Merit Li-Lin: Moving Forward with IP-Based Solutions
With a strong background in analog surveillance, Merit Li-Lin has successfully expanded its IP product line. Its expertise enables solution value and services.
By Tracy Ting from A&S
Founded in 1980, Merit Li-Lin enjoys its 30th anniversary this year. Putting its customers first, the company provides local support at its 12 branches worldwide. Each branch offers IP know-how for more integrated video solutions, including the world・s first ONVIF solution.
The global economic crisis affected Li-Lin・s sales growth in 2009. ：We had a 20 percent sales decrease last year, with the U.S. and Europe taking the hardest hit,： said Ben Hsu, VP at Merit Li-Lin. ：However, with the economy slowly picking up, growth is expected this year.：
IP-Based Solutions
Starting from 2010, Li-Lin will focus on IP-based video solutions. ：Although user uptake for IP has slowed down slightly in 2009, we expect it to pick up again in 2010, especially for the European market,： said Hsu.
Li-Lin has focused on IP-based solutions for the past two years, enhancing solution value. Its comprehensive video lineup includes box cameras, fixed domes, speed domes, IR cameras, megapixel cameras and four-channel network DVRs. ：Apart from differentiating products, ensuring overall system value is key,： Hsu said.
The company takes IP video standards seriously. ：All of our IP-based products are ONVIF-compliant with a simple platform for easy integration,： Hsu said.
While ONVIF faces challenges in configuring PTZ functionality, Li-Lin has developed its own protocol for better control. ：Our PTZ control is compliant with ONVIF standards and features our added-on protocols,： Hsu said.
Analog solutions will also be strengthened along with networked ones. ：Surveillance migrating to IP is a definite trend, but its market is still small. Analog solutions are our main strength, and we will continue its development,： said Hsu. ：By the second quarter of 2010, we will launch a 600 TVL analog speed dome with WDR, DNR, auto lux adjustment and anti-shock features.：
Market Approach
To market its new products, Li-Lin・s current client base is its primary target. ：Our existing customers are more familiar with our products,： Hsu said. ：With the right training, they can understand the benefits of IP-based solutions.：
While its audience is the same, Li-Lin is revising its market approach. Currently, the company・s OEM sales make up about 20 percent of its revenue. ：We want to increase our OEM sales in 2010. Large international companies that sell mid- to high-end products are our targets,： said Hsu.
With overseas branches, Li-Lin understands each of its local markets well. Communication between headquarters and each branch has helped Li-Lin gain brand recognition around the world. ：Increased R&D investment, focused market analysis and support services are our keys to success,： said Hsu. ：We will do our best at what we are good at. While we cannot predict next year・s sales turnover, we foresee a bright future.： |
