 How Does A Night Vision Camera Work
|
 |
Two primary technologies are used for night-vision surveillance system applications. These include image enhancement and thermal imaging. The basic concept behind image enhancement is to amplify the visible light in an area to enhance visibility. Thermal imaging on the other hand is a bit more complex. This technique refers to the process of capturing the heat from an object, which is undetectable to the human eye, and transforming it into an image that can be viewed. The purpose of this article is to seek to answer the question, how does thermal imaging work?
thermographic of a snake around an arm |
 |
Before we take a closer look at thermal imaging technology, it is important to have an understanding of what thermal energy itself is. Thermal energy is a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. It makes up the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum. You cannot see thermal energy because it is emitted from objects as heat, not reflected as light. The hotter an object is, the more thermal energy it emits. However, all objects even inanimate ones, such as buildings, or even ice cubes, emit some form of thermal energy. Infrared thermal imaging cameras are able to capture this thermal energy and transform it into an image you can see.
Night vision cameras provide high quality color video during the day. When the light level drops below a certain point the security camera automatically switches to IR, or infrared, night vision video. When the light level increases to a specific point the camera automatically switches back to color video.
Night vision cameras come in such a broad range of products that it is impossible to discuss price without knowing how the camera will be used. Military and business cameras are going to be used differently than a camera for personal use. The type and length of the camera warranty will affect the price as well. As with all purchases, doing your research and understanding your budget and exactly the reason why you are buying a night vision camera are important considerations before you actually buy the camera.
|
