Ip Video Encoder In Home Internet & Media Streamers

Common Questions About IP Video Encoders

If you have an analog video camera that you want to stream to a computer, chances are youll need an IP video encoder to accomplish that task. Many inexpensive encoders can be found on eBay. These devices can handle most traditional video sources, and they range from models made for home security systems to those designed to produce multiple streams at major events.

Below are some of the main features to consider when comparing encoders:

• Number of channels: If you have a single security camera video to stream, then a single-channel encoder is all you need. If you have multiple cameras at an event or commercial property, then you might want to choose one or more multi-channel devices to produce the number of streams needed.
• Video formats: When youve decided which digital video format you need, youll want to get devices that support that output stream whether its RTMP or an MPEG-2 stream.
• Wireless connectivity: Many encoders are capable of wireless connections as well as Ethernet, which makes it possible to send video to a network without cables.
• Power over Ethernet: Often abbreviated as PoE, the power of Ethernet allows a power supply to be delivered through a network cable, which simplifies the cabling needed to install IP cameras and equipment.

These devices come in a couple broad categories:

• Hardware encoders: These models can convert feeds to a digital format and transmit them to a computer without further processing by a server or software program.
• Big iron encoders: These models are designed for broadcasters and security systems in large facilities. They can be installed on server racks and process as many as 16 channels simultaneously.
• Portable encoders: These models are designed to be used at multiple sites and usually include wireless connectivity.

IP stands from "Internet Protocol." An IP video encoder is an electronic device designed to receive an analog video feed and convert it to a digital format that can be transmitted over a local area network or the internet. This simple function is made complex by the variety of situations that require network streams. Major events might have a dozen high-resolution streams to convert while a home security system might consist of a single low-resolution camera. Encoders are also designed with different streaming applications in mind. Some will convert a stream into a common digital format like MPEG-2, but others are made with stream processing servers in mind that receive data in formats like RTMP.