NIGHTVISION / INFRARED SECURITY CAMERAS

What is an infrared security camera?

Infrared security cameras have infrared lighting installed around the outside of the lens of the camera. Infrared light is from a different region of the electromagnetic spectrum than we normally use to see.

This lighting allows the camera to capture a good image in no light at all. With a little bit of light called low light, the infrared security cameras can capture a picture that looks identical to daytime conditions. Keep in mind that even at nighttime there is normally some light from the moon, stars, or street lights. This little bit of light is all that Infrared security cameras need to operate and put out a good-looking image.

Infrared security cameras are called night vision cameras because they can ‘see’ at night. However, do not confuse “night vision” with “day/night cameras” which do not have infrared LED’s built-in.

Where to install infrared night vision security camera

Infrared cameras do not do well in outdoor housings because the infrared light reflects off the glass of the housing.

Some people get acceptable results if the camera is absolutely flush with the glass. An alternative solution is to use a day/night camera that has an extra sensitive imaging chip that allows it to capture a good picture in low-light situations without using infrared lighting. This works well for example if there are street lights outside or an exterior light that can be left on at night. Keep in mind that cameras without infrared lighting will not capture an image with zero light.

What to look for when purchasing an infrared security camera

The level of light required to capture a good picture is referred to as a camera’s lux, the lower the lux the better the camera can see in the dark. For example, a camera with 0.003 lux is better than a camera with 0.2 lux. Infrared cameras are also compared by how far they can see in total darkness. We sell cameras that see in total darkness over 120 feet at night
People use infrared security cameras for businesses that have the lights out at night (in case of break-ins). or for outside, nighttime viewing.

The image that infrared cameras capture is black and white – however, some cameras will capture color images during the day when light is available and will automatically switch to black and white when light is low. For example, please take a look below…

EX-IR / Matrix Infrared Technology

Times are changing, and there has been a significant breakthrough in night vision with the introduction of EXIR or Matrix IR’s. Pioneered by Hikvision, the quality of an EX-IR security camera is exceptional in any zero-dark environment. Indoors or out. Compared to conventional IR cameras, Hikvision’s high-performance EXIR series delivers the most advanced levels of night-time surveillance available on the market today.

These EXIR cameras provide a highly efficient light source and enhanced LED light strength. This series provides up to 30% more illuminant efficiency over traditional LED array technology by employing the most advanced thin-film and light-emitting technology. Furthermore, the EXIR series even provides a 40% light-extraction rate improvement when compared to traditional models, resulting in stronger light for long-range visibility usage.

Benefits of EX-IR / Matrix Infrared vs Traditional IR

To make the most out of IR LED light, EXIR HD and IP cameras produce LED light in the form of a rectangle. This allows a better fit for a screen’s normal size (4:3 or 16:9). Additionally, it helps improve LED utilization efficiency and reduce light pollution in the surrounding environment. Images are further optimized with EXIR’s luminance uniformity functionality. This eliminates traditional LED lens issues, such as over-exposure at the center of images. As well as darker areas at the corners. EXIR HD/IP cameras deliver superb image detail in poorly lit environments, better providing for solutions at industrial parks, harbors, roads, airports, etc.

Furthermore, excellent heat dissipation, longer lifespan, and greater energy savings are but a few of the advantages that Hikvision EXIR cameras bring. IP66 protection, in both bullet and dome styles, further provides users with options to best fit their specific needs.

Contact Us

Do you have any questions regarding Infrared / Night Vision Security Cameras? Are you interested in hearing more about EX-IR technology? Our system designers and sales team are happy to help.

At Central Jersey Security Cameras, we consider ourselves foremost experts in the design of security systems, built surveille properties 24/7. Our design team takes the time to listen to the specific wants and needs of every individual practice, while we offer expert advice to those who are not sure what it is exactly they need. We are happy to provide invaluable insight into our vast knowledge of building out security systems for homes and businesses all throughout New Jersey.