If you need to capture security video in the dark, you need an infrared security camera. Infrared security cameras have advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when designing a security system.
Although most security consultants are familiar with an infrared security cameras single drawback: the capture in black and white, many new security personnel do not understand the advantages of using an infrared security camera or when to use one in a security setup.
Simply put, black and white video is better than no video and there are many situations where traditional cameras cannot capture anything.
A good security consultant will understand that there are often variables that will be outside of your control. Configuring a CCTV setup, has to plan for the unexpected such as a key light burning out, getting shattered, or having their power cut. Installing an infrared security camera functions as a tremendous failsafe for these conditions. Also, many times it is more economical, considerate, discrete, or otherwise preferred to use infrared security cameras outdoors rather than flood lighting.
Infrared security cameras measure infrared radiation (or IR). Infrared radiation sensors are often called heat sensors, as they are used in heat seeking missiles and night vision goggles. But this is a misconception as heat is felt from more than just infrared spectrum and the infrared spectrum contains more than heat (for example, your television remote uses an infrared sensor and infrared light, but does not get hot when you use it). For purposes of security systems, however, we will be primarily concerned with the infrared sensor picking up heat signatures of human bodies.
When selecting an infrared security camera it is helpful to know the location where you will be installing it. Infrared light sensors works differently than cameras which work well in ambient light. You will need a light with larger and/or more numerous bulbs if the area you would like to capture is farther away.
A good rule of thumb is: if the infrared security camera has 12 or more infrared lights, it was not meant to be used indoors. Oftentimes, the CCTV applications for indoor cameras is to help secure small rooms or tight spaces that have many flat reflective surfaces, such as windows, doors, coffee tables, fish tanks, or anything else glossy " including some types of glossy interior paints. Many users assume that more lights will automatically make a better picture, but this is not the case. It is generally better to know the application for your security camera before you purchase.
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