- Messages
- 1,549
- Points
- 113
Introduction
Hikvision's ANPR cameras offer an economical solution for automatic number plate recognition and vehicle monitoring. However, selecting one from their wide array of models can be daunting. This guide explores the main things to consider when picking an ANPR camera and compares in detail some of the most popular options specialised for entrance and exit scenarios, such as car park access, gate barriers, and even quieter road settings, to help you choose the best model suited to your specific requirements.Key Factors to Consider
Focal Length:
One of the most crucial factors when selecting an ANPR camera is the distance from the camera to the number plates being read. Longer distances require a longer focal length, typically resulting in a higher cost. Hikvision's ANPR models generally come with two motorized zoom lens options: a 2.8-12mm lens, perfect for short-range detection up to 13 meters, and an 8-32mm lens capable of reading plates from distances of up to 35 meters. Models with more optical zoom options also have stronger infrared (IR) LEDs to enhance visibility in low light at those greater distances, which is a large part of why they are more expensive.Third-party Integration:
You also need to consider any third-party integration requirements. Several of Hikvision's newer ANPR cameras offer a Wiegand output, allowing for seamless transmission of number plate data to third-party access control systems and software like Paxton Net 2. However, not all models have one, so you should check the camera’s datasheet if this kind of integration is a priority for your project.Installation Conditions:
The three cameras highlighted in this guide are designed to withstand a variety of conditions due to their IP67 ingress protection rating and IK10 impact resistance, along with NEMA 4X anti-corrosion housing. They are also equipped with built-in heaters, enabling operation in humid environments and temperatures as low as -40°C. Again, these things are not a guarantee in all ANPR cameras, so check the specifications of any other model that you're considering to make sure it's suitable for the intended environment.Vehicle Speed and Detection Capabilities:
The cameras compared below can effectively read plates on vehicles travelling at speeds of up to 99mph (120km/h) under optimal conditions and when installed central to the vehicle. However, for major roads, consider the more industrial iDS-TCM range of cameras, which have a more powerful AI ANPR engine for superior accuracy at high speeds, enhanced hardware, and can cover multiple lanes. Additionally, these models feature traffic flow detection capabilities which tell you average vehicle speeds, congestion levels, and even vehicle make and colour. For many applications, the more budget-friendly options covered in detail below, which focus on reading numberplates, should suffice.Key Camera Overview & Comparison Chart
iDS-2CD7A26G0/P-IZHSY
This is what we find to be the best-selling and most affordable ANPR camera which is also extremely reliable. Although it has just a 2MP sensor, this is sufficient for the camera to read plates when properly positioned and zoomed in. It includes all essential functionalities for basic ANPR and third-party integration, with two focal length options: a 2.8-12mm lens for close-range detection up to 13 meters, and an 8-32mm lens for installation at distances of up to 35 meters. Additionally, like the other two models below, it allows you to upload a blocklist and allowlist of up to 10,000 number plates which can be used for automatic alerts and barrier control.iDS-2CD7A46G0/P-IZHSY
This model is essentially the higher-resolution 4MP version of the previous camera and has all of the same features. While the 4MP resolution is greater, this does not improve the detection range. However, in well-lit conditions, the sharper image can enhance sharpness and give more information about the vehicles, their drivers, and the rest of the scene.iDS-2CD7A45G0/P-IZHSY
When positioning the camera within 35 meters isn’t feasible, this camera, with its 4.7-118mm focal length, is an excellent alternative, as it's capable of reading plates from distances up to 100 meters. Again, the 4MP model offers more visual detail in daylight as well. However, an important thing to keep in mind is that, unlike the other models, it does not come with Wiegand output. Other than this, it has very similar specifications to the other two models.
Models for Specialist Applications...
It’s essential to remember that most ANPR cameras are specifically designed to capture the number plates of vehicles moving quickly through their field of view. To achieve this, they use optimized sensors and image settings, including low exposure times, which prevent highly reflective number plates from appearing overexposed in infrared mode. As a result, at night, the surrounding scene may appear very dark leaving just the numberplate visible, but this ensures the most reliable performance.However, if you require an ANPR camera that also gives a good picture of your scene in any light the iDS-2CD8A46G0-XZHSY and iDS-2CD8A86G0-XZHSY DeepinView TandemVu Bullets are excellent choices. These models have two lenses: a fixed lens for a wide view of the area and a varifocal which can be used for ANPR. They are hybrid-light models with both IR and white light LEDs for low-light viewing, depending on what works best in the space, and they also have a blue glass module which helps to prevent ghosting.
Some of the Ultra Series PTZ Cameras also have ANPR functionality, which will be specified in their datasheets. These are useful for reading plates anywhere in a very large scene from a distance due to their great zoom capabilities.
For environments prone to dirt, dust, or salt exposure, the iDS-2CD8A47G0/SC-ZY Self-cleaning Bullet can serve as a low-maintenance option with 2.8-12mm and 18-32mm lens options. Although it is not exclusively an ANPR camera, it can read, store and compare car registrations. Its 2L cleaning solution tank can sustain automated cleaning for up to two years (assuming weekly self-cleaning). However, this camera does not have built-in LEDs and is a ColorVu camera, meaning it requires sufficient ambient light in the scene to read number plates reliably.
For places where getting power and internet access is challenging, the DS-2XS6A46G1/P-IZS/C36S80 Solar ANPR Camera Kit is perfect. It comes with 2.8-12mm and 8-32mm lenses. You'll need a 4G SIM and microSD card, but these things make the camera easily portable and re-deployable.
Hikvision's ANPR installation guidance document is also attached to this guide, which we strongly recommend reading if you're considering purchasing an ANPR camera as it takes you through how to correctly deploy to ensure the best possible performance.
As always, if you require any more advice on information to help with your camera selection, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us or create a post in this forum with your questions!
Last edited by a moderator:
