TimeSight Systems last week launched what could be the first lifecycle management package for video surveillance data.

The software, which resides on an x86-based server appliance, improves the quality of video data while reducing its storage footprint. TimeSight 2.0 provides for the retention of video data from days to months.

TimeSight Video Lifecycle Management (VLM) consists of four models that capture, store and manage both motion and non-motion video data. The models are differentiated by the number of processors, memory, expansion slots and RAID support. Each appliance can reduce the amount of data being stored by 90% using H.264 compression over time rules. Interdependent motion handling also uses H.264 compression rules to store and retain all video on less storage. The software can search through what TimeSight calls events of interest to allow detection, location and review of video data. VLM supports both existing analog and IP cameras.

"With the adoption of high resolution cameras and digital based solutions that eliminates grainy images, security departments everywhere are looking for a future proof platform that will reduce their current costs, while preparing them for tomorrow's advanced forensics, analytics and compliance," said Dilip Sarangan, research analyst, Frost & Sullivan, North America Security Practice. "TimeSight Systems' unique VLM technology allows users to embrace high resolution digital based video cameras without requiring massive storage capacities."

TimeSight Systems is from what I know the first company to look at managing the lifecycle of video surveillance data. Companies such as Intransa and Pivot3, who store video data on inexpensive iSCSI storage arrays, would be excellent partners for TimeSight.

TimeSight Systems is headed up by Charles Foley, former CEO of Tacit Networks which was acquired by Packeteer. The company is funded for $6 million.

TimeSight v2.0 is available immediately. The TimeSight appliance starts at $3,900.

Deni Connor is principal analyst for Storage Strategies NOW.