera. Video archiving should be carried out using software supplied with the DVR. The availability of certain functions is dependent on the make or model of DVR being used. Please refer to the Feature Comparison Matrix on page 11 for further details.
10
Feature Comparison Matrix

Table 2: Feature Differences Between Different Types of DVR, IP Camera and the ENVS DVRs Cieffe Spectiva/Proxima JCI DVN 5000/3000 Hitron ADR1600 PRO Dedicated Micros Digital Sprite 2 family IP
Integral DVX Digital Sentry
AXIS MPEG4
U
AXIS MJPEG
Verint Wavelet
Pelco DX8000
Bosch Divar 2
View live video in Virtual Matrix Sequence live video Click map icon to view live video Viewing/Control PTZ camera control Snap camera to preset position MPEG-4 compression Change video settings such as frame rate and quality using commands from Symmetry Receive and display device alarms such as video loss and motion detection Local control from serial interface Max. simultaneous client connections per unit Max. live camera connections per unit Start/stop recording from Symmetry software Recording Automatic "tagging" on alarm/event, with 2 programmable pre/post-alarm record times Tag video on intercom or DMP events Local storage of recordings Store-and-forward function Pre-alarm buffer (avoids continuous recording) Video playback from Symmetry clients Playback Pause, print and skip/change playback speed Play back recording associated with an alarm from Alarms or Reports screens Bookmark and export video (for MP4 codec)
U = Unspecified
4
U U
U U
5
U
U U
4 8
4
U
U U
15 4
1 2 3
Proxima (DVN 3000) only; unspecified for Spectiva (DVN 5000). Pre-event recording requires continuous recording for DVR and IP cameras. Used only for recordings triggered by DVR itself. 4 Skip forward/back not supported. 5 Pause not supported.
ENVS
NICE
11
Features and Benefits Symmetry Software
Key Selling Benefits

Figure 2-7: Video Playback Supports installations using a wide range of video technologies Feature-rich; gives all the tools needed to control and manage video Easily integrated with access and intrusion systems Up to 36 live images from ENVS cameras can be viewed simultaneously Up to 256 cameras can be used (license dependent) Easy migration path from analog to digital systems Camera resolution, frame rate, etc. can be set up to match system requirements
The Symmetry software enables video images to be viewed, recorded and replayed from an interface that has been designed for simplicity and ease of use. Two versions of the software are available: "Symmetry Video Essentials" and the full "Symmetry Video Management" software. Table 3 on page 14 summarizes the features of the software, and the differences between product types. The software provides an open platform that supports the ENVS, a wide range of Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) and IP cameras. The module also supports interfaces to legacy analog CCTV switchers, which facilitates an
easy upgrade from an analog to digital solution at a later date. There are two main screens: the Virtual Matrix screen, which is used to view live video (Figure 2-8), and the Video Playback screen, which is used to replay recorded video (Figure 2-9). A key feature of the software is its ability to "tag" an area of a recording. This prevents the recording from being overwritten and enables easy playback. Tagging can be carried out by a trigger command (e.g. generated by an ENVS monitor point), user recording or a user-applied "bookmark". Note: Please refer to the User's Guide for an overview of how to use the software.
12
Figure 2-8: Viewing Live Video in the Virtual Matrix Screen
Figure 2-9: Replaying Recorded Video in the Video Playback Screen
13
Symmetry Key Features

Table 3: Features of Symmetry, and differences between Product Types Differences between Product Types Feature Virtual Matrix screen Simultaneously displays multiple live images from digital video cameras (Figure 2-8). Includes controls for camera pan, tilt, zoom and focus. Instant Record feature. Save, print and export images. Video Playback screen Allows easy replay of video recordings (Figure 2-9). Filter options enable recordings to be located quickly from the database. Tagging Tagged recordings produced by, for example, a Record Video trigger command or user recording, are prevented from being overwritten and enable easy playback. Camera Support A wide range of camera types is supported. Maximum number of cameras is license dependent. CCTV switcher integration Cameras attached to legacy CCTV switchers can be viewed, controlled and switched to any monitor. Ancillary devices (such as lamps and wipers) can be switched on or off. Commands Commands can, for example, run scheduled recordings and record incidents automatically (e.g. from any intrusion or access event). Playback from alarms or reports Incidents recorded automatically by an alarm or event can be easily replayed from history reports or the View/Alarms screen. Graphics integration Live video can be played from a graphic, such as a plan or map of the building. Supports commands to switch live video to the virtual matrix. Supports ENVS, DVR and IP cameras. Single recording replay. Symmetry Video Essentials Up to 4 simultaneous live images per PC. Symmetry Video Management Up to 36 simultaneous live images per PC. Camera sequencing. Supports display of Web pages. Instant Replay feature. Alarm and activity display. Simultaneous replay of up to four recordings. JPEG picture export. Also supports tagging by a user-applied "bookmark"
Supports ENVS, DVR and IP cameras.
14
Features and Benefits Video Storage Management Module

Key Selling Benefits
Enables video from ENVS or network (IP) cameras to be saved to network storage devices Facilitates ENVS "store-and-forward" function Provides out-of-hours forwarding of ENVS recordings Allows video from Axis IP cameras to be recorded (MPEG-4 format must be used) Allows recording of video from an ENVS that is not fitted with a hard disk
Figure 2-10: Storage Settings Screen
The Video Storage Management Module is a comprehensive video data management system, which can automatically store video from an ENVS or Axis IP camera to network storage locations, such as a hard disk on a PC, or a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. The software facilitates the "store-and-forward" function of the ENVS, which transfers recordings from the hard disk of an ENVS at configurable intervals to free disk space and enable archiving. The software provides easy-to-use tools for setting up the times and days that data will be forwarded, and the storage locations. If
required, multiple storage locations can be specified to increase available disk space. Policies for purging video from the storage locations can also be set up, which automatically delete recordings that are older than a specified number of days. The Video Storage Management Module is available "as standard" with the Symmetry software to provide a Video Storage server on the same PC as the database server. If required, additional licenses can be purchased to install the software on other PCs if multiple Video Storage servers are needed to handle a large number of cameras (see page 18).
Video Storage Management Module Key Features

A summary of key features of the Video Storage Management Module is given below. Multiple storage locations can be defined Available "as standard" on database server; additional Video Storage server licenses can installed A priority system ensures that storage locations are used in a specified order Choice of forwarding all recordings or tagged recordings only Days and times of forwarding can be selected Used, available and free disk space statistics can be easily displayed Automatic purging of old recordings Automatic alarm generation when free space reaches a specified limit Note: Please refer to page 18 for machine requirements. Note: The Video Storage Management Module does not retrieve data stored on a DVR.
15
3 Chapter 2:
Computer Requirements
Requirements for the Symmetry Software

Note: Please refer to the Software Installation Manual for for general software requirements, such as the backup software, email software, peripherals supported and USB ports required. NOTE: Factors such as the resolution, frame rate, video format, quality, motion rate and picture detail affect the amount of video data transmitted and the processing that the PC needs to carry out. The system requirements specified below assume low motion, moderate detail and the following camera settings: For ENVS cameras: 6 frames per second in D1 resolution (720x576 PAL; 720x480 NTSC). (This is the highest recommended frame rate and resolution when 4 cameras are connected to an ENVS.) For IP cameras: 30 frames per second in 640x480 resolution, and a compression value of 50, using MPEG-4 or Motion JPEG video. (This is the highest frame rate and resolution for an Axis 211 or 211A IP camera.) The system must be configured prior to live operation to prevent excessive loading of PC and network resources. It is strongly recommended that trials take place before system roll-out to establish system loading.
Supported Operating Systems

Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2, or Windows 2000 Professional with Service Pack 4, or Windows Server 2003 Standard Edition with Service Pack 1, or Windows Server 2003 R2 Standard Edition, or Windows 2000 Server with Service Pack 4 (SQL Server 2000/2005 database servers only)
Database Server or Standalone Machine Requirements

Table 4: Server Requirements Server Type Max. number of viewed cameras (live or recorded) ENVS MSDE database server, not used to view live or recorded video MSDE database server, used to display live or recorded video Full SQL Server 2000/2005 database server, not used to view live or recorded video 0 36 0 IP 0 16 0 2GHz 3.2GHz DualCore 512MB 2GB 80GB 80GB Min. processor speed Min. RAM Min. Disk Space
Please see the Software Installation Manual. This configuration is supported only when Symmetry is integrated with access-control.
16
Note: The Video Storage Management Module (if used) requires enhanced machine specifications; see page 18. On a Video Storage server, the number of cameras viewed (live or recorded) should not exceed 4. The quoted specifications are applicable only when using ENVS or IP cameras. System requirements vary considerably when using DVR cameras, depending on DVR make and system architecture. If the installation uses DVR cameras, trials must take place before system roll-out to determine machine and network requirements. All processors must be Pentium 4 with hyper-threading. Maximum performance is achieved using 2GB or more of RAM. It is recommended that PCs used to display live or recorded video are not used to communicate with other devices, such as access-control nodes.
Client Requirements
Table 5: Requirements for any Machine Displaying Live or Recorded Video Machine Type Max. number of viewed cameras (live or recorded) ENVS Client-only machine displaying live or recorded video 4 12 36 The notes given above also apply. IP N/A N/A 16 2GHz 2.8GHz 3.2GHz 512MB 1GB 1GB 20GB 20GB 20GB Min. processor speed Min. RAM Min. Disk Space
Graphics Card
A graphics card with at least 64MB of RAM is required if the PC displays live or recorded video. An integrated graphics card using system RAM is not recommended for this purpose. The following graphics cards have been tested for compatibility with the Digital Video Management module. If another card is fitted, it must be tested thoroughly before use. NVIDIA GeForce MX4000 NVIDIA GeForce FX5200 NVIDIA GeForce 6200 ATI Radeon 7000 ATI Radeon 9200 ATI Radeon X600 SE
Network Capacity
It is important to determine the network bandwidth used by other applications and to check that there is sufficient capacity to stream live video from the cameras. Please refer to page 31 for guidance.
17
Requirements for Video Storage Servers

Number of Video Storage Servers Required
The number of Video Storage servers required is dependent on a number of factors, including the number of cameras that may be transferring video recordings to a Video Storage server at any one time, the amount of video data in those recordings (affected by frame rate or resolution) and the processing power of the servers used. The number of Video Storage servers required is therefore site dependent and must be reviewed during system trials. For initial system sizing, and using the machine specifications given below, it is recommended that a Video Storage server processes video from no more than 64 cameras at any one time. If a server processes video from more than 32 cameras at any one time, it should be dedicated to the task, i.e. not used for other CPU-intensive tasks such as to view live or recorded video. A Video Storage server should not be used to view live or recorded video from more than 4 cameras at a time. Connection of Video Storage servers over a WAN is not recommended.
Windows Operating System

Windows 2000 and XP have a license limit of 10 concurrent FTP connections, which limits the number of ENVS units that can access a Video Storage server (for store-and-forward) to 10. Windows Server 2003 Standard Edition (with Service Pack 1) is required if any Video Storage server that is managing more than 10 ENVS units. If Windows Server 2003 is used, please check that all required peripherals are supported under this operating system.
Processor and RAM Requirements

Standalone Video Storage Server, or when used on an MSDE database server: Processor: Min RAM: Pentium 4, 3.2GHz Dual-Core with Hyper-Threading 2GB
When used on a full SQL Server 2000/2005 database server: Processor: Min RAM: Pentium 4, 3.8GHz Dual-XEON 3GB
Note: The Video Storage server software is always installed on the database server. If the database server is not used to manage video recordings, the higher machine specifications to be a Video Storage server are not required.
Server Disk Space

An additional 100GB of disk space is needed on each Video Storage server for temporary storage of video data. A dedicated hard disk is recommended.
Network Attached Storage

Additional disk space is required for the storage of recorded video from ENVS or IP cameras. Please refer to page 43 for guidance.
18
3 Chapter 3:
Designing the System
This chapter describes the factors to consider when designing a digital video system. Factors relating specifically to the Video Storage Management Module are described in Chapter 4. While you are working through this chapter, note the settings selected on the System Design Worksheets (page 47).
Overview of the IP Camera Configuration Screen

IP Cameras can be set up using the Install/Digital Video/IP Camera screen (Figure 3-1). The IP address, username and password of the camera must be set up using the separate configuration utility provided by Axis, and entered into the screen. The Online Help gives full information about this screen.
Figure 3-1: IP Camera Screen
19
Overview of the DVR Setup Screens

Configuring a DVR is a two-stage process: define the DVR using the Install/Digital Video/DVR/Video Recorder screen (Figure 3-2), then configure each camera using the Install/Digital Video/DVR/Video Camera screen (Figure 3-3). The Online Help gives full information about these screens.
Figure 3-2: DVR Definition Screen
Figure 3-3: DVR Camera Definition Screen
20
Overview of Screens used for ENVS Configuration

The following screens are used to set up a system that uses ENVS devices: The Video Server screen This defines each ENVS being used. The ENVS Camera screen This defines each ENVS camera being used. The Storage Server Settings screen This is applicable to Video Storage Management, and is described in Chapter 4.
Using the Video Server Screen

The first step when setting up an ENVS system is to define each ENVS using the Install/Digital Video/ENVS/Video Server screen (Figure 3-4).
Figure 3-4: Video Server Screen The screen contains a Discover button, which when selected for a new record, displays a list of all unconfigured ENVS devices located on the network (Figure 3-5). Once the ENVS has been selected in the list (identified from its MAC or IP address), configuration of the ENVS can begin.
21
Figure 3-5: Selecting the ENVS to Configure The IP address of the ENVS displayed at the top of the Video Server screen should have been defined already during system installation using the ENVS Viewer Control (as described in the ENVS Installation Instructions). The address should be static, since Symmetry will not able to locate an ENVS whose IP address is "floating". For this reason, Obtain IP Address Automatically (DHCP) should not be selected in the Communications tab. The ENVS configuration options are located in seven tabs, as shown in Table 6. This table provides crossreferences for further information, but if you are reading this chapter for the first time, it is recommended that you read it in sequence. Table 6: Tabs in the Video Server Screen Tab Name Communications Purpose Contains communication options, such as the network speed (Video Network Connection) and network type (Video Server Network Type). Selecting the correct values for these two options is important, since they affect default camera settings that influence the amount of network bandwidth used. The lower part of the tab contains options for communicating with an optional Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) controller connected to the ENVS. Archive Disk Specifies the schedules for forwarding video from the hard disk of the ENVS to a network storage device. Specifies settings used to delete recordings from the ENVS hard disk, warn of recordings that are overwritten, and for streaming video directly to a Video Storage server. Enables the inputs and outputs of the ENVS to be specified. Defines the text to superimpose on the video images, such as camera name or date and time. Contains date and time options, such as for time synchronization. Specifies whether messages from the ENVS are reported as alarms or events. Further Information This chapter page 33
Online Help
Chapter 4 This chapter page 30
Input/Output Overlay Date and Time Reporting
This chapter page 36 This chapter page 37 This chapter page 38 Online Help
22
Using the ENVS Camera Screen

Once an ENVS is defined, you can define each camera connected to the ENVS using the Install/Digital Video/ENVS/Camera screen (Figure 3-6). The configuration options are located in five tabs, as shown in Table 7. Table 7: Tabs in the ENVS Camera Screen Tab Name Video Purpose Contains key settings for the camera, such as resolution (Picture Size), frame rate (Picture Refresh) and target bit rate (Camera Data Rate). You can also display a live picture from the camera to view the actual frame and data rates from the camera. Specifies additional settings that control network usage and picture quality. Although defaults are provided, these are also important settings and can have a major impact on system performance. Enables motion detection to be defined for the camera. Enables preset positions to be defined for the camera. Specifies whether messages from the camera are reported as alarms or events. Further Information Throughout this chapter
Advanced
This chapter page 34
Motion Detection Pan / Tilt / Zoom Reporting
This chapter page 39 This chapter page 40 Online Help
Figure 3-6: ENVS Camera Screen
23
Choosing the Camera Resolution

The setting to consider first is image resolution, which is measured in pixels and determines the clarity of the displayed or recorded image. Each camera can have a different resolution, which should be chosen carefully to match the intended purpose. Too low a resolution will result in pictures with insufficient detail. Too high a resolution can result in unnecessary network traffic, increased storage demand and slower PC performance. The resolution for an ENVS camera can be selected in the Video tab of the ENVS Camera screen (see page 23); supported resolutions are shown in Figure 3-7. Figure 3-8 shows the relative sizes of these resolutions. If IP or DVR cameras are being used, please refer to the manufacturer's documentation for details of supported resolutions. The software provided with the IP camera or DVR should be used to set up the camera resolution. When selecting the resolution, consider the following points: Choose a resolution that matches the requirements of the intended application. For example, an image used to record a person's identity may require a higher resolution than an image used only to estimate traffic flow. CIF resolution is normally suitable for determining activity in the picture; if greater detail is needed, a higher resolution is necessary. The resolution of computer monitors is typically 1024x768 pixels. A high resolution may be wasteful if the image is only ever displayed in a small area of the screen. A low resolution image displayed in a large area of the screen will lose clarity. PAL NTSC See the next section for details of resolution standards Figure 3-7: Resolutions Supported for ENVS Cameras In practice, images are often not displayed in the aspect ratios shown in Figure 3-7. For example, a CIF image may be displayed in a window measuring 400x500 pixels. In this case, the image is resized to fit the aspect ratio of the window in which it is displayed. This can lead to some stretching or squashing of the picture, but resizing can be switched on or off as required. Note: Your initial choice of camera resolution may need to be revised once you have considered the number of cameras connected to the ENVS, used the "ENVS Hard Disk Drive and Network Bandwidth Estimator" and checked network usage, as described later in this chapter.
24
D1 2CIF
CIF
QCIF
Figure 3-8: Relative Sizes of Selectable ENVS Resolutions
Background to Resolution Standards

Analog cameras transmit video in a composite format derived from the television industry. In North America and Japan, the NTSC (National Television System Committee) standard is mainly used, which has 480 horizontal lines at a frame rate of 30fps. In Europe, the PAL (Phase Alteration by Line) standard is used, which has 576 horizontal lines at a frame rate of 25fps. When the images are converted to a digital format, the resolution is often based on the number of TV lines to be digitized. When using this system, the maximum resolution is 704x480 pixels for NTSC and 704x576 pixels for PAL. In many security applications, four cameras share the maximum resolution. This quarter resolution is known as CIF (Common Intermediate Format). Common resolutions are: 4CIF: 2CIF: CIF: QCIF: 704x480 (NTSC); 704x576 (PAL) 704x240 (NTSC); 704x288 (PAL) 352x240 (NTSC); 352x288 (PAL) 176x120 (NTSC); 176x144 (PAL)
Several new resolutions have been derived from the computer and DVD industry. Most common are: D1 (DVD-Video): VGA: QVGA: 720x480 (NTSC); 720x576 (PAL) 640x480 320x240 This is sometimes known as SIF (Standard Interchange Format); not to be confused with CIF
25
Choosing the Camera Frame Rate

The camera frame rate is measured in frames per second (fps) and determines the smoothness of the video pictures from the camera. "Full motion" images are normally regarded as requiring 25fps for PAL, or 30fps for NTSC. Higher frame rates increase picture smoothness, but as with higher resolutions, can result in unnecessary network traffic, increased storage demand and slower PC performance. Supported frame rates for cameras connected to an ENVS are shown in Figure 3-9. The frame rate (Picture Refresh) is selected in the ENVS Camera screen (see page 23). If IP or DVR cameras are being used, please refer to the manufacturer's documentation for details of supported frame rates. The software provided with the IP camera or DVR should be used to set up the frame rate. PAL NTSC
Figure 3-9: Frame Rates Supported for ENVS Cameras Recommendations: Frame rates of 1 to 3fps are normal for general observation of lobby areas, office areas or where the purpose of the CCTV recording is to provide a general level of observation. Frame rates of 4 to 7fps are common for areas of high throughput of people, moving vehicles, where the intent of the subjects being recorded need to be determined, or where it is necessary to capture the facial images of moving people. Frame rates in excess of 10fps are used in applications where it is necessary to view or record high degrees of motion, such as in casinos and traffic applications, or when audio needs to synchronize with lip movement.
Note: As for resolution, the initial choice of frame rate may need to be revised once you have considered other factors described in this chapter and in Chapter 4.
26
Checking ENVS Frame Rate/Resolution Capacity

The performance of an ENVS may be reduced if it has too many cameras with a high resolution and frame rate. For this reason, it is important to check the selected settings using the procedure below before finalizing the resolution, frame rate and the number of cameras connected to a single ENVS. When both the resolution and frame rate are set to the absolute maximum values, only a single camera should be used. In this case, a single-channel ENVS may be a more appropriate solution. To check the selected settings for each camera, multiply the frame rate by the factor from Table 8, then add the results. It is recommended that the total does not exceed 120 if NTSC cameras are used, or 100 if PAL cameras are used. Table 8: Resolution Multiplication Factors Camera Resolution QCIF or CIF 2CIF or HD1 D1 Example: Camera 1 (PAL): 2CIF Camera 2 (PAL): CIF Camera 3 (PAL): CIF Camera 4 (PAL): 2CIF TOTAL = @ 15fps = 2 x 15 = @ 25fps = 1 x 25 = @ 15fps = 1 x 15 = @ 15fps = 2 x 15 = 30 25 15 30 100 Acceptable Multiplication Factor 1 2 4
The capacity check can be carried out automatically using the "ENVS Hard Disk Drive and Network Bandwidth Estimator" (Figure 3-10), which is located in the Documentation folder on the Symmetry installation CD. The Estimator is a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. There are two versions: one for PAL cameras, and one for NTSC cameras.
Specify the resolution, frame rate and motion factor for each ENVS camera.
This shows the result of the check.
Figure 3-10: Using the Estimator to Check ENVS Capacity
27
Selecting the Recording Policies

It is important to consider how often and under what circumstances recording should take place, since this can seriously affect the amount of disk space used for recordings and, if Video Storage Management is used, network activity when recordings are forwarded to network storage. Using commands set up in the software, each camera can record: Continuously. At scheduled times. In response to a user command. In response to a Record Video trigger command, which is activated by an alarm or event condition, such as by motion detection or when the contacts of an ENVS monitor point are closed.
DVR cameras are normally set up to record continuously. If IP or ENVS cameras are used, consider whether to use the Record Video trigger command to start recording on motion detection or after an alarm/event, rather than continuously or at scheduled times. When using an ENVS camera, the Record Video trigger command can make use of the ENVS "pre-event buffer", which is set up in the Advanced tab of the ENVS Camera screen (Figure 3-11). If you enable the buffer and, for example, set its capacity to 60 seconds, the ENVS will always store the last 60 seconds of video footage. Since a recording started by a Record Video trigger command can include the video in the pre-event buffer, the feature may reduce the need for continuous or scheduled recordings. IP cameras do not normally have a pre-event buffer and therefore it is more likely that there is a need to record continuously or at scheduled times. However, the Record Video trigger command can still be useful in these cases. A Record Video trigger command "tags" the recording at the alarm/event time, and the period tagged can include time before the alarm/event if the camera records continuously. The benefit of doing this is that the system can be set up to purge the much larger untagged areas of a recording more frequently than the tagged recordings, which reduces demand for disk space.
Figure 3-11: Enabling the Pre-Event Buffer for an ENVS
28
ENVS Disk Space

If video from an ENVS is not being archived using the Video Storage Management Module, it is advisable to use the ENVS Hard Disk Drive and Network Bandwidth Estimator to estimate the number of days of recorded video that can be stored on the ENVS hard disk (Figure 3-12). When the ENVS hard disk starts to become full, the system automatically overwrites recordings, starting with the oldest untagged recordings, followed by the oldest tagged recordings. Prolonged continuous recording will lead to high disk usage and may result in important recordings being overwritten and therefore stored for insufficient time. The estimate is dependent on: The resolution and frame rate of each camera Increasing the resolution and/or frame rate increases the amount of video data and therefore reduces the amount of video that can be stored. Note that trigger commands can be set up to change the resolution or frame rate in response to an alarm or event condition. The level of motion in the camera view The greater the motion, the fewer the number of days of video that can be stored, since the degree of compression of the video data reduces if there is more motion. Note: Poor or noisy video signals, or rapid changes in lighting, are interpreted as motion and will also increase storage demands. When there is little or no movement (such as viewing an occasional person in a corridor) use a motion factor of about 2. When there is constant movement in the camera view, a setting of 10 is recommended. To prevent an underestimate, avoid setting the figure too low. The size of the hard disk This is 80GB.
Depending on the results from the Estimator, you may need to adapt the recording policy, or even reexamine the resolution and frame rates used.
Gives the estimated number of days of storage for the ENVS hard disk.
Figure 3-12: Estimating the Number of Days of Recording If video from an ENVS is being archived, ENVS disk space is generally not an issue, as space is freed when recordings are forwarded. Since the hard disk can record more than a day of continuous video (assuming the capacity check is not exceeded; page 27) and forwarding can occur every day, the results of
29
running the Estimator may be relevant only to determine how long the ENVS can store video in the event of a network failure. An exception is when only tagged recordings are forwarded, which leaves any other standard recordings on the ENVS hard disk.
ENVS Disk Purging and Warnings

Selecting Automatically delete video recordings older than in the Disk tab of the Video Server screen (Figure 3-13) causes recordings older than a specified number of days to be automatically deleted. You may need to select this option in countries with privacy laws that disallow long-term storage of video recordings. The limit should also be entered into the Purge tab of the Configure/Digital Video/Video Server Settings screen (page 44). The tab also contains Warn if... options than can produce an alarm/event message if a recording under a specified number of days old is overwritten. It is good policy to set the time periods for these options to warn of cases when recordings are overwritten sooner than expected by the Estimator.
Figure 3-13: ENVS Disk Settings
30
Managing the Network

Viewing or streaming live video to a client PC running the Symmetry software can involve sending large amounts of data across the network. To ensure adequate performance from all applications or devices using the network, including the digital video system itself, it is important to consider the amount of network bandwidth used by live video transmissions. Wide Area Networks (WANs) generally have much less available bandwidth than a Local Area Network (LAN), and therefore require special care. In most cases, the digital video system will use an existing network. If an appropriate Ethernet switch is used, it is possible to add the system to a virtual LAN (VLAN), which may be able to be set up with a bandwidth limit. Note that firewalls must be configured to allow video data to pass through. The digital video system uses standard protocols such as HTTP and FTP, and therefore configuration should be relatively straightforward for an experienced network administrator. The amount of network bandwidth used by the digital video system is dependent on the bit rate (also known as the data rate) from each camera, in bits per second. The bit rate is a measure of the transmission speed of binary data from the camera. A higher bit rate leads to greater network usage. Increasing any of the following will give a higher bit rate: The camera resolution. The camera frame rate. The amount of motion in the image. The image quality setting (also known as compression). Decreasing quality reduces the amount of digital data that needs to be transmitted, but can also reduce the decoded quality of the picture.
Network usage is generally not an issue if all of the following are true: Live video is rarely viewed. Live video is not streamed to a network storage device (using the Video Storage Management Module). Small amounts of recorded video are replayed after being forwarded to a network storage device.
Estimating ENVS Camera Network Usage

An estimate of network usage for an ENVS camera can be obtained using the Network Storage and System Bandwidth Estimator (Figure 3-14), which is located in the Documentation folder on the Symmetry installation CD. Enter the number of cameras, the frame rate and resolution to obtain an estimate of network usage in kbits per second. Default quality settings and the highest motion factor (10) are assumed.
Figure 3-14: Estimating Network Usage
31
An estimate is also displayed in the Camera Network Usage field of the ENVS Camera screen, as shown in Figure 3-15. The actual frame and bit rates can be displayed using the Live Picture option (page 35).
Figure 3-15: Estimated Network Usage from the ENVS Camera Screen
Estimating IP or DVR Camera Network Usage

Please refer to the manufacturer's documentation for details of network usage for IP or DVR cameras. For an IP camera at 640x480 resolution and a compression level of 50, approximately 4.8% of a 100Mbits/s network is used for each camera. The Axis web site provides a bandwidth calculator.
Reducing Network Usage

Reasons for reducing bandwidth may include the following: The network may be used for other business-critical applications. Bandwidth available for these applications may need to be protected to prevent loss in performance. Many ENVS devices sharing the same network may overload the network, which can result in picture break-up. In some cases, the available bandwidth may not be predictable, and bandwidth may be severely restricted at certain times, such as when using a Wide-Area Network (WAN).
Bandwidth usage can be reduced or limited using a number of methods, all of which control the bit rate: The resolution and/or frame rate can be reduced. The camera position can be changed to reduce the amount of motion in the image.
32
For ENVS cameras, the target bit rate and quality can be reduced manually in the ENVS Camera screen (Figure 3-16 and Figure 3-17). The exact effect of changing the bit rate and quality settings depend on the Bit Rate Mode (Figure 3-17), which can have any one of the following three settings: Constant: Causes the ENVS to change the quality of the picture between Min Quality and Max Quality to prevent the bit rate exceeding the value specified by the Bit Rate option. The system attempts to use the highest quality, which often means that the bit rate is reasonably constant around the specified bit rate. If the minimum quality is reached, the frame rate is reduced to maintain the bit rate budget. Instantaneous changes to the bit rate are limited by the Bit Rate Cap setting, which should be at least 30% greater than Bit Rate. The Constant bit rate mode should be used if a strict bandwidth budget needs to be imposed. This setting is the default when the network type is a WAN (as specified in the Video Server screen), since bandwidth on a WAN may be very limited at certain times. Average: This is similar to Constant, except that Bit Rate Cap is not used, and if the minimum quality is reached, the frame rate will not be reduced. The bit rate may therefore exceed the budget. The Average bit rate mode is the default when the network type is a LAN, as specified in the Video Server screen. Variable: This should not be used to control bandwidth, since the bit rate is allowed to fluctuate as required depending on the current resolution, frame rate and motion. The quality of the picture is fixed using the Quality setting. The bit rate is capped using the Bit Rate Cap setting, which if reached causes the frame rate to be reduced.
Figure 3-16: Setting the Target Bit Rate

Selecting Set Data Rate Manually enables you to specify the target bit rate (Camera Data Rate). The default value is calculated from camera settings such as resolution (Picture Size) and frame rate (Picture Refresh). When defining a new camera, if the calculated value is greater than the network speed specified in the Video Server screen, the bit rate is capped at the network speed and you are warned that more bandwidth than available is being used. In this case, reduce the resolution or frame rate.
33
Figure 3-17: Advanced Camera Settings (Quality and Bit Rate Mode) Note: Reducing the bit rate will reduce the amount of disk space used, as well as reducing network usage.
Changing the ENVS I-Frame Interval

A video transmission consists of one or more sets of frames. Each set starts with an I-Frame followed by a series of P-Frames. An I-Frame is a complete picture at a point in time. Each P-Frame specifies only the changes in the video picture from the previous frame. An I-Frame can contain much more data than a PFrame, since a P-Frame contains only the data that has changed. The I-Frame Interval option in the Advanced tab of the ENVS Camera screen can be used to increase the interval between I-Frames, which reduces the ratio of I-Frames to P-Frames and the overall amount of data transmitted. You may want to do this to reduce the bit rate and network usage, but note that fewer I-Frames leads to the picture being refreshed less often, which can cause undesirable effects if the video signal is poor. This setting applies to both live and recorded video, and therefore disk space should also be reduced by increasing the I-Frame interval. If you select Limit Live Video Frame Rate to in the Advanced tab, live video viewed or streamed across the network will contain only I-Frames. This reduces the live frame rate to the value set in the I-Frame Interval option and therefore reduces network usage, but does not affect the frame rate of video recorded on the hard disk of the ENVS. The option can be very useful if it is not necessary to display live video at the same frame rate as recorded.
34
Viewing the Actual Frame and Bit Rates for an ENVS Camera
The current frame rate (Picture Refresh) and bit rate (Current Data Rate) achieved using the selected settings, camera position and motion can be tested by selecting Live Picture in the Video tab of the ENVS Camera screen (Figure 3-18).
Display the frame rate and bit rate actually used
Figure 3-18: Viewing the Actual Frame and Bit Rates Similar information is available from the View/Status screen (Figure 3-19).
Figure 3-19: ENVS Camera Settings Displayed using View/Status
35
Specifying ENVS Inputs and Outputs

Each ENVS has four monitor-point inputs and two auxiliary outputs. Auxiliary outputs can be used to switch external devices on or off by a manual, scheduled or trigger command. The monitor points can be connected to sensors such as infra-red detectors, floor pads, door contacts or similar devices. The inputs are constantly monitored, and can be used in trigger commands to perform a predefined function, such as to start recording or switch on an auxiliary output. The monitor points and auxiliary outputs can be defined in the Input/Output tab of the Video Server screen (Figure 3-20). The system design phase should consider the number of inputs and outputs required.
Figure 3-20: Setting up the ENVS Inputs and Outputs The description should be left blank for any input or output not used.
36
Specifying the ENVS Overlay Information

Using the Overlay tab of the Video Server screen (Figure 3-21), up to four items of information can be superimposed over the video from each camera. These are the date, time, camera name and fixed text. Both the position and size of the text can be specified. During the design phase, the type of information to superimpose should be considered. Date and time are normally included to provide date/time stamping for recordings. The information will appear on both live and recorded video.
Figure 3-21: Setting up the ENVS Overlay Information
37
Synchronizing the ENVS Date and Time

Consideration should be given to the method used to keep the ENVS date and time up to date. By default, the ENVS time is synchronized with that of the server. However, an SNTP (Simple Network Time Protocol) server can be used if a more accurate method of maintaining the correct time is required. It is recommended that the server, all clients and all ENVS units use an SNTP server. The ENVS data and time settings are specified in the Date and Time tab of the Video Server screen (Figure 3-22).
Figure 3-22: Setting up the Time Synchronization Options The Enable Simple Network Time Protocol (SNTP) option should be selected if an SNTP server is used. The names or IP addresses of up to two SNTP servers can be specified (Preferred Server and Alternate Server). Alternative Server is used only if Preferred Server is not available. By default, the time is obtained every hour from an SNTP server and is updated only if the time difference is greater than 2 seconds. Please refer to the Software Installation Manual for details of setting up a Windows Time Server SNTP server. Selection of the correct Time Zone ensures that the ENVS automatically updates its time when there is a daylight-saving time change.
38
Setting Up Motion Detection

The ENVS gives the capability of setting up 20 motion detection zones for each camera (Figure 3-23), which can automatically detect and report movement in the defined zone. A trigger command can be set up to record video when motion is detected. Motion detection may influence system design, since the need to record continuously may be regarded as unnecessary if motion detection is used.
Figure 3-23: Motion Detection Options
39
Specifying the PTZ Controls and Presets for an ENVS Camera

If a PTZ controller is connected to the ENVS, the Pan / Tilt / Zoom tab of the ENVS Camera screen (Figure 3-24) should be used to specify: The controls available for the camera (pan, tilt, zoom, focus). All selected controls will be made available to an operator when viewing live video. The camera preset positions. A preset defines a set position for a camera. When viewing live video, an operator can click a preset button to move the camera automatically to the predefined position. A PTZ Preset command can also perform the same task.
When the controls and presets are defined, consideration should be given to the effects of the various fields of view on camera bit rate. A view that contains more motion will result in a higher bit rate and greater use of disk space, as described earlier in this chapter.
Figure 3-24: Setting up Camera Presets
40
4 Chapter 4: Video Storage
This chapter describes design considerations when using the Video Storage Management Module. The Video Storage Management Module is a comprehensive video data management system, which can automatically store video from an ENVS or Axis IP camera to a network storage location. The software facilitates the "store-and-forward" function of the ENVS, which transfers recordings from the hard disk of an ENVS at configurable intervals to free disk space and enable archiving.
Choosing ENVS Video Forwarding Schedules

If ENVS cameras are being used, you need to specify schedules for forwarding recorded video from the hard disk of the ENVS to a network storage location. This is achieved using the Archive tab of the Video Server screen (Figure 4-1). Forwarding video frees disk space on the ENVS, as well as enabling the recordings to be stored in a location that can be backed up or archived using normal backup/archive procedures. It is normal to forward every day, but if there is a reason for not doing so, the schedules may be influenced by the results of running the "ENVS Hard Disk Drive and Network Bandwidth Estimator" (page 29).
Figure 4-1: ENVS Video Forwarding (Archiving) Schedules
41
Video Storage
Select a time for forwarding when few users or other applications need the network. Large amounts of video data from many ENVS units can generate a lot of network traffic, and selecting an appropriate time will reduce any impact. The setting for Include Standard Recordings should be considered carefully: When the option is selected, all tagged and untagged (standard) recordings are forwarded to the storage location, which can consume large amounts of disk space. The next section in this chapter describes how to estimate the disk space required. When the option is not selected, only tagged recordings are forwarded, which should significantly reduce the amount of disk space needed. In this case, all untagged (standard) recordings will remain on the hard disk of the ENVS for a period of time that can be estimated using the "ENVS Hard Disk and Network Bandwidth Estimator" (page 29), which is available in the Documentation folder of the Symmetry Installation CD. The Estimator should be used to confirm that the time period is sufficient.
42
Video Storage
Estimating Required Network Disk Space

Consideration must be given to the amount of disk space needed to store recordings in the network storage location(s). Due to the large amounts of data involved, it may be necessary to provide one or more dedicated network storage devices. Any TCP/IP addressable drive can be used, such as a hard disk on a PC, or a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device. NAS devices attach directly to the LAN and are optimized for storing large amounts of data. When using ENVS cameras, the ENVS can be set up to forward only tagged recordings, or all recordings, as described in the previous section. This setting may have a major impact on the amount of disk space required. If the ENVS has no hard disk, live video can be streamed to the storage location. When using IP cameras, all recordings are streamed to the network storage location. Note: All streamed or forwarded video is routed through an allocated Video Storage server. You can use the following procedure to estimate the amount of disk space needed.
Estimating Required Network Disk Space

1. 2. For each camera, estimate the number of hours of recording that are to be forwarded (or streamed) to the storage location in one day. Use the "ENVS Hard Disk Drive and Network Bandwidth Estimator" to estimate the amount of disk space needed to store the daily recordings from each ENVS camera. See Figure 4-2. Although the Estimator provides an estimate of ENVS disk usage, the results will be approximately the same for network disk usage. If Axis IP cameras are used, please refer to the Axis "Design Tool" on the Axis web site (www.axis.com/products/video/design_tool/Calculator.htm) to determine the storage requirements. Add the daily disk space requirements for each camera to obtain a total for all cameras. Multiply the result by the number of days the recordings need to be stored. This must be specified in the Purge tab of the Configure/Digital Video/Video Server Settings screen (Figure 4-3), and can be different for standard and tagged recordings. Recordings that exceed this limit are purged automatically.
3. 4. 5.
This gives the estimated total disk space required. However, sufficient additional capacity should be provided to allow for increased demand or changes to picture detail, motion or camera settings. Note: The amount of disk space used should be monitored carefully, and if necessary, additional disk space added.
43
Video Storage
Specify the resolution, frame rate and motion factor for each ENVS camera.
The total disk usage per hour is displayed here.
Figure 4-2: Estimating Network Disk Space Requirements for ENVS Cameras
Figure 4-3: Schedules for Purging Video Recordings Note: (1) Video recordings stored on the database server can be backed up and archived using the Tools/Backup and Tools/Archive screens. (2) The time periods for purging may be influenced by legal restrictions concerning the length of time recordings can be stored. (3) The purge schedules can be different for each Video Storage server.
44
Video Storage
Assigning Each ENVS and IP Camera to a Storage Server

The system can be set up to use one or more Video Storage servers. A Video Storage server is provided "as standard" on the database server. If required, licenses for additional Video Storage servers can be purchased. After the Video Storage servers have been installed (as described in the Software Installation Manual), and the ENVS devices and IP cameras defined, each ENVS and IP camera must be assigned to a Video Storage server using the ENVS & IP Cameras tab of the Configure/Digital Video/Storage Server Settings screen (Figure 4-4). Please refer to page 18 for recommendations concerning the number of Video Storage servers to use.
Figure 4-4: Assigning ENVS Devices and IP Cameras to a Video Storage Server
45
Video Storage
Storage Folders
The locations where video recording are stored on the network are specified in the Storage Folders tab of the Configure/Digital Video/Storage Server Settings screen (Figure 4-5). There can be more than one storage folder, and each can be located anywhere on the network. When you add a storage folder, you specify the maximum amount of disk space for that folder. The folder listed at the top of the Storage Folders tab is used first. When the available space at this location is full, the next folder in the list is used.
Figure 4-5: Folders used to Store Video Recordings
46
5 System Design Worksheet
Location Reference: ENVS Camera Setup:

ENVS Camera Number 1 Camera Name Resolution Frame Rate (fps) ENVS Capacity Check OK (Yes/No) For each camera, multiply the frame rate by the factor given below, then add the values. The total should not exceed 100 (PAL) or 120 (NTSC). QCIF/CIF = 1 2CIF/HD1 = 2 D1 =4 Main Recording Policy (Continuous, Scheduled, Triggered or Mixture) Pre-Event Buffer Time (Seconds) Motion Factor (1 = No Motion to 10 = Constant) Pan/Tilt Control (Yes/No) Focus Control (Yes/No) Zoom Control (Yes/No) 2 3 4
ENVS Setup:
Setting IP Address (Static) Estimated Storage Period of Recordings on ENVS Hard Disk (Hours) Automatically Delete Video Recordings Older Than (Days) Number of Monitor Points Used (0-4) Number of Auxiliary Outputs Used (0-2) Overlay Details SNTP Server Names or IP Addresses (if used) Name of Video Storage Server (if used)
47
Video Storage
IP Camera Setup:
Camera 1 Camera Name IP Address (Static) Resolution Frame Rate (fps) Compression Video Storage Server (if used) 2 3 4 5
Network Usage for Live Video:

ENVS Camera Number 1 Network Type (LAN or WAN) Network Speed (kbps / Mbps) Total Permitted Bit Rate (kbps / Mbps) Bit Rate Mode (Constant, Average or Variable)
ENVS only. Default is Constant for WAN, Average for LAN
I-Frame Interval (Seconds)

ENVS only. Default is 1.
Selection of "Limit Live Frame Rate to" (Yes/No)

ENVS only. Default is No.
Estimated Bit Rate (kbps / Mbps) Total Estimated Bit Rate (kbps / Mbps)
Sum of above; this should not be more than total permitted.
Tested Bit Rate (kbps / Mbps)

ENVS only.
Total Tested Bit Rate (kbps / Mbps)

ENVS only. Sum of above.
Video Storage Management Module:

Setting Forward Each Day (Yes/No)
ENVS only. Default is Yes. If No, specify days.
Time of Day to Forward

ENVS only. Default is 2am.
Include Standard Recordings (Yes/No)

ENVS only. Default is Yes; recommend No if possible.
Total Estimated Network Disk Space (GB) Purge Standard Recordings Older Than (Days) Purge Tagged Recordings Older Than (Days)
48
6 Index
2 2CIF .................................................................................................................................................................... 25 4 4CIF .................................................................................................................................................................... 25 A Analog video ......................................................................................................................................................... 4 Archive.......................................................................................................................................................... 41, 44 Automatically delete video recordings older than ............................................................................................... 30 Auxiliary outputs ................................................................................................................................................. 36 Average bit rate mode ........................................................................................................................................ 33 B Backup................................................................................................................................................................ 44 Bit rate .......................................................................................................................................................... 31, 33 Actual/Tested.................................................................................................................................................. 35 Estimated for ENVS camera........................................................................................................................... 31 Estimated for IP or DVR camera .................................................................................................................... 32 Bit rate cap.......................................................................................................................................................... 33 Bit rate mode ...................................................................................................................................................... 33 C Camera support.................................................................................................................................................. 14 CCTV switcher.......................................................................................................................................... 4, 12, 14 CIF ...................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Constant bit rate mode ....................................................................................................................................... 33 D D1 ....................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Data rate ...............................................................................................................................................See Bit rate Date and time ..................................................................................................................................................... 38 DHCP.................................................................................................................................................................. 22 Digital Video Benefits............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 4 Digital Video Management Module Features.......................................................................................................................................................... 14 Machine requirements .................................................................................................................................... 16 Digital Video software Introduction to ................................................................................................................................................. 12 Discover.............................................................................................................................................................. 21 Disk space ENVS .............................................................................................................................................................. 29 Network........................................................................................................................................................... 43 DVR Features supported ........................................................................................................................................ 11 Introduction to ................................................................................................................................................. 10 Makes and models supported ........................................................................................................................ 10 Network usage................................................................................................................................................ 32
Index
Setup ...............................................................................................................................................................20 E ENVS Auxiliary outputs ..............................................................................................................................................36 Capacity check ................................................................................................................................................27 Date and time ..................................................................................................................................................38 Disk settings ..............................................................................................................................................30, 31 Disk space.......................................................................................................................................................29 Features ............................................................................................................................................................7 Forwarding.................................................................................................................................................15, 41 Hard Disk and Network Bandwidth Estimator .................................................................................................29 Introduction to....................................................................................................................................................7 IP address .......................................................................................................................................................22 Monitor points ..................................................................................................................................................36 Motion detection ..............................................................................................................................................39 Network usage.................................................................................................................................................31 Overlay ..............................................................................................................................................................8 Overlay tab ......................................................................................................................................................37 Overview of........................................................................................................................................................4 PTZ settings ....................................................................................................................................................40 Purging disk space ..........................................................................................................................................30 Recording capacity ..........................................................................................................................................29 SNTP server ....................................................................................................................................................38 Warning messages .........................................................................................................................................30 ENVS Camera screen .........................................................................................................................................23 F Forwarding.....................................................................................................................................................15, 41 Frame rate Actual/Tested...................................................................................................................................................35 Recommendations ..........................................................................................................................................26 G Graphics ..............................................................................................................................................................14 Graphics card ......................................................................................................................................................17 I I-Frame..................................................................................................................................................................6 I-Frame Interval ...................................................................................................................................................34 Include Standard Recordings ..............................................................................................................................42 IP address ENVS...............................................................................................................................................................22 IP camera ........................................................................................................................................................19 SNTP servers ..................................................................................................................................................38 IP camera Features ............................................................................................................................................................9 Features supported .........................................................................................................................................11 Introduction to................................................................................................................................................4, 9 IP address .......................................................................................................................................................19 Network usage.................................................................................................................................................32 Setup ...............................................................................................................................................................19 Streaming ........................................................................................................................................................43 L LAN......................................................................................................................................................................33 Limit Live Video Frame Rate to ...........................................................................................................................34 M MAC address.......................................................................................................................................................21 Machine requirements .........................................................................................................................................16
ii
Index
Monitor points ..................................................................................................................................................... 36 Motion detection ....................................................................................................................................... 8, 28, 39 Motion factor ....................................................................................................................................................... 29 MPEG-4 ................................................................................................................................................................ 6 MSDE ................................................................................................................................................................... 5 N Network Attached Storage (NAS) ....................................................................................................................... 43 Network camera ..............................................................................................................................See IP camera Network failure.................................................................................................................................................... 29 Network storage ................................................................................................................................................. 41 Network usage.................................................................................................................................................... 31 NTSC .................................................................................................................................................................. 24 O Overlay ........................................................................................................................................................... 8, 37 P PAL ..................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Pan, tilt, zoom controls ....................................................................................................................................... 40 P-Frame................................................................................................................................................................ 6 Picture refresh ............................................................................................................................... See Frame rate Picture size ..................................................................................................................................... See Resolution Pre-event buffer .................................................................................................................................................. 28 Processor ........................................................................................................................................................... 18 PTZ controller ..................................................................................................................................................... 22 Purge From ENVS .................................................................................................................................................... 30 From network storage..................................................................................................................................... 44 Q QCIF ................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Quality................................................................................................................................................................. 33 R Record Video trigger command.......................................................................................................................... 28 Recording policies .............................................................................................................................................. 28 Resolution Recommendations.......................................................................................................................................... 24 Standards ....................................................................................................................................................... 25 S SMS software ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 SNTP .................................................................................................................................................................. 38 SQL Server ........................................................................................................................................................... 5 Standard recording ............................................................................................................................................. 42 Status screen...................................................................................................................................................... 35 Storage folders ................................................................................................................................................... 46 Storage server settings....................................................................................................................................... 46 Store and forward ............................................................................................................................................... 15 Symmetry Overview of....................................................................................................................................................... 4 Video Essentials ............................................................................................................................................... 5 Video Management........................................................................................................................................... 5 System design worksheets ................................................................................................................................. 47 T Tagged recording ......................................................................................................................................... 12, 29 V Variable bit rate mode......................................................................................................................................... 33 Video Cassette Recorder ..................................................................................................................................... 4
iii
Index
Video Essentials ............................................................................................................................................12, 14 Video Network Connection ..................................................................................................................................22 Video Playback screen ..................................................................................................................................13, 14 Video Server Network Type.................................................................................................................................22 Video Server screen Overview..........................................................................................................................................................21 Video Storage Management Module Features ..........................................................................................................................................................15 Forwarding schedules .....................................................................................................................................41 Introduction......................................................................................................................................................15 Machine requirements .....................................................................................................................................18 Setting up ........................................................................................................................................................41 Virtual Matrix screen......................................................................................................................................13, 14 W WAN ....................................................................................................................................................................33 Windows........................................................................................................................................................16, 18
iv

Digital Video Design Guide

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Digital Video Design Guide

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Digital Video Design Guide

MPEG-4 Video components powered by ATEME

Chapter 2: Computer Requirements..................................................................... 16

Chapter 3: Designing the System ......................................................................... 19