Hikvision launched the new Pro Series camera with ColorVu 3.0 technology which builds upon its predecessors with significant advancements in AI-powered image processing, hybrid lighting, and durability. The company’s emphasis on “making pro, more pro” suggests an evolution aimed at improving accuracy, reducing false alarms, and delivering high-quality imaging in all lighting conditions. But what exactly sets this generation apart?
How to achieve optimal image quality
One of the standout innovations in ColorVu 3.0 is Hikvision’s AI-ISP (Artificial Intelligence Image Signal Processor). This technology significantly improves image clarity by reducing noise, enhancing colour accuracy, and ensuring more detailed visuals, particularly in low-light environments. Unlike conventional image processing solutions, Hikvision’s AI-ISP dynamically eliminates unwanted noise while refining fast-moving objects’ sharpness, addressing common security footage challenges.
The inclusion of an F1.0 Super Confocal Lens has further strengthened low-light performance. This design not only allows more light to reach the sensor but also ensures both visible and infrared (IR) light share the same focal point, minimising distortion and blurriness. This advancement is particularly relevant for security applications requiring detailed imagery in near-darkness.
False alarms have long been a challenge in video surveillance, often triggered by environmental factors such as moving shadows or light reflections. AcuSense 3.0, which has been added to the new ColorVu 3.0 technology package, introduces an advanced filtering system that can differentiate between humans and vehicles with greater precision. Hikvision claims that false alarms caused by light reflections on stationary vehicles have been reduced by up to 90%, ensuring that only relevant security events trigger alerts. This improvement helps security personnel focus on real threats rather than wasting time on insignificant motion detections.
Beyond visual enhancements, Hikvision has also upgraded the audio capabilities of its Pro Series cameras. The ColorVu 3.0 technology now includes Audio 2.0, featuring a high-powered speaker system with an intelligent power amplifier that effectively doubles the speaker’s range. Additionally, the cameras are equipped with a dual-microphone array, significantly increasing the effective reception distance of human voices. These improvements make the cameras more suitable for environments requiring real-time communication, such as retail security or perimeter protection.
Swap, swap and swap again when needed
A key feature in ColorVu 3.0 is Smart Hybrid Light technology, offering flexible transitions between IR, white light, and an adaptive ‘smart mode’. This feature ensures that IR illumination remains active in low-light conditions but automatically switches to white light when a vehicle or person is detected, then returns to IR mode once the subject leaves the scene. This intelligent adaptation reduces unnecessary light pollution, making the technology particularly useful for residential areas, city streets, and commercial properties that require discretion without compromising security.
AI-powered Wide Dynamic Range (AI WDR) technology further enhances the cameras’ ability to manage varying lighting conditions. Traditional WDR requires manual adjustments to balance brightness levels in high-contrast scenes, often resulting in underexposed or overexposed areas. AI WDR, however, dynamically adjusts the exposure settings in real time, preserving crucial details even in challenging environments. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor surveillance, where lighting conditions change throughout the day.
Security cameras often face harsh environmental conditions, particularly in coastal or high-humidity regions where salt and moisture can accelerate corrosion. Hikvision’s Pro Series cameras with ColorVu 3.0 meet the NEMA 4X standard, ensuring resistance to water, dust, and corrosion. The protective materials prevent damage to the internal circuitry, allowing these cameras to function reliably even in locations up to 2km from the seaside. According to Hikvision, customer feedback from users in such environments highlights increased durability and long-term reliability as major benefits.
The development of the Pro Series with ColorVu 3.0 technology has been influenced by direct feedback from users, particularly those in high-security environments. Many security professionals sought continuous 24/7 colour monitoring without relying on traditional infrared imaging, which can sometimes obscure fine details. The ability to capture high-quality colour video at all times has proven to be an essential tool for those needing clear identification of individuals or objects in real-time security applications.
A Las Vegas cinema makes good use of the technology
One surprising use case emerged in the entertainment industry. A Las Vegas movie theatre implemented Hikvision’s ColorVu 3.0 technology to monitor customer activity in near-total darkness, ensuring security while preserving the immersive experience for audiences. This unconventional application underscores the versatility of ColorVu’s imaging capabilities beyond traditional security settings.
With ColorVu 3.0, Hikvision has taken another step forward in AI-powered video surveillance. By improving image processing, minimising false alarms, enhancing audio capabilities, and introducing adaptive lighting, the company continues to refine its solutions to meet evolving security needs. As demand for intelligent, reliable, and adaptive security technology grows, innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping the future of video surveillance.