Autumn is here, winter is coming!

Autumn is a wonderful time of year – but it does present some challenges for our cameras.

Outdoor cameras in particular have to deal with a range of factors that can affect their performance and even their function.

In this short article, I will look at the most common problems, especially with bullet cameras and give you tips on how to get the most out of your cameras at this time of year.

Typical environmental conditions and their effects:

Cameras are exposed to all kinds of weather-related influences throughout the year. Fog, humidity, dust and raindrops all affect the camera's view. As this is a gradual process that takes place over many weeks, the image quality continues to deteriorate. Blurred images and fade-ins are the result. Recurrent cleaning of optics and housing is therefore recommended.

The topic is illustrated here in a short video clip:

On the left in the picture you can clearly see the impairment of the dirty optics

Bullet cameras & cameras with integrated IR LEDs:

In autumn, insects look for warm places to nest. This also includes the camera and its lens. The little creatures can usually be found in screw holes or under protective roofs.

While this may not be a problem during the day, the full extent of the problem becomes apparent at night when the infrared light is activated. The spiders' webs are illuminated by the infrared light and reflect it.

Any motion detection algorithm or motion-based VCA results in a permanent recording of the new scene.

Again, we show the negative effects in an example video:

The effects are only visible at night

Tips:

  • Keep a clear view: Regular maintenance and cleaning of the camera and optics
  • The use of our Edge Analytic & AI Object Detection App (Domera® OS) is recommended – this avoids false detections due to motion-based analysis algorithms
  • Use of cameras from the Dallmeier RDF / SDF series with their proven innovative lighting concept (external remote infrared LEDs)

We wish you a wonderful fall season and a clear view at all times!