| API | Application Programming Interface. A set of predefined interfaces (such as functions or HTTP interfaces) that allow different software components to communicate with each other. APIs enable developers to access certain features of software or hardware without needing to understand the internal implementation or source code. |
| AI | Artificial Intelligence. A branch of computer science focused on developing systems capable of simulating human intelligence, including learning, reasoning, and decision-making. |
| Auto-Iris | Automatic iris. The iris controls the amount of light entering the lens. Without an iris, images may become overexposed in bright environments or too dark in low light. The iris also affects image depth of field and sharpness. Auto-iris lenses automatically adjust the aperture and include types such as Video-drive, DC-drive, P-iris, and i-CS. |
| Computer Vision (CV) | A field of artificial intelligence that enables computers to interpret and understand visual information from images or video. It involves object recognition, tracking, measurement, and image processing to make visual data usable for machines or humans. |
| Corridor Format | A video display mode designed for narrow areas such as corridors or hallways. The standard 16:9 image is rotated to 9:16 to better capture vertically oriented scenes. |
| DC-Iris | A DC-driven automatic iris lens that adjusts the aperture based on signals from the camera to maintain proper exposure. |
| Deep Learning (DL) | A subset of machine learning based on neural networks with multiple layers, widely used in modern AI video analytics such as face recognition and object detection. |
| DHCP | Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A network protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses and network parameters to devices on a network. |
| DSP | Digital Signal Processor. A specialized processor designed for high-speed digital signal processing such as audio, video, and image data. |
| EIS | Electronic Image Stabilization. A technology that compensates for camera shake through image analysis and digital processing. |
| Frame Rate (FPS) | The frequency at which consecutive frames appear in a video stream, usually measured in frames per second (FPS). |
| i-CS Lens | Intelligent CS-mount lens. Developed by Axis and Computar. The lens communicates information such as focus, zoom, iris, and distortion data to the camera for automatic optimization. |
| IEEE 802.1X | A network authentication standard developed by IEEE for port-based network access control on LAN switches and wireless access points. |
| IK Rating | A rating that indicates the impact protection level of an enclosure against mechanical shock. |
| IP Rating | Ingress Protection Rating. Defines the level of protection against solid objects (dust, debris) and liquids (water). |
| Image Sensor | A device that converts light into electrical signals for image capture. Common types include CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) sensors. |
| IPv4 / IPv6 | Internet Protocol versions used for device addressing and communication across networks. IPv4 is widely used, while IPv6 provides a much larger address space. |
| Machine Learning (ML) | A branch of artificial intelligence that enables systems to learn from data and improve performance without explicit programming. |
| MQTT | Message Queuing Telemetry Transport. A lightweight publish-subscribe messaging protocol widely used in IoT and machine-to-machine communication. |
| NEMA Rating | A standard defined by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association describing enclosure protection levels against environmental conditions. |
| Noise Reduction | Image processing techniques used to reduce visual noise in video images and improve clarity. |
| ONVIF | Open Network Video Interface Forum. An industry standard that ensures interoperability between IP-based security devices such as cameras, NVRs, and software platforms. |
| P2P | Peer-to-Peer. A networking method where devices communicate directly without a central server, commonly used for remote camera access. |
| P-Iris | Precise iris control technology developed by Axis and Kowa. Uses a stepper motor and software algorithms to optimize aperture for better contrast, sharpness, resolution, and depth of field. |
| PoE | Power over Ethernet. A technology that allows network cables to carry electrical power along with data to devices such as IP cameras. |
| SDK | Software Development Kit. A set of development tools, libraries, and documentation that allows developers to build applications for specific hardware or software platforms. |
| SIP | Session Initiation Protocol. A signaling protocol used to initiate, manage, and terminate multimedia communication sessions such as voice or video calls. |
| TCP/IP | Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol. A suite of communication protocols used to interconnect network devices on the internet. |
| Two-Way Audio | A feature that allows cameras to support both audio input and output for remote communication. |
| UPnP | Universal Plug and Play. A networking protocol that allows devices to automatically discover and connect to each other on a network. |
| VMS | Video Management System. Software used to manage, monitor, and record video streams from security cameras. |
| WDR | Wide Dynamic Range. A technology that allows cameras to capture clear images in scenes with both very bright and very dark areas. |
