PTZ or Pan, Tilt and Zoom, is a commonly used term in the security industry. The PTZ refers to a variety of terms such as PTZ controller, PTZ equipment, PTZ software or PTZ security cameras. A PTZ-capable security camera can be remotely directed in this way:
- To Pan means to control a movement in a horizontal level or shift the camera from side to side.
- To Tilt means to control a movement in a vertical level or shift the camera up and down.
- To Zoom means to zoom in and out of your subject.
The advanced PTZ security cameras include the digital camera wherein the zoom is no longer dependent on the mechanical movement of the lens. Instead, they are able to zoom digitally, and all the movements such as pan and tilt are remotely controlled and can be fully automated.
The PTZ camera is expected to cost more compared to a fixed or static camera, however, the flexibility of the PTZ camera is equal to five to ten fixed cameras. This kind of camera can be controlled in various ways depending on your specific needs.
The PTZ security cameras are common in government facilities. These security cameras are the best in CCTV (closed-circuit television). Having the capacity to manually change the field of view is an important advantage to surveillance setting.
The PTZ camera can capture the face of a person who is located at a distance of about 400 yards away. Also, some PTZ cameras can be controlled manually via a joystick and a keyboard while others include a self-tracking technology that is built into the camera’s system.
PTZ cameras are must-have equipments to protect significant government facilities or corporate business areas. They are seldom utilized in homes primarily because of their high cost.
The PTZ is a very versatile security camera which will allow you to remotely control it any way you choose. You can pan in left and right as well as up and down and even make use of the zoom feature to obtain a closer look at a distant target. These features allow a single camera to cover a large area, making the PTZ a great bang for the buck.
Most PTZ security cameras are operated manually, which means hiring a full time controller should be considered when calculating the costs required to maintain surveillance.
Most department stores make use of the cameras to keep an eye on thieves, lessening losses by more than the camera’s cost as well as its operation. A PTZ camera can cost up to $1000, although the expenses involved in acquiring and operating it is much more reasonable compared to paying the wages of several security personnel to maintain security.
Before buying your own PTZ security camera, weigh the pros and cons involved. Also, you should check how much security your target area needs. If your area is highly likely to be infiltrated or compromised in any way, consider security alternatives such as hiring some personnel to roam the area.
However, if what you’re guarding is highly valuable, you can resort to using a PTZ security camera to augment your current security setup. The PTZ can keep tabs on all the activity in the area on a 24-hour basis.
You can switch the PTZ to automatic mode if you can’t afford to hire a controller. If you’re truly decided on acquiring a PTZ security camera, you can check for its availability in your local electronics store, or shop for it over the Internet.
The PTZ camera is the best surveillance tool that’ll ensure maximum security for whatever it is you’re trying to protect.