When assessing multiple security cameras, it's advisable to employ identical lenses (favorably fixed or variable lenses). To determine clarity, use a standardized test card with ten sets of vertical lines and ten sets of horizontal lines. Position the center circle on the test card as the reference point for clarity. Ensure you correctly count the number of lines visible on the monitor screen. These counts represent vertical and horizontal clarity. For example, 350 lines vertically and 800 lines horizontally. It is advisable to conduct tests with both high-quality and low-quality monitors. During testing, consider focusing on distant scenes while also assessing focus by shifting the lens. Employing both methods can unveil distinctions in camera performance, especially with respect to focusing on objects at varying distances.
2. Color Reproduction Evaluation
To evaluate color reproduction, it is crucial to employ high-quality color monitors. Begin by observing individuals and clothing from a distance, checking for any instances of color distortion. Make comparisons with known objects of specific colors to assess the camera's ability to accurately depict colors. For further assessment, position a color picture book in front of the camera to gauge the level of detail in the images. Look out for over-saturation or under-saturation. Additionally, capture footage of moving color objects to detect any issues such as color trailing, delays, or blurriness. The testing conditions should maintain a minimum illuminance of 50 lux. When conducting tests, ensure that the illuminance is consistently 50±10 lux, and set the aperture to its closest alignment with these conditions.
3. Illuminance Assessment
Place the security camera within a dark room equipped with controllable 220V self-luminous lamps, both positioned in front and behind the room. Use a voltage regulator to modulate the brightness of these lamps, allowing for adjustment of the voltage within a range of 0V to 250V. Likewise, control the room's brightness to vary from its darkest to brightest settings. During testing, set the camera's aperture to its maximum opening and record the lowest illuminance value (dim the self-luminous lamps until the room's interior is barely visible). Subsequently, record the next lowest illuminance value when the aperture is fully closed. Alternatively, adjust the front and rear lamps separately using the voltage regulator while observing any flickering.
4. Backlight Compensation
Testing this aspect involves two approaches. In a dark room, turn on the camera's front-facing voltage-regulated lamp and adjust it to its maximum brightness. Position a picture or text below the lamp and point the camera towards the light source. Ensure that the image and text are visible without glare. Adjust the positions of the AL and AX switches and take note of any alterations. In well-lit environments with ample sunlight, point the camera towards a window and check whether the image and text remain clearly visible.
5. Barrel Distortion Assessment
Evaluate the camera for barrel distortion. Position a test card in front of the camera so that the entire circular shape is visible on the screen. Examine whether there is any elliptical distortion within the circular shape. Gradually bring the camera closer to the test card, observing whether the central portion of the circle enlarges. Additionally, conduct tests at varying distances to identify potential curved distortions at the edges, corners, or frames.
6. Power Consumption Measurement
For power consumption assessment at the lowest operating voltage, employ a multimeter to measure the current. Utilize a compact voltage stabilizer to adjust the voltage to the desired level for testing.