[Jason Wallace]

It would be extremely well suited for that. Email me at: jason@hdvideosolutions.com for more information. It can do 720p/60 or 1080p/30. You’ll get the live feed at your console at which point you can do whatever you want with it. There are also PTZ cameras, that can be rigged up, allowing the operator to change camera views, and, options for using conventional cameras with the system, putting HD-SDI in, and getting HD-SDI out the other end.

[Jason Wallace]

I would suggest you get a IP video encoder commonly used in the security industry to convert an analog camera into an IP camera. Make sure the model you get has PTZ controls in the web interface. Axis makes one that is a bit pricy but will do the job. Since it’s web based, it doesn’t mater where in the world the operator is, as long as there is a network connection.

The RS485 output from the encoder controls the PTZ platform the camera is mounted on, allowing the remote operator to click on screen to move the camera. It won’t be smooth, (jerky quick movements) but will do enough to line up the shot.

If you want to replace an operator, you’ll need a decoder on the other end that is designed to give you an analog output. (so it would be analog camera into the encoder, send over network/internet, analog back out the other side) Those will typically have RS485 INPUTS on them, allowing you to connect a PTZ joystick to it. This will give you remote, smooth proportional control. If you go that route, get an encoder and decoder from a manufacturer called ACTi. They are fairly inexpensive and work well. ACTi doesn’t have on screen controls for PTZ, but that won’t matter if you’re using the joystick.

-J

[Jason Wallace]

Affordable is the trick.

Are you trying to send the video over the web? Or only wanting control via the web? And by how many users?

If used by only a few people, and, you’re not trying to send HD over the web (you just need control) You can use a video encoder from almost any security manufacturer, combined with a RS485 PTZ platform (designed for security cameras)

Video encoders typically have the RS232 or RS485 outputs, and are controlled via a web interface. The whole thing could be done for maybe $1k to $1500 if you do it yourself.

-Jason