Computar's (Precise Iris) lens series was specifically developed to deliver the maximum performance of Megapixel IP cameras. The P-Iris automatically adjusts the iris setting and allows you to select the best quality or best depth of field while delivering the highest sensitivity to suit your application. This innovative technology contains many exciting features and is a step up from conventional Fixed, Manual, and Auto-iris lenses.
P-Iris is a new type of iris control that is both automatic and precise. The main function of the DC auto-iris lens is to adjust the iris based on lighting conditions. The P-Iris control optimizes the image quality by enabling the best iris position to be set based on multiple factors. The precise digital iris control enables the camera's software to communicate with the lens, allowing it to set the F-Stop where the lens performs optimally. At the same time, the P-Iris camera software electronically adjusts the gain (amplification of the signal level) based on the F-Stop, eliminating the need for a neutral density filter and maintaining the optimal iris position for as long as possible. The result is improved image contrast, resolution, and depth of field. With the P-Iris feature, you may select or prioritize the best iris mode suitable for your application. You may choose Best Quality or Best Depth of Field.
In normal situations, the selected iris position and a camera's electronic processing capabilities adjust the exposure based on lighting conditions. Megapixel cameras with the P-Iris technology automatically instruct the iris to move to a different position. In dark conditions, the iris will fully open. In bright conditions, the P-Iris camera will limit the closing of the iris to a position that avoids diffraction or blurring. Megapixel cameras with the P-iris system can also minimize the difference in resolution between the center and corners of the image, enhancing overall picture quality and sharpness. (see image below)
Depth of field refers to the distance in front of and beyond the point of focus where objects appear to be sharp simultaneously. A wide iris opening reduces the depth of field, while a smaller opening increases it. Having a good depth of field throughout the scene is essential to achieve optimized image quality. Typically, megapixel sensors have smaller pixels that can result in a narrow depth of field. The P-iris added to the megapixel camera will optimize the available depth of field, providing overall sharper images and enhancing foreground and background resolution. The technology is particularly useful in scenes where the foreground and background resolution is critical, as in a long corridor. (see image below).
Computar's P-iris CS-mount lenses have a special 4-pin connector on their cable. To protect the cameras from damage, P-iris connector plugs are designed not to fit regular cameras (for use with P-Iris cameras only).
