Sony launched its new HD cameras at IFSEC

What new products were on display?

Over the last twelve months Sony Professional has made several significant announcements that have broadened its HD portfolio. In January this year, it added another new HD camera to the four launched in 2009. The SNC-CH240 Full HD Fixed camera was launched at Sony's Power of Images (POI) event in Germany, completing its HD range.

IFSEC heralded the European launch of two new HD cameras. The SNC-DH180 and SNC-DH240 were unveiled for the first time at ISC West in the US in March and will be on show for the first time in Europe at IFSEC 2010. Focused on image quality, the SNC-DH180 boasts a built-in infrared (IR) illuminator to deliver excellent images even in absolute darkness, while the SNC-DH240 is equipped with various different image enhancers including View-DR.

Why is this relevant to Sony's ongoing video security strategy?

HD remains a key focus for Sony and IFSEC 2010 demonstrated Sony's understanding of the security market and the issues it faces, showing how Sony is helping customers to address these challenges.

Market demand for HD products is growing but until now there has not been the breadth of products to provide the means or the motivation to move from analogue to IP. But Sony's innovation in the surveillance space is changing this. Sony maintains its commitment to providing a true hybrid offering and the solutions on display at Stand J10 in Hall 4 included Sony's hybrid video security technologies. Aiding and bridging the migration to IP, Sony demonstrated how hybrid technology is enabling more businesses to access benefits of HD without replacing their existing technology infrastructure.

How is Sony developing its security offering?

New technology features from Sony were also a significant focus at IFSEC. Committed to delivering superior image quality, the majority of new HD cameras from Sony have been equipped with Sony's unique View-DR Wide Dynamic Range technology, allowing users to see normally in extreme light conditions. The increased use of sound recording technology in Sony's surveillance solutions is another area of investment and new products with this capability were also on display.

Sony's security product portfolio is also enhanced through the company's vertical sector expertise and consulting services. The transport sector, in particular rail businesses, has heavily adopted HD security technology. This trend is on the increase and as Sony moves into its new financial year, rail innovation was also a key highlight of the show.