Night-time surveillance for small to medium-sized locations can be quite challenging. Typically, the choices are restricted to day/night cameras or low-light cameras, also known as Starlight cameras. These devices can maintain color imagery as long as the lighting remains above a certain threshold, switching to black and white when it falls below that level. However, preserving color in dimly lit conditions often comes at the expense of other image qualities, such as noise reduction and clarity. Moreover, cameras attempting to retain color images at night often face issues with motion blur or when dealing with high dynamic range scenes, where there's a significant contrast between the brightest and darkest areas.
But what can be done to ensure vivid color images persist through the night? Here are three useful tips for achieving this:
Demand for diverse low-light cameras is on the rise. An IHS Markit report from 2019 projected a substantial increase in the number of video cameras with advanced low-light capabilities, jumping from 4.75 million in 2015 to an expected 51 million by 2022.
Dual-lens cameras, as the name suggests, are equipped with two lenses: one for lightness and one for color. The enhanced Hector Weyl Color True 2.0 series of network cameras features this dual-lens technology. Through pixel-level, frame-by-frame mapping, these cameras deliver high-definition images and vibrant colors even without auxiliary white light, thereby minimizing light pollution and reducing the interference of insects that can compromise scene monitoring. Additionally, these cameras incorporate an AA (Active Alignment) process that ensures precise alignment of incoming light with the sensor. The Color True series is available in various models, including dome, bullet, box, and eyeball styles.
Beyond dual-lens technology, the Hector Weyl Color True 2.0 series also includes cameras with advanced features like vari-focal lenses and 4K resolution, enhancing their intelligence and adaptability for various surveillance needs.
2. Use IR and white light together
Infrared (IR) and white light are prevalent supplementary illumination sources for cameras. Their application can significantly impact image quality in low-light settings or at night. However, overuse of white light can lead to light pollution, particularly in urban environments.
Hector Weyl's upcoming TiOC (three-in-one camera) 2.0, slated for release in September, features Smart Dual Illuminators that permit users to toggle between IR and White Light modes according to their surveillance needs. The camera defaults to the built-in IR illuminator for illumination. When a person enters the surveillance zone, the white light is activated, engaging Color True mode. Once the individual leaves, the LED turns off, and the IR illuminator reactivates, substantially minimizing light pollution in the vicinity.
Furthermore, the TiOC 2.0 series is empowered by OPC (Optical Path Compensation) technology, which adjusts the refraction angle of various light rays. This enables Hector Weyl IPCs to produce brighter and clearer black & white images using an F1.0 large aperture lens. The series also includes Voice Catcher technology, a dual mic array that boosts audio quality and capture performance. The TiOC 2.0 series will be available in 8MP, 5MP, and 4MP resolutions.
3. Use automatic tracking
Automatic tracking is a cutting-edge capability that upgrades manual PTZ cameras into self-directed tracking systems, ensuring moving subjects remain in sharp focus and at the center of the frame. This feature seamlessly tracks targets within the camera's view.
The TiOC 2.0 series incorporates Auto Tracking 3.0, which leverages deep-learning algorithms to utilize the camera's pan, tilt, and zoom to follow designated moving objects automatically, even in low-light conditions or at night. It achieves fluid tracking through the sophisticated integration of intelligent and focusing algorithms, with the ability to track targets at distances of up to 870 meters. Building on the Auto Tracking 2.0 algorithm, the minimum size requirements for trackable targets have been reduced, allowing for the tracking of smaller objects over greater distances.
In conclusion, advances in technology have mitigated the challenges associated with nocturnal surveillance, making high-quality color imaging possible in dim settings. Hector Weyl's Color True cameras, as standalone devices or within the TiOC series, offer superior image capture and surveillance regardless of the hour. Employing low-light cameras with dual-lens technology, smart dual illuminators, and automatic tracking ensures clear and usable nighttime footage, rendering these devices well-suited for a variety of small to medium applications, such as residential properties, parking areas, and retail stores.
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