IZA500G/GR Installation Guide

ALPR All-in-one AI Camera System

Picture of Camera

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Table of Contents

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2. Training and Support

2.1. Training

This document does not take the place of training by Inex Technologies' certified specialists. Contact Inex Technologies to schedule training.

2.2. Support

If you have any questions, please contact our support team via our Inex Technologies Website.

3. Checklist

  • Prepare components and tools

  • Plan your site

  • Prepare cables

  • Install Camera System(s) and other components

  • Connect components (wiring)

  • Power up and set up IP

  • Configure LPR/OV camera settings

  • Aim and calibrate

  • Verify system operation

4. Prepare Components and Tools

4.1. Package Contents

Carefully unpack the contents of the ALPR Camera System package. (For a detailed view of the cables, see Figure 9.)

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Figure 1. Package Contents

The package includes:

  • IZA500G/GR ALPR All-in-one AI Camera System

If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact Inex Technologies.

4.2. Required Accessories

The following accessories can be supplied by INEX/TECH, For documentation and part numbers, see Section 1.

Table 2. Required Accessories
Item Notes

24 VDC (or 24/48 VDC for P24/P48 models using DC input) power supply (voltage-adjustable)

INEX/TECH model power supply. (If you use an external illuminator, it is recommended to use an illuminator power supply separate from the Camera System’s supply.)

PoE++ Injector

Required for P24/P48 models when using PoE+ power input

Mounting Hardware (pan-tilt-roll bracket)

Typically on gantry or wall/pole; see the Mounting Hardware documentation for details (see Section 1).

4.3. Optional Accessories

For documentation and part numbers, see Section 1.

  • IZIO Digital I/O Controller

  • Loop Detector

  • External Illuminators

4.4. Tools

  • An Allen wrench used to attach the mounting adapter plate to the housing (if applicable); size 3/16" (4.76 mm)

  • Network (LAN) cabling (typically CAT 5e/6 cable) with metal-body RJ45 connectors. The total length of the cable should not exceed 328 feet (100 meters).

  • Tools for building LAN cables (wire stripper, crimp tool, etc.) and RJ45 connectors with metal bodies.

    For installations that require network cabling: typically use CAT 5e/6 cable. The total length of the cable should not exceed 328 feet (100 meters).

    All network cable extensions and repeaters must be shielded.

4.5. Laptop Computer

  • You will need to provide a laptop computer to use for configuration. If you will be using the laptop outdoors, the screen must be able to be seen in strong sunlight. Required software:

    • Windows 10 or above - with .NET 4.5 enabled in "Windows Features"

    • Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser

5. Plan Your Site

5.1. Horizontal Field of View (Capture Line)

Your camera’s Field of View (FOV) is the area that the camera can "see". You can think of this area as an imaginary rectangle rising from the lane upwards. The width of this area is called the horizontal FOV or "capture line".

See your camera’s User Guide for the horizontal and vertical FOV specifications.

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Figure 2. Field of View (Capture Line)

Select your camera’s position so that license plates are always within the capture line and parallel to it, with the camera facing as straight at the plates as possible - as shown in the following diagrams:

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Figure 3. Plates Within Capture Line
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Figure 4. Plates Parallel to Capture Line - Away from Road Curves

5.2. Angles and Distances

See your camera’s data sheet for capture distance specifications.

Installations that position the camera at significant angles in relation to the plates will reduce the line-of-sight distances specified.
image
Figure 5. Horizontal Camera Angle (Pan Angle)

Click to show notes for Horizontal Angle

See your camera’s data sheet for capture distance specifications.

If you must capture plates on a curve, place the camera on the side of the road that minimizes the horizontal angle.

At larger angles, the reflectivity of the plates is reduced, resulting in images with less contrast.
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Figure 6. Vertical Camera Angle (Tilt Angle) and Line-of-Sight Distance from Plate
Click to show notes for Vertical Angle

See your camera’s data sheet for capture distance specifications.

The distance from the camera to the capture line must be within the viewing range of the LPR camera.

Adjust the vertical angle so that the camera can read plates at all of their expected heights from the road.

Larger angles and/or greater mounting heights may be required in order to recognize plates on vehicles close to each other (such as in slow/congested traffic).

At larger angles, the reflectivity of the plates is reduced, resulting in images with less contrast.

5.3. Position of the Sun in Relation to the Camera

The camera should not be positioned so that the rays of the sun behind the camera shine along the camera-to-plate axis. Reflective plates will cause severe glare to be reflected back to the camera, obscuring the image of the plate’s characters.

Avoid/mitigate by:

  • Not installing the camera in an east/west direction

  • Installing the camera near a building that shields it from the sun’s rays

  • Installing the camera on a short pole

  • Using a double-camera installation (2 different angles or front/rear)

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Figure 7. Sun Behind Camera (on Same Axis as Line-of-Sight from Camera to Plate)

5.4. Optimizing Nighttime Vehicle Overview Images (using External Illuminators)

External illuminators can be used to enhance overview vehicle image quality, for front and/or rear capture. It is recommended to use an illuminator power supply separate from the Camera System’s supply.

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Figure 8. External Illuminator

5.4.1. Matching Your Camera System to an Inex Illuminator

The wavelength of an external illuminator must be compatible with the wavelength of the internal illuminators of the Inex Camera System.

The Inex IZA500G/GR Camera Systems are typically used with the IZL series illuminators.

By using the following guidelines, you can match the illuminator to your Inex Camera System.

  • The number of illuminator LEDs and beam angle must match the distance type (long or short) of the Camera System being used, as follows:

    • Fewer LEDs and wider beam angles are used for short distances

    • More LEDs and narrower beam angles are used for longer distances

The results of applying these guidelines can be found in the following table:

5.4.2. Illuminator Mounting and Aiming

See the illuminator guides for further details about installation and mounting considerations (see Section 1).

  • Mount illuminators at an appropriate distance away from their associated Camera System(s) , according to the objectives of your project. Contact Inex for guidance/training about this subject.

  • Position the illuminator so you can aim it at the place where vehicles pass for recognition - while minimizing the glare into drivers' eyes. In most cases, however, white illuminators are mounted to be aimed at the rear of vehicles. Illuminator aiming is most effective at night.

5.4.3. Verifying Infrared-type Illuminator Operation

You can look at an infrared-type illuminator with a smartphone camera to see if it is working.

5.5. Additional Installation Considerations

Table 4. Additional Installation Considerations
Item Considerations

Surge Protection

  • On power, network and data cables

Correct, Stable and Sufficient Power

  • Power undervoltage, overvoltage and/or incorrect polarity will damage the unit and will void the warranty.

  • Stable power at the correct level must be supplied to each Camera System, even when under a heavy processing load.

Cable Extensions

IMPORTANT
All network cable extensions and repeaters must be shielded.

  • Power - Use a cable gauge sufficient to deliver the required voltage at the Camera System

  • LAN - Use only CAT 5e/6 cable for any extensions added to the LAN cable. The total length of the cable (without a switch) should not exceed 328 feet (100 meters).

Front/Rear Capture - or Both

  • Country requirements

  • Vehicle types

  • Protruding parts that obscure plates (such as rear hooks)

  • Recessed plates

  • Desired pre- or post-capture in relation to ticket issue (for parking)

Objects with character-like appearances (interpreted as characters on a plate, resulting in false reads)

Avoid having these items in the Field of View:

  • Fences with patterns

  • Barriers

  • Signs

Obstructions (blocking FOV)

  • Entry gates

  • Trees and bushes (even before fully grown)

  • Bright light (sun/artificial) shining directly into Camera System’s front window

  • Reflective surfaces too close to camera lens

  • Weather - snow, heavy rain, dust storms

  • Dirt on front window (see Section 13)

Mounting

  • Typically on wall/pole

  • Additional construction if needed

6. Prepare Cables

The trigger wires have the same functions and colors as shown here, but the label on the cable may be worded differently.

When adding extensions to the built-in cables, be sure that there are stable/correct signal and power levels delivered to all components.

For installations that require network cabling: typically use CAT 5e/6 cable. The total length of the cable should not exceed 328 feet (100 meters).

All network cable extensions and repeaters must be shielded.
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Figure 9. Cable Details

7. Install Camera System(s) and Other Components

Before mounting components, see Section 8 to ensure that your site plan accommodates how the components will be wired together.

After mounting, remove the protective film from the front window of the Camera System.

  1. Secure the Camera System(s) and illuminator(s) to the appropriate mounting hardware (see the Mounting Hardware documentation - see Section 1).

  2. Mount other components (such as junction boxes) in appropriate locations.

8. Connect Components (Wiring)

8.1. Typical Wiring Diagrams

See Table 5 for a legend/bill of materials.

Turn off/disconnect the external (AC) power supply before connecting cables.

If you are using an Inex power supply, see its User Guide (see Section 1) for important information.

If you are using a DIN rail-mount power supply, you will need to cut off the rings at the ends of the Camera System’s power connections, and attach pins in their place.

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Figure 10. Typical Camera System Wiring Diagram
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Figure 11. Typical Camera System Wiring Diagram with PoE+ (P24/P48 Models)
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Figure 12. Typical Camera System with Inductive Loop Wiring Diagram
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Figure 13. Typical Camera System with I/O Module Wiring Diagram
Table 5. Wiring Diagram Legend/Bill of Materials
Item Description Ordering Information

A

LAN Patch Cable - CAT6, max. length 3.3 ft (1 m) for connection to IZ4POE;
382 ft (100 m) for connection to IZIO

Supplied by integrator

B

LAN Cable - CAT6, shielded, 4 pairs, 22 AWG, max. length 328 ft (100 m),
OD 5.5-7.9 mm

Supplied by integrator; 6.6 ft (2 m) included with camera

C

PAS (Power and Signals) Cable -
22 AWG, OD 3.0-7.3 mm

Supplied by integrator; 6.6 ft (2 m) cable included with camera

D

Power Supply for Cameras
24 VDC for standard models;
24/48 VDC for P24/P48 models

For 1 camera, use a 50/75 W supply (IZPWR75)
For 2 cameras, use a 100/120 W supply (IZPWR120)
For 4 cameras, use a 240 W supply (IZPWR240)

E

Gate

Supplied by integrator

F

Inductive Loop

Supplied by integrator

G

Loop Detector Wiring Harness

Included with Loop Detector

H

Power Supply for IZ4POE
PoE+ Injector
Requires 48 VDC

For 1 camera, use a 75 W supply (IZPWR75-48)
For 2 cameras, use a 120 W supply (IZPWR120-48)
For 4 cameras, use a 240 W supply (IZPWR240-48)

  • For device configuration instructions, see the LOOP-DTCR-L and IZIO guides.

  • If you need to use an external illuminator, see Table 3 for a table of Camera-to-Illuminator Recommended Setups.

  • The IZ4POE is required for the PoE+ input power option; a standard PoE network switch cannot be used.

9. Power Up and Set Up IP

9.1. Connecting the Power

If any power cables were lengthened, ensure that all components receive exactly their rated voltage.

Power undervoltage, overvoltage and/or incorrect polarity will damage the unit and will void the warranty.

Stable power at the correct level must be supplied to each Camera System, even when under a heavy processing load.

Connect a plug to the Live (+V), Neutral (-V) and Ground (Shield) terminals of the power supply (see Section 8.1).

Plug the power supply into the AC electricity. If required, switch the power supply unit ON.

9.2. Reserving IP Addresses in your Network

The Inex cameras have been pre-configured with default IP addresses. You will probably need to change these addresses to conform to the requirements of your network. Be sure that you have IP addresses reserved for all components of your ALPR system (RoadView computer and cameras).

9.3. Set Up IP

The IZ Discovery utility discovers all active devices connected to the network, and displays a list of their network parameters. These devices can include cameras and computers.

See the IZ Discovery User Guide (see Section 1) for instructions on how to change a Camera System’s IP address.

10. Configure LPR/OV Camera Settings

10.1. Logging In to the Camera

  1. To view the camera’s home page (see Figure 14):

    • Open a browser. Enter the IP address of the camera into the address field.

      image
      Figure 14. Camera’s Home Page

  2. Select the function you need from the links at the upper left:

    • Click the Live button to see what the camera is currently viewing. You can also use the zoom and focus controls.

      Click to show notes for Live View

      When using Live View for the first time, you may be prompted to download and install an ActiveX control (Smart Viewer).
      If you do not have an internet connection to the network on which the camera is installed, wait 30 seconds, and you will be instructed on how to install the ActiveX control locally via the camera’s firmware.

      The stream of the Live View can also be accessed using an RTSP URL with this format :

      rtsp://[username:password]@<Camera IP address>/cam0_0
      where cam0_0 is a camera-specific parameter (which in this case enables you to access the primary stream)

      To see the stream, use a video player such as the VLC player, located at:
      VLC

    • If you need to change the camera’s IP address or other configuration parameters, click the Admin button. When prompted for a login, use the Administrator username/password credentials of root, IZpass12.

The Administrator user name (root) cannot be changed, and the Administrator password is encrypted. Therefore, if someone changes the Administrator password, there is no way to find out the password if it gets lost.

10.2. Changing a Camera’s IP Address

It is highly recommended to use a fixed IP address (not DHCP). A fixed IP address enables you to access the camera using the same URL every time, even after unexpected power outages.

You can also use IZ Discovery to change the camera’s IP address (see Section 1).

  1. In the Network group, click on IP Address:

    image
    Figure 15. Changing the Camera’s IP Address

  2. To change the IP address to a fixed one:

    The IP address must be unique within the entire ALPR system, and must be within the limits of standard IPv4 address numbering.

    1. Click the Static radio button.

    2. Enter the network address parameters. All cameras must be on the same subnet as both the computer you will use to communicate with and configure the camera, and the Inex RoadView computer.

    It is highly recommended to record the camera’s IP address and port number in a safe place. You will need them if the camera’s parameters are reset back to their defaults, and for configuring Inex recognition software.

  3. Click Apply.

    After selecting Apply, you will be requested to close your web browser so the updates can take effect. This will take 20 seconds or more, to allow the camera time to reboot.
    - If you click the browser’s Back button, all values will be discarded.
    - If you click the browser’s Refresh button, the application will load the previous values.

  4. In the IZ Discovery utility (see the IZ Discovery User Guide - see Section 1), click the "Clear List" button, and verify that the camera can be recognized with the new IP address.

10.3. Camera Settings

Camera settings are typically set by Inex.

10.4. Logging Out of the Camera

Close all windows, and the browser window.

11. Aim and Calibrate

There are two cameras in the Camera System. Both are calibrated in nearly the same way. The LPR camera is set to capture in black and white, and the Overview (OV) camera is set to capture in color.

The OV camera can be used both to display an overview image, and to perform LPR recognition. You may even be able to improve read accuracy by changing the zoom to have one camera "see" closer than the other one.

11.1. Preparing a Vehicle/License Plate

Move a vehicle next to, and at the middle of the capture line. (This is the position at which the vehicle sensor signals that the vehicle is present.) Ensure that the Camera System is aimed at the middle of the lane, and is at the required capture distance (see Section 5 and the IZA500G/GR User Guide - see Section 1).

Alternatively, in a lab, position a license plate at the expected distance and height.

11.2. Determining the IP Address of the RoadView Computer with IZ Discovery

See the IZ Discovery User Guide (see Section 1).

11.3. Using RoadView

11.3.1. Logging In

  1. Open a browser (Chrome or Microsoft Edge). Type in the IP address of the RoadView computer. For example:
    192.168.5.110

  2. You will see the login screen. Enter the default username and password (root, root):

    image
    Figure 16. Logging In to RoadView

  3. You should see the RoadView Live (Journal) tab. See the RoadView ALPR User Guide for instructions for configuring and using RoadView (see Section 1).

11.3.2. Logging Out

See the RoadView ALPR User Guide (see Section 1) for logout instructions, using the multi-line dropdown menu icon in the upper right corner of the screen.

11.4. Calibrating the Cameras Using RoadView

See the RoadView ALPR User Guide (see Section 1) for calibration instructions.

12. Verify System Operation

  • Using a license plate mounted in a lab, or by driving a vehicle through the lane, verify that an Event is generated with the correct plate read (recorded in the RoadView Live (Journal) tab - see the RoadView ALPR User Guide). See Section 1.

  • Once the lane is active, verify that Events are being generated for each vehicle passing each camera, and that the recognition has sufficient accuracy and confidence.

13. Troubleshooting and Maintenance

13.1. Troubleshooting

See the RoadView ALPR User Guide (see Section 1).

13.2. Checking Mounting Screws

It is recommended to check all mounting screws for proper tightness once every two years.

13.3. Cleaning the ALPR Camera System

Do not use solvents or strong abrasive detergent when cleaning the Camera System. Use a soft dry cloth to clean the ALPR Camera System’s front glass when it is dirty. If the dirt has hardened, remove it using mild soap and water, and then wipe the front window gently.

14. Notices, Safety Precautions and Certifications

14.1. Notice

Inex Technologies reserves the right to improve and enhance its product offerings. Thus, the illustrations and descriptions presented in this manual may differ in some respect from the products you receive.

Technical specifications are subject to change without notice.

In addition, please note that some figures are not drawn to scale, in order to illustrate the addressed issue more effectively.

All third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Inex Technologies cannot be held liable for technical and editorial omissions or errors made in this document; nor for incidental or consequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance or use of this document.

Actions or circumstances that void the warranty are improper usage, improper handling without adequate electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, defects resulting from natural disaster (fire, flood etc.) and unauthorized modifications or repair.

Power undervoltage, overvoltage and/or incorrect polarity will damage the unit and will void the warranty.

It is your responsibility to ensure that all wires connected to Inex Technologies' products have appropriate surge protection. Any damage due to electrical spikes (for example, lightning) is not covered by the warranty.

No part of this document may be reproduced in any form without permission from Inex Technologies.

14.2. Safety Precautions

BEWARE OF RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL

This product must be used in compliance with local laws and regulations.

All network cable extensions and repeaters must be shielded.

Power undervoltage, overvoltage and/or incorrect polarity will damage the unit and will void the warranty.

  • Please read this guide carefully before installing the ALPR Camera System.

  • Keep this guide for future reference.

  • Do not disassemble the ALPR Camera System or external illuminator units. Repair or replacement of parts for this ALPR Camera System and its external illuminator units should be supplied by Inex Technologies, and installed by qualified service personnel.

  • Handle and store the ALPR Camera System and external illuminator units with care.

  • Never point the ALPR Camera System directly towards the sun.

  • Do not allow water (e.g. rain) to enter the ALPR Camera System.

  • Do not handle the ALPR Camera System or external illuminator units unless you have adequate electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection; otherwise, the warranty will be void.

  • You must request that your Inex Technologies-certified service technician install lightning and electrical surge protection on all wiring connected to Inex Technologies' products. The warranty does not cover surge or lightning protection.

  • Do not use the ALPR Camera System or external illuminator units outside of their temperature, humidity and power source ratings as noted in their respective technical specifications.

  • To avoid heat accumulation/overheating, use sufficient ventilation in the product’s operating environment.

  • Do not connect several devices to one power adapter since adapter overload may cause overheating or a fire hazard.

  • Stop using the unit immediately if it emits smoke, or if you notice an abnormal smell or sound. In such cases, please contact us. Do not attempt to repair the unit by yourself!

  • The use of any Inex Technologies' software products or any other software product referred to in this document with internet access shall be used wholly at your own risk. Inex Technologies does not take any responsibility for abnormal operation, privacy leakage or any other damages resulting from cyber attack, hacker attack, virus infection or any other internet security risks.

  • Proper configuration of all passwords and other security settings is the responsibility of the installer and/or end-user.

  • Eye Safety: The following precautions must be observed:

    • Do not stare directly into the front of the ALPR Camera System while it is operating.

    • IZA500G/GR - IEC62471 Group 1:

Eye Safety Group 1 Warning Label

14.3. Legal Disclaimer

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, THE PRODUCT DESCRIBED, WITH ITS HARDWARE, SOFTWARE AND FIRMWARE, IS PROVIDED "AS IS", WITH ALL FAULTS AND ERRORS, AND OUR COMPANY MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, MERCHANTABILITY, SATISFACTORY QUALITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD PARTY. IN NO EVENT WILL OUR COMPANY, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, EMPLOYEES, OR AGENTS BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, INCLUDING, AMONG OTHERS, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, OR LOSS OF DATA OR DOCUMENTATION, IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT, EVEN IF OUR COMPANY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

THE USE OF ANY Inex Technologies' SOFTWARE PRODUCTS OR ANY OTHER SOFTWARE PRODUCTS REFERRED TO IN THIS DOCUMENT WITH INTERNET ACCESS SHALL BE USED WHOLLY AT YOUR OWN RISK. Inex Technologies DOES NOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ABNORMAL OPERATION, PRIVACY LEAKAGE OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES RESULTING FROM CYBER ATTACK, HACKER ATTACK, VIRUS INFECTION OR ANY OTHER INTERNET SECURITY RISKS.

For details, see the Inex Software End User License Agreement.

14.4. Regulatory Notices

  • FCC Conformance:
    This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

  • CE Logo ROHS Logo EU Conformity Statement:
    This product and - if applicable, the supplied accessories - are marked with "CE" and comply therefore with the applicable harmonized European standards listed under the EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, and the RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC.

  • IP67 Ingress Protection:
    This product conforms to the IP67 standard.

  • ONVIF Logo ONVIF:
    This device is ONVIF compliant (Profile S).

  • IK10 Logo IK10:
    This device has been tested and conforms to the IK10 impact standard (vandal-proof).

© Inex Technologies, LLC - All rights reserved.

Doc. No. IZA500G-GR-MAN-002b Ver. 2024-07-01