Automated Lecture Capture

As these lectures become increasingly accessible online, the demand for high-quality lecture recordings continues to grow. One solution to this demand is the integration of hardware lecture capture solutions, such as the Epiphan Pearl, which seamlessly connects with systems like Panopto, Kaltura, and Yuja. This ensures that educators can concentrate on delivering their lectures, confident in the knowledge that the system will handle the recording and distribution.

One essential component of these systems is the auto-tracking camera. For instance, the PTZOptics Move SE can be managed remotely and requires no human intervention during operation. These cameras offer features like setting up custom presets for locking on to a specific presenter, ensuring that the recording is always of the highest quality.

PTZOptics offers auto-tracking capabilities both as built-in features and as software add-ons. However, the software-based auto-tracking can be cumbersome in an educational setup, given the need for a dedicated computer to run the software. This leads to the rise of cameras like the PTZOptics Move SE and 4K that come with built-in auto-tracking capabilities. Among the advancements in this realm, the introduction of dual-sensor auto-tracking cameras stands out.

Understanding Dual-Sensor Auto-Tracking Cameras

While PTZOptics cameras only feature a single sensor for auto-tracking, our sister company HuddleCamHD, has been hard at work on dual-sensor auto-tracking cameras. At its core, a dual-sensor camera combines two cameras into one intelligent system, vastly enhancing its capabilities. Typically, one camera sensor offers a wide-angle view, providing intelligence to the zoom camera lens. This dynamic allows the camera to make real-time adjustments based on the room’s activities, a feature not present in single-sensor cameras.

Auto-tracking Feature Comparison

• Smart Tracking: Both camera types can lock onto a single subject, ensuring a focused capture.
• Group Tracking: While both can track groups, dual-sensor cameras, with their wide-angle lens, are better suited to frame multiple individuals with the use of preset zones.
• Zone Tracking: Exclusive to dual-sensor cameras, this feature focuses on specific zones, offering more flexibility.
• Selected Tracking: Dual-sensor cameras, thanks to their wide-angle lens, are superior in stopping auto-tracking when it is not necessary to zoom into a specific area of the presentation space.
• Smart Blackboard Zones: A unique feature of dual-sensor cameras, it ensures clear visibility of blackboard content through the use of preset zones.
• Wide Angle Room View: Dual-sensor cameras capture a broader scene, invaluable in large spaces.
• Dynamic Framing: Dual-sensor cameras automatically adjust framing based on interactions, enhancing the viewing experience.

Use Cases

• Lecture Capture: Single-sensor cameras effectively track lecturers, but dual-sensor cameras offer a holistic classroom view and superior zone tracking.
• Conferences: Dual-sensor cameras capture both speakers and the audience, creating an immersive experience.
• Sports: While single-sensor cameras focus on individual players, dual-sensor cameras give a comprehensive field view.
• Live Performances: Dual-sensor cameras capture the entire stage along with individual performers, offering a richer viewing experience.

In Conclusion

While single-sensor cameras are adept at tracking, dual-sensor cameras provide unmatched flexibility and performance. Their ability to focus on specific zones, frame groups effectively, and make real-time frame adjustments sets them apart. When choosing between the two, it’s vital to assess your specific needs and consider which features will most elevate your viewers’ experience. Reach out to our team to learn more at partners@ptzoptics.com.

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Remotely viewing and controlling a PTZ camera can open up a number of incredible opportunities for your next video project. PTZOptics pan, tilt, and zoom (PTZ) cameras have a variety of easy ways to remotely view and control your camera from anywhere in the world. 

Here are some options for how to remotely view and control your PTZ camera.

1. Using a network-connected computer with PTZOptics Software
2. Using a network-connected computer with NDI® Tools
3. Using cloud-based software such as Zoom
4. Using a smartphone 
5. Using your favorite video production software

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. This software allows users to take full control over their PTZ cameras from anywhere on their local area network (LAN). With this type of setup, you will be able to access all of your camera’s features as if you were physically standing in front of it with an IR remote control — including pan, tilt and zoom. 

The PTZOptics camera control software uses an IP address to communicate with the camera, as well as show you video feed, using your already existing LAN. What is a LAN? Your local area network can span many miles, but is generally set up to connect multiple computers and devices behind secure connection to the public internet. If you want to control your camera from a separate LAN, you can continue reading this blog post where you will learn about the NDI® Bridge, which can provide PTZ camera control and video viewer over the public internet.

Using NDI® to Control and View your PTZ Camera

Controlling a PTZ camera remotely can also be done with NDI® Tools, an affordable and powerful set of IP video tools available for free at NDI.tv. This software allows users to take full control of their cameras from anywhere in the world through an internet connection.

A popular NDI® tool for viewing and controlling PTZ cameras is called Studio Monitor. Studio Monitor is an application available for Mac and PC computers that can view any NDI® video feed available on your network. NDI® features auto-discovery, so applications such as Studio Monitor can automatically show you a list of all the NDI® video sources on your network. Studio Monitor also features the ability to control PTZ cameras with your keyboard and mouse or USB gamepad and joystick controller. When a PTZOptics camera is selected with Studio Monitor, you will automatically see controller options on the right-hand side of the application. 

In 2022, NDI® released a new tool called NDI® Bridge — a software solution that allows users to send and receive live video over IP networks. It is designed for use with video equipment, such as PTZ cameras and live streaming software, that supports NDI®. NDI® Bridge allows users to control their cameras remotely via an internet connection, providing them with access to all of their camera’s features such as pan, tilt and zoom. Additionally, it provides features such as PTZ presets and tally information, which can help automate complex movements without any manual adjustments. It even supports encrypted data streaming to keep your data safe from unwanted intrusions or data theft. With NDI® Bridge, you have the ability to take full advantage of your camera’s capabilities from anywhere in the world.

Using Cloud-based software such as Zoom for remote PTZ controls

With the help of cloud-based software such as Zoom, you can also control a PTZ camera remotely. By using Zoom, users can take advantage of the “Remote PTZ Control” features which can be enabled on professional accounts. This feature provides pan, tilt and zoom controls for remote users with the Zoom Meeting client. Participants can simply right-click the video feed they want to “Request Camera Control” for,  which can then be approved by the camera’s user. This is ideal for telehealth when a doctor would like to request PTZ camera control from a nurse. With the help of Zoom, you can now control your PTZ camera from anywhere in the world with ease.

Zoom requires a USB connection to the camera you’re looking to control. Also, the “Remote PTZ Camera Control” feature may need to be turned on by your company’s Zoom administrator for the feature to work. With these two boxes checked, you should have no issue getting started with PTZ camera control through Zoom. They offer this functionality in Zoom Meetings and Zoom Rooms. Zoom Rooms feature PTZ camera controls via a touch interface in the room for local PTZ camera control. Currently, the only way to gain remote PTZ camera controls is through the Zoom Meeting Client. 

For more information about PTZ camera controls in Zoom read our tutorial here.

Using a Smartphone to remotely control your PTZ camera

Smartphones are a great choice for remotely controlling your PTZOptics camera. PTZOptics offers an iOS app called PTZControl Pro 2 which allows you to view and control cameras from anywhere on your LAN. PanTiltZoom is another smartphone application option that is available for iOS, Android and Kindle. The main difference between the apps is that PTZControl Pro 2 offers the ability to view the video feed from your PTZOptics camera, while PanTiltZoom works only for control.

It is possible to control PTZOptics cameras from anywhere in the world using your smartphone. If you want to control a PTZ camera on your LAN using a smartphone app, simply enter the IP address and it will connect. If you want to control a PTZ camera that is outside of your LAN, give the PTZ camera an “Public IP Address.” Public IP addresses are available to anyone and can be accessed by your smartphone to view and control your camera from anywhere in the world with internet access. 

Using video production software to remotely control PTZ cameras

PTZOptics cameras can be controlled directly through video production software such as OBS, vMix, Wirecast, Livestream Studio, Tricaster, Mimolive and many more. These software solutions have built-in PTZ camera control options. With a little networking knowledge, you can connect your cameras to a video production software and control them remotely with ease.

Adding PTZ camera controls to any workflow makes production much simpler for producers who are already familiar with their chosen live-streaming software solution. It’s important to note that all video production software solutions will require the PTZ camera’s IP address in order to send commands to it. This solution is great for small or single-producer teams who need access to every piece of the production — camera controls, on-screen graphics, audio, and more — in one place.

Conclusion

Remotely viewing and controlling a PTZ camera can open up a number of opportunities for your next video project. Whether it be through software, cloud-based services, or a smartphone app, there are a wide range of options available to choose from. Each has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so if you need help choosing the right option, give PTZOptics a call to discuss. With the right tools and knowledge, you’ll be able to use all features that your camera has to offer.

The post Exploring Options for Remotely Controlling Your PTZ Camera appeared first on PTZOptics.

PTZOptics is excited to introduce our new 4K PTZ cameras. The PTZOptics Move 4K camera is perfect for any video production that requires 4K resolution. The new 4K PTZ camera provides 4 times the resolution of 1080p HD, making it ideal for any application that requires high-quality video. The Move 4K 20X camera also features a wide field of view and a fast frame rate (up to 60fps), making it perfect for capturing fast-moving objects. The new Move 4K cameras are also backed by PTZOptics’ industry-leading 5-year warranty. To see the new 4K PTZ 20X camera in action, check out the test footage above.
The camera is able to auto-track and focus on any person you choose in frame. By auto-tracking, the camera is always focused on the target and keeping it in the frame. The person tracking selection feature of the camera is also very handy. As long as the person is within the field of view, the camera will keep them in focus and in frame even when other people are in the same scene. This is especially useful for video presentations and lecture capture applications. Overall, the camera’s ability to move and track objects with precision is very impressive.
A 20X optical zoom lens is a great asset for any video production. It allows you to get close to your subject while still being able to frame the shot properly. This can be especially useful when following a presenter on stage or framing a specific video angle from a distance. In addition, a 20X lens can help you to capture detail that would be otherwise impossible to see with the naked eye. Whether you’re trying to capture the detail in a stain-glassed window or written details on a whiteboard, a 20X lens gives you the power to get up close and magnify small details. Even if you don’t plan on using the full extent of the zoom, having that extra reach can be helpful in getting the perfect shot. So if you’re looking for a versatile lens that can help you take your video production to the next level, consider investing in a 20X optical zoom lens.
The PTZOptics 20X move test footage showcases the camera’s ability to smoothly track and follow presenters with precision. The benefits of having a 20X optical zoom lens are clear in the video, as well as the importance of using PTZ cameras for live streaming and video production applications. If you have any questions about how PTZ cameras can benefit your business or organization, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to discuss our products and solutions with you.

The post PTZOptics Move 20X Test Footage appeared first on PTZOptics.

Why control multiple PTZ cameras at the same time?

More and more, video producers are also becoming camera operators. With the advent of remotely controlled PTZ cameras, a single video production person can also operate PTZ cameras with the click of a button. In many scenarios, video producers are operating two or three PTZ cameras at the same time using a video production software like OBS, Wirecast, vMix, Livestream Studio or the Tricaster. Many video production software solutions have integrated PTZ cameras controls for PTZOptics cameras which allow the software on a Mac or PC computer to connect to PTZ cameras over the local area network. 

In most cases today, video production software operators are able to quickly take control of a robotic camera and move the camera’s position directly through the live streaming software they are using. This is ideal during a live production, because a production operator can simply make a few clicks, zoom in a camera, check the focus and then transition to the camera taking the video live.

Another popular way to control multiple PTZ cameras is to have a hardware joystick for the video production operator to use. Hardware joysticks are popular because a team of two can split up the tasks between live video switching and camera operation. Whether you are using hardware or software for PTZ camera controls, it’s nice to be able to move multiple PTZ cameras at the same time with the click of a button. 

How to use vMix with PTZ camera controls

You can control multiple PTZ cameras with vMix using the Pro or 4K versions of the software. In order to take control over PTZ cameras inside of vMix you will need to know your PTZ camera’s IP address and be on the same local area network as the cameras. If you do not know your camera’s IP address, you will need to follow the instructions in the cameras set up video. Once you know your camera’s IP address, you can simply enter it into vMix to gain PTZ camera control. 

Select PTZOptics as the camera type, enter the IP address and click connect. You can use the Pan, Tilt and Zoom controls to start moving your camera around the room. As you are controlling the camera, notice the speed options available for manual pan/tilt and preset pan/tilt. These are the controls you can use to tell vMix the speed at which you want the camera to move in a manual setting and during presets. 

In order to control multiple PTZ camera movements with vMix, you will need to start by creating PTZ presets. Once connected to a PTZ camera with vMix, you are able to create presets inside of vMix using the “Create Input at this Position” button. When you click this button, vMix will create an input with a thumbnail image of the camera’s current location. When you bring this input into the vMix Preview window, vMix will recall that PTZ preset and move the camera. In this way, you can move your PTZOptics camera around your space and create multiple PTZ presets. Each preset gets a nice little PTZ input inside of vMix for easy recall. 

You can repeat the process above with each PTZ camera that you would like to use. Once done, you should organize the PTZ cameras you would like to be able to move with a single click. From here you can use the vMix Multi View feature available in the input settings of any input. Choose the input that you would like to use to trigger all the PTZ cameras. You can then add each PTZ camera input to the Multi View as you build a single input with multiple inputs attached. In this area, you can uncheck each PTZ input making it so the PTZ positions will be recalled but not overlaid on top of each other. Once done, you can transition to this vMix input and call multiple presets at once. You can do this for multiple scenes in your area and quickly call multiple PTZ presets at the exact same time with a single click. 

Pro Tip:

If you are using multiple PTZ cameras with vMix, make sure to use a good graphics card. If you have an NVIDIA graphics card make sure to add vMix as a default application in the “NVIDIA Control Panel.” Once you do this, double check in the vMix settings that you have your graphics card enabled. 

Conclusion

There are now quite a few ways to control multiple PTZ cameras with a single button. Doing this is ideal for fast-paced video productions with small teams. In recent years, as video production software has allowed producers to add camera control to their workflow, more has become possible. Controlling multiple PTZ cameras at once during a production can make life easier for operators. My advice is to think about where you want your PTZ cameras to be during a given live stream. Map out the PTZ preset positions you would like cameras to move and then correlate them to other cameras you might have. Once you have mapped out where you want your cameras to move and when, create simple one-click buttons to do so. This will make scene changes in your live streams much easier to manage. 

The post How to control multiple PTZ cameras in vMix appeared first on PTZOptics.

Abington Presbyterian Church in Pennsylvania launched a new live streaming setup just before the holidays. Abington has been running a video ministry since the late 1980s. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic created a need to enhance their offerings. They had some experience with online video in the past though it was an outdated system. They were recording to DVD, converting to MP4, and uploading the video to YouTube. They knew that to serve their congregation, they would need to enhance the online experience. There were several pieces to their upgrade, but the project began with the purchase and installation of two PTZ cameras.

The Cameras

Abington opted for a two-camera setup, and through wise placement, they cover everything they need. First, they installed a 30X PTZ camera mounted high on the back wall of the sanctuary. With 30X optical zoom, it easily covers the 135 feet to the chancel at the front of the sanctuary enabling relatively tight shots of the service. The second camera gets in even closer. A 20X PTZ camera is mounted on the side wall close to the front of the sanctuary. This allows for close up shots of musicians and speakers and creates a great looking cross-angle. Its position also allows for some additional shots some might not think of. It provides a downward view that allows for a closeup of the baptismal font. It can also get a nice view of the front row to show families during wedding ceremonies. Being close to the front of the room, it can also show the back entrance, which is especially nice when the choir is processing. During the pandemic, while the church is practicing enhanced safety protocols, the choir sings in one of the transepts (areas off to the side of the sanctuary.) Since the congregation does not have a direct view, the side-mounted PTZ camera can easily capture them.

Both cameras are hung using standard white wall mounts allowing the white cameras to blend right into the sanctuary’s white walls. One notable part of the installation is that the cameras are both mounted upside-down. This allows the flexibility of pointing the cameras straight down to capture a shot. When cameras are mounted upside down, the image is easily flipped in the camera settings.

The Connections

The church choose to connect the cameras to the production booth computer using high-quality SDI (serial digital interface) cables. Those cables terminate into an SDI to USB capture card in the production computer. The cameras are also connected by standard serial cables connected to a HuddleCamHD PTZ joystick. The production computer is also connected to an ethernet cable connected to the church network for use with NDI, NewTek’s software for sending and receiving video over a local area network. 

Sound comes through the existing church sound system. It consists of an Allen & Heath mixer usually controlled wirelessly using an iPad. The analog audio signal is connected to a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 analog to digital converter that feeds into the production computer via USB.

The Production Booth

The production booth at the back of the sanctuary features two computers and one PTZ joystick. One PC, the production computer, runs vMix live video streaming software and is connected to the PTZ cameras. The other runs ProPresenter and links to the production computer via NDI over the church network. The HuddleCamHD PTZ joystick allows the operator to control all the PTZ functions and easily recall camera presets. These presets are listed on a printed guide posted in the production area. 

To make things easy for volunteers, each preset number represents the same basic shot on each camera. For instance, preset 0 shows a wide view of the chancel on both the back camera and the side camera. They are just at different angles due to the camera locations. Two volunteers run the entire production each week, with one running ProPresenter and the other running the cameras and vMix.

The Results

The output from a relatively simple two camera system is remarkable. The church found that some of the detail of their beautiful stained glass and woodwork couldn’t be seen with the naked eye. Once the PTZ cameras were pointed and zoomed in, the congregation was able to see the artistry in a whole new light. 

Their setup shows what can happen with the right planning and purchases. This church did their research. They started with the book Helping Your Church Live Stream. This got them up to speed on the general information and terminology and allowed them to begin the design process well informed. With their new system in place, Abington Presbyterian Church continues to serve its congregation via video ministry.

The post Abington Presbyterian Church Case Study appeared first on PTZOptics.

Controlling multiple cameras at the same time used to take a crew of camera operators. Today there are a variety of ways to control multiple robotic (PTZ) cameras with a single click of a button. Controlling multiple PTZ cameras at the same time is ideal for “scene changes” where you would like some or all of your PTZ cameras to move to a new location at the same time.

How to control multiple PTZ cameras in OBS at the same time

Using OBS you can control PTZOptics cameras in a couple of different ways. The most popular way is to install the free PTZOptics OBS plugin which adds some great robotic camera control features to OBS. Once installed, you can open up the plugin and control up to 8 cameras. The plugin even create specific hotkeys for calling PTZ presets and it adds the ability to control cameras with an XBox joystick. There is another way to control PTZOptics cameras with OBS called a “Dockable” interface using HTML codes available from PTZOptics. The HTML files can be used with the “Docks” feature of OBS to dock a PTZ camera controller directly into the OBS interface. You can learn more about that here.

The third way to control PTZOptics cameras with OBS involves using HTTP commands. A document reviewing all of the HTTP commands for PTZOptics cameras can be found at the PTZOptics downloads page. These commands can be entered into OBS using the “Browser Source” input and they can be used to call a PTZ camera preset for example. In this way, you can enter multiple HTTP commands into OBS using multiple browser sources in the same scene to control various cameras.

Pro Tip: Set up each camera in your network with sequential static IP addresses. In this way, you can easily input HTTP commands into OBS for this purpose.

Using OBS to control multiple cameras at the same time simple involves a scene that is setup with multiple browser sources with HTTP commands. Remember to select “Refresh when active” to ensure OBS issues the HTTP commands everytime that you select the scene in OBS.

Pro Tip: You can issue other HTTP commands besides camera presets as well. Check out the full list of HTTP commands in the PTZOptics documentation to learn more.

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It’s become a buzz word in the tech industry, but many people may not know what the term PTZ camera means. PTZ cameras are pan, tilt and zoom robotic video cameras that allow an operator to control the camera remotely. PTZ cameras can pan horizontally, tilt vertically and zoom in on a subject to enhance the image quality without digital pixelation. So in this article, we will answer the question: “What is a PTZ Camera?“

PTZ cameras are sought after solutions because they serve a variety of applications, including live video production, sports broadcasting, video conferencing, telemedicine and security. PTZOptics cameras, for example, can be used with SDI video production switchers, HDMI extension systems, IP video workflows or USB video conferencing.

PTZ cameras are designed for their specific applications. Many camera lines offer unique features, including the ability to pan, tilt, and zoom to a preset location, providing an easier workflow. Camera presets are generally stored on the camera and they can be recalled to robotically move the camera to a specific location. For example, preset one may be zoomed into a location on stage and preset two may be a wide-angle shot of a crowd. In this way, pan tilt zoom cameras allow camera operators to quickly recall multiple positions inside their space with ease. In this way, a single camera operator can control multiple cameras remotely. These PTZ cameras are often used in video production and educational scenarios.

Other markets using PTZ cameras include:

• Broadcast Television
• Houses of Worship
• Sporting and Event Production
• Education: Distance Learning
• Corporate Training

What about PTZ camera control? 

PTZ cameras can be controlled in a variety of ways including an IR remote, a joystick controller, and software. IR remote controls usually offer a limited set of basic features for controlling the camera and recalling presets. IR remote controls are easy to use for close-range camera control but generally do not work when the camera is mounted far away from the operator. Many PTZ cameras are mounted in locations that are far away from the camera operators such as a ceiling in a church, or across a school campus. Joystick controllers are generally connected to cameras in multiple ways include ethernet cabling and serial control cables. PTZOptics features options for joysticks with IP that can control any PTZOptics camera on a local area network or traditional serial controllers that can daisy-chain camera controls through direct connections to each camera. 

Software solutions for PTZ camera controls have certainly become much more popular in the past few years. PTZ camera can now be controlled with software such as OBS, vMix, Wirecast, TriCaster, MimoLive, and Livestream Studio. Each software solution tends to handle pan, tilt, zoom, and camera preset controls slightly differently but the benefit is generally the same. With PTZ camera controls built directly into video production software, the producer of a live stream no longer needs separate camera operators. With a couple of quick mouse clicks, PTZ cameras can be moving to known locations throughout a production space and even automated with triggers and advanced workflows. This type of camera control integration into software and hardware-based production systems allows smaller teams to produce high-quality content. 

What different types of PTZ cameras are there?

Most PTZ cameras are separated by their optical zoom and video output options. The most popular video outputs include SDI, HDMI, IP streaming, NDI, and USB. Let’s review each video output and discuss their various uses. SDI is perhaps the most popular video output for PTZ cameras because of its durability, reliability and the ability to be run long distances. SDI cabling which stands for (Serial Digital Interface) features a locking connector that is used to securely connect the cable to your camera and your video production switcher or device. This cable is made of copper and uses standard BNC connectors on each end. SDI can send video and audio directly from cameras to devices and does not require any networking equipment. The plug and play nature of SDI has made this cable a favorite in video production. With the ability to send 3G (3 gigabits of data), 6G (6 gigabits of data) and even 12G (12 Gigabits of data) with these cables allow for resolutions up to 4K.

The next most popular video connection is HDMI. HDMI is popular because of its integration with almost every consumer device. HDMI is built into monitors and video switchers that are readily available almost everywhere. HDMI does support resolutions up to 4K but unlike SDI this cable can only reliably be run 50 feet without signal degradation. HDMI video production equipment is usually less expensive than SDI equipment. Therefore HDMI video switchers and systems are generally used for consumer or prosumer systems. While HDMI system cost less to purchase, they limit the length of cabling you can use between your camera and your production gear.

The next most popular cable connection for PTZ camera is Ethernet. Ethernet connectivity today can do more than just camera control. A single ethernet cable can now be used for low-latency IP video, camera control, and it can power your PTZ camera using a PoE (Power Over Ethernet) network switch. PTZOptics SDI cameras now feature PoE connectivity built-in and ethernet is generally used to replace the need for power supplies and outlets needed to be installed by electricians in remote locations. Because of IP video and ethernet technology is continuing to evolve, this cable has become the most important when it comes to innovation. A new video standard called NDI is now available in many PTZ cameras (NDI Cameras) which provides IP video connectivity with many of the most popular live-streaming solutions including Wirecast, vMix, TriCaster, Livestream Studio, MimoLive, and many more.

Finally, USB is a cable that is used for plug and play use with PTZ cameras. PTZOptics USB camera can provide video connectivity with any live streaming or video production software in the same way that you would connect a webcam to your laptop. USB can also be used for camera control using a protocol called UVC. While USB connectivity may seem like the easiest way to connect cameras to your computer, USB ports can have limited bandwidth to support high definition video. Most computers can only support one or two high definition cameras connected via USB for video production. USB cabling can also only be extended short distances. For these reasons USB cabling is only used when system only requires a small number of cameras that are located close to the source they are connected to.

What about mounting a PTZ camera? 

One of the big values of PTZ cameras are their size when compared to traditional over the shoulder broadcast cameras. Broadcast cameras generally require tripods and even platforms in production spaces. Each traditional broadcast camera platform not only takes up a large amount of space, but it also requires a cameraman. With PTZ cameras, a single camera operator can control multiple cameras, but more importantly, PTZ cameras can be placed in strategic locations that no camera operator could actually be safe. Here is a list of locations PTZ cameras are often installed in.

1. Wall Mounted – Wall mounts can provide unique eye-level views or on positioned on a balcony to provide overviews of large spaces.
2. Ceiling Mounted – Ceiling mounts can provide views from above, which can be used for showing documents or angled views of scenes.
3. Pole Mounted – Pole mounts can be used to position the camera in places above crowds safely. A prime example is inside of a church with vaulted ceilings. In this scenario, a ceiling mount would be too high above but a pole mount can safely place the camera 10-15 fee below the vaulted ceilings. 

The ability to easily place PTZ cameras in unique locations is a major benefit to remote production teams who may have a central management location at the back of a church or production area. These areas can now remotely control cameras without the need for an intercom system which used to be used for communications with real cameramen. PTZ camera are also very small and discreet, so unique locations on walls, ceilings, and other balcony areas make them unobtrusive in almost any type of building.

What is ePTZ and how does ePTZ compare with true PTZ? – Read more about that here

The post What is a PTZ Camera? appeared first on PTZOptics.

NOTE: PTZOptics is not responsible for the improper mounting of this enclosure. We highly recommend working with an insured professional audiovisual integrator to properly mount this enclosure.

For outdoor PTZ camera installations, we highly recommend the PTZO-HB. The HB in the enclosure part number stands for Heater Blower and this device will help prevent fog and condensation that can build up on the enclosure lens. When you are planning to mount the enclosure to an outdoor surface it’s important to mount the enclosure 100% vertical so that when the cameras panning left or panning right, you end up with a level horizon. Mounting the camera enclosure on a vertical surface makes sure there are no discrepancies between left and right camera panning operations. With a project like this, it’s always best to start with a site survey. If you are working with a professional audiovisual integrator, take plenty of pictures to share with them exactly where you would like to enclosure mounted. 

NOTE: The PTZO-HB enclosure does require power for operation. You should consult a licensed electrician to connect power to this enclosure.

Once your site survey is complete, you can review the included hardware with the enclosure. Professional installation teams will start by drilling any holes required for cable pathways to your video production hardware. This could include holes for passing through SDI, Ethernet, or RS-485 cabling to your press box or video production room. Remember that all cabling will need to be un-terminated before passing through the weather-tight holes on the side of each enclosure. Once the cables have made their way through to the inside of your enclosure, you can terminate the ends for a proper connection. 

Next, you can connect your enclosure to the surface with the included hardware. For hard surfaces, we suggest using anchors with the included toggle-bolts. Once your enclosure has been securely mounted your vertical surface you can run your cables through the weather-tight conduit feeds. You will notice on the side of each unit that there is a weather-tight cable pathway you can use to extend Ethernet, SDI, and other cables through to connect to your camera. Once you have decided which cables you want to bring into your enclosure and you can start by pulling the wires through this weathertight port. Once the raw cables are inside your enclosure you can terminate the cables and add the connection ends. To assure an airtight seal, consider using caulk around the wires and cables, coating the entire plug surface with sealant. 

Next, you can mount your PTZOptics camera to the black camera bracket using the center hole with the included quarter-twenty screw and a single washer. Next, you can mount your camera with the attached brackets inside the enclosure with the set screws you have laid out. Once your camera is firmly mounted inside the enclosure you can connect the cables you have into your camera. Before closing the enclosure make sure everything is working properly. Once you have confirmed all cabling is working you can close your enclosure using the Philips head screwdriver or electric drill you used to open the unit.

Note: It is possible to attach this camera enclosure to a large Tripod or speaker stand. This is ideal for outdoor streaming scenarios where you want to protect your camera for the elements. The Dotworkz enclosures are available with adapters that can be used with TriPods, Speaker Stands and truss pipes. Please refer to the enclosure manual for more information on how to you can use outdoor tripod stands with this enclosure. 

WARNING: Carefully read through the entire Dotwokz manual to ensure that you have been taking all steps of the installation process into account. This video is only intended to guide experts who have already read through the included manual. 

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