Specialty Cameras: Why Spend the Money?

Ever wonder if the video surveillance systems you see on TV are real and how you can get one? We all know a lot of it is simply Hollywood special effects, but what if I told you there are cameras widely available that can do some pretty cool stuff? How about a camera that is indestructible, can see through walls, or even see in complete dark? For price comparison, some of the most common video surveillance equipment available is the dome camera. You have likely seen them throughout everyday life: in malls, cinemas, and business offices. This standard camera will typically cost you around $200.

On the flip side, some of the coolest equipment out there are the heavy duty “indestructible” cameras that can be used in the most extreme imaginable conditions. We call these cameras “Explosion Proof” and these top-of-the-line toys will cost you roughly the price of a car (about $15,0000 – $50,000). So, who can afford this and why do you need it?

These cameras are best suited for harsh environments like guarding oil pipelines, offshore rigs, and refineries. With its fully enclosed metal body, it can withstand temperatures ranging from -60° Celsius (-76° Fahrenheit) to 60° Celsius (140° Fahrenheit). Plus, they have special features allowing them to be resistant to chemical explosions, and can even see in the dark with night vision capabilities.

On the other hand, thermal cameras are like x-ray vision. They allow the user to see through walls & dense fog. These cameras translate thermal energy (heat) into visible light in order to analyze objects or scenes. All objects absorb, reflect, and sometimes transmit energy at different levels. For example, you can stand outside and point the camera into an office and the camera will pick up the heat signature from humans, animals, and even an oven or microwave. The images are formed by rendering the heat signatures. These cameras are becoming more prevalent, especially with the rise of COVID-19.

They can be used in a wide variety of scenarios from reading someone’s temperature to being placed indoors or outdoors, even in extreme darkness, to see intruders or animals.

So, what is a camera like this going to cost?

With all the features and analytics that a thermal camera can provide, the cost can range from $2,500 to a whopping $10,000. At this price range, what you are really paying for is going to be the resolution quality. Remember, the higher the resolution (number of pixels) the better the image.

If you are ever trying to catch that monster under the bed, or Bigfoot in the wild, I have just the camera for you! Introducing the “Enhanced Infrared” camera. Although this device looks like a normal dome camera, it has enhanced infrared (IR) illumination. Infrared light is not visible to the naked eye but is easily picked up by the Enhanced Infrared’s lens. This enhanced IR allows the camera to capture more detail and objects further away, and its increased pixels give you the ultimate sharpness and detail in dark settings. These cameras have the ability to operate in absolute darkness, allowing for a true 24/7 surveillance experience without the need for additional lighting. It’s cost? Around $1,000.

As you can see, there are many cameras available to you in the market. With the help of our security team, we can design a video surveillance system that is in your budget and can get you the security you need. A video system can be designed using a variety of cameras on one network, allowing us to determine the best solutions to your needs.

About the Author

Anula Dharma is an experienced security network engineer and video, access & alarm project manager with a demonstrated history of high profitability. She is currently working as a Project Manager for large-scaled security integration projects for Rolland Solutions located in Dallas.