Test Night: Results Are Out!

In the ever-evolving world of surveillance technology, security cameras are becoming more advanced with built-in low-light capabilities and integrated Infra-Red (IR) illumination. This raises a key question about the importance of external IR, and what impact does it have on night-time surveillance.

To find out, we conducted a test night in November last year, evaluating the performance of different IR setups in night-time conditions. Using a variety of cameras and external IR illuminators, we analysed their effectiveness across different scenarios to gain critical insights into image quality, visibility, and range.

Objectives

The primary goal of the test was to compare integrated IR and external IR performance, assessing whether external IR enhances visibility, clarity, and overall surveillance effectiveness. The test included:

• Three scenarios: (1) Integrated IR only, (2) Integrated IR with External IR, and (3) External IR only
• Low-light camera comparisons: Evaluating performance with and without IR to understand how different surveillance technologies perform.
• Distance testing: Measuring performance at manufacturer-specified ranges and beyond, analysing light levels and image quality over extended distances.

Results

Our findings indicate that external infrared (IR) impacts camera performance across different quality tiers:

• Mid- to lower-end cameras exhibit the most significant performance gains with external IR, as it extends their effective imaging range, enhances low-light sensitivity, and improves contrast in dark environments beyond their native sensor capabilities.

• While high-end cameras are equipped with advanced low-light capabilities, it is not sufficient on its own, especially in remote areas with limited ambient light. The addition of external IR, at a marginal cost increase, shows a great enhancement in image clarity and overall scene illumination.

• For the distance test, we used a lamp from an alternative manufacturer with a similar claimed performance to Raytec. While it did reach the claimed 100-meter range, the illumination beam was noticeably narrower than specified and did not provide uniform coverage across the scene.

Internal IR vs External IR

While modern cameras have made significant advancements in integrated IR technology, external Infra-Red lighting remains crucial for optimal surveillance performance. Here’s why:

• Extended Range & Coverage –  Integrated IR has distance and beam spread limitations, while external IR provides stronger, customisable illumination that enhances surveillance over larger areas.

• Reduced Overexposure & Improved Contrast – Integrated IR can cause glare, reflections, and uneven lighting. External IR allows strategic placement to optimise visibility and avoid image distortion.

• Greater Flexibility – External IR enables independent control over brightness, angles, and positioning, allowing for tailored coverage in various environments.

• Enhanced Performance in Challenging Conditions – External IR significantly improves image clarity in long-range monitoring, large perimeters, and complete darkness.

Conclusion

Our test night confirmed that while integrated IR technology has improved, external IR remains essential for high-performance surveillance. It extends range, improves image clarity, and ensures reliable night-time visibility.

By carefully selecting and positioning external IR illuminators, security teams can reduce blind spots, optimise coverage, and enhance surveillance accuracy—even in complete darkness.

Furthermore, our findings highlight that even premium security systems benefit from external IR, particularly in analytics-driven environments. With clearer images and improved detection accuracy, security operations can become more efficient and reliable.

As surveillance technology continues to evolve, dedicated Infra-Red lighting remains a cornerstone of professional security solutions. Explore our range of award-winning LED lighting for your safety and security here.