Bold and ONVIF

Reported July 2009

ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) is an open industry forum for the development of a global standard for the interface of network video products. It is a non-profit US based organisation which was incorporated on November 25, 2008.  Members include CCTV product manufacturers Sony, Axis and Panasonic amongst others.  The Forum was established to promote the use of network video in security by developing an interoperability specification.

Unlike, for example, industry standard alarm signalling protocols which are used by many different manufacturers, currently there are no common standards in the CCTV market.  This means that IP CCTV systems tend to be closed whereby the customer is locked into a particular manufacturer’s product.  Where integration is required between different CCTV systems or with a management and control solution, this can only be achieved with custom software development.  If a commonly used standard can be developed, this should reduce industry product development costs and give end users greater confidence in using IP based solutions, particularly if it is adopted by an industry body such as SIA in the US.  

Bold Communications joined the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF), at its launch in September 2008.  As a software developer and integrator, we are committed to providing the leading monitoring solution for all the areas in which we are involved.  As part of that approach, we have always had a voice in discussions about the future of the monitoring industry.  We also recognise the need for suppliers in this market to cooperate for the benefit of users and the security industry as a whole.  This is a new and quickly developing area and our membership of ONVIF does not exclude other technology approaches.  It is our flexibility and capability to deliver tailored solutions which is one of Bold’s unique strengths.  However, the objectives set by ONVIF for future proofing and cost reduction, are shared by Bold and we therefore are pleased to make a contribution in this exciting area.               

For more information regarding ONVIF please click here