New generation of analog video cameras.
New generation of analog video cameras The image quality of analog video cameras, which to this day remain traditional in security surveillance, directly depends on the CCD matrices and digital signal processors (DSPs) used in their manufacture. Conventionally, the CCD matrix and signal processor can be called the “eye” and “brain” of the video camera.
While the development of CCD matrices (CMOS) was proceeding rapidly, thanks to their application in many areas (consumer video equipment, mobile phones, etc.), it was not clear whether manufacturers would take care of the second, no less important component — the digital signal processor.
With the dynamic development of IP video surveillance, as well as loud promises from manufacturers about the imminent reduction of prices, harmonization of standards and further rapid expansion of the market, many security experts began to consider analog video cameras obsolete products. However, their huge popularity and long-term interest from consumers inspired several leading companies to invest in the development of the “old” technology. The results are impressive — a new generation of digital signal processors has appeared, providing a new stage in the development of video surveillance.
In the new generation of digital processors of analog cameras, manufacturers have added a significant number of new functions that significantly improve image quality: — HLC — darkening (compensation) of overexposed matrix pixels, thanks to this function, illumination, for example, from car headlights, etc., will not spread to the entire image and will be localized, thereby preserving the ability to distinguish objects. — DIS — The digital image stabilization function provides stabilization and high image resolution when the video is out of focus due to strong wind or unstable weather conditions; — DNR — To avoid distortion in low-light conditions, cameras use 3D image filtering, which can significantly reduce image noise. Optimizing the ratio of useful signal to noise using 3DNR allows you to get a clear picture with the accumulation mode enabled up to 256 times.
These characteristics of digital video camera processors allow you to solve the following problems even more effectively: — Recognition of people's faces, car license plates; — Detection of abandoned objects; — Detection of missing objects (theft); — Detection of violation (intersection) of a certain area (line) of the observed territory; — Private zones.
The new digital signal processor Effio from SONY, due to its huge success, has become a serious competitor for IP cameras in the fight for a share of the CCTV market.
The successful implementation of modern solutions and significant improvement in image quality inspired the manufacturer to develop a wider product line. The Effio series consists of 4 models: Effio, Effio-E (currently in production), Effio-S and Effio- P (production of these models will begin in early 2011). The functions that the Effio-E series is equipped with (HLC-high light compensation, ATR-adaptive color reproduction, 2D-NR-digital noise reduction) allow this chip to be among the leaders.
Thus, the new line of digital signal processors gives manufacturers of analog video cameras a new weapon in the battle for the video surveillance market. At the same time, this fact shows the parallel growth of both technologies, analog and digital. Time will tell who will win.
Source: http://spacetehnology