Delays in Axis IP Surveillance Cameras

Abstract: Controlling motors over IP networks naturally introduces delays. For an operator of a surveillance camera to point the camera (e.g. following an object) delays are of importance. This master’s thesis investigates the sources of steering delays in IP-cameras, testing on AXIS Q6035 and AXIS Q6032 with different video management software and video codec. Camera firmware and communication protocol are evaluated with aim to find improvements. The results show that the client computer, displaying video and sending steering commands, contributes with the largest uncertainty in the system. Video management software and computer load are the key factors. Camera firmware proved to have inefficient communication schemes, which when changed, reduced delay by 70 ms.