What are PTZ and ePTZ Cameras?

Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras are built with mechanical parts that allow them to swivel left to right, tilt up and down, and zoom in and out of a scene. They’re usually used to monitor large open areas that require a 180- or 360-degree vision, and they’re usually installed in guard stations where active employees may control them through a remote camera controller. They can also be set to automatically follow motion-triggered activities or adhere to a pre-defined schedule, depending on the camera or software. PTZ cameras are usually used in conjunction with a larger surveillance system, with the PTZ tracking movement and a fixed camera taking detailed pictures.

While “PTZ” indicates a particular type of camera hardware, “ePTZ” references a software feature. Electronic pan-tilt-zoom (ePTZ) security cameras do not move physically, but instead, use digital zoom to give a fixed camera the pan-tilt-zoom effect. This allows camera operators to magnify areas they want to focus on while avoiding the coverage gaps that traditional PTZ cameras have. An ePTZ camera can be a powerful way to provide a PTZ-like experience while still recording the entire field of view, with some solutions offering 360° coverage.

Essentially, they are just two different ways to control the view from a camera. Neither is strictly the “better” solution. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

What are the Types of PTZ Cameras?

• PTZ IP Cameras: PTZ internet protocol (IP) cameras can be set up using WiFi or PoE.  Unlike traditional analog PTZ cameras, WiFi PTZ cameras connect to a router via a wireless connection rather than a hardwired connection. (They still, however, require a power source.) To avoid slowness and poor video quality, a strong WiFi connection is also advised.
• PTZ PoE Camera: A PoE camera receives electricity and an internet connection via an Ethernet cable that plugs into a PoE switch. It typically offers a significantly longer range of connections than WiFi.
• PTZ Analog Camera: Analog (CCTV) PTZ cameras capture surveillance footage using an analog video signal and are connected to digital video recorders (DVRs) through coaxial cables. Analog PTZ security cameras are unable to send video data on their own, necessitating the use of a DVR to convert, compress, and save footage.
• Outdoor PTZ Cameras: Outdoor PTZ cameras must be able to withstand more extreme temperatures and weather conditions. They’re usually protected from the outdoors by a waterproof shell with an IP rating that indicates adequate protection.

• Wireless PTZ Cameras: Wireless PTZ cameras can send video wirelessly when the installation is unable to run video wires. Typically, this is done through WiFi, however, analog signals can also be converted via transmitter sets. Wireless PTZ cameras are commonly used for long-distance outdoor surveillance where running cabling is difficult or expensive.

What are the main differences between PTZ and ePTZ Cameras?

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