When it comes to optimizing the effectiveness of an outdoor security camera the most important thing is capturing useful video images. The first obstacle that most outdoor conditions poise is night surveillance since outdoor environments are little more difficult to control than indoor environments. At night it may be a challenge to provide enough light for the camera’s image sensors to pick up anything. That is when the alternatives must be considered.

While it is not always an option, installing additional lighting to the area is one way we can make sure the outdoor security camera captures usable video footage. A simple system like a light that is controlled by a person is not always viable when there may not be a person to do the job. There are also motion activated lights as well as motion activated cameras that begins recording only when there is some movement detected. The important part is that the light is sufficient in illuminating the security camera’s entire field of view.

If the area is not completely dark and the light levels are just too low, try a black and white camera. Colored cameras have higher light requirements than black and white cameras and for that reason a black and white camera can capture images at much lower light levels than a colored camera. This is only effective if there is still some light in the area to be under surveillance. Otherwise a night vision camera will be required.

In especially low light conditions near complete darkness, night vision cameras are also available. Cameras with night vision use infrared to detect light that travel at waves beyond what we can see. A security camera’s minimum light requirement is measured by the LUX rating. The higher the rating the better lit the area must be for the camera to be useful. A LUX rating of 0 means the camera is designed for conditions with no light at all.

An outdoor security camera definitely has much more demands than an indoor camera because of the harsh environment it is installed in. However, there are numerous ways to tackle any specific problem and lighting should be the most basic of challenges you will face. There are vandalism and weather conditions to be taken into consideration as well so be ready to protect your security camera.

The most effective way to protect your camera is by installing it properly in the first place. Install the camera inside a housing unit if necessary and it usually will be necessary, and mount the camera flush to the wall or ceiling if possible. Minimize the exposure of the cables to avoid tampering. Take as many threats into consideration when installing the camera to minimize the chances of an attack, and minimize the effect of the attack when it does happen.

Posted on 23 September '09, under Business.