A Cheap PTZ Camera for Churches and Small Venues?

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Camera (Updated Model): amzn.to/3IS2qh5
Camera with NDI: amzn.to/37KwmeF
Keyboard: amzn.to/3HKtRFq
POE+: amzn.to/3JJgkja
WiFi: amzn.to/3hIMuiu
A review of the SMTAV 30x Optical Zoom PTZ Camera. A good camera from a company you've never heard of based on one you likely have.
Great camera for live streaming for churches, governments, schools, and nonprofits.
A better cheap PTZ: • Best Cheap PTZ Camera ...
Setting up the Controller: • Setting up a PTZ Contr...
(Amazon associate links)

[@matthewsine]

We picked up the 30x in November of 2020. Cost with the joystick was under $1200. It has worked flawlessly. We control mostly through a streamdeck with macros (Companion). So far, it works great and has great overall quality.

[@paulhunter3434]

Question how did u hook it to your laptop?

[@hcazonis]

Installed it myself without any issues. The wifi signal is great even kzbin.infoUgkxE_D_sddGAdiVUKp7PkkmyxO7bRtgqmk5 when the router is located far away. I really enjoy the night vision feature that allows me to see clearly any activity near our house (mostly cars and wild animals). The motion detection is helpful to me as well to monitor what happens on our front.

[@rudge3speed]

We bought an AViPAS AV-1281G a year ago and it has worked well. We use an Elgato HDMI to USB3 converter to feed the signal to Open Broadcaster. OBS runs on an old PC running Ubuntu Linux. It's a very cheap setup that works very well.

[@Baron4Oz]

Purchased one of these last week for use with OBS in a four camera live-stream performance capture. Thank you, thank you, thank you, your video saved me $1000 and the camera works great! There is a plug-in for OBS that supports VISCA control and allows you to set up scenes to access the presets stored in the camera. Now I can set up four or five close-up shots, then recall them in preview mode and switch to program once the camera stabilizes. Once again, thank you!

[@mikesb113]

Out of curiosity, did you purchase a ip controller or use OBS with any of the free plugins? Your setup sounds like what I'm trying to make mine. OBS has a built in dockable Browser where you can connect to the camera's IP address, but there appear to be several dozen plugins that claim to work with any IP Camera setup.

[@ADKDIO-Camera]

@@mikesb113 Yes, you are right. Ptz camera supports many live broadcast devices, you can use the controller to link many ptz cameras together. I bought a very cheap 30x. Currently in good use.

[@jmerrick1000]

Often what happens is that a company will enter into a contract with a Chinese manufacturer to build the product from the design, engineering and specs provided with the express restriction that they are not allowed to release them through any other means. They have no respect for contract laws and are stealing the intellectual property of the company that contracted with them. Amazon and eBay are loaded with items that are blatantly stolen designs. Once the company that contracted with the manufacturer finds the counterfeit/ grey market/ black market items, their lawyers will file a cease and desist claim to get the reseller to pull the listing. Or something like that. I've seen it in my own industry (automotive parts) a bunch.

[@collinong617]

Alternative possibility from the "factory made some extra" or "stolen design" explanation of why these cameras are identical/similar to the PTZO units: it's possible PTZO did not design their camera units and just went out and shopped among the many China-based PTZ camera manufacturers to select a unit which they them rebranded under the PTZO and provided software support for. SMTAV could also be doing the same thing, or it could be affiliated with the manufacturer themselves. It's mostly impossible to know what really happened, but it's unlikely that a small US-based company like PTZO would have engineering resources in optics, digital camera design, encoder design, etc. to design this type of unit from the ground up. It's more likely that, at best, they spec'ed the requirements for the camera and had it designed for them, or (more likely) had an existing model modified for their specs, or (most likely) just picked an off-the-shelf model and rebranded it. PTZO may now be large enough to do ground-up engineering, but when they first started, it's very unlikely that they were able to do so and much more likely that they picked an off-the-shelf model already designed by a chinese camera maker. The difference between what you have seen in your automotive industry is that there are primary auto manufacturers creating automobiles (and hence the parts and need for parts) outside of China. In the case of these types of PTZ cameras, the primary companies that do original design and manufacture of these are based in China. Many of the "stolen design" items you refer to on Amazon and eBay are actually Chinese-designed and manufactured units that resellers order a batch of, make up their own brand name, and create an Amazon/eBay listing. I believe PTZO started out with close to this type of business model but have since grown enough to have their own support, software development and perhaps now their own hardware engineering.

[@AConnect06]

@@collinong617 What i think happened in this case is that PTZO moved to NDI versions when these were already produced and since they wouldnt take them, the company found a way to get rid of them, my theory

[@MrBass89]

@@collinong617 exactly that's what most US based companies do, pick a design off the shelf and rebrand..... everything made across the waters is not a knock off lol.

[@cko519]

@@AConnect06 except that the SMTAV and other identical cameras also have NDI.

[@cko519]

@@AConnect06 there are models with and without NDI.

[@peterswanson490]

I just want to say thanks for this. I bought this set up. I did have and issue trying to get the controller to see the cameras but it was because of the IP address. The cameras came with the same IP address and I had to use the SMTAV upgrade software to change those addresses. I also had to change the IP address in the controller so it worked with the Camera IP addresses. Now the controller is finding all three cameras I have. I am also not using a computer, just hooking everything to a TP-Link 5 port switch.

[@Foundery]

Glad they are working for you. I do have a video on the controller as well, but sounds like you got that figured out :)

[@peterswanson490]

I would love to see the video on the controller, thanks.

[@JeremyWilliamScott]

@@peterswanson490 Setting up a PTZ Controller with ONVIF kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoWyk3-hf9GXqsk

[@Foundery]

@@peterswanson490 kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoWyk3-hf9GXqsk

[@clickykbd]

FYI, I believe the nameless brand/factory is "ValueHD", and is the OEM for MANY competing brands in and around that price point. PTZOptics just being a more expensive and with decent customer support. "Starleaf" video conferencing systems is another systems brand that used the same hardware cameras.

[@douglackey6203]

We have 2 of the 30x version. Love this camera. I couldn’t believe it either when I saw the listing. We took the leap, and glad we did.

[@ismaelandrade8177]

I'd love to see some footage on these cameras

[@bencarlson5472]

I have two Prisual ptz cameras at Amazon,it seems all same as this camera.

[@slawahohmann2576]

Good day. Unfortunately, I do not speak English, I am writing via google translator. I want to immediately thank you for your review of the PTZ camera, even if you don't answer. Since I do not speak English, the whole idea of ​​the kit is based solely on the picture. If possible, I would like to ask you for a detailed wiring diagram of all the elements, like yours, what cables and equipment are required. We have a small, poor church and there are no specialists in this field; now, under the conditions of restrictions, video broadcasting is in great demand. We will be very grateful for your help. Thank you again from the Christian Church of Hanover.

[@wonabe]

would gladly help if you still have issues with connections

[@cko519]

Alternative possibility from your "factory made some extra" explanation of why these cameras are identical/similar to the PTZO units: it's possible PTZO did not design their camera units and just went out and shopped among the many China-based PTZ camera manufacturers to select a unit which they them rebranded under the PTZO and provided software support for. SMTAV could also be doing the same thing, or it could be affiliated with the manufacturer themselves. It's mostly impossible to know what really happened, but it's unlikely that a small US-based company would have engineering resources in optics, digital camera design, encorder design, etc. to design this type of unit from the ground up. It's more likely that, at best, they spec'ed the requirements for the camera and had it designed for them, or (more likely) had an existing model modified for their specs, or (most likely) just picked an off-the-shelf model and rebranded it. Also, a few days ago, SMTAV updated all their Amazon listings and the photos no longer look identical to the PTZO models in terms of the casing design. They also raised their prices. Unknown is whether the lenses and electronics are still similar to the PTZO units. Update: their rep says only the pictures have changed, not the units themselves.

[@burtpanzer]

Yes, but it is a common practice in China. HK, a German weapons manufacturer had to take legal steps just to get them to stop printing the HK logo on toy guns that actually had real HK silencers on them. (without the baffles inside) They will copy and sell anything they can, usually made with cheaper components inside.

[@jmerrick1000]

@@burtpanzer same thing happens in the auto parts industry. Zero respect for contract law. Straight up counterfeit or at best, grey market using stolen engineering and cheaper components

[@DMarrettTV]

That "pilt tan zbloobpbobip" made my whole day

[@samuelrajkumar4975]

That was too spontaneous.... Enjoyed it too... 😄

[@EglisedelaMoissonCOTH]

This link is much better than the last one on the description, 20 optical x is enough and for the less price!!! NDI too

[@magdielaviles2528]

I'm really looking for a video that explains all the setup since the ptz cameras to this controller

[@Foundery]

Setting up a PTZ Controller with ONVIF kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoWyk3-hf9GXqsk

[@VaughnJESW]

Thank you for this review and explanation. I'm currently looking at a setup like this to implement in our church.

[@KLRCAT]

I call them SMTAV as you would say the letters "ess, emm, tea, ay, vee". As I think SMTAV is an acronym for something like "Smart, Motion, Telephoto, Audio Video" or something along those lines.

[@Foundery]

One thing I realized after the fact I should have included in my video. If you want to use the controller I recommend there is a setting you need to set in each camera. In the web setup of the camera, under “Network” about half way down the page is a setting for “ONVIFSettings”. That need to be set to ONVIF: On and ONVIF Auth: Off. By default they are both set to off.

[@johnjaskolka7465]

Thank you for adding this. I missed the setting and wondered how you got it to work so easily and I couldn't get to work at all. I now have the 30x and the "keyboard" and have also setup the camera with presets and PTZ buttons on the Elgato Stream Deck using Companion by telling the software it is a PTZ Optics camera and all worked perfectly.

[@AConnect06]

@@johnjaskolka7465 I still don't get anyone to tell me how to confirm the camera is 30x??????

[@johnjaskolka7465]

@@AConnect06 The one I purchased has a sticker on the back that says 30x. On the bottom is a sticker with Model No.: BA30S. I have not seen the other model but would assume the stickers identify it otherwise.

[@oliverdelacruz]

May you please upload some actual footage from the camera(s)? I think this would be helpful to many who would consider purchasing them, for ministry or otherwise. How it actually looks is a main, if not the main, deciding factor. Thank you so much.

[@Foundery]

All of the sanctuary shots were done with these cameras. The 30x is probably 40 feet away. kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6WoqZqvadeUa9E

[@oliverdelacruz]

@@Foundery Thank you so much. I appreciate it!

[@leeshiki]

Can this camera do PTZ using plug-in on OBS studio without using keyboard controller?

[@Foundery]

@@leeshiki My understanding is yes.

[@Baron4Oz]

facebook.com/cccolettiband/videos/494089308590927 Video starts at 49:00.

[@11235leticia]

This channel has been so helpful - this is exactly the kind of information I need for my venue. Thank you for doing all the research and I can understand the video, even though I am new to cameras. I really appreciate your work - thank you so much again!

[@upwords-jisendi]

Great content... Thanks for sharing. Can you do a step by step guide on how you connected the Keyboard to work with the camera? Thanks

[@neutraluser4019]

That's how manufacturers would do. They have few % added to the order size depending products for replacement if needed.🙏

[@deanhome1]

Thank you for the great video I saw that they make a NDI version but I think it’s 720p sobI may get one for my my studio I have a tricaster setup and what I will do is use the NDI spark and connect it to it and send video wirelessly or wired to the tricaster

[@ritchlee1856]

I looked at these on Amazon and the image they show does not look like the ones in your video. The most noticeable difference is the shape of the base. PTZ Optics is a radius across the front and the online image for SMTAV shows it as flat. Did you notice this difference when you ordered? Maybe they have changed their online image. Just wonder if it is still the same camera you got. I ordered one based on your recommendation just to try this out and it should arrive today so I will know soon if it looks like yours or the image online. I do have a controller that looks like yours. I have over recent months purchased 4 different PTZ controllers similar to the one you have and returned all but one. Each from a different company. But, they they all came in the identical box with the same graphics on the box. The packing inside would work for any one of them because they are all the same form factor. There was a noticeable difference in the quality of the joystick and the buttons. But that is just based on the feel not any lifetime testing.

[@Foundery]

Yes, they updated the models. I think they added a couple new features as well. Optics are the same. I helped a church install the updated model and it worked as expected.

[@YudronWangmo]

Super helpful, even two years later. Thank you.

[@Foundery]

You're welcome!

[@user-ke7bf1hi9x]

I cannot locate these cameras on Amazon for $150. the least expensive I see this brand is $899. Can you float the link for the $150 cameras?

[@brandennfinch]

www.amazon.com/OBSBOT-AI-Powered-Omni-Directional-90-Degree-Correction/dp/B08NPGNMV8/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=PTZ+CAMERA&qid=1622321862&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExU1JGUkpFVDQ0WFhOJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDQ2NzEyM05WUUtIVjQyUlFIRyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTY5NzgxM0RQUFhFMkQzSFkySyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

[@JosephAnterola]

Methodist here too!!! thanks for making this video!

[@AdrianTschubarov]

Haha, the nameless factory. I connected a Victure sport cam to a monitor and when I turned off an Apeman logo appeared on the screen.😂😂😂

[@JandCfilms1]

Thank you for this video! I'm so happy there's a cheaper alternative to the PTZOptics cameras while still having the same quality. My church is having me look for camera options so this is fantastic.

[@eobemedike4242]

what the name of the camera please

[@AConnect06]

@@eobemedike4242 SMTAV

[@TheGiggingGuitarPlayer]

So now that you have been using these for a few months, are you still happy with them? Thanks

[@CharlesLukoba]

We just received our camera yesterday because of this video.

[@Foundery]

Great! Hope it works well for you.

[@joshua7801]

I just purchased two of these (12X zoom) for $450 a piece. I'm definitely happy with them. Trying to figure out to set one camera as "1" and "2" on the remote because as of right now one remote will control both cameras.

[@DavidClason]

which camera did you purchase, for what purpose and hows it working, if you dont mind me asking?

[@user-cw8kl1wq3f]

Hi , on the description say:"20x" or it's 12?... the men say it's only 12x, I try to buy the set for $1500 (3pcs 20x sdi hdmi ip 1pcs ptz controller) so it's on reality 12x?? Please help

[@thomasbentley7747]

Are they grey market or Intellectual Property theft?

[@RevisionMedia]

Great video! I made one on my channel with some sample footage but I love how you went into more detail! Thanks for putting this out. Subscribed!

[@hfletcher39]

Thank you for sharing. This is going to be a great addition to our ministry.

[@cristelvideo]

The controller has a number of bad reviews on Amazon in late 2022. Is yours still working OK?

[@mounirammi]

Thank you for the video. I just have a question please; what do I need (cables wise and connector) if I have 3 PTZ cameras in a very big room (64*52 feet) ??

[@mounirammi]

2 cameras in the sides and 1 camera in the back to a wide shot.

[@josephroberts7490]

Very good presentation. I like the fact that this system is simple and easy to set up. It's not complicated and easy to operate.

[@SeekonkCongregationalChurchUCC]

Enjoyed your video very much. Would you consider doing another video on how you set up your audio? We are starting from scratch and any help you could give us with audo tips would be great. Thank you.

[@Foundery]

I do have this one which is a very basic overview of using an AUX send on your soundboard: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYeyeGSch91laqM, is that sorta what you are looking for?

[@ChessGrandmaster]

Excellent presentation. One of the best really. Informative, engaging and the presenter is an excellent teacher.

[@SergeyPupkoMusic]

The 30X is bow 650 after a 50 dollar coupon on amazon. 🤔🤔🤔 I'll probably be buying one of those for our church in the bear future.

[@wasbeen]

We use a PTZOptics clone camera too, and also bought a clone controller too. Not sure if PTZOptics buy generic hardware, and create specific firmware etc. It a choice of saving money, or paying extra for the support and easy setup. Our controller arrived in Chinese and it took ages to work out how to change the language using Google translate.

[@kurranbishop3335]

Thanks for the info. We went with a 30x camera, 12x camera, and the PTZ controller you suggested and everything works great!

[@Foundery]

Love hearing that! Thank you!

[@mikekogan5420]

I love your videos. I have all the hardware, but would like to see a wiring diagram involving the control board, PTZ camera, computer, Audio input from microphone system. Anyway you can post this somewhere?

[@AConnect06]

Please how do you confirm that the camera is 30x or 12x, i dont think just the little label at the back confirms that

[@greenvalleychristianchurch7209]

Very clear and understanding presentation. Thanks

[@RedeemerChurchRockford]

Thank you for the video. It has been very helpful. I'd assume since you explained the HTMP setup option, that NDI isn't available on these models. Is that correct?

[@Foundery]

NDI is not a feature listed from the manufacturer but others report it does work as the PTZOptics cameras these are based on does list NDI as an option. We don't use it so I'm sorry I can test it.

[@bevand10]

@@Foundery We found that after installing PTZOptics firmware on a standard SMTAV unit (20x Gen2 model), the above-mentioned feature became operational.

[@rohitkhanna405]

This was the most helpful video I've seen regarding PTZ cameras. Thank you. I have one question: Can you set up presets using the remote control that comes with the camera?

[@Foundery]

I believe you can but haven’t tried it.

[@brianclemens2707]

I would just put in a PT Link POE switch.More bang for the buck. NS Caster switcher with PTZ control over IP, NDI, SDI and HDMI. I use Newtek PTZ2 Cameras. One system for all.

[@upperroomtoo]

This has been really helpful. I pastor a rural church in a town of 250. We are wanting to upgrade our streaming camera. How well can the 30x zoom handle a room that is 50-60 ft in depth?

[@nitrostudios5899]

Can you pan, tilt and zoom at the same time? So,you could zoom in on someone walking across the room.

[@jeremiahbrewer9300]

Yes

[@NunawadingChurch]

no

[@nitrostudios5899]

I didn’t think so. Thanks

[@Software.Engineer]

It's a bug with the controller I think because you can move and zoom at the same time if the camera is already moving, but it's not practical because it stops doing both when the joystick is centred :/ maybe a software update to the controller would fix it. But the camera seems to have the ability to do it. But yeah unfortunate, really annoying

[@icgcroyalcenter7717]

Hello My Name is Sam, we have the same controller your talking about but kind hard to set it up with our PoE to Communicate with our 2 PTZ cameras FAMAKO and AVKANS Please is it Possible to do a Video on The HSILITY CONTROLLER with the screen on how tro connect to the network how you did yours. Thank you. there no video on youtube explaining how to set it up.Thank you and remain Blessed Amen !

[@Foundery]

Let me see what I can do. Are you controller and cameras all on the same network with properly configured IP addresses? Or is that part of the issue?

[@ronniestewart5526]

I need help connecting the system!!! How can I reach you?

[@WatersChurchNY]

So good, bro!! I’ll see if the church will let me buy this set up! Thanks for your effort. And great job, again!

[@Foundery]

You are welcome! This channel has turned into a very unexpected blessing!

[@WatersChurchNY]

@@Foundery man, I can only imagine. Love your presentation. Very fluid and thorough.

[@flyingdiscproductions]

very clear and informative. thanks!

[@lpsmaduk]

Thanks! Just ordered one off these. Think I have a poe switch too!

[@gospeltalkliveatl2555]

The keyboard the link that you have posted is broken. So do you have the actual link that you can repost. Also, the cameras that you’re using are not the cameras in the link you posted. Can you post those links. Last question, are those cameras that you are using work in low light? Thank you

[@capitalcitybaptistchurchel1855]

Great review! The keyboard is unavailable until??? Do you have a second recommendation?

[@jameshughes2548]

I'm wonder if you can use a stream deck if you create the presets with your remote?

[@prisual]

Both must be on the same network segment

[@oranmegidish1213]

Great video, what about iris control? Is there a way to control it?

[@Baron4Oz]

Not so much iris, but you can control the exposure.

[@user-wf2xl8lw7h]

Found your video very insightful, we are planning to put a camera system together for our Church. We have zero knowledge of this equipment. Do know where we could find help. We are located on Cape Cod. John

[@Foundery]

Sorry, was away for a few weeks. It's pretty straight forward really. Just takes some time. I would look at some of my more recent reviews because the newer cameras are far easier to set up. Big fan of the FoMaKo offerings.

[@salomongarcia8184]

Could you please share the link for the 12x zoom camera? Thank you!!

[@timtrottproductions]

The wireless remote probably only works from in front of the camera, right?

[@erik.landen]

Thanks for a great video, any idea how these cameras will hold up outdoors? Will use them inside a tent where it might be rain outside, not directly on the unit.

[@Foundery]

Honestly not sure. They have moving parts so I wouldn’t let them get too dirty or wet. People do use them for sporting events outside so it is done.

[@cornbread1955]

Does the camera have manual focus or is it just Auto

[@prisual]

Support manual focusing and auto focusing

[@Fulu23]

Hi what are you using for the wireless hdmi setup please? Thanks very much for your kind support. We have a very similar setup in church in Malta.

[@EdgerRel]

We were just talking about the pricing on PTZ cameras the other day. Thanks so much for this option.

[@wp47399]

Our church has purchased five of these cameras based on your video. We have been using them every week for the past six months and we are very pleased. Easy to set up and the picture quality is amazing. Do you know if the SMTAV brand makes a auto-tracking camera that will automatically track or pan the camera when the subject is walking around?

[@charlesmuasya335]

Can you kindly share a link where I can watch a sample video? Thanks

[@steffonebass348]

Question ow do i set up the camera to facebook Live to live stream worship

[@mikesb113]

@@steffonebass348 have you figured this out yet? I didn't see anyone answer it for you

[@ADKDIO-Camera]

Maybe I should recommend you to try our PTZ Camera, they are also great

[@ADKDIO-Camera]

@@steffonebass348 It can be realized by just changing the ip, please pay attention to our ptz camera

[@picturethisvideo1]

Would LOVE to see a switched program from these cameras through your sling studio. We also use Sling studio but are out in the outside of a small city so the wireless connections are HORRIBLE and we are using a MiFi to get us to livestream through Sling Studio. Would love to talk with you directly about this if you are willing? THANK YOU!

[@Foundery]

Our first one was here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHWTp61te6Zlbrc

[@foreststokes3882]

You said you are using HDMI from the camera. How are you connecting and getting the camera feed to the computer?

[@Foundery]

We use an Atem mini. Or you could use any hdmi capture box. amzn.to/3CwNku3

[@streameiros]

Hello. thanks for the great content! If you can answer me 2 questions: 1- do you have a previously stream link using this SMTAV cam to see the quality? 2- With this keyboard you have, can you set the transition speed betweent the presets? For example, can you make 2 presets using to sides of same spot, and use the preset switchting to make a panoramic shot but with slowly movement? thanks

[@Foundery]

This would be from that time (we’ve upgraded since then) kzbin.info/www/bejne/q561dHyEfrCYidU As for the controller, no, you can’t on the controller. All it does is send a signal to the camera and tell it to move to a certain preset. It’s up to the camera how fast it moves there, if that makes sense.

[@hallsrob]

Great video. Thank you so much! If you wanted to stream from the camera, can you attach it to the church (/venue) sound system? These cams don’t have an XLR socket, do they?

[@Foundery]

No, no XLR input :( It does have a standard 3.5mm input that you can add audio with. It even has an 3.5 out so you can passthru the audio if you want.

[@richardwallace2715]

I have this controller and 2 cameras all going to a POE hub. How do I get the video signal to my computer now to livestream?

[@Foundery]

You have a couple options. If you are using OBS you and use an RTMP stream from the camera if they are on the same network. Or, you can get an HDMI capture device and use the HDMI out on the camera. HDMI will give you better quality for sure but requires a second cable to the camera. This video can help you with the RTMP option: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXSbqoaiiMimmrs

[@regina43326]

Thank you for the detailed information and the demonstration. Are you able to recommend the new SMTAV PTZ camera and another keyboard since neither is available on Amazon?

[@prisual]

I see there are stocks on Amazon😁

[@teknowil]

I dont know if you monitor this thread much but I plan on getting a ptz 20x tongveo for our church we want it in the back of the sanctuary its about 50ft to the front. I would assume any 20x optical zoom should cover this or show up clearly

[@Foundery]

We have a similar setup. I would probably recommend going with the 30x for that distance if you can afford it. Otherwise, you should be fine.

[@MrCorynick]

Showed everything except the video that comes out of the camera..... 😞

[@andyv8889]

Is there a way to hack a Polycom Eagle Eye cam?

[@mikeriddell4775]

Excellent practical presentation! Our church is looking to move from the cell phone/FB Live model, before the congregation returns to worship over the summer. A couple of questions: 1) what software are you using on your computer for assembly and uploading to YT/FB/? 2) Assuming the encoding is being done in software (ref question 1) what is the config of the computer are you using? Thank you so much :)

[@Baron4Oz]

I have an i7 with 16Gb RAM. Input is through a BMD quad HDMI capture card. Video output is through a NVIDIA GT710 quad HDMI output card. The GT710 has an unlocked NVENC chip on it, so all encoding is done here. My CPU usage hovers around 7% with four cameras.

[@bevand10]

In our setup (5 off the 20x model) we use SDI, via to-HDMI conversion boxes, into Atem Mini Extreme, and use the in-built to-YT streaming encoder. Works a treat and is much simplier to operate week-to-week.

[@pvgmartin]

This is no longer 150 lol its now $899.00 +. Great Video

[@MikeGrayeb]

Great review, thanks. Have you considered using NDI instead of HDMI?

[@Eduardo1007]

I'm surprised this isn't mentioned more in the comments. Way better quality over network than RTMP, and it seems the same brand has options with built in NDI support.

[@olusegunoyerogba3121]

Good video, has anybody use Hotrain HD camera, i mounted it on the ceiling and i can not see anywhere to invert the picture, the picture is upside down. does this camera work if mounted on the ceiling?

[@Baron4Oz]

Yes, there is a way to invert the image in the menu.

[@olusegunoyerogba3121]

@@Baron4Oz can explain how it works. There seems to be no menu.

[@Baron4Oz]

@@olusegunoyerogba3121 use the included remote. Attach the camera to a monitor.

[@WhySoAwkward]

Quick question! I'm wanting to operate the live stream of a church that is in a different state from me. Was gonna remotely access the computer and control the livestream from Wirecast or OBS. If they were to get these PTZ cameras set up in their sanctuary, is there any way I could use that keyboard controller at my house and operate the cameras in the other state? Thank you so much for this great video!

[@Foundery]

Interesting question. The controller needs to be on the same local network as the cameras. So, I suppose if you could VPN into the church network you could make it work. It's a low quality stream that goes to the controller so it doesn't need much bandwidth.

[@WhySoAwkward]

@@Foundery that makes sense, thank you!

[@timotheeroucou3508]

It seems really good. But in some test nobody talk about color correction and camera settings. What about ?

[@JohnPlocher]

These "web conferencing" cameras aren't in the same class as pro devices like BMD's Studio Cameras. While they do have white balance and rudimentary color controls, it takes manual try-and-see effort to calibrate across multiple cameras. On the other hand, those studio cameras+lenses are 3x to 5x more expensive :-)

[@335blues1]

Excellent presentation !!!! Is there a similar solution that can be used with WiFi cameras? The room I need this for does not have network wiring ........

[@Foundery]

I have not seen a camera with built in WiFi so we used these and it worked great: amzn.to/3Mqm3vS

[@335blues1]

@@Foundery So by connecting one ofthese to each camera, then another to a switch, it replacing the need for the cat 6 cable ?

[@Foundery]

@@335blues1 You can connected one of these to your camera then it will be on your regular WiFi network and no cable is required. It's good for controlling the camera and getting a lower quality video signal for a control board.

[@nowinsession-live2396]

Great review Thank You How are you capturing sound and routing it in your set up.

[@Foundery]

We have a seperate aux send on our soundboard for all sound, so the cameras just provide video. There is an audio in (3.5mm) on the camera if you want to do things that way.

[@lushano]

I can't find on the link, can you give me the name of the keyboard

[@rexhaner3012]

Any issues from this setup today? It’s been about a year since you released this video and I’m curious as to how it has held up…? May purchase for our church

[@Foundery]

No issues at all. We use two of these SMTAVs and one HoneyOptics 4K. Not a hiccup. If do buy, do me a favor and use the link in the video description :)

[@suby_jdm_turbo4607]

Can you connect this to a straight to a laptop like webcame with the HDMI cable?

[@Foundery]

You will need some sort of HDMI capture device. That will convert it from HDMI to usb. They are very common and I've used several different ones. This is one I like alot and it's cheap: amzn.to/3SkcD7K

[@howardhelms4877]

Great video.. How ever I am totally lost in programming the keyboard. It says not found

[@Foundery]

One thing I realized after the fact I should have included in my video. If you want to use the controller I recommend there is a setting you need to set in each camera. In the web setup of the camera, under “Network” about half way down the page is a setting for “ONVIFSettings”. That need to be set to ONVIF: On and ONVIF Auth: Off. By default they are both set to off.

[@howardhelms4877]

@@Foundery Thank you. It is flashing the ip address on and off and will not connect I know I am close.

[@wc5324]

We have all PTZOptics cameras and use OBS. Would this clone use the same OBS plugin as PTZOptics?

[@Baron4Oz]

I tried that and was unable to make it work. There is a generic plugin for OBS that you could try,it’s less cumbersome than the PTZOptics plugin in a live situation.

[@wc5324]

@@Baron4Oz Thanks for the response. Hmmm. So tempting to get but limited time to go down rabbit holes. Any tips or hacks with PTZOptics equipment?

[@wc5324]

@@Baron4Oz Thank you for the reply. Bummer. Anybody out there willing to try the generic OBS plugin with the cloned cameras?

[@Baron4Oz]

@@wc5324 Yes, I use it. See my comment below

[@samuellee42]

Is using OBS are you also able to control the zoom of the camera via another software? Or the controller box?

[@Baron4Oz]

You can use the camera’s web interface to adjust that and everything else about the camera. There is a plugin for OBS called OBS Lua Control Visca 1.3 by vwout that lets you add a new source to your scene that can load presets. Set the shot up with the web control, save it in one of the presets and use the OBS source to recall that preset in your scene. Works great!

[@GrahamRiverProductio]

I can’t get mine to find the camera - please help.

[@Foundery]

One thing I realized after the fact I should have included in my video. If you want to use the controller I recommend there is a setting you need to set in each camera. In the web setup of the camera, under “Network” about half way down the page is a setting for “ONVIFSettings”. That need to be set to ONVIF: On and ONVIF Auth: Off. By default they are both set to off.

[@WeyneAraujo]

I saw that you had the cameras seating on tripods. What brand and model? Could you please describe the hardware used for theses tripods? Thanks!

[@Foundery]

It has a standard 1/4” mounting hole on the bottom like most cameras or camcorders. So any sturdy tripod will do. Ours were from Amazon.

[@charlenephillips3074]

Does it have a built-in mic? No one talks about the sound.

[@Foundery]

None of them seem to have a built in mic. Instead it has a 3.5mm audio input. So you could certainly hook up a mic to that.

[@TheHeldenbariton]

Hi, so great, it's really interesting and maybe I found a new solution to record musicians demo videos...do you think the quality is good enough? Found also a 4K version.

[@Baron4Oz]

I use it to do exactly that! I set up my shots beforehand, making sure there are marks on the floor for people to stand on. Works great! Here's a sample, actual show starts at 49:00. The PTZ shots are intermixed with Canon consumer cameras. facebook.com/cccolettiband/videos/494089308590927

[@sfisosg7904]

Can I get a link to the 4k version please

[@AbifajTv]

i just got the same contriller as yours, how will I Star the configuration with just single camera without switch? thanks

[@Foundery]

I do have a new video on the controller. Hope that helps. Setting up a PTZ Controller with ONVIF kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoWyk3-hf9GXqsk

[@patrichardmvp]

After getting one of the 30X SMTAV cameras, I can tell you that you can control it entirely from a Streamdeck with Companion, if you'd like. Follow the tutorial in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqHHg6Zui6-Em80

[@timtrottproductions]

The keyboard link does not work.

[@TheKhrissss]

Do you happen to have a link to the tripod shown at 19:34?

[@Foundery]

Sure do. In my experience tripods are very much "you get what you pay for" :) amzn.to/3F7EAdI

[@TheKhrissss]

@@Foundery agreed! thank you so much!

[@piyuiris]

Could I connect the camera directly to a computer for live streaming??

[@Foundery]

It has a USB on it, but in practice none of these work all that well as pure USB cameras. You are much better off with an HDMI capture box that will turn it into USB for any computer. If you want cheap and good, I've used this one and it's fine: amzn.to/3Px0Ktc. If you want to spend more, than this one: amzn.to/3Cay9H9. Though at that point you might as well just get the ATEM mini :) (amzn.to/3dDU3sg)

[@dr.lawrencev.mccrobie6992]

I might be dense in this area.... But the network ethernet... The camera and the controller are all just connected to the computer, that is then connected to the internet right? So if we have a dedicated computer that is WiFi based and we plug the camera into the pack of it--we are set..... RIGHT?

[@fsbctopekaks]

No. This will need to be attached to a network switch that has PoE, Power over Ethernet to power the camera. The wireless computer will be able to connect to the wired network where you are, if the network is setup correctly.

[@Baron4Oz]

PoE is the easy way to go, but if you have power local to the camera, you can use the included power supply.

[@randywallis9624]

What computer would you need such as power to handle up to 3 cameras?

[@Foundery]

Big thing you need is some reasonably good graphics. Basically no integrated "intel" graphics but a seperate graphics card with its own memory. Three cameras aren't that bad a load.