3 Points to Ponder When Considering P/T/Z Security Cameras
There are a few basic-yet-critical criteria that security systems integrators need to consider when comparing network pan/tilt/zoom cameras.
Direct-drive pan/tilt mechanisms are also much faster with speeds of up to 400° per second that are extremely accurate and smooth, enabling them to track fast action at high zoom magnification. High-quality, direct-drive p/t/z mechanisms are also much quieter. One of JVC’s direct-drive p/t/z cameras, for example, operates at just 37dB, making it suitable for hospitals, museums, libraries and offices. Direct-drive p/t/z cameras also employ fewer parts than belt-driven mechanisms, which greatly reduces malfunctions and increases reliability.
2. Does the p/t/z feature optical or electronic zoom, or both? There’s no question that optical zoom lenses deliver better image quality than electronic zoom features, but they’re more expensive and add bulk and weight. A highly cost-effective solution is employing a hybrid optical/electronic zoom configuration. For example, a leading p/t/z camera on the market features a high-quality 18x optical zoom with 10x digital zoom, yielding a combined 180x zoom range without compromising HD image quality.
3. Is the p/t/z easy to install and maintain? Time is money for every installation. What if you could dramatically reduce the amount of time technicians spend installing each camera? The savings can be significant when dealing with dozens or hundreds of cameras. And a reduction in installation time translates to increased profits. New p/t/z-mounting systems employ features like “one-touch lock” mechanisms that allow technicians to easily “snap” the camera into its bracket. This new mounting system also reduces maintenance costs as technicians can replace just the camera head without removing the base which maintains all of the p/t/z’s presets.
Although there are literally dozens of features and functions to evaluate when comparing today’s best-in-breed network p/t/z cameras, these three criteria – p/t/z drive mechanisms, optical and/or electronic zoom configuration, and ease of installation – are often overlooked for the sexier “speeds and feeds” found on most comparison tables.
The truth is these three factors can dramatically affect performance and the overall profitability of your next installation. Keep this in mind when sorting through the hundreds of p/t/z cameras on the market. And remember that at the end of the day, that adage “you get what you pay for” still applies even in today’s technology-driven networked world.
Take a look at our slideshow for a look at a few p/t/z cameras.
John Grabowski is National Sales and Marketing Manager for JVC’s Security Division.
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