An inspection camera is available with many additional features. The features that each camera includes can vary, depending on the make and model, so it is always best to check the product specifications before making a purchase.
Photo taker
Most inspection cameras have the ability to take photos, allowing the user to save images to the device.
Video recorder
Similarly with the photo taker feature, most cameras can also record videos and save them to the device.
Internal flash memory
Although some models do not have the ability to save any images, most cameras will have an internal flash memory in order to store pictures and videos that the camera has taken. The size of the flash memory determines how many images can be stored at one time.
Many models which have an internal flash memory also have a slot for a micro SD (secure digital) memory card to be inserted, which then allows many more images to be saved and stored. The SD card is not usually included with the inspection camera and is bought separately.
Zoom
An inspection camera can have a zoom feature which provides the user with a close-up view. The camera can often zoom up to three times closer. However this can vary depending on the model.
Microphone and speaker
Some models of inspection camera may have an integrated microphone to allow the user to make voice annotations while recording. After directly adding voice notes and commentaries, the user can later hear the audio on the built-in speaker when playing the video back.
LED lights
The camera head is usually equipped with up to six LED (light-emitting diode) lights, in order to provide a light source for the user to see in dark spaces. These lights are adjusted by a control button, which can alter the brightness of the lights to different levels.
Monitor brightness
The brightness of the monitor can also be adjusted using a control button, in order to give the user a clearer screen image when working in dark spaces and bright sunlight.
Rotating screen
Some models of inspection camera have a control button which can rotate the image on screen to a different orientation. For most models which have this feature, the image on screen can be rotated 90 degrees at a time, for example it can be turned to 90 degrees, 180 degrees, 270 degrees or a full 360 degrees.
However, there are also some models available whereby the screen is set on a swivel head, which can be rotated to any angle the user desires, without having to move the rest of the device.
Detachable screen
There are some models of inspection camera which have a screen that can detach from the handle and cable and be used wirelessly. This is especially useful when the camera is being used to investigate in an awkward or confined place, as there is no need for the user to strain to see the screen.
Auto power off
Many inspection cameras have an automatic power off feature which switches the device off if it has been unused for a certain amount of time. The automatic power off can be shortened to auto power off or even APO in the product specifications.
Auto power off is an extremely useful feature for your inspection camera to have, as it prevents the battery power from being wasted. In the long run, this means the inspection camera battery will not need to be charged or replaced so often.
The amount of time an inspection camera must be unused for before automatically switching off depends on the individual model. Most models will generally switch off if unused for 15 minutes, although this can be changed manually by the user.
Reset function
Most inspection cameras will be equipped with a reset button which can be pressed to restart a device. If, for some reason, the inspection camera stops functioning and does not operate this button can be used to restart the camera and recover normal operation.
The reset button is usually placed on the side of the camera monitor, and is usually protected by a plastic cover or recessed into the material so that it is only accessible by using a small, thin object. This is in order to prevent the button from being pressed accidentally and restarting the whole device without cause.
Video out
Finally, an inspection camera can have video output, in order to connect the camera image to a monitor through using a VIVO (video in video out) cable. A video out feature allows the user to directly transfer live images to a larger external screen or monitor, such as a television screen, to provide greater visibility and more detailed inspections.
