Practical Implications of Night Vision Cameras and Infrared Illuminators

Night vision cameras use a combination of infrared illuminators along with a B/W (black and white) camera for the nighttime surveillance. Even when the night cameras are colored ones, they tend to switch to black and white mode if they are used with infrared LEDs during night.  The IR illuminator can be added to any kind of day/night camera and there are camera systems, which include optical camera along with these illuminators.

How do night vision cameras with infrared illuminators work?

Infrared light is the one that cannot be perceived by human eyes, as it uses a longer wavelength than a visible spectrum light. IR illumination lets the night vision cameras see even in complete darkness. This is possible because of the diodes that are present in them, which emit IR light of a particular wavelength. Every object gives out heat and this is sensed or captured by the IR illuminators that provide light for the camera to capture the images.

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These are exclusively beneficial for CCTV systems that use surveillance security cameras to monitor shopping malls, banks, as well as private and government facilities. The day and night cameras are comparatively more sensitive to infrared light than other models. However, most of the color cameras are made up of filters, which block IR light to increase the quality of images. There are dual mode cameras that are IR sensitive, which can switch modes between color or day and night automatically. The sensitivity of the illuminators differs according to the cameras that are used. Hence, it is essential for you to check the night vision cameras to use the IR illuminators.

Different Types of Infrared Illuminators

There are three types, namely:

- Lamps : These are quite expensive and needs maintenance; but can operate at longer ranges with better quality.

- Diodes : These are inexpensive, small, and ideal for illumination of short ranges and require less power.

- Lasers : These are the best infrared illuminators, which offer high clarity of image for longer range, and are good irrespective of the weather.

Take your time to do your homework to find a suitable one for your night vision camera.