What Makes a Professional Security Camera?

10 Things That Make a Professional Security Camera

 

Security cameras play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of our homes and businesses. When it comes to choosing the right security camera, it is important to understand the features and capabilities that make a camera professional-grade. In this article, we will explore the 10 key factors that contribute to the effectiveness and reliability of a professional security camera.

 

1. Camera Lens:

One of the most important aspects of a professional security camera is its lens. There are many different sizes of lenses such as a 2.8mm wide angle lens which is the widest angle lens a camera can have before stretching the true image. On the other hand, a 12mm lens will be dialed in to make far away objects look as though they were right in front of the camera lens.

There are also optical motorized zoom lenses with auto focus. You may see them advertised as something like "5X ZOOM LENS"  These lenses are controlled via software or app to optically zoom in. This is not to be mistaken by Digital zoom which is rendered by software from enlarging an image. A motorized zoom lens is a lens that has built in motors to actually change the physical state of the lens to act like a pair of automated binoculars providing true enlarged images.

 

For example, a 5X zoom lens would have the capability to go from 2.8mm wide angle, all the way to 12mm zoomed way in, and anywhere in between.

 

2. Frames Per Second:

The frames per second (FPS) refers to the number of images the camera can capture in one second. A higher FPS rate ensures smoother and more fluid video footage. Professional security cameras typically have a higher FPS rates, allowing for better accuracy in capturing fast-moving objects or events. 30FPS is what is considered "real time" Anything lower is not.

 

3. Resolution:

Resolution refers to the number of pixels in an image and directly affects the clarity and detail of the video footage. Professional security cameras often have a high resolution, such as Full HD (1080p) or even Ultra HD (4K), providing crisp and detailed images that are crucial for identifying faces, license plates, or other important details.

 

4. Compression:

Video compression is essential for storing and transmitting video footage efficiently. Many cameras offer H264 video compression, but Professional security cameras use advanced compression algorithms, such as H.265 or H.265+, to reduce file size without compromising the quality of the video. This enables longer recording times, minimizes storage requirements, and require less network bandwidth.

Picture video compression like zipping a bunch of files on a computer, then the camera sends these zipped files to the NVR, and the NVR unzipps the files when received. The smaller the zip file, the less stress is put on the network.

 

5. Protocols:

Security cameras need to be able to communicate and integrate seamlessly with other devices and systems. Professional cameras support industry-standard communication protocols, such as ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum), which ensures compatibility and interoperability with a wide range of surveillance systems and software. One could picture the ONVIF protocol like sign language, an internationally recognized language.

6. Analytics:

Advanced analytics capabilities are becoming increasingly important in professional security cameras. Analytics can include features such as motion detection, object tracking or object removal, facial recognition, or even advanced behavior analysis. These features enhance the camera's ability to identify and respond to specific events or incidents, providing valuable insights for security personnel.

 

7. Build Quality:

Build quality is another crucial aspect of a professional security camera. Cameras designed for professional use are typically made with durable materials, weather-resistant enclosures, and advanced features such as vandal-proof or tamper-proof casings. This ensures that the camera can withstand harsh environmental conditions and potential physical tampering. There are many different ratings for build qualities.

A few well known ratings are;

[IP-66] This is a weather proof rating. If a camera is rated IP66 it is an outdoor rated camera that is weatherproof.

[IK-10] This rating means that the camera is vandal proof and can take a beating without damaging the camera.

 

8. Night Vision

Night vision could have an entire article on it's own there is so many aspects to cover. Aside from traditional IR night vision, Here are some night vision features only found in professional security cameras.

 

Starvis Technology:

Starvis technology, developed by Sony, significantly improves a camera's low light performance. The advanced sensor technology in Starvis sensors enhances light sensitivity, allowing the camera to capture brighter and clearer images even in extremely low light conditions. With Starvis, true object colours remain distinguishable, even at night, providing valuable evidence. The reduction in noise levels also enhances image quality, improving surveillance effectiveness in challenging lighting scenarios.

 

Smart Dual Light Technology:

Smart Dual Light technology is another innovation that enhances night vision capabilities in security cameras. These cameras are equipped with both visible light and infrared (IR) illuminators, providing two sources of illumination. The invisible IR illuminator will remain on during the night, while the visible white light illuminator will turn on when a person or vehicle is detected, acting light a security spotlight to provide full colour images and let the detected person know they are being watched. 

 

9. WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) Technology:

WDR technology is a crucial feature in professional security cameras as it allows the camera to capture clear and balanced images even in challenging lighting conditions. With WDR, the camera can effectively manage high-contrast scenes, where there are both bright and dark areas in the frame. By combining multiple exposures, WDR ensures that details are visible throughout the image, minimizing overexposed or underexposed areas. This feature is essential for areas with intense backlighting or changing lighting conditions, such as entrances, bays, or windows.

 

10. CMOS

The quality of a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensor plays a crucial role in the performance of a security camera. A good quality CMOS sensor ensures that the camera can capture sharp and clear images, even in challenging lighting conditions. It enhances the camera's sensitivity to light, allowing it to produce detailed footage with accurate colors and minimal noise. A reliable CMOS sensor also improves the camera's ability to handle high contrast scenes, providing balanced exposure and preserving crucial details. In summary, investing in a security camera with a high-quality CMOS sensor is essential for optimal image quality and reliable surveillance in various environments.

The CMOS is the most expensive piece of equipment in a camera. A cheep camera will use low quality no-name CMOS, while a professional camera will use a high end CMOS like a SONY IMX Series CMOS.

 

Conclusion:

 

A professional security camera encompasses several important features and attributes. From the quality of the lens and resolution to advanced analytics capabilities and build quality, these factors contribute to the camera's effectiveness and reliability. By considering these aspects when selecting a security camera, you can ensure that you are investing in a system that will provide optimal performance and enhance the safety and security of your premises.