A PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera is a type of CCTV surveillance camera capable of motorized movements in both horizontal (panning) and vertical (tilting) directions, along with an advanced zoom function for closer inspection and wider coverage of the monitored area.
A PTZ security camera is also known as a 360-degree surveillance camera because of its pan, tilt, and zoom functionality, which allows you to navigate and focus on wide-open areas.
PTZ cameras, which can move in different directions and zoom in, have greatly improved remote video surveillance and security.
If you’re currently securing your business and navigating the decision-making process for the right camera choice, rely on our guide as a comprehensive solution.
This blog serves as a one-stop resource to help you understand what a PTZ camera is, identify the best Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras available, and weigh the pros and cons of utilizing a PTZ camera for your business.
First, let’s talk about why PTZ cameras are important in the global market.
How big is the Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera global market?
Businesses across a diverse range of industries, including construction sites, automobile, retail, elevators, cannabis, and many more, rely on the versatility and convenience of PTZ cameras for their surveillance needs.
According to recent data from Zion Market research, the global market for Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras is experiencing significant growth. In 2022, the market revenue was USD 1,569 million, and it is projected to reach a remarkable doubling in value by 2030.
What is panning, tilting, and zooming?
A PTZ camera is an IP security camera because it transmits video data in a digital format over IP networks and it can be controlled from a remote location via an operator.
A single operator can also control more than one Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera simultaneously via a PTZ camera control console.
Let’s find out what pan, tilt, and zoom are and how these functions boost security.
Image courtesy of Eveshop
Pan:
PTZ cameras can pan horizontally, which means they can rotate or sweep in a horizontal direction to cover a wide area.
This allows the camera to live monitor different sections of a location, offering a panoramic view without physically moving the entire camera.
The Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras can be mounted on poles, ceilings, or walls, and with the “pan” function, the operator can adjust the camera’s focus to observe different areas, trace movement, or examine suspicious behaviors or objects.
Tilt:
PTZ cameras can tilt vertically, allowing them to move up and down. This capability enables the camera to capture images from various angles, covering both high and low areas within its field of view.
The tilting capability proves particularly advantageous in overseeing various elevations and angles of tall buildings. It ensures comprehensive surveillance across the entire structure, guaranteeing that every floor and corner remains constantly observed.
Zoom:
PTZ cameras are equipped with zoom lenses that can change their focal length. This zoom feature allows operators to bring distant objects closer for detailed examination without pixelation. PTZ cameras can have optical zoom, digital zoom, or a combination of both.
The zoom capabilities of the PTZ camera range from a minimum distance of 4x or 5x optical zoom to an impressive maximum distance of up to 50 kilometers.
Whether analyzing facial features or specific objects in a scene, the 192x zoom capability provides enhanced precision and clarity.
Remotely view and control your PTZ camera
A PTZ camera can be remotely controlled using an operator’s console to navigate the pan-tilt-zoom functions using a joystick, Ethernet cabling, and serial control cables.
These functions can be seen on a graphical interface. You can also control these PTZ cameras either through a mobile app or computer software, providing remote capabilities from anywhere.
After downloading the app on your cell phone, tap ‘view demo’ and click on the ‘PTZ” icon. you will see a screen with zoom options marked with a + and – sign.
To control the panning and tilting, you will see four arrows for up, down, left, and right. You can easily control the PTZ movement of the camera through these controls. IR remotes can also be used for shorter-range camera control.
Pros of PTZ cameras
Field of View
PTZ cameras can pan, tilt, and zoom, providing wide and narrow field-of-view options. Different lens options, resolutions, and distance capabilities allow for an expanded monitoring field.
You may use the help of various online FOV tools to calculate FOV as per your surveillance needs.
For example, you may calculate how much FOV a PTZ camera with a 6mm lens and 4mp resolution covers at a distance of 50 ft.
Latency considerations
PTZ cameras are designed to provide real-time monitoring. Low latency ensures that the operator can control the camera movements and zoom functions with minimal delay, making them effective for live surveillance.
As soon as the camera AI triggers an alarm at the remote central hub, trained operators access the live video feeds and act within seconds to detect security breaches.
Camera longevity
The camera lifespan of many PTZ dome cameras with IP (ingress protection) ratings indicating resistance to dust and water may last longer in outdoor settings.
Many PTZ cameras are built with robust materials, making them durable and resistant to environmental conditions, vandalism, and cobwebs!
PTZ auto-tracking capabilities
PTZ cameras often come equipped with motion-based auto-tracking features. This technology allows the camera to automatically pan and tilt according to the movement of object detection and auto-tracking within its field of view.
This is particularly useful for tracking individuals or objects across a monitored area without manual intervention.
Remote access
Network integration is a key feature of PTZ cameras, enabling you to control and monitor the camera remotely via a network connection. This feature gives you full access to the security of your business across multiple sites.
For example, you can manage the alerts for all your parking lots with a mobile app. You can even arm and disarm the security of your site from the palm of your hand.
Cons of PTZ security cameras
Higher Cost
While Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras tend to have a higher initial cost compared to fixed cameras, the added functionality justifies the expense.
The ability to pan, tilt, and zoom 360 degrees, and that too remotely, provides a level of surveillance flexibility that fixed cameras with an 85º to 115º field of view cannot offer.
Regular maintenance and wear and tear on mechanical parts may also add to the expenses over time.
Low light challenges
Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras may face challenges in low-light conditions. While some models come equipped with infrared technology for night vision, the performance may not be as effective as that of fixed cameras specifically designed for low-light environments.
This limitation could impact the overall effectiveness of surveillance in dimly lit areas. However looking for PTZ surveillance cameras with wide aperture lenses or advanced image sensors may help you in low-light conditions.
Types of PTZ cameras
The advancement of technology has led to the shift from analog CCTV cameras to PTZ IP cameras. These cameras are equipped with video analytics, including facial recognition and license plate recognition.
AI-driven technologies such as gun detection, tailgating detection, crowd detection, slip and fall detection can require panning and zooming for a more in-depth review of security breaches or incidents.
Local or remote operators can assess the situation promptly when alarms are triggered. Business research insights report claims HD PTZ cameras will emerge as saviors for businesses worldwide by 2031:
Top brands are in a race to develop the latest Pan-Tilt-Zoom cameras, bombarded with extra features such as advanced zoom capabilities, intelligent tracking, high-resolution imaging, and enhanced low-light performance.
Brands like Axis, HikVision, Bosch, and Hanwha Techwin are introducing their updated versions every now and then.
Here we have discussed a few types of PTZ cameras:
PTZ IP camera:
A Pan-Tilt-Zoom IP camera is a surveillance device that combines the capability to pan, tilt, and zoom with the convenience of connecting to a network via the Internet Protocol (IP).
These cameras can be remotely controlled and provide high-resolution video footage, making them versatile for various security applications.
WiFi PTZ camera:
Image courtesy of ebay
A WiFi Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera is a wireless surveillance device with pan-tilt-zoom capabilities that connects to a network using WiFi technology.
This eliminates the need for physical cables, offering flexibility in camera placement and ease of installation.
PTZ PoE camera:
Image courtesy of Amazon
A PTZ Power over Ethernet (PoE) camera is designed to receive power and data through a single Ethernet cable.
This simplifies installation and reduces the need for separate power sources, making it a convenient option for certain surveillance setups.
Pan-Tilt-Zoom analog camera:
Image courtesy of cctvcamera pros
A PTZ analog camera is a surveillance camera with pan-tilt-zoom functionality that uses analog technology to transmit video signals.
While it may not offer the advanced features of digital counterparts, it remains a cost-effective choice for certain applications.
Outdoor PTZ camera
An outdoor Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera is specifically engineered to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring reliable security monitoring in open spaces.
These cameras are built with durable materials to resist elements like rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations.
Wireless PTZ camera
PTZ wireless network cameras offer the advantages of flexible placement and easy installation.
By connecting to the network wirelessly, these cameras provide mobility in positioning and are suitable for a variety of environments, making them an ideal choice for scenarios where running cables is impractical or challenging
Conclusion
The evolving landscape of PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras showcases a commitment to innovation by top brands. With features like advanced zoom and AI tracking, these cameras offer enhanced versatility.
Contact us to add an extra layer of security to your Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera for prompt detection and a long term solution to your security needs.
