What feature of infrared cameras allows for better nighttime surveillance?

Infrared cameras utilize infrared technology to detect heat emitted by objects, which allows them to capture images in low-light or complete darkness. This capability is crucial for nighttime surveillance since traditional visible light cameras struggle to perform under such conditions. The integrated illuminators in infrared cameras enhance their ability to capture clear images at night, often emitting infrared light that is invisible to the naked eye but can be detected by the camera. This feature directly contributes to the effectiveness of nighttime surveillance, making it possible to monitor areas without relying on visible light, which may be limited or absent during nighttime hours.

While higher resolution, greater lens size, and advanced software can improve image quality or processing capabilities in various contexts, they do not directly address the unique challenge of visibility during nighttime, which is specifically mitigated by the use of illuminators in infrared technology.