Axis Launches Market’s Most Light Sensitive Surveillance Camera

New Lightfinder technology debuting in AXIS Q1602/-E maintains color picture in very dark conditions

CHELMSFORD, Mass. – May 17, 2011 – Axis Communications, the global leader in the network video market, introduces an outstanding fixed network camera based on Axis’ Lightfinder technology. AXIS Q1602/-E Network Cameras offer advanced solutions for indoor and outdoor surveillance in low-light conditions, especially where users require color information in the video to enhance recognition and identification of objects.

Axis’ knowledgebase about image processing, chip development, choice of sensors and day/night lenses allows AXIS Q1602 to maintain focus during daylight and infrared light, and heralds a new generation of surveillance cameras with outstanding performance. In essence, Lightfinder technology effectively allows the IP camera to see detail and color even in dark conditions. The fixed network camera delivers progressive scan image quality at D1 (720x576) resolution in both indoor and outdoor applications and where light is poor. 

See video on Lightfinder technology.

“Based on internal testing procedures, we believe that AXIS Q1602 will be the market’s most light sensitive camera, making it the top choice for critical surveillance installations in low-light environments,” said Fredrik Nilsson, general manager, Axis Communications Inc. “Years of focusing on image quality combined with Axis’ development and performance of its chip technology has led us to Lightfinder, a revolutionary improvement in surveillance cameras.”

The advanced Lightfinder technology will be especially beneficial in demanding video surveillance applications, such as construction sites, parking lots, perimeter and city surveillance. In contrast to conventional day/night cameras that provide a black & white image in darkness, AXIS Q1602 can maintain colors even in very dark conditions. 

There are many situations where surveillance video with color is an important factor for successful identification, and this capability greatly enhances the user’s ability to effectively identify people, vehicles and incidents. In many cases, IR illuminators are not required due to the IP camera’s extreme light sensitivity, which reduces installation costs.

The indoor AXIS Q1602 and the outdoor-ready AXIS Q1602-E can deliver multiple, individually configurable H.264 and Motion JPEG video streams simultaneously. The camera’s other features include day and night functionality, a varifocal lens, remote back focus and support for two-way audio. The IP66-rated AXIS Q1602-E, which comes with a wall mount bracket and a sunshield, is protected from dust, rain, snow and sun, and can operate in temperatures from -40 °F to 122 °F.

AXIS Q1602/-E Network Cameras are supported by the industry’s largest base of video management software through the Axis Application Development Partner Program and AXIS Camera Station. In addition, the cameras include support for AXIS Camera Application Platform and AXIS Video Hosting System (AVHS) with One-Click Camera connection for managing video monitoring services over the Internet. 

The cameras will be available in Q3 2011 starting at an MSRP of $999 USD. For photos and other resources, please visit AXIS Q1602 and AXIS Q1602-E