What is a PTZ (pan – tilt – zoom) camera? A complete guide

What is a PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera?

Pan-tilt-zoom cameras are security cameras featuring moving mechanical parts that allow for manually adjustable viewing angles. Operators can alter their field of view from left to right and up to down, as well as zoom in and out of target areas, providing greater and more flexible coverage over expansive areas and locations where target objects often move.

How does PTZ technology work?

The functionality of PTZ cameras varies based on the specific hardware and software in use. They can automatically track detected motion or scan an area according to a pre-set schedule. Meanwhile, CCTV operators in a remote control room can manually adjust viewing angles in real-time, providing live security updates to on-site teams as incidents occur. 

Instead of typical mechanical PTZ cameras, operators may utilize electronic pan-tilt-zoom (ePTZ) cameras. This variation uses special software to digitally adjust the camera’s field of view. ePTZ cameras do not physically move during operation. Instead, they use a digital zoom feature to emulate PTZ functionality on a fixed camera with a wide field of view.

Popular types of PTZ security cameras

PTZ cameras, by definition, are types of CCTV cameras with an adjustable field of view, encompassing a variety of subcategories that incorporate PTZ technologies along with distinct features, communication capabilities and installation requirements. Examples include: 

Outdoor PTZ cameras

PTZ cameras installed outdoors require protection from harsh weather conditions and potential vandalism, making it essential to choose devices with durable, rugged housings. Outdoor PTZ cameras have IP66+ water‑, dust- and impact-resistant cases and anti-vandalism features like tamper alarms and impact sensors to help ensure prime performance in harsh environments.

IP and PoE PTZ cameras 

Internet Protocol (IP) PTZ cameras communicate live video data over the internet, enabling operators to send footage to multiple monitoring stations at once. Unlike traditional analog devices, IP PTZ cameras can process and encode video data natively, meaning no external processing hardware or software is required to format captured images into a viewable state.

Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) PTZ cameras are a variation of IP cameras that can send data and receive power over a single Ethernet cable. PoE PTZ cameras require less wiring infrastructure to function, making them easier to install and maintain than IP cameras.

Wireless PTZ cameras

Wireless PTZ cameras operate similarly to IP and PoE models, offering comparable capabilities while transmitting and receiving data over a secure Wi-Fi network. Wireless PTZ cameras are ideal for environments where installing physical cables is impractical, too costly or unnecessary, such as temporary work sites or expansive industrial facilities. 

Mini PTZ cameras 

Mini PTZ cameras are smaller, more discreet versions of standard PTZ devices, meaning they can be effective in areas where cameras may be targeted by vandals. However, their compact size often results in lower specifications for image quality, transmission speed and frame rate, making them better suited for private and residential use cases.

Infrared and thermal PTZ cameras

Infrared and thermal PTZ cameras have special optical systems that convert infrared and thermal energy into visible light. These types of PTZ cameras can be used to provide ²⁴⁄₇ coverage in low light and pitch-black conditions. They usually feature an adjustable or programmable toggle to switch between normal and night vision modes.

Key features of PTZ cameras

Security cameras with built-in PTZ technology offer key features not typically found in other types of security cameras. From motion-based object tracking to remote control functionality, PTZ cameras help property and business owners develop customizable CCTV installations that enhance the effectiveness of security staff.

Movement-based auto-tracking

Movement-based auto-tracking features enable PTZ cameras to automatically adjust their field of view in response to real-time activity. If built-in motion detectors sense unusual movement nearby, the camera software adjusts its field of view to identify the source while recording footage for later review.

Wide field of view

Because of their wide field of view, PTZ cameras are ideal for covering large areas with minimal hardware. High-end PTZ cameras can pan 360° and tilt up to 180°, offering extensive coverage that would typically require multiple fixed cameras. Some models can capture panoramic images that can be adjusted after capture. 

Remote operability

The viewing angle of PTZ cameras can be adjusted manually or automatically from a remote location, enabling security staff to observe key areas and investigate suspicious events at all times. Integrations with wider security tools and cloud management solutions also allow staff to receive live alerts and adjust camera positions from any secure computer or smart device.

Advanced zoom capabilities

PTZ cameras typically have optical zoom features that can be used to capture clear images of objects as far as 300 feet away, enabling security staff to analyze details like license plates and clothing. Many other types of digital cameras lack zoom capabilities or only offer digital zoom, which can degrade image quality and limit their effectiveness in high-risk areas.

Benefits of PTZ CCTV cameras

The key features of PTZ cameras make them suitable for a wide range of environments, offering business and property owners versatile, highly customizable commercial security solutions. Below are a few examples of real-world benefits stakeholders can expect when installing and operating PTZ cameras: 

Flexible property coverage

The ability to freely adjust a PTZ camera’s field of view enables property owners to ensure ample coverage of key areas at all times. This can be particularly useful in locations where layouts often change, like shop floors and stockrooms, as well as high-traffic areas where targets frequently move, providing required coverage without requiring manual adjustments. 

Cost-effective installations

While cameras with PTZ technology can have a high per-unit cost, stakeholders can cover larger areas with fewer devices than would be required with fixed-angle cameras. For spaces like a typical commercial office, retail store or factory, this can result in substantial savings on camera hardware, allowing teams to make more efficient use of limited budgets. 

Operable in harsh conditions

Most modern PTZ cameras have durable casings designed to withstand inclement weather, exposure to fine particulate matter and impacts. Well-maintained devices will often have long lifespans. It’s also common for PTZ cameras to feature low light and night vision settings, enabling them to function effectively ²⁴⁄₇ in outdoor and indoor environments.

Proactive security responses

PTZ cameras with auto-tracking functions can be integrated into wider security systems to support proactive incident responses. Motion after a certain hour may be used as a trigger for on-site alarms and smart locks, with notifications sent to security teams via email or SMS. This enables stakeholders to quickly respond to common security threats.

Disadvantages of PTZ cameras

While PTZ cameras offer several advantages not found in other security camera types, they also have some limitations and potential downsides. Before investing in PTZ camera systems, it’s important to consider the following drawbacks: 

Potential for blindspots

While PTZ cameras offer a large field of view, this encompasses the full range of their pan and tilt capabilities. In practice, each camera can only capture footage of the area it’s directly facing, which may result in surveillance blind spots. If continuous coverage of a large area is needed and image quality is less of a concern, fisheye or panoramic cameras may be a better choice. 

Maintenance requirements

Cameras with PTZ technology contain multiple moving mechanical parts, each of which can fail and affect the device’s performance. To prevent damage and minimize the impact of normal wear and tear, PTZ cameras require more frequent servicing and maintenance than typical fixed-angle security cameras. 

High per-unit cost

PTZ cameras are among the most advanced security cameras available, making them relatively expensive. In some cases, installing multiple fixed-angle cameras to achieve similar coverage may be more cost-effective, particularly when factoring in ongoing maintenance and servicing costs. 

Command latency issues

Depending on factors like signal strength and installation size, PTZ cameras may at times experience command latency or a noticeable lag between issued commands and the hardware response. In high-risk situations, command latency could pose a serious threat to people and property. It is advisable to consult professionals when configuring PTZ cameras.

Common uses for PTZ technologies

PTZ technology is widely used across various industries due to its flexibility and ability to provide dynamic, real-time viewing. These cameras can adjust their field of view, track movement and zoom in on specific areas, making them highly effective for monitoring large or complex spaces. Below are some common use cases where PTZ cameras are particularly beneficial: 

• Parking management: PTZ cameras offer excellent coverage of large parking lots and enable operators to track vehicles as they move through private sites. Cameras can be enhanced via integrations with License Plate Recognition (LPR) software to support semi-automated parking management operations for high-traffic commercial facilities.
• Occupational safety: Cameras equipped with PTZ technology and video surveillance analytics tools can be used to observe high-risk work environments and analyze live footage for signs of dangerous behavior. These cameras can track activity through busy facilities to help ensure processes are followed correctly and workers remain safe. 
• Warehouse security: PTZ cameras secure coverage over access points, loading bays, storage areas and workspaces to provide facility managers with a holistic view of complicated operations. Zooming in and out of video feeds can also help warehouse security and management personnel investigate incidents and optimize workflows.
• Retail and hospitality: PTZ cameras with retail video analytics tools can be programmed to identify actions consistent with shoplifting and aggressive behavior, alerting managers discreetly and enabling staff to diffuse situations safely. Adjustable viewing angles also secure coverage of changeable areas like stock rooms and shop floors.
• Crowd management: PTZ technologies are often deployed in stadiums and large entertainment venues to help ensure the safety of attendees during concerts, sports games and similar events. With PTZ cameras, operators can scan areas quickly and efficiently to spot issues like bottlenecks, enabling them to open extra accessways to ease congestion.

Considerations for implementing PTZ cameras

Before finalizing the integration of PTZ cameras into new or existing security systems, business and property owners should carefully evaluate how the proposed solutions will be used. Below are key considerations to keep in mind when implementing PTZ cameras: 

1. Installation considerations

Cameras with weather and impact-resistant casings will be required for outdoor installations, while cameras with night vision features are necessary for ²⁴⁄₇ security. Leaders must also account for infrastructural requirements, weighing the pros and cons of standard wired, PoE and Wi-Fi PTZ camera installations.

2. Technical specifications

Evaluate the coverage area for the PTZ cameras and identify the necessary technical features to secure optimal footage quality. Consider the following:

• Pan and tilt controls: will full 360° pan and 180° tilt controls be needed? 
• Optical zoom: what is the required maximum optical zoom range? 
• Auto-tracking: is auto-tracking functionality essential? 
• Video quality: should the new PTZ cameras be capable of capturing high-quality 4K at 60 fps? 

3. PTZ camera placements

Assess the proposed installation locations to determine the optimal placement for PTZ cameras. Ensure that cameras are positioned to eliminate blind spots, are out of reach of the general public and can connect to the necessary wiring infrastructure or Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, verify that they are placed to capture high-quality footage of target areas under expected environmental conditions. 

4. Integration possibilities

The capabilities of PTZ cameras can be significantly enhanced through integrations with wider security systems. Cameras with open API allow easy integrations with access control, alarm and environmental sensor systems. Additionally, integrations with video analytics software can enable the programming of automated responses. 

5. Upfront and ongoing costs

High-spec PTZ cameras can be costly, so planning installations to cover larger areas with fewer devices can help create more cost-effective solutions. Teams should also factor in ongoing expenses, such as maintenance, repairs, software subscription fees and power and network usage costs.

PTZ cameras vs. other security cameras

In most cases, an effective security system incorporates multiple cameras to provide comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost. For business and property owners looking for customized commercial CCTV installations, the following section offers comparisons between PTZ cameras and other camera types to assist in planning: 

PTZ vs. dome cameras

Dome cameras are fixed-angle devices with a wide field of view that makes them ideal for capturing high-quality footage of expansive areas such as shop floors, stock rooms and offices. When the target area is contained and there is little need to track moving objects, dome cameras can be a cost-effective alternative to PTZ cameras. 

PTZ vs. bullet cameras

Bullet cameras capture high-quality footage at long ranges but typically have a narrow field of view. These cameras often cover large outdoor areas like access roads and building perimeters. They commonly feature durable casings, low light settings and optical zoom features, making them a great choice for fixed-angle coverage for high-traffic areas.

PTZ vs. turret cameras 

Turret cameras feature a ball-and-socket joint that lets operators manually adjust the camera’s viewing angle. Some models can be adjusted remotely, offering similar benefits to PTZ cameras. However, turret models are usually smaller and have lower specifications in terms of pan, tilt and zoom features, as well as pre-programmable automation capabilities.

PTZ vs. fisheye cameras

Fisheye cameras are single-lens devices capable of capturing ultra-wide-angle footage with a maximum range of 360°. While they can provide continuous coverage of large areas, the resulting footage is typically lower in quality than other camera types. Additionally, the footage often requires de-warping software to process and present the images in a viewable format. 

PTZ vs. panoramic cameras

Panoramic cameras feature multiple lenses, each capturing footage of a specific area, which is then combined to create a 360° image of the target location. These cameras are ideal for securing high-quality coverage of expansive areas such as warehouses, parking lots and shop floors. However, the footage cannot be manipulated in real-time.

Conclusion

PTZ cameras provide significant advantages for property and business owners looking to create proactive security systems. Operators can remotely adjust viewing angles, use auto-tracking to monitor high-traffic areas and zoom in for detailed insights into unfolding events for security staff to assess.

However, PTZ cameras can be costly to purchase, challenging to maintain and may not always deliver comprehensive coverage of target areas. For an effective security system, a combination of PTZ and fixed-angle cameras is often the best approach, balancing cost and performance.