Security installers, systems integrators and end-users of video surveillance will most likely rank lighting as one of the top challenges which could most significantly impact the ability of HD and megapixel IP cameras to deliver high-quality images. As many applications such as intruder detection and facial recognition require cameras that operate 24/7, the cameras must perform well in challenging lighting conditions, particularly at night.

Residential surveillance solutions

For years, CCTV has been a common fixture in retail settings, car parks and other public places. Due to increased suburban crime, it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for security-conscious homeowners. In addition, as more homeowners embrace the Smarthome concept, security is no longer a grudge purchase but seen as a lifestyle solution. CCTV is just one line of defence against crime, but it works best when combined with other visual deterrents such as smart security lighting, external detectors and sensors. Some cameras, such as the Pyronix Lightcam, come with an integrated PIR sensor, dual spotlights and an inbuilt IR LED, which delivers optimum coverage of outdoor spaces up to 18m, even in complete darkness.

Users can control the LightCamera through ProControl+, the mobile phone app which allows for watching live view, playback and taking action through two-way talk and remotely activated lights. The LightCamera requires a professional installation and is only sold through professional security distributors. It’s a time-efficient up-sell on maintenance or initial installation visits, giving more value to the installer and end user.

Low light imaging for residential and business settings

From townhouses to multi-family homes to apartments, residential buildings often have several low-light areas that can be potentially risky as they are difficult to monitor in the darkness. This includes narrow walkways, stairwells, and other outdoor areas. HIKvision ColorVu cameras provide unmatched monitoring of spaces where incidents or accidents occur and illuminate dark areas to reduce risks and improve safety for tenants and visitors. Higher quality imaging improves suspect identification when needed, providing a safer environment for residents. Similarly, low-lit business settings, such as hallways, dumpster areas and loading docks, can be monitored due to the ability of ColorVu-enabled cameras to intensify minimal ambient light and render vivid colour images.

The need for lighting with modern security cameras

All major camera manufacturers now have low-light models which are highly sensitive to light and designed to maximise any available light on the scene to produce images at night. But keep in mind, these are low-light cameras, not no-light cameras. All cameras need light to 'see', whether in the security industry, photographic industry, or integrated into a smartphone. Good lighting and a noise-free image will also lower the required bandwidth and storage whilst maintaining a higher frame rate for accurate real-time video. The big advantage of low-light cameras is that they produce great results with significantly less light. This means that when using a professional low-light camera with an infrared or white light LED illuminator such as those from Raytec, it's possible to deliver the same distances achievable with a more basic camera and a larger illuminator. Effectively, using a low-light camera allows for a reduction in the cost of supplementary lighting. Using a low-light camera without professional surveillance lighting is not advisable. Why pay extra for a high-performance camera and then limit its performance by not providing illumination? Even the best cameras will still produce noisy images in darkness, seriously impacting video analytics performance and creating false alarms. No light = no video analytics.