Dubai - UAE - 5th February 2007 - Axis Communications today introduced a video server solution that includes a rack with a built-in switch and support for up to three Axis blade video servers. Together with the new AXIS 243Q Blade Video Server, the rack solution can convert signals from up to 12 analog video cameras, enabling users to remotely access digital video at full frame rate over an IP network. The solution is ideal for use in airports and traffic monitoring, and wherever there is a need to migrate an analog video system to a high performance, digital solution.

"An expanding market for high-end video servers is demanding full frame rate, or 30/25 frames per second per channel in MPEG-4 or Motion JPEG video, and the combined AXIS 243Q Blade and AXIS 291 1U rack solution fulfills this need," said Anders Laurin, Executive Vice President, Corporate Strategy at Axis Communications. "This solution is cost-effective and easy to install, and allows users of analog video systems to take full advantage of the benefits of a high performance, IP-based, digital solution."

The AXIS 243Q Blade converts signals from up to four analog cameras into high quality, de-interlaced digital video. It delivers 30/25 (NTSC/PAL) frames per second per channel at 4CIF in MPEG-4 or Motion JPEG compression standard. In addition, it offers a number of advanced features such as video motion detection, image upload, and scheduled and triggered event functionality with alarm notification. The video server's serial port enables the remote control of analog pan/tilt/zoom cameras. A comprehensive set of security features, including multiple user access levels, HTTPS encryption, IEEE 802.1X and IP address filtering ensures secure video handling and configuration. The AXIS 243Q also supports Quality of Service (QoS) and IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) and IPv4 addresses.

The AXIS 291 1U Video Server Rack is a cost-effective, 19-inch rack that can hold three interchangeable Axis blade video servers. With a built-in Gigabit switch, the rack can migrate from 4 to 12 analog cameras into IP-based solutions with the use of a single Ethernet port. The AXIS 291 1U provides connectors for network, serial port and I/O at the rear of each slot and an integrated power supply for simple installation. The rack enables hot swapping of blade video servers so there is no need to power down when installing or changing blades. 

Existing video server products aggressively re-priced

In conjunction with the launch of the AXIS 243Q Blade and AXIS 291 1U, Axis has significantly reduced the price of its existing video server products.

"The ongoing market shift from analog video surveillance to IP-based systems creates demand for high-performance video server solutions for different types of installations," said Mr. Laurin. "By re-pricing our existing video server product lines, we demonstrate our commitment to this market and enable an increasing number of users to benefit from modern, IP-based solutions for video surveillance."   

The products are supported by the industry's largest base of application software through the Axis Application Development Partner program, as well as the AXIS Camera Station video management software.

-Ends-

About Axis - the global leader in network video
Axis increases the value of network solutions. The company is an innovative market leader in network video and print servers. Axis' products and solutions are focused on applications such as security surveillance, remote monitoring and document management. The products are based on in-house developed chip technology, which is also sold to third parties. 

Axis was founded in 1984 and is listed on the Nordic List, Mid Cap, Information Technology. Axis operates globally with offices in 18 countries and in cooperation with distributors and system integrators in 70 countries. Markets outside Sweden account for more than 95% of sales. Information about Axis can be found at www.axis.com. 

For further information about Axis Communications in MENA region, please contact:

Gilles Ortega, country manager, MENA, Axis Communications

Tel: 00971-4-3346466 Email: gilles.ortega@axis.com 

© Press Release 2007