How Do I Choose a PTZ Camera?

A PTZ camera (pan-tilt-zoom camera) is a camera that provides remote direction (panning and tilting) and zooming control (increasing and decreasing). In addition to the basic control features listed, modern PTZ cameras may have more remote control features, such as the ability to change the focus, wash and wipe the lens, switch between pre-set locations, and automatically track an object.

What are PTZ cameras good for?

With distant learning and working from home becoming the norm, live streaming and video conferencing assume a growing level of relevance. PTZ cameras provide consistent live video broadcasts for a variety of applications, including classrooms, meetings, social gatherings, and religious processions. Now that you're prepared to upgrade to a PTZ camera system, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, what type of PTZ camera do I require?

How do I choose a PTZ camera?

PTZ Camera Types
There are numerous cameras with a variety of control and connection options, including HDMI, SDI, RS-232, DVI, and audio interfaces. Ports distinguish these cameras from one another. A camera with an SDI connection utilizes coax cables, similar to those employed by cable companies for box installation. The SDI interface transports uncompressed digital video and 16 channels of PCM audio. Typically, RG-6 coaxial cable with BNC connections is used to transmit SDI. The most recent SDI connection used in cameras is 3G-SDI, which enables 1080p resolution at a distance of 100 meters. In comparison to HDMI, 3G-SDI is a popular option due to its low cost.

Network Requirements
A dependable network with sufficient bandwidth to enable HD video is required for a high-quality feed. Clear audio and video streaming necessitates a significant amount of bandwidth. It is essential to ensure that your equipment, particularly your routers and network switches, is up-to-date. For a stable network, we advise a minimum of a 1G system. A high-quality live broadcast outputs 1080p at 30 frames per second. You can stream live with a lower resolution, but your viewers will notice and may stop watching.

Streaming Protocols
What is a protocol, to begin with? Everyone is aware that the "IP" in an IP address stands for internet protocol. The same holds true when connecting cameras and other devices to the internet. A protocol is a collection of rules governing the transmission of data from one system to another. Each protocol layer can concentrate on a particular purpose and work together to form a protocol stack, with each layer increasing complexity. Internet-connected devices communicate by utilizing protocols.

Resolution and Zoom
It is crucial to know what you want your audience to see. Set your camera's objectives, including the desired resolution. The field of vision (FOV) and zoom range are affected by the distance between the camera and its mounting point. For optimal FOV, PTZ cameras can have optical zoom ranges of 10x, 12x, 20x, or 30x. Additionally, is an extender required for long-distance signal transmissions? When picking a PTZ camera for your system, these considerations are crucial.

Control
IR, WebGUI, and Joystick Controller are the three control methods available for PTZ cameras. An IR remote is the most fundamental control technique, and it normally comes with the camera. You can pan, rotate, zoom, and adjust audio on the attached monitor that serves as the preview screen. It is not the most refined control device, but it does the job. Utilizing the web GUI is the second method. The IP PTZ cameras from BZBGEAR have a default IP address that may be entered into a web browser. The web-based graphical user interface will have the same basic functions as the IR remote, including the ability to set resolutions, IP addresses, and other options.

How About Audio?
With the camera's 3.5mm input port, you can attach a microphone or a blue-tooth mic set with a transmitter and receiver. Directly connected to the camera is the receiver. The presenter utilizes the transmitter, allowing them to be mobile so long as they remain within the constraints of the receiver.

How far can a PTZ camera see?

PTZ cameras are used to monitor a vast area, and it is generally advised to use them in conjunction with a stationary camera to eliminate coverage gaps. Depending on the type, cameras can move between zero pan and zero tilt and 360 degrees of pan and 180 degrees of tilt. Some solutions also feature digital panning and tilting, allowing video to be modified post-recording. However, the resulting video would be grainier and of lower resolution.

The N420 offers 1080P HD quality and a wide-angle optical zoom lens with 20x optical zoom and 16x digital zoom, delivering a crystal-clear image to the client and making it perfect for video conferencing in all types of boardrooms and extra-large meeting rooms. It includes a 1080P FHD 20x Optical USB PTZ Camera for Video Conferencing and Online Instruction. This optical PTZ camera has 200 presets and a smooth pan-tilt-zoom mechanism.