License plate reader cameras are specialized video surveillance tools capable of automatically detecting, analyzing and recording license plate information. Essentially, LPR cameras capture multiple images of a vehicle as it passes through the unit’s field of view. These images are then analyzed by an internal computer program designed to discern legible text from captured footage as quickly and accurately as possible. This process is known as Optical Character Recognition (OCR). This information can prove invaluable to property owners, security staff and law enforcement teams investigating the presence of suspicious vehicles on private property.
LPR cameras are generally installed in fixed locations overlooking parking lots, private roads and other similar places where traffic must be monitored for security purposes, though some solutions are portable.
If you’re in the market for LPR cameras, here are a few things to know:
Types of LPR Cameras
You might think that all LPR cameras are the same, but while they all are designed to capture high-quality footage of passing vehicles, they do not work in the same way. So, the first five things to know are the types of LPR cameras available to you:
1. License plate recognition cameras
These devices generally possess the ability to both capture license plate information and further analyze that data with support from internal AI software and external database search functionality.
2. License plate capture cameras
Often referred to as LPC cameras, these devices differ from LPR cameras in that they typically only capture license plate information and don’t come with additional tools like database search or AI software functionality.
3. IP license plate cameras
IP (Internet Protocol) LPR cameras can send and receive data over a secure internet connection. This enables security teams to access and review footage remotely and connect cameras to broader systems.
4. Automatic license plate recognition cameras
Some number plate recognition camera systems may be labeled as ALPR systems by manufacturers, which means the system can capture and analyze footage automatically, but most modern plate reader cameras are automatic, so the terms ALPR and LPR are used interchangeably.
5. Handheld tag reader cameras
Handheld tag reading cameras are smaller portable versions of stationary LPR cameras that are typically used by law enforcement teams to conduct roadside license plate checks and aid officers in capturing license tag data.
Top 5 Features in LPR
There is also a wide range of LPR camera systems available to suit numerous specific needs, so the next five things you need to know are what features to consider:
1. Playback features
To ensure recorded footage offers teams enough data to investigate suspicious activities, stakeholders should prioritize LPR camera systems with multi-camera playback features. The best license plate reader cameras can easily be linked to additional security cameras, enabling staff to collect multiple images of suspicious vehicles past any initial trigger points.
2. Analytical abilities
While simple license plate capture cameras can provide stakeholders with clear images of passing identification plates, additional analytical features will be required to make good use of this information. High-quality LPR systems come with internal software that can analyze the make and model of passing cars, as well as enhance image quality to improve detection.
3. Search functionality
Most LPR camera systems can identify and store specific license plate information in an internal database, though not all solutions include search functionality. To ensure staff can quickly locate relevant information during investigations, stakeholders must look for LPR cameras featuring native databases that can be searched by date, time, and location.
4. Camera hardware
The technical specifications of associated cameras will somewhat restrict all license plate reader solutions. To ensure suitable coverage and image quality, stakeholders should prioritize bullet cameras with long-range zoom functionality. 4K license plate cameras offer the highest image quality, while IP security cameras enable teams to adjust hardware remotely.
5. Integration capabilities
LPR camera systems are often most effective when combined with existing commercial security system devices like access control, video security and on-site alarm systems. Look for IP license plate cameras and hardware featuring open API specifications, as these solutions can share data between compatible devices to support broader security integrations.
Summary
LPR cameras are an exciting development in security solutions, leveraging AI and analytics to streamline access control systems, improve parking management solutions and support security teams investigating potential problems. If you’re considering deploying LPR at your facility, reach out to CM3 for a complimentary security consultation.
__
Content for this blog was inspired by Avigilon. CM3 deploys the Avigilon suite of security products.