Bosch Releases ONVIF-Ready H.264 Cameras

  • Sep 16, 2009

Bosch Security Systems Inc., a full-line manufacturer of security solutions, today announced the company’s entire portfolio of IP cameras is now available with H.264 compression technology. These IP cameras deliver high-resolution video with reduced bandwidth and storage consumption -- resulting in storage costs that are up to 30 percent less than systems that use traditional MPEG-4 encoding.

“In addition to the improved image quality and the cost benefit, H.264 compression technology also gives end users increased retention times and the option to use lower bandwidth wide area networks (WANs) for surveillance video,” said Dr. Bob Banerjee, product marketing manager, with Bosch Security Systems Inc. “In short, better video with less bandwidth.”

Customers with installed Bosch IP cameras are able to download Firmware 4.0 to upgrade to H.264. The new firmware is available for Dinion IP, FlexiDome IP, Extreme Series IP and AutoDome IP cameras, as well as the VideoJet X series of encoders and VIP X1600 multi-channel encoders and decoders. Bosch H.264 cameras and encoders can be viewed with either VIDOS v4.0, Bosch’s video management system, or by using the Bosch Divar XF Hybrid Recorder. The cameras and encoders can also be recorded to the Divar XF Hybrid Recorder, local storage on a Bosch encoder or direct-to-iSCSI using Bosch’s NVR-less iSCSI RAID storage units, also known as a storage area network (SAN).

Customers may optionally use Bosch’s Video Recording Manager to manage large numbers of iSCSI RAIDs. VRM also simplifies the installation and maintenance process of large systems and assists with managing appropriate storage capacities that change due to factors such as increasing camera counts, improved image quality and higher framerates.

With the new firmware, Bosch IP cameras are ready to work with the recent Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) standard, which provides interoperability with other network surveillance products that conform to the standard, regardless of manufacturer. ONVIF compliance gives customers greater flexibility for future upgrades of their IP video systems.

Firmware 4.0 also allows for live control of video using only an IntuiKey keyboard and decoder, requiring no PCs or software. The firmware adds greater intelligence to Bosch IP video products, enabling the creation of a virtual matrix to view and control up to 32 cameras on 10 monitors without video management software. This capability helps end users streamline their systems and further reduce costs.

New orders of Bosch cameras and encoders will be shipped already equipped with H.264 support and the additional Firmware 4.0 features. The new firmware offers traditional MPEG-4 and JPEG modes if required for compatibility with systems that do not yet support H.264.

Featured

  • TSA Introduces New $45 Fee Option for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that it will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID and still want to fly an option to pay a $45 fee to use a modernized alternative identity verification system, TSA Confirm.ID, to establish identity at security checkpoints beginning on February 1, 2026. Read Now

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.