By integrating the latest IP video cameras and encoders with Bosch Digital Video Recorders (DVR) and the Bosch Allegiant family of matrix switches, the latest version of Bosch's VMS optimizes security and minimizes installation and operating costs.

The VMS embodies Bosch's innovative Video Recording Manager (VRM) that manages and controls direct-to-iSCSI recording pioneered by Bosch. With advanced features such as automatic distribution of available storage and automatic failover, the VRM saves significantly on costs and enhances system reliability. A single VRM server can manage up to 2000 cameras, and extra servers can be added as required. Special configuration management software allows the entire system to be configured from any PC on the network, and operator client software provides the user interface for system monitoring and operation.

The VMS provides exceptional flexibility. Cameras, recorders, and viewing stations can be placed anywhere in the IP network, and all live and archived video data can be viewed at any location on single or multiple work stations simultaneously. The VMS also provides system-wide event and alarm management, system health monitoring, as well as user and priority management from installations that span buildings, campuses, cities, countries, or even continents.

The Bosch VMS also fully integrates the company's advanced Intelligent Video Analysis (IVA) functionality. The latest version of IVA includes new color filtering capabilities that for the first time allow object color or even a combination of colors to be set as a detection criterion. It also offers powerful new features such as alerts on line crossings, object trajectories and changes in object attributes. In addition, it features a fast forensic search capability that searches on content analysis information in the form of metadata - simple text strings describing specific image details generated and stored with the video images. This allows users to easily set up search queries that scan through the metadata using smart search facilities and point them to video of interest in a matter of seconds.

The system uses the comprehensive network infrastructure already present in most buildings, eliminating the need for special coax cabling. All set up and configuration can be carried out from any location. Automatic discovery, automatic assignment of IP addresses, and advanced copy facilities speed up system configuration and ensure consistency throughout the application, while considerably reducing installation and system maintenance costs.

The Bosch VMS also supports the latest .NET remoting technology. It is both secure and firewall friendly, requiring only two definable open ports. Multicast technology can also be used to ensure efficient use of system bandwidth. In addition, all commands in the VMS are encrypted, protecting against command snooping and hostile access to vital functions.