7 Feb 2011

Canon introduces the VB-M40 ONVIF compatible megapixel network camera

Canon Europe, world-leader in imaging solutions, announces the launch of the first Canon 1.3 megapixel pan tilt zoom (PTZ) network camera. The Canon VB-M40 offers embedded video content analytics functions, and is ideal for security environments where customers need to monitor outside spaces or large indoor areas such as warehouses or factories.

Canon's first megapixel network camera offers 20x zoom and a 55.4° horizontal viewing angle within the smallest, most discreet body in its class, and draws together Canon's CMOS, DIGIC NET and lens technology assets to deliver its most advanced network camera.

For the first time, Canon has introduced its CMOS technology into network camera products, whereby DIGIC NET allows VB-M40 to support streaming at 1280x960 high resolution at 30 frames per second in H.264, an image compression format that combines high quality and high compression rates. The device supports the communication protocol ONVIF and is compatible with a range of 3rd party ONVIF-compliant equipment.

Because of its wide variety of functions the VB-M40 is suitable to be deployed in all mid-to-high end surveillance markets such as: traffic management, city surveillance, retail, transportation, logistics and manufacturing. Its four embedded video content analytic functions are able to detect camera tampering or identify if designated objects are moved or removed from a scene, or abandoned. Sound detection also allows the camera to be used in environments where it is important to detect changes in volume. Detection functions can be set to activate automatic recording and uploading to a server or automatic email notification.

The VB-M40 includes a Privacy Mask Function to prevent recording of sensitive data

The VB-M40 also includes a Privacy Mask Function to block certain areas of the camera's view. This can be used to prevent recording of sensitive data included in the camera's field of vision, for example, a PIN code being entered at an ATM, or to safeguard the privacy of people in neighbouring buildings.

Canon's heritage in lens development means that the VB-M40 delivers consistently high quality images in all light conditions. Combining a very bright lens, an auto cut IR filter and Canon Smart Shade Control (SSC), it delivers the sharpest detail possible at all times.

A built-in SD Memory Card slot is included in the VB-M40 to provide a recording back-up if there are any problems with the network. The VB-M40 has built in administration tools, which can be controlled through the Admin Viewer in a web browser. The control panel of the Admin Viewer has been designed for intuitive use.

The VB-M40 is available in a silver or black design and is accompanied by a wide range of accessories that offer a variety of indoor and outdoor installation options to suit all weather requirements.

Canon VB-M40 offers indoor and outdoor installation options for all weather requirements


Floris Oranje, Business Development Manager, Network Camera Solutions, Canon Europe, says: "The VB-M40 offers intelligent, flexible and scalable surveillance to users looking for a product that can monitor wide spaces, both inside large buildings and outdoors. It breaks new ground in terms of the range of incidents that can be detected and because the lens is Canon there are never any trade-offs in image quality."

Canon VB-M40 key features:

  • 1.3 megapixel PTZ network camera
  • 20x zoom lens in the smallest body in its class
  • High quality and high compression combined; H.264 streaming compatible
  • Unrivalled low-light performance in colour at 0.6 lux and B/W at 0.06 lux
  • IR cut filter Day/Night Function and Smart Shade Control
  • Embedded video content analytic functions
  • Privacy Mask function
  • ONVIF compliant
  • Improved reliability with built-in SD memory card slot
  • Built-in admin tools
  • Easy to use Admin Viewer