The adoption of PTZ cameras in broadcast settings is rapidly accelerating, largely due to the integration of IP-based protocols like NDI (Network Device Interface) and SRT (Secure Reliable Transport). Industry experts highlight the transformative impact of these technologies.
“Network Device Interface for local production and Secure Reliable Transport, which have become de-facto standards for studio and remote production over IP/internet,” stated Edgar Shane, general manager of engineering and product development at JVC Professional Video. These protocols provide broadcasters with unprecedented flexibility in signal transport while maintaining high-quality images and overcoming significant technical hurdles in PTZ integration.
“When integrating PTZ cameras into existing broadcast workflows, it is important to consider connectivity, remote control and that the image characteristics match the other cameras on location,” Shane emphasized. NDI simplifies integration, as Ivy Lee, Telycam’s marketing manager, notes: “NDI allows for seamless integration of video sources, devices and software applications within a production environment with straightforward setup and configuration.”
For broadcasts extending beyond local networks, SRT offers crucial advantages. Lee explains, “SRT is important for remote production workflows because of its ability to securely and reliably deliver high-quality video with low latency even over the unpredictable public internet.” This enhances production flexibility significantly.
Rich Eilers, Canon national account sales director, cites the example of universities leveraging PTZ systems for sports coverage: “Canon has seen universities take advantage of the PTZ platform to cover their smaller revenue generating sports entirely remote from a control room with the use of 4-6 cameras that are installed for the season at each sports location.”
The adoption of standardized protocols also supports innovative production techniques. Lee points out, “With more PTZ camera vendors such as Telycam integrating support for the FreeD protocol into their products, PTZ cameras are playing a growing role in AR/VR production by providing dynamic, high-quality video feeds.”
However, successful implementation necessitates careful planning. Shane advises, “Additional specifications to take into consideration are what protocols are being used and does the PTZ camera offer various options for added flexibility, such as traditional SDI, fiber or video-over-IP, NDI and SRT protocols.” Color matching remains a key technical consideration, with Eilers noting, “The ability to be able to color correct the PTZs to match the look of the other cameras in your infrastructure is critical to a uniformed-looking production. Ensuring that the PTZs have the capabilities to do so prior to purchasing is a smart move.”
The convergence of protocol standardization and improved image quality has established PTZ cameras as compelling alternatives to traditional broadcast camera systems. Eilers concludes, “PTZs have really stepped up their game in the past few years, providing high performance imaging with quite capable optics packages to be able to stand in for many traditional and non-traditional broadcast shots.” This protocol-driven integration allows for efficient scalability, as Lee observes, “As production needs grow, additional PTZ cameras can be easily integrated into the setup. This scalability ensures that the system can adapt to evolving requirements over time.” For smaller broadcasters, this translates into significant new capabilities. Eilers highlights, “Smaller broadcasters with limited production personnel can take advantage of having these better capabilities built into these cameras to have a high-end multi-camera show put together with a smaller production team.”
In summary, the integration of standardized protocols has removed previous technical limitations, enabling innovative workflows. The continued evolution of PTZ cameras, coupled with reliable signal transport and seamless integration, promises to expand their role in broadcast operations far beyond traditional applications.