Ep 4. Speed Cameras

In episode four of the fifth season of MythBusters, titled "Speed Cameras," the team tackles the topic of whether or not traffic cameras can accurately determine the speed of a car. The hosts, Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, start by testing a variety of speed cameras and radar guns. They also challenge the idea that the cameras are calibrated and accurate enough to truly determine the speed of a car.

To test out the validity of speed cameras, the hosts install several cameras in a controlled environment, including a section of track designed to simulate a typical road with a variety of speeds and obstacles. They use a car equipped with a GPS device to record real-time speed data while driving over different sections of the track. Additionally, they install a speedometer and a radar gun to test the accuracy of the cameras.

Throughout the episode, Adam and Jamie conduct several experiments to determine the accuracy of the cameras. They test different speeds, distances, and angles to see how the cameras perform under different conditions. For example, they test the cameras against different colored objects, like a red car vs. a white car, to see if the color affects the readings.

The hosts also try out several methods to try and trick the cameras, including using infrared stickers and changing the angles of the cameras. They even dress up a dummy to look like a driver, hoping to see if the cameras can detect the difference between a human and a fake driver. They also test whether or not the cameras are able to detect a car’s speed accurately when multiple cars are driving close together.

Throughout the episode, Adam and Jamie consult with several experts in the field of speed detection and camera technology. They also provide explanations of the different techniques and methods used by cameras to determine speed, including radar, lidar, and laser technology.

One of the most significant experiments of the episode involves testing the accuracy of speed cameras in different weather conditions. The hosts set up a rain simulation to test how the cameras perform under wet conditions. They also test whether or not fog and snow affect the accuracy of the cameras.

In the end, Adam and Jamie come to a conclusion about the accuracy of speed cameras based on the data and experiments conducted throughout the episode. Along the way, they provide valuable insights into how these cameras work and what factors can affect their performance.

Overall, "Speed Cameras" is an engaging and informative episode that delves into the science behind speed detection technology. With its comprehensive approach to testing and experimentation, it provides a fascinating look at the inner workings of these ubiquitous traffic monitoring tools.