Setting up a ptz camera. IP and Analog Ptz CCTV Cameras. Camera control via cloud interface

An alternative to fixed cameras are pan / tilt / zoom cameras (otherwise known as PTZ cameras), named for their ability to pan left and right, tilt up and down, and zoom in. PTZ cameras accomplish this through a unique combination of pan, tilt, and zoom lens controls. The overall zoom capability of a PTZ camera is the sum of the digital and optical zoom values. Digital zoom uses electronics to zoom in and out, while optical zoom uses lens movement. The total zoom ratio of the camcorder can be calculated by multiplying the digital zoom and optical zoom. Camcorders require a keyboard and signal receiver to provide pan, tilt, and zoom capabilities. However, most PTZ dome cameras come with a built-in receiver.

Types of PTZ cameras

PTZ cameras are available for outdoor and indoor use, which adds to their versatility. Outdoor PTZ cameras have a rugged housing that is resistant to harsh weather conditions and are more reliable than indoor cameras. The reason for this is that they have to move a heavy case, sometimes equipped with IR illuminators. PTZ cameras for indoor use are often made with plastic housings and are therefore lighter.

One of the most recent evolutions of PTZ cameras is the popular PTZ dome camera. Dome cameras work in the same way as traditional PTZ cameras, but differ in that the pan / tilt device and control electronics are located inside the dome. The range of domes is extremely varied, from transparent or translucent to opaque, making them suitable even for special applications. PTZ dome cameras have several advantages over traditional PTZ cameras. The dome can move effectively in all directions, including 360 degrees for straight down viewing. Dome cameras have an Auto-Flip feature for viewing directly below it: when, upon reaching the mechanical stop, the camera unit automatically rotates 360 ° and continues in the direction selected by the operator.

PTZ Camera Features

In most PTZ cameras, algorithms can be created to automatically track from a given position along a specific route to continuously survey these areas. The number of preset positions varies depending on the make and model of the camera, but on average from 8 to 32. The ability of a camera to accurately return to a preset position differs depending on the mechanics, electronics and software... In addition to presetting positions, PTZ cameras can be configured so that they only act in case of specific changes in the monitored area, for example, noise, movement. This is possible with the help of motion detectors built into the video camera or integrated with it. Thus, the recording process can be minimized and only for the most important events.

In addition, PTZ IP cameras can provide access to video information and camera control from anywhere in the world thanks to the ability to assign an IP address.

Another feature common to PTZ cameras is the ability to mask. This allows you to mask some areas in the camera's field of view, such as a window or door of one of the houses. The position of the mask can be interconnected with the movement of the camera so that when the camera is tilted or scaled, the mask moves and resizes accordingly. This allows the user to avoid litigation for breach of privacy and invasion of privacy.

Photos before and after masking

Translation by Hi-Tech Security.

PTZ cameras are cameras equipped with an electric motor and a rotary mechanism, operating in ip and analog video surveillance systems.

A distinctive feature of the popular PTZ camera is the ability to control this mechanism. This is indicated by the abbreviation PTZ, which can be interpreted as panorama - tilt - zoom. Such a camera is controlled remotely. The operator, sitting in front of the monitor, has the ability to rotate the camera at an angle of up to 360 degrees, change its tilt, and also make an approximation due to the variofacal lens. This wide range of camera manipulation allows it to replace several cameras that have a static position and transmit an image from only one visible view.

How a PTZ camera is controlled

The actions aimed at controlling the PTZ camera are provided by the built-in electromechanical actuator. With its help, the camera is able to make turns and change the angle of inclination. The camera has a built-in optical zoom that allows you to remotely control the focal length of the lens. The very manipulation of the mechanism can be carried out through specialized programs or through the interface of the video recorder. It is also possible to control the camera using a special PTZ remote control. The latter, by the way, is the most convenient solution, but it requires additional costs.

It is very easy to manipulate the PTZ camera manually. In this case, the operator, sitting at the computer, makes turns and inclinations using the keyboard buttons or a joystick.

The principle of automatic maneuvering of the camera is its response to changes in pixels in the area of ​​the camera. That is, through the installed program, the camera reacts to movement in the tracking focus. If the fixed object moves, then it turns and tracks its movement. If the object stops moving, then the camera also stops. The camera stops and returns to its original position when the fixed object leaves its working area. The program can be configured in such a way that the camera will not react to areas where regular, non-hazardous movement is recorded. An example of this constant movement is the dog enclosure.

Another indisputable advantage of many PTZ cameras is the ability to program them to automatically patrol a given area. In this case, the camera automatically tracks the perimeter, moving along the programmed trajectory. Various modifications of cameras allow programming from 8 to 200 presets.

The available "auto flip" function allows the camera to automatically rotate 360 ​​degrees before it reaches the mechanical stop. Then the mechanism continues its "tour" around the programmed perimeter.

On the video: How the ptz camera patrol mode is configured.

Additional Features of PTZ Camera

For analog PTZ cameras, the optical zoom of the lens can be up to 36x, for digital cameras - 22x. The digital zoom reaches a maximum of 18x.

Similar to fixed video tracking mechanisms, PTZ cameras can have sensors that respond to motion, noise effects, etc. PTZ cameras have at their disposal a day / night function, which automatically switches to black and white images in the evening and at night. In addition, dome or spherical cameras are equipped with built-in IR diodes. This makes it possible to illuminate when shooting in night mode.

PTZ camera modifications

Both static and PTZ cameras intended for video tracking may differ from each other in their housing. They are also used for indoor or outdoor surveillance. PTZ cameras are available in box, dome and hemispherical versions. Dome cameras are most popular with customers as they are the most reliable. Safety is ensured by the closed location of the camera under the dome. The working mechanism is protected by a dome device and protects it from mechanical damage and various negative natural manifestations during its direct operation.

Dome cameras make it possible to adjust its viewing area downward at a right angle and program it to rotate 360 ​​degrees. All cameras of this kind are equipped with good IR illumination, which can be installed by the structural features of such models.

Hemispherical and domed rotary cameras intended for external observation are reliably protected from all unfavorable climatic manifestations, since the entire working mechanism is enclosed inside a hermetic sphere.

As for the case chambers, their mechanism is in direct contact with aggressive environmental influences, and the case does not protect their mechanism from adverse impact precipitation and other natural manifestations. Therefore, box-type PTZ cameras are mainly used for indoor tracking and in those rooms where there is no dust or excessive humidity.

Types of PTZ cameras

PTZ cameras, like all similar devices, are divided into 2 types: analog and digital.

Among analog PTZ cameras, cameras deserve more attention. These modern devices have a simple connection, high picture resolution (HD, Full HD), which is compatible with an IP video tracking device, which is not observed with analog mechanisms of the old model. A modern analog AHD camera is easy to connect, which consists in the transmission of video and audio signals, as well as in the manipulation of the camera, which is carried out over a single coaxial cable. For similar old cameras, to control them, you need to run an additional cable.

IP PTZ cameras have high resolution, and they can also be connected to the Internet or to a cloud server for remote monitoring. It also makes it possible to control the camera from anywhere on the map using any gadget with the Internet. All types of signal are transmitted by one UTP 5e cable.

An example of a PTZ IP camera for outdoor surveillance is the Hikvision DS-2DE7174-A model, with a 1.3 MP matrix and a maximum resolution of 1280x720. Wi-Fi allows you to provide a wireless connection between the camera and a router and via the Internet you can control the device through any gadget or computer. The WDR (Wide Range) function provides high-quality video tracking in unusual conditions of poor visibility. Information reading and device control is carried out by or. This camera is equipped with a motion sensor, IR cut filter and illumination with a range of up to 10m. The working temperature scale for the camera is located in the range from -30 to +50 degrees.

On video: Work Ptz cameras Hikvision DS-2DE7174-A

Scope of PTZ PTZ Camera

The rotating mechanism of the PTZ camera is able to provide control of the entire territorial area. This camera is used in cases where you need a general overview around the area and within a few seconds to enlarge the frame with the scene of the incident. Such objects are shops, banks, educational establishments and other public facilities.

The greatest effect is achieved by joint operation of static and PTZ cameras. Static cameras are monitored on an ongoing basis. In case of an unforeseen situation, a PTZ camera is connected. It gives an all-round view of the emergency site and allows you to bring the object as close as possible to determine a non-standard situation. An excellent solution to this problem is the Trassir Activedom + software module.

PTZ cameras can be used both for indoor and outdoor video tracking. Outdoor cameras are placed in a special casing that protects them from precipitation and aggressive environmental influences, as well as from temperature extremes. Some outdoor chambers are equipped with a heating system, which allows them to operate reliably even at very low temperatures. When choosing cameras, you should take into account the possible range of negative temperatures and choose the appropriate models. Basically, for PTZ cameras, the working temperature zone is in the aisles from -50 to +60 degrees.

Video: Collaboration of a high-speed camera in conjunction with static, general overview.

In some areas of modern life, PTZ cameras have gained popularity. From the decoding of the abbreviation PTZ, we can conclude that such cameras provide the ability to control the moving mechanism (Pan / Tilt / Zoom - pan / tilt / zoom). Thus, you can control PTZ cameras remotely, manually adjust its position with the ability to rotate 360 ​​°, being behind the monitor screen, and, if necessary, enlarge the image. This feature of this type of device allows replacing several static cameras with one PTZ. You can also program the device to automatically respond to changing events in the frame.

PTZ camera control

The ability to control PTZ cameras is realized due to the presence of an electromechanical drive in the devices, which provides the ability to rotate and tilt the PTZ camera. Also, these cameras are equipped with a built-in optical zoom, which allows you to remotely adjust the focal length of the lens. The mechanism is controlled remotely using, if digital cameras are connected via a network protocol, or by means of a control panel for analog cameras.

There is nothing fancy in manual control of cameras - the operator sits at the computer screen and, using a joystick or keyboard, rotates the camera in the required direction.

Automation of modern PTZ cameras works on the principle of reaction to changes in pixels in a certain area of ​​the frame. In other words, the program of the device, when movement occurs in the frame area, notices this, and when the object moves in space, it turns the camera after it, and stops the camera when the movement stops. After the moving object has left the field of view, the camera automatically returns to its original position. It is also possible to set up sensitive areas of the frame, in the event of movement in which the automatic will be triggered. It is possible to make insensitive those zones in which movement occurs constantly, and, in principle, is not a significant basis for triggering a sensor, for example, an enclosure with a dog.

Most PTZ cameras have an automatic patrol function, which allows the camera to automatically move along a given route. Depending on the model, you can set from 8 to 200 presets.

The auto-flip function provides automatic rotation of the camera unit 360 ° when the mechanical stop is reached, after which the camera continues to move along the specified route.

Other characteristics

The optical zoom of analog PTZ cameras can reach 36x, digital - 22x. The maximum digital zoom is 18x.

Like fixed cameras, PTZ devices can be equipped with various event sensors that respond to motion, noise, etc. The standard function of automatically switching to black and white shooting mode at nightfall (day / night function) is also implemented. Among other things, all dome and hemispherical devices are equipped with built-in IR illumination diodes for.

Execution options

PTZ cameras, like static cameras, differ in their body design. In addition to being subdivided into outdoor and indoor, PTZ cameras can be box, dome and hemispherical, but dome video capture devices are the most popular due to their reliability due to the location of the entire mechanism under the "dome". The vandal-proof housing of PTZ dome cameras reliably protects them from all kinds of mechanical influences and adverse operating conditions.

With the dome camera, you can adjust the field of view at right angles downward and pan 360 °. Due to the structural features of spherical dome cameras, they all have powerful IR illumination.

Hemispherical outdoor cameras, like dome ones, have high protection against environmental influences due to the location of all parts of the movable mechanism inside a sealed hemisphere.

The mechanism of box-type PTZ cameras closely borders on the environment, therefore their protection from atmospheric influences is very low. Because of this feature, the use of box-type PTZ cameras is limited to internal rooms in the absence of unfavorable conditions in the form of high humidity and dust.

Varieties of PTZ cameras

Like any other camera, PTZ has a clear distinction between analog and digital devices.

Today it is most expedient to use as analog PTZ cameras. The choice in favor of this type of device can be made based on the indicators of ease of connection, as well as high image resolution (HD, Full HD), comparable to IP video surveillance devices, which old analog cameras cannot boast of. Ease of connecting AHD cameras is due to the possibility of transmitting video, audio, and control of the rotary mechanism over one coaxial, when, as for simple analog devices, it would be necessary to lay a separate cable for control.

PTZ IP cameras have a high resolution images, and can also be directly connected to the Internet or integrated with cloud services for remote video surveillance and control of the driving mechanism of the camera from any gadget from anywhere in the world if there is an Internet connection. All signals are transmitted over one UTP cable () type 5e.

Dome rotary IP WiFi camera IVUE-IV8513PZ

As an example of an outdoor PTZ IP camera, let's take the IVUE IV8513PZ model, with a 1.3 MP matrix, and a maximum recording resolution of 720p (1280x720). The implementation of Wi-Fi technology provides the ability to wirelessly connect the camera with a router for setting up remote access via the Internet, access to the device from mobile phone or a computer. It also implements WDR (wide dynamic range) technology, which allows video surveillance in difficult conditions with uneven lighting distribution. Viewing the video stream from the camera and controlling the rotary mechanism is performed through a CMS program or a browser interface. IVUE IV8513PZ has a built-in motion sensor, IR cut filter and IR illumination with a range of up to 10 meters. Operating temperature range from -30 to + 50 ° C. The cost of the device at the time of this writing is about 21 tr. By the way, the price range of almost all PTZ cameras is approximately equal to or starts from this figure, with the exception of some models.

Scope and application features

Thanks to the rotary mechanism, it is possible with one PTZ camera to provide control over the entire territory. Today, this type of camera is widely used in security systems of stores, large shopping centers, banks, schools, in general, wherever you need a circular view of the territory of the object and the possibility of an instant increase in the focus of an alarming event.

Most often, to maximize the efficiency of a video surveillance system, PTZ cameras are used in conjunction with fixed video capture devices, when static cameras are constantly "vigilant", and PTZ cameras are turned on in case of a need for a quick response to an extraordinary event to obtain decent image detail by optical zoom.

Based on the installation site, PTZ cameras can be used both indoors and outdoors. are equipped with a special sealed casing that protects the device from low and high temperatures, precipitation, moisture and dust. A heating system is built into the body of some outdoor cameras, which ensures uninterrupted operation of the device even in severe frosts. Therefore, when choosing cameras for operation at low temperatures, it is necessary to pay attention to the operating temperature range. This parameter for most types of outdoor PTZ cameras is in the range from -50 to + 60 ° C.

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Connecting a PTZ security camera is much like connecting a standard security camera. Most PTZ cameras have three connectors: for power connection, video transmission and data transmission. You will find audio in some PTZ cameras, but this is quite rare.

The first step is to correctly determine the power requirements of the PTZ video camera. Most of these cameras operate on a 24 V or 12 V DC source. You should also check the camera's amperage requirements. Since they have a built-in motor, they consume more current. For example, if a PTZ camera is rated as 12 V DC / 2 A, you must ensure that it draws at least 4 A of current.

After you have connected the power, now you need to connect the wires for the video transmission. Often in controlled video cameras they are used for video transmission. Many CCTV installers use Category 5 (CAT5) cable to connect to PTZ cameras. Use a pair of CAT5 cable for power transmission and a single conductor cable for video signal transmission.

If your PTZ camera has audio support, you can connect a pair of audio cables. In many cases, when installing surveillance cameras, engineers use CAT5 cables to transfer not only video and data, but also audio signal.

The data wires are connected last. Commands are transmitted along them, which, for example, make the camera rotate. RS485 is a very common interface used for data transmission. You can use joystick or to control PTZ camera. But you have to check if they are compatible with each other. Most PTZ cameras use the Pelco protocol and must be supported by DVRs and controllers. You must set PTZ ID, baud rate and protocol.

In order to program a PTZ camera, you may need to open its case. Inside you will find a jumper block, also known as a DIP-switch. It can be used to program PTZ ID, baud rate and protocol. In the DVR settings, go to the main menu, find the PTZ configurations and copy the same values. If you are using a joystick, change the settings using the button combinations.

We wish you the best in connecting your Pan Tilt Zoom camera.

Source cctvdvrsystem.co.uk. The article was translated bysite administratorElena Ponomarenko

PTZ cameras are a branch segment of compact video surveillance devices. The developers of this equipment have raised security miniature cameras to a new level by endowing them with more efficient automatic and, in some cases, robotic intelligent control systems. Partially similar technologies were used in the first generations of video surveillance systems, but modern solutions differ noticeably in a number of parameters, which is confirmed by the example of a PTZ camera. What does this mean in practice? First of all, it is more extensive possibilities of control over the camera settings, moreover, in a remote mode. In addition, the creators of PTZ models pay attention to the basic characteristics of shooting, allowing you to obtain high quality images while maintaining a modest size of the camera itself.

General information about PTZ cameras

This is a non-standard camera, the main difference of which is the presence of a built-in electronic-mechanical drive. Moreover, the matrix itself, which provides fixation of the video stream, is fully consistent with the characteristics of traditional compact cameras for video surveillance. Features are determined by the drive with a robotic control principle, which, by the way, can act as a separate part - a complete set. However, the latest models of this type also differ in their internal structure. Optical zoom, in particular, allows you to change the angle of view that the PTZ camera captures. What is it from the consumer's point of view? In essence, this means a variable with optical reduction and magnification of the target object. Signals to control the drive mechanism and internal sensors can come from the remote control, or they can be generated by controllers that interact with the computer. That is, through the software, the user can configure the fully automatic operation of the camera.

Main characteristics of the camera

The number of pixels is the main indicator of the quality of work for all types of such cameras. The simplest versions are provided with 0.3 MP matrices, and high-tech ones - with 5 MP modules. The number of recorded frames per second is usually in the range of 6-30 units. Of course, in assessing the image quality, one cannot do without the resolution of the PTZ device - HD cameras, for example, confidently support the 1920x1080 format. At the same time, the aging VGA matrix at 640x480 remains relevant. In security complexes, the use of such modules is often justified. But if the above characteristics fully fit into the set of qualities of conventional CCTV cameras, then PTZ has noticeable advantages in the speed of rotation and increase in focus. So, optical zoom can be 36x, and digital 18x. As for the swing speed, in modern models it reaches 400 ° / s. Also, advanced modifications are equipped with 3D positioning technology.

Applications of PTZ equipment

Experts identify two areas in which the operational capabilities of such cameras are most advantageously revealed. These are security systems for security and video communication in conference rooms. In both cases, users appreciate the flexibility of the hardware in terms of control and the virtually unlimited physical installation of the hardware. It is important to note here the wireless connection systems supported by a modern PTZ camera. What does this mean during operation? Wireless technologies virtually eliminate the need to run cables to the device. From the point of view of camouflage, this is the optimal solution, since the attacker will have less chance of detecting signs. And vice versa, the operational work of the camera's rotary mechanics will allow tracking what is happening in the room with the most advantageous positioning.

Types of video camera designs

Manufacturers produce cameras of this type in several variations. The most widely used PTZ camera in the form of a hemisphere. This variety is called Speed ​​Dome and is highly resilient. The design itself, due to its geometric shape, minimizes the risk of dust and moisture particles entering the housing.

Another option is a spherical design, which is in many ways similar to hemispherical cameras. These models are usually equipped with powerful infrared illumination and anti-vandal protection. In general, PTZ dome cameras are designed in such a way that all mechanical components of the filling have minimal chance of direct contact with the environment. This advantage is especially evident in the cases of street models, which deserve special attention.

Features of street models

Outdoor operation of video surveillance systems requires taking into account a number of additional factors. Among them are the nuances of ensuring communication between the camera and the control panel, the organization of the power supply system and the issues of protecting the equipment from external influences. As for protection, the housings usually receive a thermal casing with dust and moisture protection insulation. Some models are additionally equipped with a heater and ventilation system, which provide the ability to cold start at peak negative and positive temperatures. Power can be supplied directly or by batteries. By the way, the use of uninterruptible power supply sources also justifies itself. Even a typical PTZ camera setup can automate the process of switching to backup power in the event of an unstable network power supply. Communication, in turn, is also organized either directly through a cable or wirelessly using a radio module.

Analog and digital models

In analog models, the resulting record is automatically processed by a digital processor. Then the material is sent to an electronic converter, in which the conversion takes place again, but in the opposite mode. The communication connection of such equipment is provided by coaxial wires. The disadvantages of models of this type include low resolution, which does not allow counting on a high-quality image when shooting at long distances. Digital PTZ video surveillance cameras also provide for preliminary processing of the signal in the processor, after which the material can be transmitted via the TCP / IP protocol in the originally specified format. The main advantage of digital models is precisely the high-quality "picture", since in terms of communication and mechanical equipment, analog devices in some cases turn out to be a more reliable solution.

Camera control

In addition to configuring the basic parameters of shooting, PTZ cameras provide a lot of control possibilities already in the process of direct use of the device. When installing the camera on site, the user can pre-program it with hundreds of preset positions. For each mode, a whole set of position parameters are assumed, including the angle value, zoom level, etc. Some models also allow you to assign individual scripts for automatic scanning. For example, an outdoor PTZ camera is the most developed in this regard, since it has to cover large areas, including those with distant shots. The remote control, in turn, enables tilt correction. For this, a telemetry console is most often used.

PTZ camera manufacturers

High-tech segments are quickly filled with products from large manufacturers. In this case, the situation is somewhat different, since the most successful developments demonstrate less famous companies... The Axis PTZ camera occupies a leading position, modifications of which are focused on both specialized and universal video surveillance tasks. Also noteworthy are proposals from Dahua, Geovision and complete solutions from Optimus. Samsung engineers have mastered PTZ technology quite well from large world famous brands, although due to the high cost, these products are not so popular in comparison with counterparts from the above-mentioned manufacturers.

Conclusion

The interest of consumers themselves in video surveillance systems of this type is not so expressed. Despite the obvious technological breakthrough of individual solutions, these products still occupy a separate narrow niche. Manufacturers who are keen to develop new options and functionality that a PTZ camera can in principle understand is also aware of this. What does this mean in the context of the overall development of the segment? At this stage, technologists are betting on optimizing the communication interaction between the camera itself and the control complex. In practice, this will mean a simplified means of organizing communication between individual components of video surveillance systems, and at the same time, a tighter convergence of camera mechanics and software.