Scalable multimedia system for interactive surveillance and video communication applications

Recent advances in embedded computer electronics and integration in multimedia standard specifications are enabling cost-effective terminals for video communication and conferencing with potential capabilities in video surveillance application, both on wireless and wired links. Following a tutorial approach, the paper describes the practical implementation of a multimedia system and terminals implemented at our labs. The system (Real Time Scalable Video Communication Unit — VCU) is based on latest extension to Standard Recommendation ITU-T H.324 and H.323, it performs real time audio, video and data communication with the today available network technology and consumer electronics components. The system was provided with enhanced video and remote control setting capabilities, leading to multimedia terminals suitable for both interactive video conferencing applications and remote video surveillance, in particular, when variable and/or low bitrate links are available, exploiting video scalability.