George Tang Industrial (GTI) used embedded Linux to build an 8-channel surveillance DVR (digital video recorder). The GDV-08 runs a 2.4-series Linux kernel on a Via processor, and includes a LAN interface and CD-RW drive. It supports dual hard drives, and features scheduled recording, motion detection, and email/phone alarms.

The GDV-08 features a built-in CD-RW drive

The GDV-08 provides connections for up to eight cameras through back-panel BNC connectors. It supports “many well-known brands of PTZ cameras,” according to GTI.

Supported video formats include NTSC, PAL, and SECOM, with MPEG-4 used for compression. NTSC operation supports 120 or 240fps (frames per second), while PAL supports 100 or 200fps. The device supports up to VGA resolution (640 x 480), and can record QVGA (320 x 240) images at 60fps, GTI says.

The GDV-08 includes a standard D-type VGA connector, and can be controlled locally using a USB mouse. It also includes a LAN port, and offers a remote interface. Additionally, the unit provides a BNC TV-out connector.

The device can be scheduled to record continuously, or when motion is detected, or not at all, when used in surveillance-on-demand applications. Events such as motion detection can be configured to send email or, with an optional module, voice messages to up to three pre-set telephone numbers.

What's under the hood?

The GDV-08 is based on a Via C3 processor clocked at 1.2GHz. Compression is done in software, without a dedicated DSP (digital signal processor).

The device boots from 32MB of Flash, and includes 256MB of RAM memory.

GTI developed the 2.4-series Linux kernel in-house, according to GTI spokesperson Livia Lin. Lin says all other software was built in-house, as well. Customers are able to customize the device's logo, according to Lin.

Availability

The GDV-08 is available now, direct from GTI, priced at $790 FOB (freight-on-board). Hard drives are not included. “You can get [drives] from your local market to save shipping cost and get a product warranty,” Lin notes.

An Auto Dialer function is available as an option for $20. It enables the device to dial up to three preset numbers when motion is detected.

 
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