In the security and surveillance industry, image quality in low-light environments is a constant operational challenge. From dimly lit parking areas and warehouses to nighttime perimeter monitoring, surveillance cameras are expected to deliver reliable video and still images even when lighting conditions are poor.
When light levels drop, familiar issues arise: increased image noise, loss of detail, motion blur, and reduced ability to identify faces or license plates. Yet surveillance systems must continue to perform reliably, often operating around the clock in unpredictable lighting environments.
By setting out standardised test procedures, illumination requirements and dedicated test charts, a standard allows manufacturers and system developers to measure and improve camera performance in low-light conditions objectively.
To address these challenges, the international standard ISO 19093, developed by the ISO/TC 42, defines a structured protocol for evaluating the low-light performance of digital cameras.