The advent of the CCTV camera technology has made crime that much more difficult to commit and criminals that much easier to apprehend. Even crimes committed in low lighting or complete darkness can be monitored and recorded, thanks to infrared technology. If you need a security camera that is reliable and effective, consider using the infrared surveillance camera. Here are some buying tips to keep in mind:
Resolution Capacity
Resolution refers to its ability to produce good, clear pictures. This is usually measured in terms of TVLs or TV lines (the horizontal lines that appear on a monitor screen that form the images), or in pixels.
If there are budget constraints, you may want to look for a good-priced infrared surveillance camera that has a high TVL resolution. This will ensure that you get good, sharp images every time, even if the camera took them at night time. If budget is not really a concern, consider a surveillance camera with a high megapixel count. It will cost you but if you want high-end coverage and image clarity, that’s the way to go.
Control Functions
There are basically two kinds of infrared surveillance cameras you can buy: the fixed type and the PTZ or pan, tilt and zoom type. Either one works very well for monitoring specific areas and has its own advantages and limitations.
A fixed camera is a good option for monitoring smaller locations because it can only be focused in one direction. It can also be used to monitor larger or wider areas if it is installed at a higher location. The PTZ infrared surveillance camera, on the other hand, can be set or controlled to move from left to right, up and down. It also has a zoom lens so it’s easier to get a closer view of an object from a remote location.
Before you buy a particular type of surveillance camera, consider what suits your needs. Is a PTZ camera the better choice for your building or will a fixed camera do? How wide is the area or room you need to monitor? Will you require a closeup shot of objects that appear onscreen or will footage from a wide angle be enough?
LUX Rating
The LUX rating refers to the ability of the camera lens to process images at low lighting. Before buying an infrared surveillance camera, factor in the general environment of the area you want to monitor. Will it be pitch dark or is a source of light available from somewhere, such as a lamp post or an outdoor light? Buy a camera that has a day/night mode so you can switch the settings when needed and look for one that has a sufficient capability to process images at different levels of lighting.
during the day and will normally contain a digital CCD chip that automatically switches between color and black and white in low light conditions, optimizing the recordable result. The Day/Night cameras have 56 infrared LEDs which are able to record an event up to 60 feet away in total darkness, and are also fully weatherproof for outdoor use.