Iomega Partners with Axis to connect the cloud with RAID-protected storage for hosted video in the SMB market

Iomega is now shipping the first of its StorCenter network attached storage (NAS) models with an integrated AVHS client that enables customers to store video files locally and at HDTV or megapixel resolution while simultaneously streaming video data to a secure off-site storage facility developed by their hosting provider. 

The AVHS-enabled Iomega network storage devices, along with Axis network cameras and encoders, allow resellers and integrators to deliver world class video surveillance capabilities to small and medium-sized customers that are secure, remotely accessible, and a cost effective solution compared to DVR-based analog systems with small camera counts.

“Eliminating the need for expensive and complex DVRs, as well as reducing the necessity of elaborate onsite infrastructure for low camera count deployments, gives our mutual customers a more secure, highly available and cost-effective solution for their video surveillance needs,” said Jonathan Huberman, president of Iomega Corporation. “By partnering with Axis to integrate AVHS into our award-winning StorCenter network storage products, powered by EMC’s world class security and storage technologies, Iomega continues to deliver advanced yet economical network storage solutions to the marketplace.”  

About AVHS
AXIS Video Hosting System (AVHS) software is Axis’ platform for creating a service provider-specific portal to manage video surveillance hosting and monitoring services for any end-user with an Internet connection. The platform, which was created for professional-level video surveillance, is currently designed for fast onsite deployments of a few cameras per site – typically less than 10 – and is especially beneficial for organizations with many sites, such as franchises and bank branches.

“Before the emergence of hosted video surveillance, end-users who needed only a few cameras per site to secure their properties – such as convenient stores, gas stations, and small offices – were left  to use outdated analogue technology as the most cost-effective solution,” said Fredrik Nilsson, general manager, Axis Communications Inc. “By working together with reputable storage and IT security partners such as EMC’s Iomega, we can deliver IP-based video systems to these end-users, which provides much more flexibility, superior image quality and local intelligence with easy-to-install products.”  

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As part of the Axis Technology Partner Program (TPP), Iomega co-developed the solution with Axis to ensure the highest degree of integration and support.  Iomega has included the AVHS client on its new double-drive desktop Iomega StorCenter™ ix2-200 Cloud Edition NAS unit, which ships with up to 6TB* of networked storage capacity, as well as the  new quad-drive desktop Iomega® StorCenter ix4-200d Cloud Edition, with up to 12TB of storage capacity.  

In video storage terms, users monitoring even a busy scene can expect approximately 40 days worth of storage for four cameras recording to 4TBs of usable capacity at typical default settings (640×480, 30 per cent compression, and full frame rate). To maximize storage functionality, integrators can work with end-users to set event-based recording triggers that will stream higher quality, HDTV or megapixel video to the device on motion or audio detection, for example.

In the second half of 2011, Iomega will integrate the AVHS client into its rackmount network storage products, including the four-drive Iomega® StorCenter ix4-200r, with up to 8TB of networked storage capacity; and the 12-drive Iomega® StorCenter ix12-300r, with up to 24TB of networked storage capacity.

An Integrator’s Take on New Iomega-Axis Hosted Video Surveillance Solution

“Iomega’s unique StorCenter devices are proof that end-users are the ultimate beneficiary when the physical security industry works closely with innovations driven from the IT and consumer worlds,” said Phil Atteberry, director of Managed Security Solutions, Siemens Industry, Inc. “Those customers operating limited surveillance assets are no longer confined to using analog technology because of cost. They now have the option to reap all the benefits of IP surveillance at an attractive price.”

The combination of Iomega StorCenter storage devices and Axis network cameras allows customers to select different recording and retention policies for both on-site and off-site video files, and also allows remote access from any web browser.  The solution enables businesses to leverage the power and cost effectiveness of cloud services, or select a proprietary onsite system with the StorCenter unit acting as the NAS. Hosted video customers will pay for only the storage they need, allowing them to grow their infrastructure without requiring additional capital investment. Deployment times will also be greatly reduced due to limited infrastructure requirements.

Iomega StorCenter Network Storage Capabilities
The Iomega StorCenter network storage units utilize the acclaimed EMC LifeLine software, a fully-developed Linux operating environment and suite of applications that is designed for cross-platform support with Windows, Mac and Linux computers. The LifeLine operating system presents a simple-to-use graphical interface that makes it easy to perform valuable business tasks while remaining confident that data is securely stored, protected, and accessible whenever and wherever you need it.  

Available in 2TB, 4TB, 6TB, 8TB and 12TB capacities, the StorCenter ix2-200 Cloud Edition and the StorCenter ix4-200d Cloud Edition desktop NAS devices utilize a simple four-step setup process that has the units operational in a matter of minutes. Starting at less than $250.00, Iomega StorCenter desktop NAS units provide robust data management and protection for the serious business user, as well as the latest in multimedia serving and remote access features that make it a breeze to access data, whether in the office or anywhere else in the world (with an Internet connection).

Among the business features of the StorCenter ix2-200 and the StorCenter ix4-200d Cloud Editions:
•    Iomega’s new Personal Cloud technology, which allows users to remotely access and share encrypted files with up to 250 co-workers and friends without any of the monthly or annual fees associated with traditional cloud services.
•    Device-to-device replication for business continuity and file recovery
•    iSCSI block-level access for efficient storage utilization
•    RAID 1 configuration for StorCenter ix2-200, and multiple RAID configurations for StorCenter ix4-200d for optimized data protection
•    Remote access and management
•    Windows® Active Directory support
•    A front panel QuikTransfer button for easy copying of selected files
•    User replaceable hard drives
•    Multiple IP security camera support
•    iSCSI block-level access with the StorCenter ix4-200d for efficient storage utilization
•    And for the forward-thinking small business, VMware®, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer certification for virtualization installations.
Pricing, Availability and Warranty
The Iomega StorCenter ix2-200 Cloud Edition NAS starts at less than $250.00. The Iomega StorCenter ix4-200d Cloud Edition NAS starts at less than $800.00.