With the increasing demand for night scene monitoring, low-light cameras have become a popular choice. Compared to ordinary cameras, low-light cameras can provide better monitoring results in low-light situations. SONY’s new HD camera module FCB-EV9520L, equipped with STARVIS 2 CMOS Sensor, even in 0.01Lx low light can still output color images, the following will take FCB-EV9520L as an example, introduce the common classification of low light camera and its advantages.
Classification of low light cameras
First, electronic day and night camera
The electronic day-night camera uses electronic circuit switching technology, which can realize synchronous switching of sensors in day and night conditions, thereby improving the photosensitivity effect in low-light environments. This type of camera is widely used.
Second, professional ultra-low illumination camera
Professional ultra low light cameras improve camera image quality in low light by using high-performance sensors and image processing technology. These cameras are capable of providing clear color images in extremely low light and are suitable for a variety of complex environments. The SONY FCB-EV9520L, thanks to its STARVIS 2 CMOS excellent performance, has a minimum illumination of 0.0008Lx.
Three, slow shutter camera
Slow shutter cameras increase the brightness of the image by extending the exposure time. Although clear images can be obtained, image dragging may occur at slow shutter speeds, so it is more suitable for monitoring static scenes.
The advantage of low light cameras over ordinary light cameras is their excellent low light performance. Even in low light conditions, low light cameras still provide clear color images.
Compared to infrared cameras, low illumination cameras have the following advantages:
Good stability: infrared cameras require additional infrared lights, and these lights have a larger heat output and shorter life. Once the infrared light is damaged, the entire camera will not be able to use, and the heat of the light will cause the internal temperature of the camera to rise, affecting the stability.
Images in color: In scenes with strong infrared light, infrared cameras cannot accurately adjust the white balance, while low-light cameras can provide color images. In addition to low illumination, the SONY FCB-EV9520 has infrared night vision, which can restore true color images as much as possible in almost black light environments.
Uniform image brightness: The infrared light of an infrared camera usually only illuminates the central part of the image scene, resulting in excessive brightness in the center of the image and darker surroundings. Low-light cameras provide even image brightness.
No infrared out-of-focus phenomenon: infrared light has a long wavelength, which is different from that of visible light, resulting in blurred images that may occur when the infrared camera is enabled. The low light camera solves this problem with the autofocus function, ensuring a clear image.
To sum up, low-light cameras provide a clear image capture experience in low-light environments through different classifications and technical advantages, meeting the requirements of night monitoring needs.