Using a 1/3" Camera at 1920×1080 (Full HD)

Below is an example reference table illustrating how an object at various distances will appear on a monitor using a 1/3-inch camera with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. The table correlates object distance and lens focal length (in mm). For installers or designers in the USA, these metric focal lengths remain standard, though distance conversions to feet can be made as needed.

(In practice, you would fill in or simulate the camera’s actual images at these distances using design software or advanced tables. Each row would show how large the target appears on the monitor for the chosen focal length.)

IDENTIFICATION

Identification involves distinguishing key defining characteristics of a subject or matching a captured image to an existing database entry (as per local security standards). In practical security applications, identification means seeing enough facial detail to confirm someone’s identity. You need sufficient resolution so a live monitor view or a printed photo clearly shows unique facial features.

These cameras are commonly deployed:

• At building entrances (e.g., corporate lobbies, government facilities).
• Gatehouses or secure checkpoints.

Because such locations typically have decent, controlled lighting, it’s often feasible to achieve the resolution and clarity needed for reliable identification.

LICENSE PLATE AND RAIL CAR NUMBER RECOGNITION

Manually reading vehicle or rail car plates on a monitor (not necessarily automated LPR) requires:

• The vehicle comes to a complete stop (so motion blur is not an issue).
• Sufficient focal length (zoom) to provide adequate on-screen character size.
• Adequate lighting — especially at night, IR or visible illumination to make the plate readable.

Example Tables for Lens Selection

The tables below (Tables 12 and 13) show sample images of license plates at various distances and focal lengths, generated using the “visualization mode” of design software (e.g., CCTV Designer). The difference is that Table 12 references a lower resolution (704×576), while Table 13 references 1920×1080 (Full HD).

Table 12 (704×576)

(At each combination, the software would display a simulated plate image, so you can decide which lens meets your clarity requirements.)

Table 13 (1920×1080)

(Note that higher camera resolution often allows a broader working distance or a smaller on-screen plate size while still being readable.)

Reading Plates on Moving Vehicles

To read license plates of moving vehicles, you must account for motion blur. That typically entails:

• Selecting an appropriate shutter speed (e.g., 1/500 s, 1/1000 s) in the camera’s electronic shutter menu.
• Ensuring enough light or IR illumination so the camera can maintain a fast shutter.
• Using specialized camera modes or software for LPR/ANPR if automated reading is required.

Similar logic applies to high-speed assembly lines where cameras capture barcodes or product IDs.