Applied Data Systems (ADS) is sampling a pair of single-board computers (SBCs) aimed at embedded video-over-IP (VIP) applications. The NetCast Streamer can digitize and stream A/V signals at DVD quality, while the NetCast Player can decode streams for NTSC or PAL playback. Both boards run Linux, supported by Windows applications for digital signage and security.

NetCast Streamer

The NetCast Streamer is powered by an ARM9-based SoC (system-on-chip), along with an MPEG-2/4 co-processor. I/O interfaces include wired Ethernet, an RS-485 port, and GPIO, along with a CompactFlash slot for local storage or a WiFi card. The SBC offers BNC connectors for a single video camera and monophonic audio source. A block diagram is available here.

NetCast Streamer
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ADS says the NetCast Streamer can “self-adjust” to network bandwidths between 3Kbps and 4Mbps. It supports maximal video streaming rates up 30 fps (frames-per-second) at D-1 resolutions of 720×480.

NetCast Sentinel
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The NetCast Streamer is available with a “NetCast Sentinel” Windows client targeting security and surveillance applications. Sentinel allows simultaneous view and control of up to 16 NetCast Streamers, ADS says. It also outputs a single audio stream from from a selectable connected NetCast Streamer device.

NetCast Player

The NetCast Player is based on a MIPS core, along with a hardware MPEG2/4 accelerator. It can decode video streams to NTSC (U.S.) or PAL (European) television display formats. A block diagram is available here.

NetCast Player
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The Player is available with a “NetCast Server” Windows application aimed at digital signage applications, such as in-store advertising. It can be used to stream digitized video files to one or many NetCast Players, ADS says.

NetCast Server
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Fred Salloum, marketing director, stated, “The netCast solution is ideal for security monitoring, distributed video, or digital signage solutions. We are seeing expanded interest in low-power consuming embedded solutions in those sectors.”

Availability

The NetCast SBCs are currently available in limited quantities, with production availability beginning Q4, 2006. Prices will be between $175 and $200 per board. ADS will demonstrate the products at LinuxWorld in San Francisco next week.

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