The CM70 series and CM93 cameras support three primary compression formats: H.265, H.264, and MJPEG. Understanding these formats is essential for optimizing video quality and ensuring efficient streaming based on your specific needs.
H.264 (Advanced Video Coding)
Overview
H.264, also known as Advanced Video Coding (AVC), was developed by the ITU-T Video Coding Experts Group (VCEG) in collaboration with the ISO/IEC Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG). Released in 2003, H.264 marked a significant advancement in video compression technology.
Applications
Due to its efficiency and versatility, H.264 has become the standard for a wide range of applications. It is widely used in streaming services like YouTube and Netflix, Blu-ray Discs, video conferencing, and various broadcasting platforms.
Technical Details
H.264 offers substantial improvements in video quality at lower bit rates compared to its predecessors, such as MPEG-2. This efficiency allows for high-quality video streaming and storage without requiring excessive bandwidth or storage space. Additionally, H.264 allows users to set bandwidth limits and preferred settings, with the encoder managing the delivery of quality video streams. It can achieve very low latency when implemented correctly, as demonstrated in our case study with NATO on IP viewing in the same room.
H.265 (High Efficiency Video Coding)
Overview
Introduced in 2013, H.265, also known as High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), was developed by the same collaborative efforts between VCEG and MPEG that created H.264. H.265 was designed to address the growing demand for higher resolution video and more efficient streaming.
Advantages
H.265 aims to double the data compression ratio of H.264 while maintaining the same level of video quality or providing substantially improved video quality at the same bit rate. This makes it particularly beneficial for streaming high-resolution content such as 4K and 8K videos.
Technical Differences from H.264
The key technical differences between H.264 and H.265 lie in their compression efficiency and algorithm complexity. H.265 utilizes more advanced techniques, such as larger and more flexible block structures called Coding Tree Units (CTUs), which can be as large as 64x64 pixels compared to H.264's maximum of 16x16. H.265 also enhances motion compensation and prediction, offering improved precision and variable block sizes. Additionally, it supports more sophisticated intra- and inter-prediction modes, better handling of high-resolution content, and superior parallel processing capabilities. These advancements enable more efficient encoding and decoding processes while significantly reducing bandwidth requirements.
H.265 continues to push the boundaries of video compression technology, ensuring smoother and more efficient viewing experiences across diverse platforms and devices. However, its adoption is limited as many systems currently do not support H.265.
MJPEG (Motion JPEG)
Overview
MJPEG, or Motion JPEG, is a video compression format in which each video frame or interlaced field of a digital video sequence is compressed separately as a JPEG image. It was originally developed for multimedia PC applications.
Applications
MJPEG is often used in scenarios where simplicity and compatibility are prioritized over compression efficiency. For example, Avonic CM7x-IP cameras are equipped with an MJPEG snapshot feature, allowing integration into third-party software. Every time the page is refreshed, the picture is updated, making it useful for applications that require frequent image updates.
Limitations
While MJPEG is straightforward and easy to implement, it is not the most efficient encoding method. Selecting MJPEG results in only one video stream, and it typically consumes more bandwidth and storage compared to H.264 and H.265.
Choosing the Right Compression Format
Selecting the appropriate compression format depends on your specific needs and the environment in which the camera operates. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best format for your situation:
- H.264: Ideal for most applications due to its wide support and efficient compression. Use H.264 when you need a balance between video quality and bandwidth usage, such as for streaming services, video conferencing, and standard high-definition recordings.
- H.265: Best suited for high-resolution streaming and storage needs, such as 4K and 8K videos. Choose H.265 when you require higher compression efficiency to save bandwidth and storage space, and when your systems support this format.
- MJPEG: Suitable for applications that prioritize simplicity and compatibility over compression efficiency. Use MJPEG for scenarios that require frequent image updates or integration with third-party software that relies on JPEG images, keeping in mind that it consumes more bandwidth and storage.
By understanding the strengths and limitations of each compression format, you can make informed decisions to optimize your camera's performance and ensure the best possible video quality for your specific use case.
Configuring the Compression Format
Instructions
To configure the desired compression format, follow these steps:
- Open the camera Web GUI.
- Navigate to the VIDEO tab.
- Select Video Encoder.
- Choose your preferred compression format (H.265, H.264, or MJPEG).
- Click the SAVE button to apply the changes.
H.264 remains the most widely supported compression format due to its open standard and ability to manage bandwidth effectively. It allows users to set limits and preferred settings, with the encoder handling the delivery of quality video streams. Additionally, H.264 can achieve very low latency when implemented correctly, as demonstrated in our case study with NATO on IP viewing in the same room.
H.265 offers improved performance and smaller file sizes compared to H.264, making it ideal for high-resolution streaming. However, its adoption is limited as many systems currently do not support H.265.