The majority of all security cameras are designed not just to catch illegal or dangerous acts on camera, but also to catch faces as best as possible so those that commit these acts can be apprehended. Therein lies its usefulness. If you are viewing a tape of a robbery the night before, and are unable to make out anything from the tape, the camera itself was essentially useless.
Security does not end when the day is over. Security is 24 hours – ready to keep you and your belongings safe both when you’re there and when you are not. A variety of security cameras are designed to make out faces – but only to do so in standard lighting. At night, when the world is dark, so too are the images captured by the camera.
If this is a concern, you may need to find a Day/Night camera that can help you make out people and shapes more easily even in low light. These cameras have internal sensors that know exactly when to turn on the night vision in order to make out a better picture, utilizing a sensitive internal chip for image capture. The light needs to be minimal. Any light from:
· Cars
· Streetlights
· Houses
· Bulbs
· The Moon
Will be enough to create a good, useable image of anyone that is nearby – one that appears as though it was taken during the day.
Benefits of a Day/Night Camera
When protection is needed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, a day/night camera may fit your needs more – especially when focused on the outdoors. Only a small amount of light is needed, and since these cameras self adjust to changes in light, you can capture quality video of whatever is going on outside your workplace or residence with little difficulty. Overall, this will greatly improve your security and night.
Weaknesses of a Day/Night Camera
Day/Night cameras cannot create their own light. As such, they are not equipped for use in rooms with no lighting. This is one of the reasons they are often beneficial outside, where there will likely be natural light from the city, streetlamps or sky. In areas indoors where there is no light at night, they may be less useful – though may still be of great benefit should you have a lamp on at all times.
Infrared Cameras
If you need to have security in an area that receives no light but you still require a useable image, you will need to get an infrared camera instead of a day/night camera. Infrared cameras use tiny LED lights to create just enough light for themselves, and are able to capture a complete image (in black and white) that appears extremely visible. The only issues with infrared cameras is that they tend to use up a lot of energy, which is why it is better to use a Day/Night camera if you know there will be lighting in the evening.
