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Home > Infrared outdoor cameras can drastically improve the effectiveness of your outdoor surveillance network
April 10, 2007
By: Lynn Bryant
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.
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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.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and contributor
to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your definitive guide to
video surveillance equipment, CCTV cameras and wireless
security systems for home and business.
Also See:
[ Home
wireless surveillance system & camera kits by X10 ]
[ Webcam
monitoring software for webcam viewing & PC-based surveillance ]
[
Helpful tips on purchasing video surveillance cameras for home security ]
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