PTZOptics 30x SDI Gen 2: Powerful Zoom PTZ Camera for Conferences
Anyone shopping for a sturdy PTZ camera with video output options and powerful zoom should consider the 30x-SDI Gen 2 camera from PTZOptics. This model has a powerful lens with a 30x optical zoom. Though the PTZOptics 30x-SDI Gen 2 doesn’t shoot in 4K, it makes up for that with solid 3G connectivity, sharp contrast, and sturdiness.
Video
The PTZOptics second-generation 30x camera records in full HD (1920 x 1080 resolution) at 60 FPS, which is good enough for live streaming. You may also change the FPS depending on the output, but I recommend staying with the default 60 for the smoothest transitions.
This camera also uses Sony’s wide-angle lens, capable of capturing anything within a 60.7° radius. The wide field of view makes it suitable for outdoor use and auditoriums. It has a wide dynamic range and can adapt to changing lighting conditions. The lowlight sensitivity of the PTZOptics 30x SDI Gen 2 meant it took surprisingly good shots in the evening and with artificial floodlights.
And if you need to record distant subjects, the 30x optical zoom camera does a great job. It uses 2D and 3D noise cancellation technology to reduce digital grain while zooming. Even at maximum zoom, there will be some noise, but it will not interfere with your viewing experience during replay.
Connection
As the SDI in its name indicates, the unit transmits video through a coaxial cable. But it has several video outputs, and this PTZOptics 30x SDI Gen 2 live streaming broadcast camera can simultaneously stream video from 3G-SDI, an IP, and HDMI. But after trying the three outputs, I noticed that I could only get 1080p video at 30 FPS on IP when the other connection types are at 1080p/ 60 FPS. When I switched to 60 frames per second on IP, the frame rates on the other two connections decreased to 30 frames per second.
The device supports RTMP and RTSP IP streaming, an audio Line In, and can stream MJPEG, H.264, and H.265 through the RJ45 port. You can also use a composite output to transmit videos at 576i/480i quality. The camera is controlled by an IR remote or an IP control, which has 10 to 255 preset operations. And to power this device, you need the power brick plugged into a 12-15V DC supply or the PoE connection.
Installation
Read the PTZOptics 30x SDI Gen 2 manual inside when you receive your camera. Afterward, follow the next couple of steps.
- Select your preferred video resolution and frame rate by turning the yellow dial at the back of the camera.
- Use the power supply or PoE to power the camera.
- Connect the camera to your HDMI monitor and your network (ensure both devices are on the same subnet of the LAN).
- Use the remote control to set up DHCP by entering #*4.
- Log in to the IP of your camera with username and password — admin.
- Assign your camera a static IP and reboot the camera.
- Download the PTZOptics app from ptzoptics.com/apps.
- Open the app, click Settings, and enter your camera’s name and IP.
- Configure your preferences.
Conclusion
The PTZOptics 30x-SDI Gen 2 live streaming broadcast camera is a feature-packed device for people looking for an easier way to record videos of conferences in large spaces. You don’t need a team of professionals operating cameras at your event; one person can control this PTZ camera and still produce remarkable footage. So, if you want to live-stream an event, I recommend utilizing this camera because of its excellent zoom and connectivity choices.
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