So far, we have covered a couple of integrations of Dahua Full-color technology with other solutions including TiOC and Panoramic technology. To continue this year’s TechMonth lineup, this week we’re going to tackle optical zoom and how its integration with Dahua Full-color can optimize surveillance monitoring and benefit end users. To further enlighten us about this matter, here’s Eaden Xie, Product Manager at Dahua Technology.

Hi Eaden! Can you tell us what optical zoom is, and how it differs from the common digital zoom?

Sure. Optical zoom basically refers to the camera mechanism that provides the zooming capability, while digital zoom is provided by the software on the camera or recorder that magnifies the image. Optical zoom gives optimum image quality because it uses a pair of lenses to see from far distances. The lenses inside the camera actually move to zoom in/out the scene. Optical zoom focuses on user's area of interest and records clear details of the scene. Digital zoom only enlarges parts of an area, but the recorded video is still the original video, and the details after using digital zoom are not as clear as those captured using optical zoom. Needless to say, optical zoom is far way superior to digital zoom, and is highly recommended for any monitoring operation, especially for wider scenes and far distances.

What are the advantages of cameras with optical zoom in surveillance monitoring?

For starters, cameras with optical zoom capability are more convenient to use and operate compared with conventional fixed-focal cameras. Users can flexibly adjust the focus of the camera according to their preferences. No need to pre-measure the size of the scene, nor determine multiple installation points, bringing much needed ease in installation and deployment.

How does Dahua Full-color network cameras utilize optical zoom to capture clear color images?

To provide clear details of the monitored scene even after zooming in, the upgraded Dahua Full-color 2.0 network cameras adopt motorized vari-focal lens with approx. 5x optical zoom capability and auto-focus function. Powered by Dahua Full-color technology, these cameras can capture vivid color images of the scene even in dark environments or during nighttime. It offers 4MP resolution and maximum illumination distance of 70 meters for bullet camera and 40 meters for dome camera. With its long-distance illumination capability, the camera can capture clear full-color image even from far distances.

That’s amazing! Which application scenarios can we apply these cameras?

The Dahua Full-color network cameras with 2.7-12 mm motorized vari-focal lens (2.7-13.5 mm for HAC) and F1.0 aperture can cover narrow indoor spaces and wide outdoor scenarios, making it suitable for alleys, riverside, and parking lots. Wide-angle lens basically increases your horizontal scope which is ideal for indoor scenarios. Telephoto lens, on the other hand, allows you to focus in on a subject from far away.

Are Full-color network cameras equipped with AI functions?

Yes! These cameras are equipped with a variety of AI functionalities that can meet the actual needs of users. It has People Counting with 8 rules, and Queue Management with 4 rules. Other AI features include Perimeter Protection, SMD 3.0 and AI Schedule.

Lastly, please tell us more about the value that these cameras offer to end users.

Well, aside from the benefits that I have mentioned, I believe flexibility in monitoring wider scenes and farther distances is one of the main advantages of these cameras. For fixed-focal cameras, users need to know first the distance and installation points, and then select the appropriate camera later on. For Dahua Full-color network cameras with vari-focal lens, users can directly adjust the focus of the camera based on their actual scenario. With Dahua Full-color technology, they can still capture clear color images after zooming in, even under environments with low light condition. It’s more convenient, more budget-friendly, provides optimum image quality, and can greatly save users’ valuable time, thus bringing significantly better user experience.

Up next…

Next week’s topic is Dahua Full-color’s integration with 4K technology and how it brings clear and vivid color images even under environments with low illumination. Don’t miss it!