Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Infrared Security Cameras - Make An Informed Choice

By Mike Ward

Infrared light is visible as red or violet, which is translated by electromagnetic waves. Some waves are very short, and others are longer, similar to microwaves. When it comes to surveillance, there is no better way to do this than by using infrared security cameras.

Lets look at some of the main features of infrared in the hopes that the information given to you might be of assistance when sourcing your camera:

Because infrared radiation can be measured and seen with special equipment, there are now many ways to view objects either totally in the dark or at normal conditions. Most important to understanding IR cameras is the concept that they provide their own light source. This is not true. Only when the light dims below a pre-set level will the camera's built in light source turn on.

Because infrared can be incorporated with particular equipment such as a camera, it can be used in complete darkness. How this translates is as soon as the level of light drops to its predefined setting, then its emitters kick in and start beaming infrared light at the area in question.

What's really helpful here is that the more emitters your camera is able to carry, the more your area of surveillance will increase. Make sure that your camera specifications can supply you with details like range and angle of its beam.

One thing you should make sure of is, can your IR camera see everything in its range? This is true especially for night surveillance or when an area is completely in the dark. Some inexpensive cameras that use infrared illuminators light up the center of the picture but the outer edges will be much less bright or even dark. A good IR camera will have lighting to match the viewing angle of the lens.

Many regular surveillance cameras if they are capable of B/W images are transformed into infrared cameras as well, with the use of illuminators installed separately. Your camera when attached to a DVR can then detect motion in complete darkness, with the use of its infrared radiation, which is undetectable with the naked eye. Remember that while the normal day and night camera does records in low light, it is impossible to record in zero light as it does not utilize infrared technology.

There are many options in the market for you to choose from today. If your surveillance needs are that of large areas, then block cameras are the best option, with large amount of emitters that can scope huge areas. If you want a more discreet camera then there are some quite small generally referred to as bullet IR cameras. No matter what your needs are, the correct size is available.

If you are considering a CCTV system, then look into a infrared system that can work in tandem with its counterpart. This will provide you with maximum coverage especially at night.

Luckily the cameras are durable and lightweight which makes them easy to install. You can also at a later stage have additions to your system as your needs change.

Before you buy any infrared security cameras, take some time to compare units as they vary in price and quality. Sometimes it's difficult to make a selection especially if buying online but any retailer or supplier should be able to tell you the differences in the cameras so that you can make an informed decision.

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