In an era where real-time intelligence is critical, mobile surveillance has evolved from a reactive tool to a proactive capability that empowers faster decisions and greater situational awareness.
Whether it’s law enforcement monitoring public safety, defence teams coordinating field operations, or oil & gas companies securing remote assets, the ability to live stream from mobile cameras over cellular networks is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity.
But traditional hardware-based transmitters often fall short. They’re rigid, expensive, and struggle to adapt to fluctuating network conditions. Enter Zao-SDK from Soliton Systems, a software-based streaming solution that’s rewriting the rules of mobile surveillance.
The Power of Software-Defined Streaming
At the heart of Zao-SDK is RASCOW2, Soliton’s proprietary streaming protocol engineered for ultra-low latency and high resilience. Unlike fixed hardware encoders, Zao-SDK empowers organizations to build and customize their own mobile camera setups, whether it’s hand carried cameras, drones, vehicle-mounted systems, or robotic platforms.
This flexibility is game-changing. Agencies can tailor their surveillance architecture to mission-specific needs, integrating multiple cameras into a single stream, encrypting transmissions end-to-end, and deploying across diverse environments - all without being locked into proprietary hardware.
Bonding Across Networks: Reliability in Motion
One of Zao-SDK’s standout features is its ability to bond up to eight IP networks simultaneously. This means you can combine multiple connections – whether it’s from different 4G operators, satellite links, Wi-Fi, or even private LTE - ensuring robust connectivity even in challenging terrains.
Streaming remains stable even when bandwidth dips to as low as 150kbps, thanks to the Zao-SDK’s adaptive encoding. This is particularly vital for mobile deployments where signal strength fluctuates - think urban patrols, rural surveillance, behind or with concrete structures, or drone flights over industrial zones.
And with latency under 65ms over 4G, Zao-SDK delivers near-instantaneous video, critical for real-time decision-making and remote-control operations.
Scalable, Secure, and Smart
The Zao-SDK transmitter integrates seamlessly with Zao Server (on-premises) or Zao Cloud (hosted) at the receiving end, normally within a command-and-control room, giving customers the freedom to choose their preferred deployment model. There are options on the receiver side for scalability and can support up to 100 simultaneous streams, making it ideal for large-scale operations or multi-agency coordination.
The Zao View client that interfaces with Zao Server, allows multiple stakeholders to view live feeds securely, while the Zao Server doubles as a video management system (VMS) for archiving, playback, and evidence handling.
Security is baked in. From encrypted transmission to controlled access, Zao-SDK ensures that sensitive footage remains protected, a must for law enforcement, defence, and critical infrastructure sectors.
Remote Control and Telemetry: More Than Just Video
Mobile surveillance isn’t just about watching - it’s about acting. Zao-SDK supports return control mechanisms, enabling remote PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera control or even robotic navigation and control from afar.
With the addition of LAN tunnelling, users can now transmit telemetry data, such as GPS coordinates, sensor readings, or control commands, turning mobile surveillance into a fully interactive platform.
Why ZAO-SDK Over Traditional Hardware?
The Future Is Software-Driven
As we approach the end of 2025, 5G remains patchy in many regions. The Zao-SDK’s ability to thrive on 3G, 4G LTE, and hybrid networks makes it a future-proof choice for organizations that can’t afford downtime or compromise.
Soliton Systems is leading the charge in software-defined mobile surveillance, giving agencies the tools to stay agile, responsive, and secure, no matter where the mission takes them.
To learn more, visit Soliton Systems and explore how Zao-SDK can transform your mobile surveillance strategy.