Axis Communications has launched the first network camera based on MPEG-2 compression for demanding, around-the-clock security and surveillance applications.

AXIS 230 MPEG-2

The AXIS 230 MPEG-2 Network Camera is a day/night camera that delivers 30 frames per second of DVD-quality video and synchronized audio over IP networks.

It is designed for customers requiring continuous, high quality audio and video in a variety of lighting conditions, such as departments of transportation, airports, casinos, hospitals and universities.

The camera's MPEG-2 video and audio compression enables the AXIS 230 to provide the highest quality video (up to 720x576 pixels) and DVD-quality audio while consuming low amounts of bandwidth.

It includes a powerful 18x optical zoom lens as well as a 12x digital zoom that can be controlled remotely via the Internet.

In addition, the network camera has a built-in microphone for one-way audio from camera to viewer. The AXIS 230 also provides support for multicasting over a local area network, allowing an unlimited number of simultaneous viewers.

Fredrik Nilsson, general manager of Axis Communications said...
"With the AXIS 230, Axis is filling a need at the top-end of the security and surveillance market. Previously, MPEG-2 quality compression was only available from video server technology, so Axis is now extending that same high-end functionality to its network camera line"

The AXIS 230 provides color video in daytime lighting and black and white video in the dark, with or without an infrared (IR) illuminator. Authorized users can access and manage all audio and video feeds via the Internet and a standard Web browser. Other features include an audio-based alarm that will send an alert based on a selected volume level.

The AXIS 230 will be available through Axis' distribution channels in the first quarter of 2004

The manufacturer's suggested retail price is $1,999