From private properties to large critical infrastructure sites, the types of sites requiring perimeter protection are wide and varied, but all tend to have common security goals, and lighting is usually an important tool in the security system.

What is the most common light type for perimeter surveillance?

“Infrared (IR) illumination is the most common type of light used around a perimeter fence line. IR emits zero light pollution (so as not to disturb the surrounding area), but crucially, it allows the camera to capture nighttime images covertly, without alerting potential intruders or giving them light to work by.”

When and why is white light used in perimeter protection applications?

“Once the camera has detected an intruder, the site may choose to raise an alarm. This is where white-light is often deployed — automatically triggered as a flashing deterrent to ward off an intruder or used to provide accurate positive identification of the intruder.”

Is a hybrid lighting solution a mix of IR illumination and white light?

“Yes, hybrid illuminators provide an all-in-one solution, combining both IR and white-light into a single unit. This means one illuminator can be used for both covert surveillance and as a white-light deterrent.”

Can a hybrid lighting solution really offer the same performance as two dedicated illuminators?

“As a 2-in-1 solution, Raytec’s Vario2 Hybrid doesn’t compromise on performance, achieving the same power and distance as two dedicated illuminators.”

Raytec has a method for specifying and comparing illuminators to help customers get a true representation of the performance their lighting will deliver. Why was this necessary?

“Perimeter fence lines often cover large areas, so the distance and coverage of an illuminator are crucial factors for a specifier to consider. Despite claimed figures, distances and image quality can vary between manufacturers. That’s why Raytec developed and launched Powers — the industry’s first video surveillance lighting standard. Powers highlights the relevant criteria to consider, enabling security professionals to more easily specify and reliably compare the performance of different illuminators.”

Why is hot-spot reduction technology (HRT) important when choosing illuminating devices?

“One way to help ensure a good image is to select an illuminator that uses technology to reduce hot spots and provide an even image across the entire scene. Raytec’s Vario2 range uses Hot-spot Reduction Technology (HRT) to deliver a highly diffused, elliptical beam shape that targets the light where it’s needed. This supports longer distances, minimizes light wastage, and ensures even distribution of light throughout the scene.

The HRT system also prevents overexposure of foreground objects; light uniformity is crucial in ensuring hot spots are minimized.”

IoT is here to stay – do you have any advice when it comes to choosing network lighting devices?

“Modern perimeter surveillance systems often consist of several IP-enabled devices, intended to work together to provide high levels of security. For applications using these kinds of devices, specifying an IP-enabled illuminator capable of providing an automated lighting response is essential.”

Is lighting still important in perimeter surveillance when cameras adapted for low-light conditions are using AI and analytics to detect and visualise events?

“More and more sites are using cameras with video analytics as part of their perimeter surveillance systems to detect unwanted or suspicious behaviour within the camera’s field of view. However, camera analytics are only as effec¬tive as their ability to provide a consistent, clear image, which is where lighting plays an important role. We’re often asked to provide additional lighting for applications using low-light cameras, or those with built-in IR, as they require more light for camera analytics to be effective.”

Software integration – how does it work for illuminators?

“Specifiers should consider the security management platform their site is using to monitor and control cameras, illuminators, and other devices across the site. When specifying an illuminator, it’s important to choose one that can be integrated with the security management platform in use. For example, if a site is using Milestone’s Xprotect platform, the chosen illuminator should be capable of integrating into that system, allowing easy control and automated lighting responses triggered by other detection devices.”