Device overview

The Sony SNT-V304 Video Network Station is the result of a cooperative development between Sony Corporation and Axis Communications Group. The compact device, which contains an embedded Linux operating system running on an Axis ETRAX system-on-chip processor, combined with video processing technologies developed by Axis, transmits images generated by analog video cameras to… remote locations where they can be viewed using ordinary GUI-based web browsers. The device is useful in a diverse range of applications requiring remote video monitoring and control, including security monitoring, quality inspection, image distribution, access control, and market research.

The SNT-V304 Video Network Station converts analog video signals into digital files, using the popular JPEG format. A sequence of JPEG images can thus be transmitted in real time via either intranet or Internet. The unit can also be used in conjunction with certain digital video recorders, and can be programmed to automatically send video sequences from alarm events to predetermined email addresses.

Technical specifics

The following is an extract from the SNT-V304's technical specifications:

• Four camera inputs — three composite video only, one composite/S-video.
  
• 8MB video memory allows storage of pre/post alarm JPEG images from each camera.
  
• Provides three levels of password protection.
  
• High image quality with Axis technology for image compression.
  
• Subject to the network bandwidth available, 352×288 pixel images can be transmitted at a maximum rate of 25 frames/sec
  
• Alarm output — option to send trigger signals to external equipment such as electronic door locks.
  
• Alarm notification — automatically sends email, with attached JPEG file showing the alarm event, to a defined email address and/or FTP server.
  
• Manually requested “snap shot” function lets users capture live images on command.
  
• May be used in conjunction with Sony digital video recorders.
  
• Input/output ports:
  • 2 serial ports
    
  • 4 alarm inputs
    
  • 1 trigger output
    
  • RJ45 connector with 10/100 megabit Ethernet
• Maximum performance:
  • NTSC 30 frame/sec (352×240 pixels); 3 frame/sec (704×480 pixels)
    
  • PAL 25 frame/sec (352×288 pixels); 2 frame/sec (704×576 pixels)
• Size: 5.8 x 8.9 x 1.7 inches
  

The Axis ETRAX 100 system-on-chip device, on which the Sony SNT-V304 Video Network Station is based, contains — within a single chip — a 100 MIPS 32-bit RISC processor plus on-chip controllers for 10/100 megabit Ethernet, IDE, SCSI, two IEEE-1284 “fast” parallel ports, and four high speed serial ports. The device comes in a 256-pin Plastic Ball Grid Array package and uses 510 mW power (typical). The ETRAX 100 is supported by an Axis-developed open source embedded Linux (uClinux based) implementation.

 
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