Video surveillance, utilizing security cameras with AI-driven number plate recognition, has become a crucial component of modern security systems. The technology in this sector is evolving and bringing more advanced solutions to your disposal.
However, do you consider ANPR and LPR the same? Are there any functional and technological differences in these popular solutions? Let’s help you explore key differences in this blog.
ANPR vs LPR: Key Differences
Let’s deep dive into the region, application, and technology-specific differences between ANPR and LPR:
Regions & Fields of Application
The acronym ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) is a British English version, and European markets commonly use this term. Interestingly, you may often come across the term ANPR in European tolling and security fields. Whereas, the North American (mainly the US) parking industry uses ‘License Plate Recognition’.
As discussed above, US-based manufacturers and service providers generally refer to it as LPR, while European providers prefer to call it ANPR.
Underlying Technology & Capabilities
Technological implementation may be the most significant discrepancy between the terms ANPR and LPR. This difference relates to the evolution of these solutions, applying slightly different technological aspects.
A license plate recognition camera primarily refers to a camera capable of reading license plates. This camera can process images and extract license plates locally (on the edge) or connect to a cloud-based solution via an ANPR API. The division of tasks between the camera and the system allows for flexible processing and integration.
Apart from this, some providers refer to a generic CCTV camera equipped with Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software as an LPR.
Therefore, it is challenging to differentiate, as providers may use these acronyms interchangeably for any solution they offer. However, it is crucial to pick the appropriate option, as it affects the overall functionality and cost-effectiveness of your security or surveillance system in the long run.
How to Choose a Suitable Solution between ANPR & LPR?
After getting a glimpse of the differences between ANPR and LPR, let’s figure out how to choose the perfect solution for your intended use:
Consider what you are trying to attain. If your application only requires faster recognition of number plates, choosing a number plate recognition camera would be a wise option.
However, if your usage exceeds license plate recognition, it would be better to consider ANPR API-based, sophisticated vehicle recognition solutions. Let’s glance at the extensive technical capabilities of some popular products:
If you aim to scan license plates in real-time, opt for a portable ANPR camera. In applications such as temporary surveillance specific to a particular event, these cameras could be ideal.
You can monitor traffic flow to detect stolen or flagged vehicles, mark suspicious cars or individuals, and control traffic, particularly in areas lacking adequate infrastructure.
On the other hand, ANPR speed cameras help in assessing the speed of vehicles to prevent overspeeding. These can scan the number plates of cars moving at a faster speed and help authorities take the necessary actions.
Similarly, these cameras assist in traffic law enforcement by tracking stolen vehicles. These cameras not only recognize number plates but can also check them against a vast database in real-time.
The Bottom Line
Understanding various number plate recognition solutions helps you choose the right solution. Consider your specific use case, budget, and technical infrastructure to select the most suitable license plate recognition ANPR.
FAQs
Though people use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and License Plate Recognition (LPR) interchangeably, there are differences in the underlying technologies.
ANPR and LPR refer to the same software technology, which extracts license plates from images and reads the characters, along with other relevant details such as the issuing country
License Plate Recognition ANPR is helpful in various ways, such as parking management, toll collection, security control, traffic management during congestion, and law enforcement through stolen and flagged vehicle tracking, overspeeding, and mobile use (during driving) detection.
You should choose the system based on your requirements.
– A license plate recognition camera is sufficient if you aim at access control or payments.
– However, if you require comprehensive visual data for vehicle tracking, access control, or video evidence, selecting ANPR speed cameras would be a better option.
