Integration of Camera Feeds with 3rd Party Solutions

In this article, we will cover the following:

• Using the Rhombus API or Secure Raw Streams
• Requesting to Open Up Camera to Function Independent of Rhombus
  
  • Implications of Firmware Updates Allowing for Independent Operation
• Helpful Links
• Contact Support or Sales

Using the Rhombus API or Secure Raw Streams

The Rhombus platform allows customers to easily integrate Rhombus camera feeds into third-party solutions while maintaining an active license to use our platform. For more information, explore articles regarding the use of our APIs, and/or visit the Secure Raw Streams article.

Requesting to Open Up Camera to Function Independent of Rhombus

Some customers have requested to have their cameras opened up for independent operation at the end of their license term. Whereas this is strongly discouraged, Rhombus can accommodate such requests, subject to the following conditions:

(a) Opening cameras requires Rhombus to manually push a one-time specific firmware update to each device. Rhombus reserves the right to charge a reasonable fee to complete this. Rates will be determined at the time of request and will be based on the number of devices involved. These fees may be waived if Rhombus has otherwise contractually agreed to provide this service; and

(b) The customer must sign a consent and waiver, acknowledging the implications of their request. This must be completed before Rhombus will open up any device(s) for independent operation.

Implications of Firmware Updates Allowing for Independent Operation

1. RTSP Feeds Only. After the one-time firmware update is pushed out to allow for independent operation, the cameras will reset to their default settings. The customer will then be able to use the cameras to generate an RTSP feed to be transmitted to third-party solutions, however, the cameras will have no other functionality that is enabled in the console (no image configurations, zoom, etc.), and there is no guarantee that the third-party solution will accept the feed. Rhombus makes no representations regarding what third-party services would therefore be appropriate for the customer to use and/or that such services would work properly to meet the customer’s expectations.
2. No On-board Video Storage. After firmware updates are pushed out to allow for independent operation, the customer will no longer be able to read or write to the memory card installed on the camera. The data currently stored on the camera’s memory card is encrypted and Rhombus’ service is required to unencrypt this data. Thus, customers must download any data they want to retain from their cameras prior to deactivation of the service. Likewise, any third-party service will not be able to read or write to the memory card on the camera.
3. No Re-Integration. After firmware updates are pushed out to allow for independent operation, the cameras can no longer be used with the Rhombus console or service, and Rhombus will no longer provide firmware updates for the device(s). Thus, even if the customer elected to reinstate service with Rhombus in the future, the cameras that have been updated cannot be used with the Rhombus console.
4. Voided Warranty. Opening up the camera(s) for independent integration would void any existing warranty on the camera(s).

Helpful Links

• Secure Raw Streams
• End User Licensing Agreement
• API Documentation

Contact Support or Sales

Have more questions? Contact Rhombus Support at +1 (877) 746-6797 option 2 or support@rhombus.com.

Interested in learning more? Contact Rhombus Sales at +1 (877) 746-6797 option 1 or sales@rhombus.com.