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Quick Summary DORI (Detection, Observation, Recognition, Identification) is an international standard (IEC EN 62676-4:2015) that quantifies a CCTV camera’s real-world performance using Pixels Per Meter (PPM), rather than subjective marketing terms. For mining, chemical, and power plant procurement teams, applying the DORI framework ensures the selected camera — lens focal length, resolution, and low-light performance — actually meets the required detection distance and detail level for each surveillance zone. |
DORI is an international standard that defines four levels of CCTV camera performance based on Pixels Per Meter (PPM) — the pixel density delivered on a target at a given distance. Because PPM is a measurable, objective metric, it allows cameras to be compared on real-world capability rather than vague claims of “clear” or “detailed” imaging.
• Detection (25 PPM): Confirms the presence of a person or vehicle in the field of view, with minimal detail. Suited to wide-area monitoring where the goal is triggering an alert — for example, a perimeter fence or open yard.
• Observation (62 PPM): Provides enough detail to distinguish basic characteristics such as approximate height, clothing color, or direction of movement. Useful for contextual analysis, such as identifying loitering or a vehicle parked in a restricted zone.
• Recognition (125 PPM): Enables consistent differentiation between people, vehicles, and other object types — for example, verifying whether a visitor is an employee or an unauthorized individual, or classifying vehicle types at a site entrance.
• Identification (250 PPM): The highest level, required for positive identification of facial features, license plate numbers, or other fine markings. Used at high-security access points such as gatehouses, control rooms, and restricted entrances.
Shorter focal lengths (e.g., 2.8 mm) provide wide-angle coverage but limited detail at range — suited to indoor areas or narrow corridors. Longer focal lengths (e.g., 8 mm or higher) narrow the field of view to deliver more detail at distance — suited to large yards or perimeters. Varifocal lenses (e.g., 2.8–12 mm) allow the focal length to be adjusted on site to balance coverage and detail.
Resolution (megapixels) alone does not determine DORI performance — pixel density (PPM) does. For example, a 4MP camera with a 3.6mm lens may deliver 125 PPM (Recognition) at 15 meters, while an 8MP camera with the same lens could reach 250 PPM (Identification) at the same distance. Higher-resolution sensors retain more detail when digitally zoomed into distant objects.
Low-light performance directly affects whether a camera maintains its rated DORI level after dark. Infrared (IR) night vision, white supplemental light, and low-light sensor technologies (such as Sony Starvis) help sustain DORI performance in low-light conditions. Dual-light cameras can switch between infrared (for covert monitoring) and white light (for active deterrence). Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) balances bright and dark areas in a single scene, preventing overexposure from sunlight or vehicle headlights.
Application | Target Distance | Recommended DORI Level | Notes |
Front gate / entry identification | 3–5 m | Identification (250 PPM) | Positive ID of visitors/vehicles at controlled access points |
Vehicle/perimeter access, adjustable range | Up to 15 m | Identification (250 PPM) | Varifocal 6–8mm, or fixed 8MP lens for equivalent pixel density |
Facility/store entrance monitoring | ~25 m | Recognition (125 PPM) | 4mm lens with 4MP resolution to distinguish personnel |
Open yard / parking area monitoring | Wide area | Observation (62 PPM) | 2.8mm wide-angle lens, 2MP resolution for movement tracking |
Factory perimeter / large yard | 100+ m | Detection to Recognition | Requires optical zoom for extended range |
DORI compliance is a baseline, not a guarantee — actual field performance depends on:
• Site survey: Map surveillance zones, critical distances, and lighting conditions before installation.
• Testing and calibration: Use DORI calculators to determine the required focal length and resolution, and verify performance on site, adjusting varifocal lenses as needed.
• Environmental factors: Fog, rain, and other atmospheric interference can reduce effective DORI performance below the rated specification.
• Smart features: AI-based human/vehicle detection, facial recognition, and auto-tracking can improve practical DORI outcomes by focusing camera performance on relevant targets and reducing false alerts.
Q: What does DORI stand for?
Detection, Observation, Recognition, and Identification — the four levels defined by IEC EN 62676-4:2015 for evaluating CCTV camera performance at distance.
Q: What PPM value is needed for facial or license plate identification?
250 Pixels Per Meter (PPM), the Identification level, is required for reliable facial recognition or license plate reading.
Q: Does higher resolution automatically mean better DORI performance?
Not on its own. Resolution must be matched to lens focal length and target distance — pixel density (PPM) at the target, not raw megapixels, determines the actual DORI level achieved.
Q: How does fog or rain affect DORI performance?
Atmospheric interference can reduce the effective PPM a camera delivers at a given distance, meaning a camera rated for Identification in clear conditions may only achieve Recognition or Observation in heavy fog or rain.
Q: How should procurement teams apply DORI when specifying cameras for an industrial site?
Match the required DORI level to each zone’s security purpose — Detection for perimeter alerting, Observation for wide-area monitoring, Recognition for entrance/vehicle classification, and Identification for controlled access points — then select lens focal length and resolution accordingly.
Future Vision Technology is a China-based manufacturer with 18 years of experience in zoom block, PTZ, and speed dome cameras, supporting global partners through OEM/ODM services. View Product Range
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