A camera with WDR wide dynamic range is able to operate in variable light conditions, especially in high contrast situations.

When shooting in high contrast, backlight, glare and light reflection environments such as the entrance, ATM or the window side, the object will appear dark and unrecognizable. WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) technology can ensure an identifiable image of all objects under such conditions by appropriately exposing the entire scene, both the darkest and brightest parts.

WDR cameras are designed to be used for indoor surveillance applications where there is a large deference in foreground and background light levels (there is a WDR of light). This is typical in storefront and office buildings that have large glass  walls with direct sunlight outside.

The difference between Back Light Compensation (BLC) and WDR is that the image background does not appear ‘washed out‘ as in the case of BLC enabled camera

External cameras always need some form of automatic iris lens or in certain circumstances cameras may be equipped with technology such as Wide Dynamic Range (WDR). This is because external light levels change dramatically throughout the day, the night, and between seasons.

The quality of the color picture produced by a camera changes depending on the light level and the spectrum of the light on the scene

The white balance control normally has two positions:

•Auto — the camera adjusts itself but may be confused if there is a mixed content of light

•Manual – a potentiometer can be adjusted to vary the picture from blue to red