Outdoor surveillance requires special cameras to accommodate the varying
lighting and environmental conditions. If your security plan relies heavily on
outdoor surveillance, you should really consider installing infrared outdoor
cameras to achieve the best possible protection. This article seeks to take a
closer look at outdoor security cameras and infrared technology -- how the two
together can be used to improve your outdoor surveillance operations.
Infrared energy in the form of reflected light or emitted heat is transmitted
from all living things, yet is invisible to the naked eye. An infrared camera
can capture this infrared energy and convert it into a format that is visible.
There are two distinct methods by which this process is accomplished, image
enhancement and thermal imaging. For purposes of this article, we will focus on
the image enhancement method since the majority of infrared cameras designed for
consumer or business applications are built with this technology. It is much
less expensive than thermal imaging, and thus more practical for commercial
applications.
The image enhancement technology that is built into outdoor surveillance
cameras works by collecting small amounts of light, including infrared light
that is not visible through the human eye. The light that is gathered is then
amplified to the point that images can be easily observed.
Most infrared cameras are actually built to function both as a traditional
surveillance camera and as an infrared camera. These cameras are designed to
automatically switch to infrared or night vision mode when a change in lighting
is sensed. In addition, since infrared cameras are ideally suited for outdoor
surveillance, you can find a wide variety of housing options to accommodate all
types of varying weather conditions.
The following models are just two examples of infrared cameras that have
gotten good reviews. They will provide you with a good introduction to some of
the functionality that is available.
-
Outdoor Long Range 70' Night Vision Security Camera --
This model can view up to a range of 70 feet in complete darkness. It provides
360 lines of color resolution during the daytime and 360 lines of black and
white resolution at night. The camera also has an automatic sensor that monitors
the light level. The camera automatically switches back and forth between
infrared mode, and color video mode depending on the level of light available.
It is also built for outdoor use with an extremely durable housing, and
automatic heater for severe temperatures. This camera sells for $200.
-
Color Outdoor Infrared Integrated Day & Night Bullet
Camera -- This camera features 420 lines of resolution and an automatic
sensor to monitor light levels. Like the above EZWatch Pro model, this camera is
also designed to switch automatically from color to black and white infrared
mode when light levels fall. This camera is built for outdoor use with a sturdy
weatherproof housing. It is slightly less expensive than the EZWatch Pro model,
coming in at $129.95.
These are just two of the many models of infrared cameras available. Some
systems are designed to function with just one camera and others with up to 32
cameras. The system you buy will be directly dependent on your specific
nighttime surveillance needs. Consequently, if you do any monitoring outside at
night, an infrared camera designed for outdoor use is definitely the way to
go.
