At some point, high-definition, infrared and surveillance cameras, three seemingly unrelated products, have become closely integrated. Nowadays, high-definition infrared surveillance cameras have become the most common devices in the surveillance industry. According to statistics from relevant authorities, high-definition infrared cameras rank first in the surveillance camera market. Driven by the booming market, many irregularities have also emerged in this sector. Below, we sort out several key details for your reference when choosing an infrared camera.

Key Considerations for Selecting Infrared Cameras

1. Surveillance cameras are available in black-and-white and color models. Generally, black-and-white surveillance cameras deliver higher horizontal resolution and are more sensitive than color ones, making them more suitable for low-light environments and sites with dim lighting at night. Black-and-white cameras are also less expensive. By contrast, color footage enables easy identification of clothing and scene colors, helping users capture and distinguish real-time on-site information promptly.
2. It is advisable to select lenses with a large light aperture. For auto-iris or motorized varifocal lenses, pay attention to the drive level for maximum aperture opening. The power supply matched for infrared lamps shall meet their minimum power requirement. Insufficient illumination range is often caused by inadequate power supply.
3. Most cameras are equipped with automatic electronic shutter and AGC (Automatic Gain Control) functions. Many lenses also feature auto-iris adjustment to cope with drastic illuminance changes between day and night. Therefore, when selecting cameras and lenses, users shall fully understand their specifications and configure the devices according to environmental requirements, so they can work optimally with infrared lamps.
4. Common issues include the flashlight effect or insufficient infrared range, which are mainly caused by the beam angle and performance of infrared lamps. Infrared lamps used in surveillance cameras usually have a peak wavelength of 850 nm, with optional beam angles ranging from 5° to 60°. A narrower beam angle delivers a longer illumination distance but results in a more obvious flashlight effect. Conversely, a wider beam angle eliminates the flashlight effect yet shortens the effective range. The core solution lies in the power of infrared emitters: higher power brings better night vision performance.

The above are key points for selecting infrared cameras. We hope this guide will be helpful. After purchasing your infrared cameras, maintain close communication with the manufacturer and resolve any issues in a timely manner.