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Views: 10 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2023-05-04 Origin: Site
Core Components of an Infrared Camera
4.1 Infrared Light Sources
4.2 Imaging Sensors (CCD vs. CMOS)
Infrared cameras are imaging devices capable of capturing images in low-light or no-light environments by using infrared radiation. They integrate components such as the camera module, infrared light source, protective housing, power supply, and heat dissipation system.
The infrared spectrum is divided into:
For surveillance cameras, near-infrared (especially 850nm and 940nm) is most common for night vision, while mid- and far-infrared are used in thermal imaging.
Active Infrared: Uses an infrared light source (usually LEDs) to illuminate the scene, detected by CCD or CMOS sensors. Common in civilian surveillance.
Passive Infrared: Detects infrared radiation naturally emitted by objects above absolute zero. Used mainly in thermal imagers for military, industrial, and firefighting applications.
Infrared LEDs are the primary light source in active infrared cameras. Two main types:
Traditional Round LEDs – Widely used, ~10% photoelectric conversion rate.
Array LEDs – Higher efficiency (>25%), more uniform illumination.
CCD Sensors – Higher light sensitivity, better for low-light environments.
CMOS Sensors – Lower cost, lower power consumption, improving rapidly in performance.
Traditional infrared lamps are arranged around the lens, while array LEDs are placed above, below, or beside the lens to avoid heat concentration. Arrays also offer improved illumination range and image uniformity.
850nm – Stronger illumination, faint red glow visible to human eyes, better range.
940nm – Invisible to the naked eye, ideal for covert surveillance, slightly shorter range.
Forward Current – Too low reduces output; too high shortens LED lifespan.
Heat Management – Overheating lowers emission power.
Power Supply Stability – Fluctuations can cause image artifacts or component damage.
Security Surveillance – Residential, commercial, and public safety.
Military and Law Enforcement – Covert operations and perimeter monitoring.
Industrial – Equipment inspection, predictive maintenance.
Aerial Monitoring – Drone-based night surveillance.
Infrared cameras rely on a combination of optical, electronic, and thermal design principles to deliver reliable night vision. Understanding wavelength selection, LED configuration, and imaging sensors is key to optimizing performance for specific applications.
