Pan, Tilt & Zoom (PTZ) cameras have gained a powerful reputation in the CCTV security industry.
Suitable for residential and commercial security, these diverse cameras can rotate up to 360° to cover expansive areas. In addition, their smart panning, tilting and zooming technology can easily oversee large, busy areas.
PTZ cameras operate with remote controls, moving to preset positions and automatically tracking objects.
Table of Contents
What does PTZ mean?
Pan
This horizontal movement allows the lens to cover a broader landscape. Also, the lens can be rotated up to 360 degrees.
Tilt
This vertical motion enables the camera to access scenes above and below its fixed installation point. The lens can tilt up to 180 degrees upwards or downwards.
Zoom
The lens will gently adjust to your required zoom setting without losing image quality to access the field of vision close up. PTZ cameras are also capable of auto tracking objects, making it easy to flag suspicious behaviour.
KEY BENEFITS OF PTZ CAMERAS
PTZ cameras offer a wide range of benefits.
- Superior, expansive 360° field of vision
- Automatic motion tracking
- Apply personalised, timed camera movements
- Zoom without compromising detail or image quality
- Manually control from a remote location
- Available in the popular dome style offering complete discretion
- Less opportunity for blind spots
- Sometimes a single PTZ camera can take the place of 2 or 3 regular fixed CCTV cameras
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Provides rich colour images even in low-light conditions
PTZ APPLICATIONS
Due to the versatility of PTZ cameras they are suitable for many applications, such as:
- Large car parks
- Goods delivery entrance & exit
- Airports
- Construction Sites
- Business parks
- Shopping centres
- Train & bus stations
- Residential Driveways
- Gyms
- Sports Tracks
- School Playgrounds
How much does a PTZ camera cost?
You can expect to pay anything from £500 to £6,400, depending on the Hikvision model you select. While this is a substantial investment, the ability to remotely manipulate PTZ panning, tilting and zooming technology to protect your home or business is more than worthwhile.
In addition, if extra camera lenses are fitted, this will increase the price respectively.
How long do PTZ cameras last?
Due to their weather-resistant properties, a PTZ camera can last up to 10 years with regular maintenance and cleaning when required. However, some parts may need to be replaced to encourage maximum efficiency.
Are PTZ cameras easy to install?
Whilst some people complete security camera installation as part of a DIY project, we highly recommend hiring professional engineers. From finding the best installation location to ensuring all wires are connected to the right ports, installing a PTZ system can be complex to the inexperienced eye.
At Acetech, we offer comprehensive, professional installation services as part of our price-point to help you get the most out of your CCTV system from day one.
How do you control PTZ zoom?
PTZ controls can be operated remotely using a combination of keyboard commands and a joystick to manipulate the panning and tilting of the camera. You can save camera presets to store your customised settings, including preferred position and scheduled movements.
What is the difference between ePTZ and true PTZ cameras?
ePTZ stands for electronic pan, tilt & zoom. These cameras are installed in a fixed position and use digital zoom to emulate the features of a true PTZ camera. However, the image resolution will be reduced & access to wider fields of vision will be limited. True PTZ cameras have complete lens flexibility and are able to move both vertically and horizontally.