Tech Data To Distribute Sony Cameras For Remote-Monitoring Solutions

The cameras feature built-in Web servers for delivering live video over IP-based networks. Tech Data plans to support the products through its Digital Imaging CAD specialized business unit, which offers services including logistics management, technical assistance, business development, education and training, credit/financing options, marketing and configuration support, according to Wendy Rausch, director of imaging product marketing at Tech Data.

The network camera and video server market is expected to reach $791 million by 2005, up from $73 million in 2000, according to research firm Frost & Sullivan.

The network-based digital imaging solutions can be combined with networked storage and security technologies to provide a more complete solution, Rausch said.

The Sony cameras range from $500 to $800 in end-user pricing, but normally they are part of a larger solution, Rausch said.

"Security is a big solution for our resellers. This is our application as it relates to monitoring for companies with 10 to 200 employees," Rausch said. "It's very easy to get up and running. We have a dedicated vendor product rep and systems engineer and, if necessary, a solution provider can go to them, but it's not that complicated."

The Sony SNC-RZ30N and SNC-VL10N/VL10P cameras work with a standard Web browser and feature 736 x 480 and 720 x 486 resolution, respectively, and up to 30 frames per second.