PTZ Controls - Reviews (2024)

FAQs

What is the best PTZ control software? ›

PTZ Control Center is one of the best free software-based controllers to use with Panasonic PTZ network cameras. It provides robotic camera operators access to a multitude of remote PTZ camera operations in a single, clean, easy to use package.

Field of View: PTZ cameras can pan, tilt, and zoom to cover huge areas, but not simultaneously. Because they are unable to record areas that the camera isn't specifically looking at they can sometimes lead to gaps in coverage.

PELCO-D is one of the earliest and most widely used PTZ control protocols in the security industry. It uses ASCII-based commands sent via serial communication (typically RS-485) to control the camera's movements, zoom, focus, and presets. PELCO-D offers simplicity and is well-supported by many camera models.

Are PTZ cameras any good? Yes! If you're live streaming or broadcasting, then a PTZ camera will give you more flexibility in your setup and allow you to deliver professional-quality video content with ease.

PTZOptics Software for Remote Viewing and Control

Remotely controlling your PTZ camera can be done in a variety of ways, but one of the most reliable and cost-effective methods is to use a network connected computer with PTZOptics software.

ePTZ is an abbreviation for “electronic pan-tilt-zoom” but is also referred to as digital PTZ or virtual PTZ. Unlike a PTZ camera with motors that physically move the unit, an ePTZ camera does not move. It simply takes the image within the camera frame and moves within said image.

Due to their weather-resistant properties, a PTZ camera can last up to 10 years with regular maintenance and cleaning when required.

Regardless of your location, PTZ cameras will need to be mounted to a ceiling or wall or placed flush against a surface. Additionally, you'll need to ensure that your camera can connect to the DVR and power source from its mounted location. Finding the right spot may be a process of trial and error.

NDI® cameras are PTZ cameras that operate through NDI® standard – a standard that allows the transmission and storage of high-quality images and videos easier through a single Ethernet cable.

By connecting the program return feed from your switcher to a Blackmagic Micro Studio Camera, then connecting the SDI output from the camera's expansion cable to your PTZ head, you can control the head via the SDI signal.

How far can PTZ zoom? ›

However, on average, a PTZ camera can have a range of up to 300 feet (91 meters) for clear identification and up to 1000 feet (305 meters) for detection purposes. Some high-end PTZ cameras can have a range of up to 5000 feet (1524 meters) with advanced zoom and lens technology.

Are PTZ Cameras Worth the Money? Since they contain three distinct motors for pan, tilt, and zoom, they are more expensive than static cameras but have the advantage of allowing remote control of the camera. An additional feature is a mechanism for regulating the temperature inside the vehicle.

All PTZ cameras feature basic zone or tracking with AI functions to enhance your ability to present content in motion. AI Auto Tracking TR models provide full or half-body automatic motion tracking or preset content zone tracking without the need for a camera operator.

Choose a PTZ camera by considering zoom range, resolution, low-light performance, autofocus, and connectivity options. Look for high optical zoom, at least 1080p resolution, good low-light capabilities, fast autofocus, and robust connectivity like HDMI, SDI, and network streaming.

It's important to remember that OBS is open-source and available for Windows, Mac and Linux systems. As long as your desktop or laptop is compatible with OBS, then your PTZ cameras should work just fine. You can also find OBS plugins that make it even easier to control your camera and its pan, tilt and zoom functions.

Note: Once far end camera control is enabled, Zoom client users can request control of any PTZ camera in a multi-camera Zoom Room.