What is a PTZ Camera?

A PTZ camera can Pan, Tilt, and Zoom. PTZ cameras are usually controlled by a camera control system. This control system can include a joystick controller, control software, or a remote control.

The most common camera type is the IP PTZ camera. An IP PTZ camera streams video over a local network and allows IP and web-based control. Popular variants include 4K PTZ cameras, which support a resolution of 3840 x 2160, and Full HD PTZ cameras, which support 1920 x 1080.

Use Cases for a PTZ Camera

PTZ cameras are commonly associated with security and monitoring. However, they are also widely used in live streaming, broadcasting, conferencing, and video production. Common applications include PTZ cameras for church services, live streaming, and videoconferencing. See below how PTZ cameras can benefit you and your industry.

PTZ camera for live streaming

• Multiple connection options: PTZ cameras can come with various connection options, such as ethernet and USB, which facilitate plug-and-play streaming setups.
• Multiple control options: PTZ cameras can offer software and hardware-based control options. The flexible control systems available to users make setup and installation simple.
• Scalable image formats: Whether it’s a 4K camera or a full HD camera, the resolutions can typically be downscaled or upscaled to work with the user’s system. When it comes to live content, the ability to quickly and intuitively correct the image quality is crucial.

PTZ camera for broadcasting

• 4K PTZ cameras: For broadcasting applications, 4K PTZ cameras are usually a go-to, as they offer crisp image quality at a higher refresh rate for smoother image processing.
• Tally Light Systems: PTZ cameras with tally lights can be added to tally systems already implemented in broadcast environments.
• SDI and HDMI compatibility: Broadcast environments typically require longer cable runs, making HDMI/SDI PTZ cameras very beneficial, as they are capable of transmitting high-quality video and even embedded audio, over long distances.

PTZ camera for conferencing

• USB PTZ cameras: USB cameras are popular for videoconferencing applications, due to their USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and USB 3.1 compatibility.
• Conference software compatibility: PTZ cameras can be added as camera sources in popular conferencing applications such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Skype.
• Software-based control: In conference room settings, the use of hardware is usually limited, to save space and create a professional-looking environment. IP cameras offer web-based and software-based control to accommodate this.

PTZ camera for church

• Quick and intuitive streaming: IP PTZ cameras have proved to be very beneficial for churches looking to livestream their worship services.
• Multiple connection options: Having multiple connection options in a church streaming environment can offer many benefits. For instance, while the ethernet port is used to stream over the network, HDMI out can be used to monitor the video feed.
• Multiple control options: With both software, web, and hardware-based control options, the production team can always have access to the settings wherever they are in the church, even if they’ve stepped away from the media room.

PTZ camera for monitoring

• High-quality image: 4K PTZ cameras are popular for monitoring applications, whether it’s inpatient monitoring at a medical facility or an application where a security camera is needed.
• Optical Zoom: An important feature to have in any monitoring situation is the ability to zoom in without losing quality.
• Multiple Presets: A popular feature of PTZ cameras in monitoring applications is the ability to save and recall multiple presets. Being able to quickly transition between different angles at the push of a button can ensure nothing goes unnoticed.

Types of PTZ Cameras

SDI/HDMI IP PTZ Camera

These cameras offer SDI, HDMI, and IP streaming outputs, allowing multiple output methods simultaneously.

USB PTZ Camera

A USB camera is equipped with USB output ports ideal for videoconferencing and streaming, providing an additional camera source for PC/MAC applications.

Auto Tracking Camera

Utilizing computer vision (CV) artificial intelligence, these cameras automatically follow the subject, making them popular for teams with limited staff.

NDI PTZ Camera

With NDI (Network Device Interface) technology, an NDI camera sends video and audio over a local network for live streams, offering enhanced streaming capabilities.

Dante AV-H PTZ Camera

Featuring Dante AV-H technology by Audinate, a Dante AV-H camera streams audio and video over a network, suitable for robust, commercial-grade setups.

Common Features of PTZ Cameras

PTZ cameras are typically designed with professional use cases in mind, therefore, they come equipped with unique features not seen in your average box camera or film camera.

• Power over Ethernet (PoE): PoE ports allow both power and network connection to the camera through a single Ethernet cable, simplifying setup.
• Presets: These cameras can save and recall customized angles and image parameters.
• Auto Tracking: Enables automatic following of the subject without manual control, beneficial for teams with limited staff.
• Tally-Lights: Indicate which camera is active or ready for live streaming or recording.
• Optical Zoom: Provides clearer images with less distortion when zooming in and out.
• Video Compression: Technologies like H.264 or H.265 help transmit feeds over IP or USB for streaming.

What to Consider when Choosing a PTZ Camera

How do I determine which connections I need?

• HDMI: This can be used to output video to a monitor or can be converted for live streaming through a switch or signal converter.
• SDI: Typically used in professional applications where longer and more robust cable runs are needed.
• USB: Used for outputting the signal to a PC/MAC for videoconferencing or streaming.
• LAN: Facilitates a network connection so the camera can communicate with other devices on the network, stream, and be managed/controlled over IP.
• RS-232: Facilitates analog control and communication via RS-232 commands.

How do I determine which optical zoom level I will need?

• Measure the total distance between the location where the camera will be mounted and the location where the subject of interest will be.
• Determine how close you'll want to be able to zoom into the subject from where the camera is located.

What’s the best PTZ camera control?

• Using a joystick controller offers more precise and intuitive control.
• Web-based control is good for making quick adjustments but may not be as useful if consistent movement is needed.
• App-based control is good for making changes on the go, as it is available on mobile devices and tablets.