Basler Launches New IP Fixed Dome Cameras with Audio Functionality

Basler's new IP Fixed Dome Camera models will be equipped with an audio function and with a new multimedia video processor. This processor technology is already being used in Basler's current IP fixed box camera line. First models with resolutions of up to 1.3 megapixels will be available in the second quarter of 2011.

With the integration of audio functionality, both a microphone for audio recording and speakers as part of a public address system can be connected to the camera. When this feature is used, Basler's IP Fixed Dome Cameras cover an even wider area of surveillance than the camera's field of view. The two upcoming dome camera models, the BIP2-D1000c-dn camera and the BIP2-D1300c-dn high definition model, provide real-time video at frame rates of up to 30 fps with MJPEG, MPEG-4, and H.264 compression. In addition, Basler IP Fixed Dome Cameras offer a choice of two different H.264 compression profiles, one of which is the High Profile (up to level 5) - the same standard used in Blu-ray technology.

With their vandal-resistant aluminum housings and an operating temperature range from -35° C to +50° C (-31° F to +122° F), Basler IP Fixed Dome Cameras allow video surveillance in outdoor applications and under tough indoor conditions. The cameras are especially energy efficient. All functions, including the fan and heater, can be powered using standard PoE (Power over Ethernet - IEEE 802.3af Class 0).

"Just as with our box cameras, this new encoder technology allows our dome cameras to provide up to four image streams using any encoder type combination," states Gerrit Schreiber, Product Manager IP Components, Basler Vision Technologies. "At the same time, the integration of new features such as audio functionality lets us meet increasing market demands and address a broader target audience."