People prefer to have an auto track PTZ camera for enhanced security and surveillance. It automatically tracks the motion of objects and records every moment. It covers a wider area and offers multiple benefits.
Let’s understand what an auto track camera is and how it works. We will share the key features to consider while buying an auto track camera. We’ll also share some camera recommendations and tips to take your security to the next level.
What is an Auto Track PTZ Camera?
An auto track PTZ camera can track the movement of objects automatically. It has pan and tilt movements, which means it rotates horizontally (left and right) and vertically (up and down) to capture the object properly.
When it detects motion, the camera follows the motion of the object. It rotates automatically through the built-in algorithm. It adjusts the pan and tilt movement as the object moves. It also has the zoom feature to focus on the object and capture intricate details.
Key Features to Look For Auto Track PTZ Camera
AI-powered Motion Detection and Smart Tracking
The camera should have AI-powered motion detection. Not only does it identify and distinguish between objects (persons, pets, and vehicles), but it also reduces false alerts. It should also have the smart tracking option to automatically track the movement of objects.
Optical vs. Digital Zoom
In optical zoom, the lens is physically adjusted to magnify the image. It offers incredible image quality with intricate details. On the other hand, digital zoom stretches the image captured. There is no movement of the lens elements. It guesses the missing pixels, so the final quality is a bit inferior compared to optical zoom.
Wide Field of View and Coverage
With pan and tilt movement, the camera should cover a wider area. Ideally, it should have a 360⁰ field of view. You can check the pan and tilt movement limitations to get an idea of the area coverage.
Night Vision Capabilities
To capture clear videos at night, the security camera must have night vision capabilities. You can go with a high-quality infrared (black-and-white) or colored night vision. Some cameras also have both or a proprietary night vision technology, such as Reolink ColorX.
Best Auto Track PTZ Camera Recommendation
Reolink Altas PT Ultra
Altas PT Ultra is a completely wireless 4K security camera. It uses your Wi-Fi network to access the internet and has a built-in battery for power. It’s a pan-and-tilt camera that covers 360⁰. It detects the motion of objects and tracks the movement automatically. It’s also equipped with Reolink ColorX technology to offer clear and colored videos at night.
Pros:
- 360⁰ coverage with pan and tilt motion
- Accurately detects objects and distinguishes between persons, pets, and vehicles
- 20,000mAh battery capacity that lasts up to 500 days
- Dual-band Wi-Fi for fast and reliable connectivity
- Compatible with a solar panel and supports up to 512GB of local storage
Cons:
- No black-and-white night vision
Reolink TrackMix PoE
TrackMix PoE is a PTZ security camera with dual lenses. It has a wide-angle lens to cover a wider area and a telephoto lens to capture the zoomed version. It shows both views at the same time. Its dual tracking allows it to track the movement of the object in both views. It records the entire scene and intricate details.
Pros:
- Dual lens, dual view, and dual tracking for exceptional security
- 6X hybrid zoom to record zoomed videos with optimal clarity
- 4K 8MP Ultra HD resolution for clear videos and fine details
- Color night vision to offer clear videos in the dark
- Reliable PoE connectivity and fast performance
Cons:
- Requires proper wiring
Mount Tips of Auto Track PTZ Camera
- Select a central location from where the camera can capture a 360⁰ view without any obstacles.
- Place it at a suitable height, such as 8ft, to ensure proper coverage of the area and prevent vandalism and tampering
- Make sure to mount the camera securely. It contains moving parts and improper installation can badly affect the video quality.
- Avoid direct sunlight and other light sources from nearby objects to prevent glare
- If it’s a Wi-Fi camera, make sure the signals are strong at the installation site. In the case of the PoE camera, consider the wiring setup.
Using Cases of Auto Tracking Camera
Security Monitoring
An auto tracking camera is an ideal option for security monitoring. It can cover a wider area through its pan and tilt motion. It also detects the motion of objects and follows their movement to capture every moment. It takes security to the next level.
Live Streaming
You can use an auto tracking camera in seminars, conferences, meetings, churches, or any other place. It can cover different angles through pan and tilt motion. It can help you live stream the event without having advanced equipment. People from any location can attend and benefit from the stream.
Event Spaces
Auto tracking cameras can track the movement of celebrities, speakers, or athletes in concerts, sports events, weddings, etc. They capture the key moments without needing multiple cameras. Moreover, auto tracking cameras are preferred to monitor people and implement security measures. They can cover a wider area and different angles. They can track the movement of people and vehicles.
FAQs
Do PTZ cameras automatically track?
Not all PTZ cameras can track. Only the cameras that have the auto-tracking feature can track the movement of objects automatically. They are equipped with an algorithm to rotate according to the motion of objects.
How do I set up automatic tracking on my PTZ camera?
Turn on the camera. Open the camera application. In the settings, turn on the auto tracking feature. For instance, in Reolink cameras, go to Camera Settings > Motion Detection > Auto Tracking. Enable the feature and tracking range and other variables.
Final Words
An auto track PTZ camera rotates along with the motion of objects. It covers a wider area and records every detail of the activities. If you want to cover a massive area with fewer cameras, it is an excellent choice. Not only does it track the motion, but it also zooms into the object to capture intricate details. It is worth every penny, but make sure to consider the key features we have shared.