PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) Cameras

The phrase PTZ Camera has two uses within the video security and surveillance products industries.

First, PTZ is an acronym for pan, tilt, and zoom and may refer merely to features of specific surveillance cameras. Second, PTZ Cameras may also be used to describe an entire category of cameras where a combination of sound and/or motion and/or change in heat signature may enable the camera to activate, focus and track suspected changes in the video field.

By activating only during times of change, systems can notify human monitors and minimize storage requirements.

In the March 2009 edition of "Security Products" magazine, Keith Jentoft notes the continuing problems organizations have with outdoor PTZ cameras during thunderstorms. Despite continuing improvements in PTZ software, problems with continual activation during thunderstorms have led some organizations to completely disable these types of cameras during the duration of thunderstorms. This translates to continuing challenges in trying to monitor and protect facilities from crime and terrorism during inclement weather.