Built-in Cameras and Standalone Illuminators
In the last two decades, video surveillance has advanced rapidly. Currently, integrators can purchase on the market IP CCTV cameras that offer full network control, mega-pixel cameras with high-definition images or cameras with PTZ function (pan, tilt and zoom) with remote direction control. Although these features are impressive, they do not solve all the challenges faced by surveillance solutions.
Importance of lighting in camera performance
Lighting, or the lack of it, is a factor that has a significant impact on the quality of video captured by a camera. It is a widespread belief that light poles emit a sufficient amount of light for surveillance. The truth is that these devices do not provide enough light or are not strategically located to optimize object capture and video monitoring.
To meet the need for better lighting, video manufacturers have launched cameras with built-in lights, the effectiveness of which has been shown to be limited. Currently, the best lighting solution for a surveillance system is a freestanding illuminator. Let’s see why.
Challenges of Integrated Illuminators
Integrated cameras, or cameras with built-in infrared (IR) illuminators, are practical. These comprehensive surveillance and lighting solutions offer maximum ease of use. The most common types of infrared security cameras are day / night or black and white cameras. These cameras typically have multiple IR LEDs (light emitting diode) around the lens. Night vision cameras are effective for close range applications as they typically capture objects up to 30.48 meters away.
While infrared cameras are useful for close-range monitoring, installing these systems poses significant challenges. Integrated cameras usually generate areas of high luminance, these appear when the angle of the camera lens is wider than the field of view of the LED.
Suppose, for example, that you have a camera with an angle of 90 degrees, but whose angle of illumination is only 30 degrees; the effect is similar to what occurs when a person shines a flashlight on someone and takes a picture of them: the person or object is left with a faded appearance.
When LEDs are located inside the chamber and next to other electronic components, a build-up of heat can occur. The heat, in turn, attracts insects that can activate the motion detection function and trigger false alarms. Other times spiders are attracted to light and they weave their webs around the camera lens obstructing its field of vision.
Additionally, the accumulation of heat deteriorates the LED light and reduces its useful life. Once the lights burn out there is no easy way to replace them, often the end-user has to replace the entire camera. However, the best option is to install a separate light source.
Eliminate high luminance areas
Freestanding illuminators are the best option currently on the market thanks to their coverage and flexibility. While fixed and built-in infrared lights have narrow angles that only provide partial coverage, freestanding illuminators come in a wide variety of angles that can provide full coverage.
For example, when an integrator is working with a PTZ camera, they can install a triple bracket that can accommodate three 120-degree illuminators that can be oriented in different directions. The result is 360 degrees of illumination. In the same way, an integrator can combine a dome camera with a 10-degree illuminator to monitor a specific area of interest such as a gate or door.
By installing a light whose illumination angle directly matches the angle of the camera lens, high luminance areas are eliminated. End users can enjoy consistent lighting and a sharp image. Normally you can buy lights that offer coverage of 10, 30, 60, 100 and 120 degrees.
Preserve the lifespan of LEDs
Freestanding illuminators do not have the problem of heat build-up. In infrared cameras all heat is centralized in the area of the camera lens. Freestanding light sources are designed differently so that the lights are typically arranged in rows, allowing heat to dissipate in all directions. This not only keeps insects out but also preserves the life of the LED.
Increase distances
Another advantage of freestanding illuminators is that they capture light at greater distances. A built-in infrared camera, located on a street corner, provides 10-degree coverage and has the ability to capture objects up to 30.48 meters away. On the other hand, a separate infrared illumination emitting 10-degree illumination can cover a distance of more than 274.32 meters. This is more than nine times the average for an integrated camera.
Lastly, installing a separate light source frees up bandwidth in the camera. In an age when cameras are capturing more information than ever, it is important to maximize your camera’s storage space. Independent illuminators help you do just that.
Create awareness
It is clear that independent light sources provide more powerful and adaptable lighting. However, if there is no general understanding about the fundamental need for lighting in security solutions, knowledge about the different lighting products will be no more than a purely intellectual matter, with no practical implications.
In general, many professionals in the security industry are misinformed when it comes to lighting. People forget that without light there is no video and that a camera will only capture the video images that the lighting in its environment allows.
So, what can you do? You can raise awareness among your colleagues about the importance of having adequate lighting. You can share training resources and educational seminars online. You can review case studies and testimonials. You can equip your team with the necessary skills and knowledge, and you can decide to invest in high-quality lighting.
