New Network Camera with High-Performance Built-in Server

Canon announced the launch in Japan of a new compact high-performance network camera (available in two models), comprising a communication camera with a built-in camera server, permitting the transmission of live images over the Internet or LAN (Local Area Network): the Canon Network Camera VB-C50i, and the inverted ceiling-mount model Canon Network Camera VB-C50iR*1.

Canon Network Camera VB-C50i and VB-C50iR The Canon Network Camera VB-C50i/VB-C50iR, replacing the highly acclaimed VB-C10/VB-C10R released in April 2002, combines in one compact unit the communication camera and camera server, permitting users to establish a monitoring environment simply by connecting the power cord and Ethernet cable. The new system's internalized server offers compatibility with such protocols as TCP/IP and HTTP for Internet-based networks, and with Ethernet (100Mbps/10Mbps auto switching) for LAN connections.

Incorporating a large-aperture lens and a high-sensitivity 1/4-inch CCD sensor, the VB-C50i/VB-C50iR makes possible color-video image capture in low light down to 1 lux. Also, when operating in Night Mode*2, the new camera utilizes an infrared illuminator positioned beside the lens to enable monitoring in zero-lux darkness, satisfying the need for reliable performance in low-light conditions.

Equipped with a powerful 26x optical zoom lens, the highest level of magnification for a pan/tilt/zoom video camera, and offering a 12x digital zoom function, Canon's new system enables effective surveillance and image capture in vast spaces such as factories, warehouses and superstores. Moreover, a built-in motion detection and auto tracking system monitors for movement in any of four designated areas, automatically adjusting pan and tilt to track the subject.

Canon's new network camera system offers high-speed wide-angle panning and tilting to support broad-area coverage. The pan function of the VB-C50i enables 100 deg horizontal movement in either direction for a combined range of movement of 200 deg while the tilt function permits an upward tilt of up to 90 deg and a downward tilt of up to 30 deg. The VB-C50iR's pan function offers 170 deg horizontal movement in either direction, and the tilt function allows an upward tilt of 10 deg and a downward tilt of 90 deg. Both models achieve a maximum pan speed of 90 deg per second, and a maximum tilt speed of 70 deg per second.

Canon's VB-C50i/VB-C50iR network camera realizes class-leading image resolution and frame rates, transmitting high-quality 640 x 480-pixel images at a rate of 30 frames per second. The system also permits the sender to control the image quality and capture rate so as to optimize the settings for the network environment. Moreover, a multi-streaming function facilitates the simultaneous transmission of images at various sizes to enable monitoring via networks with lower speed capacities, or devices using smaller screen sizes, such as mobile phones.

Other features for enhanced functionality include presets for up to 20 camera positions and zoom ratios, enabling users to see the areas they want quickly and easily. Furthermore, a preset tour feature adds to monitoring efficiency by automatically moving though the preset positions at set intervals. Other advanced monitoring features include an optional Multi-Terminal Module, which enables the sending and receiving of audio.

Pricing and availability The Canon Network Camera VB-C50i/VB-C50iR will be available in Japan from July 20 priced at Y198,000. Canon has set initial production at 20,000 units per month.