Axis Cameras: Where Are They Manufactured?

Axis Communications AB is a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras, access control, and network audio devices for the physical security and video surveillance industries. The company was founded in 1984 by Keith Bloodworth, Martin Gren, and Mikael Karlsson in Lund, Sweden. Initially, Axis Communications focused on developing and selling protocol converters and printer interfaces for connecting PC printers to IBM mainframe and mini-computer environments. Over time, they expanded their product offerings and introduced the industry's first network camera, the AXIS 200, in 1996. Today, Axis Communications operates in over 50 countries and has a significant presence in the global market for network cameras and video encoders. While the majority of their products are manufactured in Sweden, there have been reports of some models being produced in other countries, such as Thailand and the Czech Republic.

Are Axis cameras made in China?

Axis Communications AB, a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras, was founded in 1984 by Martin Gren, Mikael Karlsson, and Keith Bloodworth in Lund, Sweden. The company initially focused on creating protocol converters and printer interfaces for connecting PC printers to IBM mainframe and mini-computer environments. Over time, they expanded their product offerings and, in 1996, introduced the industry's first network camera, the AXIS 200.

Regarding the country of manufacture, Axis cameras are primarily produced in Sweden, where the company is based and has its research and development facilities. However, it is important to note that Axis has also mentioned having a few globally available models manufactured by global EMS partners located in China. Their plan is to use EMS partners in China specifically for products dedicated to the Chinese market. This strategy was expected to be fully implemented by 2018.

Axis has a strong presence in the physical security and video surveillance industries, with a wide range of IP-based products and solutions. Their product portfolio includes security cameras, video encoders, accessories, and access control products. The company operates in over 50 countries and has a significant number of official partners worldwide.

While Axis has some products manufactured in China, it is important to note that their primary market is not limited to China, and they have a global reach. The company's commitment to creating a smarter and safer world has driven their innovation and expansion over the years.

Where else are Axis cameras made?

Axis Communications AB is a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras, access control, and network audio devices for the physical security and video surveillance industries. The company was founded in 1984 in Lund, Sweden, by Martin Gren, Mikael Karlsson, and Keith Bloodworth.

Initially, Axis Communications focused on developing protocol converters and printer interfaces for connecting PC printers to IBM mainframe and mini-computer environments. Over time, they expanded their product offerings and introduced the industry's first network camera, the AXIS 200, in 1996.

Today, Axis Communications operates in over 50 countries and employs thousands of people. While the company is primarily associated with Sweden, it is important to note that they have a global presence and a diverse range of products.

In terms of manufacturing locations, Axis cameras are produced in various countries. One source mentions Thailand (M series), Sweden (P/Q series), and the Czech Republic (one P series dome camera). Another source indicates that Axis has manufacturing partners in China, but these are primarily for products dedicated to the Chinese market.

Axis has also acquired companies based in other countries, such as Citilog, a French video analytics provider, and 2N Telecommunications, a provider of IP intercom systems based in the Czech Republic.

Therefore, while Sweden is a significant location for Axis Communications' operations and manufacturing, they also have manufacturing partnerships and acquisitions in other countries, contributing to the global presence of the company.

What is Axis Communications?

Axis Communications is a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras, access control, and network audio devices for the physical security and video surveillance industries. The company was founded in 1984 by Keith Bloodworth, Martin Gren, and Mikael Karlsson in Lund, Sweden, and started as an IT company selling print servers. Axis Communications aimed to change the way people use and think about digital devices, and this marked the beginning of their commitment to creating a smarter and safer world.

The company developed and sold protocol converters and printer interfaces for the connection of PC printers in IBM mainframe and mini-computer environments. By the end of the 1980s, Axis Communications expanded internationally and opened its first U.S. sales office in Boston, Massachusetts. In the early 1990s, the company began shifting its focus from IBM mainframes to networking and the TCP/IP protocol.

In 1996, Axis Communications introduced the industry's first network camera, the AXIS 200, a digital video camera that could send and receive data via a computer network. This was a significant step forward from the existing analogue CCTV cameras. Following this, the company continued to innovate and released the AXIS 2100 in 1999, which was the first volume product using an embedded Linux system.

Over the years, Axis Communications has introduced several industry-first products, including the first PTZ camera, the first HDTV network camera, and the first thermal network camera. The company has a strong focus on research and development, with over 800 engineers based at their R&D department in Lund, Sweden. This commitment to innovation has been a key driver of their success.

In 2015, Axis Communications was acquired by Canon Inc., a Japanese multinational corporation specializing in imaging and optical products. Canon is the majority shareholder, but Axis continues to operate as an independent company, retaining its own R&D and marketing functions. This acquisition has provided Axis with access to Canon's advanced technology and expertise.

Axis Communications now operates in over 50 countries and employs over 3,800 people, with an additional 80,000 official partners worldwide. The company offers a wide range of IP-based products and solutions for security and video surveillance, including security cameras, video encoders, accessories, and access control products. Their products are known for their high quality and advanced features, such as video content analysis capabilities and artificial intelligence for video surveillance applications.

In addition to their camera systems, Axis Communications also provides video management software, video encoders, body cameras, radar systems, and network audio devices. The company's sustainability efforts are also notable, with a reported 80% of its network cameras and video encoders being PVC-free as of 2019.

What cameras does Axis make?

Axis Communications AB, a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras, offers a wide range of camera types for physical security and video surveillance. The company was the first to introduce a network camera in 1996, the AXIS 200, and has since released a variety of innovative products.

Network Cameras

Axis Communications manufactures network cameras for diverse applications. Their product range includes:

• Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras
• Vandal-resistant cameras
• Thermal cameras
• Nitrogen-pressurized cameras
• Wireless cameras
• HDTV network cameras
• Cameras compatible with Z-Wave devices

Most Axis cameras have advanced motion detection capabilities, and their higher-end cameras use artificial intelligence to classify objects and human behaviour for video surveillance.

Body Cameras

In 2020, Axis Communications entered the body camera market, competing with established brands such as Axon and Motorola Solutions.

Video Encoders

Axis Communications produces video encoders that convert analog video signals into digital formats for IP networks. Their encoders are based on the H.264 video compression standard, optimising image quality while reducing bandwidth and storage requirements. They offer various port options, from 1-port to 16-port video encoders, as well as rack-mountable systems for large-scale installations.

Video Management Software

Axis Communications provides video management software, marketed as AXIS Camera Station. This software enables remote video monitoring, recording, and event management. It can be integrated with other systems, such as point-of-sale and access control, through its API. Additionally, they offer a free lightweight remote-viewing application called AXIS Companion.

Physical Access Control

Axis Communications introduced physical access control systems in 2013 with network door controllers and RFID card readers. Their devices can be integrated with other IP-based security components and third-party software. Axis was the first to offer ONVIF-conformant physical access control systems.

Network Audio

Axis Communications introduced network audio products in 2015, starting with a horn speaker for security applications. They have since expanded their offerings to include network loudspeakers, sound projectors, strobe sirens, intercoms, and analog-to-IP audio converters for public address (PA) systems. Some of their network audio products are designed for outdoor use and feature vandal-resistant properties.

Radar

In 2017, Axis Communications launched its first network radar, enhancing the capabilities of their PTZ cameras. Their network radars employ machine learning and deep learning algorithms to classify objects and identify behaviours, minimising false alarms and providing advanced auto-tracking capabilities. These radars are designed for outdoor environments and include vandal-resistant features.

Who owns Axis?

Axis Communications AB, a Swedish manufacturer of network cameras, access control, and network audio devices, is owned by Canon Inc. Canon, a Japanese multinational corporation specializing in imaging and optical products, acquired Axis Communications in 2015 through a cash bid of 23.6 billion Swedish kronor (US$2.83 billion). Despite Canon being the majority shareholder, Axis operates as an independent company within the Canon Group, with its own brand and management team.

The history of Axis Communications dates back to 1984 when it was founded by Martin Gren, Mikael Karlsson, and Keith Bloodworth in Lund, Sweden. Initially, the company focused on developing and selling protocol converters and printer interfaces for connecting PC printers to IBM mainframe and mini-computer environments. Over time, they expanded their product offerings and introduced the industry's first network camera, the AXIS 200, in 1996. This innovation revolutionized the way people use and think about digital devices, marking the beginning of their commitment to create a smarter and safer world.

In 2008, Axis Communications collaborated with Bosch and Sony to standardize the interface of network video products, forming the Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF). This initiative demonstrated their dedication to open standards and interoperability in the industry.

Today, Axis Communications has a global presence with offices in over 50 countries and a workforce of more than 3,800 employees. The company continues to innovate and expand its product portfolio, offering a wide range of network cameras, video encoders, video management software, physical access control systems, and network audio solutions. Their products are known for their advanced features, such as video content analysis, artificial intelligence capabilities, and integration with Z-Wave devices.

While Canon provides strategic direction and support, Axis maintains its independence in day-to-day operations and decision-making. This autonomy allows Axis to stay true to its roots as a Swedish corporation, even as it benefits from the resources and expertise of its parent company, Canon Inc.

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