New from Hikvision are thermal cameras.
As the manufacturers point out, all objects with a temperature above absolute zero emit some degree of thermal radiation. This kind of radiation, not visible to the human eye, can be detected by thermal sensors. Hikvision adds that its thermal sensors remain unaffected by darkness or weather such as rain, fog, or snow. These cameras the firm adds make a platform on which to build 24-7 surveillance systems.
As the makers say, thermal products carry surveillance abilities that traditional visual imaging alone cannot provide. Integrated with Hikvision’s self-developed thermal imaging module, the thermal cameras capture high-resolution video of moving objects at resolutions up to 640 x 512 pixels, unhindered by either darkness or inclement weather. These cameras also offer detail for post-event investigation.
The cameras feature Auto Gain Control, Digital Detail Enhancement, and 3D Digital Noise Reduction.
The Auto Gain Control (AGC) adjusts the dynamic range of the image to make the picture retain helpful permeability; Digital Detail Enhancement (DDE), based on an algorithm for a region of interest, renders more detail in the on-screen image; and 3D Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) further minimises the influence of “hot pixels,” making images sharper.
With onboard video analytics, the thermal cameras offer ‘smart’ features, such as line crossing detection and intrusion detection for perimeter protection. Temperature-anomaly and fire detection can help prevent fires, structural hazards, and other threats to persons and property.
Thermal imaging can be of use in open areas such as borders, coastlines, and forests, the company says; for applications such as perimeter patrol, ports and harbours, critical infrastructure, and processing plants and factories besides security environments.
The cameras are available in single and dual-lens models. The dual-lens models add optical cameras alongside thermal cameras, providing thermal and standard images at the same time. The optical lens helps to capture images at up to 1920 x 1080p resolution day and night. The Smart Tracking function is also available in Speed Dome models.
