Compare explosion-proof dome and bullet IP camera form factors for hazardous areas: mounting options, IR range, field of view, and selection guidance for classified zones.

Compare PoE, 24VAC, and DC power options for explosion-proof IP cameras: cable runs, gland entries, PoE budget, and selection guidance for hazardous area CCTV.

Compare fixed mount and PTZ explosion-proof camera configurations for hazardous areas: coverage, maintenance, cost, and Class I Div 1 availability.

Compare 2MP, 4MP, and 8MP explosion-proof IP camera resolutions for hazardous area surveillance: coverage range, bandwidth, storage, and application suitability.

Explosion-proof camera specification sheets contain two sets of data: camera performance specifications (resolution, sensitivity, compression) and hazardous area certification data (ATEX marking, gas group, temperature class). Both sets are essential. Understanding what each value means in practice — not just on paper — prevents selecting cameras that meet the spec sheet but fail the actual installation requirements.

A complete explosion-proof camera specification must define the hazardous area classification (Class/Division or Zone/Group), required certifications (ATEX, IECEx, UL), housing material and IP rating, minimum camera performance (resolution, sensitivity, IR range), and documentation requirements (certificates, installation manual, test reports). Vague specifications result in non-compliant equipment or inflated pricing on non-mandatory features.

An explosion-proof camera system costs significantly more than a standard CCTV installation. Hardware costs range from $1,500 to $8,000 per camera position depending on type and certification. Installation labor in classified areas adds 40-70% over standard CCTV due to conduit sealing, hot-work permits, and commissioning requirements. A 16-camera system with 30-day retention and VMS typically totals $80,000-$180,000 installed.

Lens selection determines how much area each explosion-proof camera covers and at what resolution. A 4mm lens covers a wide area at short range; a 12mm lens provides a narrower, longer-range view. Varifocal lenses offer adjustment flexibility during commissioning. Low-light performance depends on the lens F-number — a lower F-number (F1.2 vs F1.8) captures significantly more light at night.

The NVR (network video recorder) for an explosion-proof CCTV system must be located in a safe, unclassified area — never inside a classified zone. Key selection criteria include PoE power budget for long cable runs to hazardous areas, channel capacity, storage sizing at the required resolution and retention period, and compatibility with the video management software used by the facility.

Coverage planning for explosion-proof camera systems requires calculating field of view angles, defining detection and identification distances, and mapping camera positions against classified zone boundaries. Most industrial facilities require between one camera per 15-30 meters of perimeter and one per process area, with PTZ cameras used to reduce total count in large open areas.