CCTV standards process goes public
In a world-first process, the CCTV industry has an opportunity to contribute to the development of a new Australian Standard. Jane Symonds reports.
The Non-Broadcast Television Committee of Standards Australia has created a new draft Australian Digital and Networking in CCTV Standard, and created an online forum in which those with an interest in the area can submit comments and suggestions.
The process is a world-first which grew out of a CCTV Standards awareness seminar tour held in 2007.
“We had very good attendance, and what we heard there was that industry would really like to have some input into the standard early,” Non-Broadcast Television Committee Chairman Les Simmonds said.
“Most standards are brought together through just a committee or sub-committee over a period of time.
"Often when a standard goes to public comment, people miss it and could have added good value.
“We want people on that website to participate and make their comment no matter how small or non-technical.”
Mr Simmonds said the interactive development process is a revolutionary approach which had never been used before.
“We’ve had worldwide interest and feedback, particularly from the UK, saying this would be a good way to create an international CCTV standard,” he said.
Mr Simmonds said a time frame for the process had not been set, but appropriate comments would be incorporated into new drafts over time.
The draft standard will be taken to around 80 per cent complete on the website before being handed to the committee to undergo the usual Standards Australia process.
The Digital and Networking in CCTV Standard will form part of the AS 4806 series.
Previously released Australian CCTV Standards are: AS 4806.1 – 2006, Management and Operation; AS 4806.2 – 2006, Application Guidelines; AS 4806.3 – 2006, PAL Signal Timings and Levels; and AS 4806.4 – 2008, Remote Video.
The draft Digital and Networking in CCTV Standard, as well as the forum and further information, can be found at http://www.el51televisionstandards.com.au/cctv.html