Infrared security camera systems use an infrared camera to monitor people or protected areas that the system covers. In the electromagnetic spectrum, infrared (IR) waves take up space between visible light and radio waves. Anything that emits heat spreads infrared radiation.
An infrared detector (IR sensor) perceives infrared radiation and can therefore detect things that may not have been detected by other surveillance systems. For this reason, infrared surveillance is useful in various areas, including the maintenance of electrical or other heat-related systems and processes for nighttime security areas, and the investigation of various environmental conditions.
What is an infrared video surveillance system and what are its benefits?
Technical features. An infrared video surveillance camera uses a special lens to focus on infrared radiation from and to objects. Infrared detectors create a thermogram that shows temperature samples, if any, of these objects. The thermogram is then converted into electrical pulses and sent to the processing unit. The information can be stored immediately or the data can be displayed on a monitor for observation. In addition, complex heat calculations can be made, analyzed, and presented to the user or saved.
There are a number of important maintenance operations that benefit from infrared surveillance systems. They can help predict the maintenance needs of power lines, for example by preventing an accident. In buildings, they can provide early detection of breaches in insulation, windows, and roofing. Another use of infrared surveillance is to find gas leaks, whether they are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or greenhouse gases. Detecting these problems can allow correction before big problems develop.
Surveillance of intruders, suspects, and enemies is another important application of infrared video surveillance. Special task forces, law enforcement agencies as well as the military use the technology for this purpose. Portable infrared surveillance systems can be used by patrol teams or special forces looking for suspects in darkness or fog. Such a system also makes it possible to monitor a room or space without entering it, keeping personnel safe. Infrared surveillance systems, for example, are used to protect critical facilities such as nuclear power plants.
The operation of infrared security systems is also essential for firefighters. An infrared video surveillance system can help detect hidden fires, help find the source of the fire and monitor how effective the cooling efforts are. An infrared system can also provide invaluable assistance in search and rescue efforts, such as those conducted in deep water. The research events that take place during avalanches also benefit a lot from infrared video surveillance systems.
Training in the use of infrared surveillance systems is offered by major companies on an international level. They may have two or three levels of training, depending on the country in which it takes place. Specific training can also be found for the various applications of infrared video surveillance systems.