5 key features to look for in RGB-IR cameras for biometric systems

Choosing the best-fit embedded vision solution for biometric systems is a moment of truth for businesses and product developers. These systems depend greatly on accurate and consistent image capture for tasks such as facial recognition, iris scanning, and access control. The right imaging solution ensures that images are adequately captured despite changing lighting conditions or environmental challenges. Only then can the biometric system distinguish subtle facial features or minute details in iris patterns, for example.

Hence, selecting an RGB-IR camera makes perfect sense for biometric systems. However, several aspects must be considered. In this blog, you’ll learn about the 5 must-have features of an ideal RGB-IR camera for your biometric system.

How RGB-IR cameras work in biometric systems

RGB-IR cameras capture both visible (RGB) and infrared (IR) light simultaneously on a single sensor, eliminating the need for a mechanical IR cut filter or separate sensors to capture both images. Mechanical IR cut filters have limited lifespans, making them less reliable for critical applications.

With dedicated pixels for both visible and IR channels, RGB-IR cameras offer a more efficient and dependable solution for capturing a broad spectrum without compromising colour accuracy.

Hence, the biometric system gets enhanced imaging capabilities in low-light or night-time scenarios where IR light can provide additional clarity.

5 key features to look for in RGB-IR cameras for biometric systems

1) Resolution

The high resolution of RGB-IR cameras helps biometric systems deliver high-quality image data where accuracy is a deciding factor of performance. The thumb rule is that higher resolutions indicate that the camera is about to provide finer details for identifying biometric characteristics like facial contours, iris patterns, and other unique identifiers.

For instance, a 4K camera provides accurate facial imaging data, which improves the reliability of recognition algorithms. However, a higher resolution also generates more data, which means that balancing it with processing power is crucial.

2) Frame rate

Frame rate directly influences the camera’s ability to tolerate motion within the field of view., in applications where subjects move frequently or quickly, such as at entry or exit points in secure facilities. A high frame rate minimises motion blur, ensuring that each frame captured is sharp and usable for biometric analysis.

Biometric cameras that sustain frame rates of 30 fps or higher provide seamless, uninterrupted image capture, which reduces the risk of data gaps when tracking moving subjects.

3) Shutter type

In RGB-IR cameras for biometric systems, the choice between global and rolling shutters largely depends on the specific use case, as each has its own advantages. Global shutters capture the entire frame simultaneously, which can simplify synchronisation with external IR or visible lighting.

Rolling shutters, meanwhile, are preferred for applications where sensitivity is prioritised. The fact is that both shutter types offer unique benefits, enabling effective capture of biometric details like eye patterns, facial structure, and skin texture based on application needs.

4) NIR sensitivity

Near-infrared (NIR) sensitivity is critical for RGB-IR cameras in biometric systems since they capture clear images even in low-light or near-dark settings. NIR sensitivity improves the camera’s ability to accurately differentiate between RGB and IR channels. That way, the system can distinguish facial features without interference from ambient light variations.

It also implies that cameras with high NIR sensitivity work better in diverse lighting conditions, considering they deliver accurate images without any artificial light.

5) RGB-IR separation algorithms

RGB-IR separation algorithms end up deciding how well a camera separates and extracts visible and infrared images. It secures the capture of distinct and undistorted facial or iris features for biometric identification. These separation algorithms minimise interference and make sure that RGB and IR images maintain their individual qualities.

Onboard ISPs further improve these attributes by performing real-time adjustments, such as auto exposure and white balance. Thus, the camera can automatically balance colour and exposure, providing consistent quality in varying light environments.

See3CAM_CU83 is e-con Systems’ New RGB-IR camera

Since 2003, e-con Systems has been designing, developing, and manufacturing OEM cameras. See3CAM_CU83 is our newest 4K AR0830 RGB-IR USB 3.2 Gen 1 camera, ideal for applications such as biometric systems that require visible and infrared imaging. With its optimal blend of sensor, optics, and ISP, it effortlessly meets the needs of such applications that often face complex imaging challenges.