Axis Communications (Chelmsford, MA), a leader in network peripherals and networking technologies, today unveiled the AXIS 2100 Network Camera, a low cost, network-attached camera, the first ever based on the Linux operating system. A self-contained network camera with its own IP address, the devide transmits live high quality JPEG images at up to 10 frames per second and stores crisp digital images. The camera can be controlled, accessed and managed from any desktop over the Internet via any Web browser.

“The 2100 includes everything required for capturing and transmitting live video streams over data networks and the Internet,” said Brendan Daly, U.S. business development manager, Axis Camera Division. “We chose Linux because it is a stable, proven operating platform with exceptional application development potential.” The network camera is available immediately and sells for $499 retail.

Unlike basic PC-attached cameras, the 2100 connects directly to Ethernet networks. Its built-in RS-232 serial port enables modem and ISDN connection for remote image monitoring and archiving, process control and alarm verification. Compact and versatile, it is suited for corporate and small/home office applications, as well as in manufacturing, educational and healthcare settings. The 2100 Network Camera is also ideal for Web site attraction or various intranet and remote monitoring applications.

“Remote viewing is becoming an important aspect of the PC camera market. The demand for such applications, whether personal or business, will increase with improved bandwidth and the growing use of the Internet as a monitoring and communications medium,” said Kevin Kane, an industry analyst at IDC in Framingham, Mass. “IDC expects the PC camera market to exceed 9 million units worldwide by 2002. The growth of the market is not due to a single 'killer application' but to a variety of such including both consumer and business uses.”

Because the AXIS 2100 has a built-in Web server, it does not require a PC with complicated image translation. With an all-in-one approach it represents a new segment of network cameras. The AXIS 2100 supports TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP and SMTP, and can be completely automated for sending images at specified times or by triggered events. “The AXIS 2100 is a true plug-and-play network camera for Internet image publishing,” added Daly. “More people want to use live imaging to enhance their personal Web pages, add extra surveillance features to their security arsenal, and facilitate live event broadcasting.”

Axis' digital network cameras and video servers are based on its self-developed ThinServer Technology, which integrates all network functionality into the device itself, and the AXIS ARTPEC-1 controller, the industry's first dedicated chip for network surveillance and remote monitoring. ThinServer combines embedded, streamlined versions of major operating systems including Linux, optimized 32-bit RISC hardware, and an open web-based management platform.

 
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