Video camera image quality is one of the key elements of a surveillance system. It deserves close attention. In this article, we'll explain why camera footage can turn out poor and what solutions exist for this problem.

What Is Poor Image Quality?

Users often run into image quality issues with digital video cameras. The footage can be blurry, doubled, or foggy-looking. The problem occurs not only at night but during the day as well. Naturally, this has a negative effect on how well the monitored object can be observed.

5 Causes

There are several reasons why image quality can decline. Let's look at the five main factors.

Sun Burn-In

Sunlight hitting the lens affects the image sensor. Over time this causes deformation, leading to blurriness and loss of contrast. Test the footage right after installing the system, take the sun's movement into account, and watch for glare. This will help you determine whether the camera needs adjusting.

Infrared Glare

Infrared glare is a problem for cameras with night illumination mounted under an overhang or similar structure. In such cases, the camera darkens the image and tries to compensate for the glare. To avoid this, clear anything nearby out of the camera's field of view.

For more on this, see the article “Choosing a Night-Vision Camera: 6 Key Considerations + Examples.”

Electrified Surface

Mounting an uninsulated camera on a conductive surface will let electrical current spread through it. This will ultimately affect the camera's image. The solution is to attach a wooden mounting piece to the surface first.

Grounding Loop Fault

This issue shows up as a horizontal line on the screen. It can be caused by wiring that was installed incorrectly. Fixing it can be both costly and time-consuming. An adapter attached to the camera can help by filtering out the noise.

See also: “Protecting Video Surveillance Systems from 3 Types of Power Surges.”

Power Supply

Power-related issues also show up as horizontal lines on the screen, though in this case the image itself doesn't move. The power supply should be replaced.

12 Solutions

The causes of video camera image problems can vary: a dirty lens, a weak or unstable Wi-Fi signal, an overly long cable, and so on.

What should you do about poor image quality on a surveillance camera? Below we go through the possible issues and how to solve them.

Blurry and Unclear Image

Start by gently removing any dust or cobwebs from the lens. Make sure the cable length is appropriate for the camera, and that a wireless camera is installed close to the router. Focus and zoom should be adjusted as needed.

No Image

In this case, check the following:

•          The condition of the power supply unit

•          Whether the input cables are affecting the signal (swapping them will reveal this)

•          Whether the radio equipment works on a different port

•          Whether the video formats of all the equipment are compatible

Color Image Problems

To fix a camera's color image, try the following:

•          Manually turn the infrared illumination on and off a few times to see whether the problem persists

•          Check the camera's power supply

•          Move the camera to a different location and check again whether the problem remains

Excessive Brightness

To reduce image brightness, try:

•          Repositioning the camera

•          Adjusting brightness and contrast

•          Redirecting the camera away from the light source

•          Blocking excess light

Too Dark

Ways to improve the camera's clarity and brightness include:

•          Repositioning the camera

•          Adjusting brightness and contrast

•          Increasing the amount of available light

Resolution

Low resolution results in poor image quality. This is specified in the camera's specifications. Choose resolution settings based on the purpose of your surveillance system.

The monitor you use to view the footage should match the camera's resolution.

Encoding System

Video has two encoding systems: NTSC and PAL. They differ in resolution and frame rate. A camera that isn't compatible with one of them will produce flickering black lines. Check the playback format listed in the camera's specifications.

Night Vision

A camera without an IR filter produces a blurry image at night. Indoors, under certain lighting conditions, such a camera will also capture poor-quality footage. The solution is to purchase a higher-quality camera.

Power Supply

Moving vertical or horizontal lines on the monitor indicate a grounding problem or an issue with the power source itself. Check that the power supply is working correctly. You may need a surveillance switch — there are 4 reasons to install one.

Firmware Update

Manufacturers periodically release firmware updates aimed at fixing bugs and improving the camera's overall performance, including image quality. Make sure that any given update is actually compatible with your camera's specifications.

Reboot

The old rule of turning it off and on again can sometimes fix the image.

Installation Quality

The technical support team of the company that installed your surveillance system can help resolve the issue.

Conclusion

Pay close attention to image quality during the first few days of using your system. This will let you quickly fix any issues and get the most out of your surveillance system's capabilities.

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