The surveillance industry is divided between new digital video technologies and older analog closed-circuit television systems
Lightfinder Technology helps to capture detailed images at night in colour without additional lighting

Axis Communications AB of Sweden won in the Physical Security category for its Lightfinder technology, which makes it possible for digital cameras to capture detailed images at night—in colour—without additional lighting.

Analogue security cameras, by contrast, capture only black-and-white images, which are less useful for identifying culprits.

The surveillance industry is divided between new digital video technologies and older analogue closed-circuit television systems. Digital has a lot of advantages. Its images are higher quality and its signals can be sent over computer networks and viewed from just about anywhere. Analogue has retained one big edge, though: It works better in low-light conditions.

The new digital cameras from Axis, which introduced the first network-enabled video surveillance camera in 1996, combines Axis-developed video chips, exceptionally sensitive light sensors, and software that makes images clearer. The company began delivering cameras equipped with the technology late last year.

"I felt they put together a few different ideas to put more intelligence into how the camera works," says William Webb, chief technology officer of Neul Ltd. and an Innovation Awards judge. "That did stand out for me."

Understand how converged physical and cybersecurity systems can scale protection.

In case you missed it

What are emerging applications for physical security in transportation?
What are emerging applications for physical security in transportation?

Transportation systems need robust physical security to protect human life, to ensure economic stability, and to maintain national security. Because transportation involves moving...

Gallagher & Fortified enhance perimeter security solutions
Gallagher & Fortified enhance perimeter security solutions

Global security manufacturer - Gallagher Security is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Fortified Security, a pioneering perimeter systems integrator with over 30 years...

Genetec: Data sovereignty in physical security
Genetec: Data sovereignty in physical security

Genetec Inc., the global pioneer in enterprise physical security software, highlights why data sovereignty has become a central concern for physical security leaders as more survei...