PRESS RELEASE
20th April 2006

Axis launches video server designed for intelligent video applications

Axis Communications, the global leader in the network video market1, announced today the launch of its AXIS 242S IV Video Server, a one-channel video server designed to execute advanced intelligent video applications such as people counting, human detection, traffic analysis and license plate recognition.

The AXIS 242S IV is equipped with a digital signal processor which enables image and audio processing algorithms to be run inside the video server, rather than in a central location. This allows for increased scalability when running embedded intelligent video applications because only the necessary and relevant data is transmitted for action.

Steve Gorski, managing director for Axis Communications UK Ltd summed up this announcement by saying: "This announcement and the concept of intelligent video generally represents a natural extension to Axis’ existing network video technology. This new area has already generated early interest as it provides added value solutions. People counting and traffic monitoring are examples of applications that will become available as Axis continues to develop cost-effective intelligent video products to meet these needs".

The AXIS 242S IV will be available separately or bundled with the AXIS IVM120 People Counter, a software module designed for indoor object counting. The video server offers an open platform via Axis’ Application Programme Interface, or VAPIX, that enables Axis Application Development Partners to integrate their own intelligent video or audio applications onto it.

The AXIS 242S IV separately or bundled with the AXIS IVM120, will be available through Axis’ distribution channels in April, for the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of £559 excluding VAT for the separate unit or £629 excluding VAT for the bundled offering.
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Notes to editors
1 Axis Communications is the leading player in the network camera market with 47 per cent market share in the EMEA region according to industry analyst house IMS Research in its latest market report entitled ‘The World Market for CCTV and Video Surveillance Equipment 2005 Edition’ published in October 2005. The network camera market was worth $547m in 2004 and is set to grow by 50 per cent per year over the next five years to reach a value of $360.6m in 2009 in EMEA alone, according to the same report.

About Axis
Axis Communications increases the value of network solutions. The company is an innovative market leader in network video and print servers. Axis’ products and solutions are focused on applications such as security, surveillance, remote monitoring and document management. The products are based on in-house developed chip technology which is also sold to third parties.

Axis was founded in 1984 and is listed on the Stockholmsbörsen (XSSE: AXIS). Axis operates globally with offices in 16 countries an in cooperation with distributors, systems integrators and OEM partners in 70 countries. Markets outside Sweden account for more than 95% of sales. Information about Axis can be found at www.axis.com. 

For further information about Axis Communications in the UK and Ireland, please contact:
Steve Gorski, managing director, Axis Communications (UK) Limited
Tel: 0870 162 0047. Email: steve.gorski@axis.com

For all UK and Ireland media enquiries, please contact:
Miles Clayton / Tim Rose/Simon Bennett, Agility PR Limited
Tel: 01438 310 139. Email: miles.clayton@agilitypr.co.uk / tim.rose@agilitypr.co.uk / simon.bennett@agilitypr.co.uk