Bosch Security Systems has added several new features to its DiBos family of Digital Video Recorder and Transmission Systems for CCTV surveillance that considerably enhance performance and ease of use. Chief among the new features is step-up from JPEG to MPEG-4 compression technology that provides best image quality. At the same time it increases data storage efficiency, providing substantial savings in archiving costs. Other new features include the ability to combine legacy analogue technology with state-of-the-art digital networking; as well as a newly designed user interface and an improved configuration process - both designed to make operation even easier and to further simplify set-up.

With MPEG-4 compression, DiBos now provides superior images and makes optimal use of available bandwidth and storage capacity, allowing a very high number of images to be simultaneously transmitted over networks. MPEG-4 enables at least five times more images than JPEG or Wavejet techniques for the same resolution and quality. DiBos also allows the combination of MPEG-4 and JPEG data streams, meaning that the system can employ both analogue and digital network cameras.

The new Pentaplex feature allows the connection of a total of 62 cameras to one DiBos system to give maximum flexibility and scalability. Five simultaneous modes are provided by the Pentaplex feature: viewing of live images, recording of images, search and viewing of recorded images, images transmission and download via local network or Internet, and image export to external recording devices.

The new user interface not only gives a sophisticated and attractive 'look and feel', but also considerably improves ease of use. DiBos is designed for fast and convenient installation with 'plug-and-play' set-up - simply unpack the system from its box, connect the cameras and switch on. DiBos then shows all cameras connected to it and recording can start. Basic settings are rapidly implemented through an innovative configuration wizard, typically requiring only about five minutes. A structured configuration program is available for complex installations requiring more advanced settings.

An Additional innovative feature now incorporated in DiBos and already standard in Bosch's Dinion. Dinion XF and AutoDome cameras is the unique Bilinx interface. Bilinx uses conventional coax, unshielded twisted pair (UTP) and fibre-optic video transmission links. Dibos has the Bilinx capability integrated: It enables the user to remote customise camera settings and to control AutoDome cameras, only via Coax cable. No additional control cables or converters are necessary. This saves installation and set-up time and, of course money. These are also major advantages in installations where cameras are mounted in difficult-to-access places or where operation would otherwise be interrupted by servicing.

DiBos is available into main versions. The 19-inch rack-mount version is for larger installations requiring up to 62 video channels (30 analogue and 32 network), up to 42 audio channels (10 analogue and 32 network) and up to 1,600 GB internal storage capacity. The Dibos Micro is a desktop unit (also available for 19-inch rack mounting) for installations that require up to 20 channels (12 analogue and 8 network) and 400 GB internal storage capacity. Additionally, the DiBos Receiver / IP- Recorder receives alarm images from remote DiBos units or IP network devices over a LAN, LSN or the public telephone network.