ONVIF and the Importance of Standards | Oncam

For security products to work together seamlessly, interoperability is key: open standards across devices and systems allow easy communication and integration. That’s why Oncam is a Contributing member of the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF), an open industry forum that provides and promotes standardized interfaces for effective interoperability of IP-based physical security products.

Founded in 2008, ONVIF aims to drive connectivity between end users, integrators, consultants and manufacturers. Members of ONVIF include camera companies, video management system companies and access control companies.

Four committees – steering, technical, technical services and communication – work on specific tasks and responsibilities ranging from budgeting to developing core specifications. Steve Dillingham, Software and Integrations Manager, Oncam, is the Chairman of ONVIF’s Technical Services Committee Taskforce. This committee is responsible for developing profiles, test specification, test tool and conformance process.

Oncam works closely with ONVIF on global standards that provide flexible solutions for all parties involved. Cost reduction, standardized device detection and streamlined engineering are just three advantages of these open standards. Additionally, the standards help propel the convergence from analog to digital solutions, which opens up the benefits of IP-based physical security products to everyone.

Users can see devices’ compatibilities through ONVIF’s profiles: each has a set of functionalities that must be supported by a device or client, ensuring that all devices or clients that are conformant with a specific profile will work with one another.

All of Oncam’s 360-degree cameras are Profile S conformant. ONVIF’s Profile S is designed for IP-based video systems, enabling devices to send video data to a Profile S client over an IP network. The Evolution camera line can then be integrated with video management systems from other manufacturers that meet the Profile S specifications.

Oncam is dedicated to providing open systems, as they play a large role in giving users freedom to choose which products to use. For example, end users aren’t locked in to a specific manufacturer and are free to build a security solution that fits their needs. Oncam also recognizes the ability of open standards to simplify complex designs and installations.

As a member of ONVIF, Oncam hopes to continue working toward new open standards and solutions to increase operational efficiency for future security products. At IFSEC International in London next month, Oncam will be guest Tweeting for ONVIF on Wednesday, June 21, 2017. Tune in and see why @ONVIF and @OncamGrandeye make a great team!