SPECS (Average Speed) Speed Camera
Average speed camera system using ANPR to calculate speed over a distance. Cannot be beaten by braking at camera locations.
Manufacturer
Jenoptik (Germany, formerly Vysionics)
Detection Method
ANPR cameras at two points, calculates average speed from time and distance
Flash
No visible flash
Enforcement Threshold
No guaranteed tolerance
How SPECS (Average Speed) Cameras Work
Pairs of cameras photograph number plates at entry and exit points. Calculates average speed over the distance. Uses ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition).
Key Facts
Does It Flash?
No visible flash
Typical Locations
Motorway roadworks, A-roads, tunnels, long stretches of dual carriageway
Detection Method
ANPR cameras at two points, calculates average speed from time and distance
How to Identify a SPECS (Average Speed)
- Tall poles with forward-facing cameras
- Always in pairs (start + end)
- Yellow housings
- Often in roadwork zones
Frequently Asked Questions
Do SPECS (Average Speed) cameras flash?
No, SPECS (Average Speed) cameras do not produce a visible flash. They use anpr cameras at two points, calculates average speed from time and distance without any flash unit.
How accurate are SPECS (Average Speed) speed cameras?
Equipment used as evidence must meet the applicable type-approval and operating requirements. There is no legal tolerance: any speed above the posted limit can be enforced, although operational guidance and police discretion affect how individual cases are handled.
How do SPECS (Average Speed) cameras detect speed?
Pairs of cameras photograph number plates at entry and exit points. Calculates average speed over the distance. Uses ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition).
Where are SPECS (Average Speed) cameras typically found?
Motorway roadworks, A-roads, tunnels, long stretches of dual carriageway
Other Camera Types
Gatso
The most common fixed speed camera in the UK, named after inventor Maurice Gatsonides.
Read the guide →
Truvelo
A forward-facing fixed speed camera that photographs the driver. Unlike Gatso, it uses infrared flash invisible to drivers.
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HADECS3
Highway Agency Digital Enforcement Camera System. Used on smart motorways to enforce variable speed limits.
Read the guide →