Z-CAM PTZ camera, why is it unique?

The Z CAM P2-R1 series gives PTZ operators a cinema-leaning toolset inside a compact robotic head. A 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, a fast f/1.6–3.5 integrated zoom and reliable PDAF autofocus deliver subject acuity that stands out on multi-camera shows, sports, conferences and broadcast inserts. Both models capture UHD 4K up to 60 fps, record internally to SD media with H.265, and connect through HDMI, 3G-SDI, USB-C (UVC) and IP. Choose the base Z CAM P2-R1 for conventional workflows or the Z CAM P2-R1N to add NDI|HX3 to your networked studio.

Large-format PTZ imaging without compromise

Many PTZ heads rely on small sensors. The P2-R1 family moves to a 1/1.3-inch imager that raises sensitivity and tonal smoothness. Effective 8.29 MP readout supports 2160 TV-line detail, while the camera exposes from ISO 800–25,600 (0–24 dB gain) with shutter speeds from 1/8000 s to 1 s. White-balance presets and a manual Kelvin option keep color consistent across mixed light. Profiles such as Rec.709, Cine, High Contrast, Vivid, Concert and a Gamma mode let technical directors match a variety of stage and studio looks efficiently.

Optics tuned for broadcast framing

The integrated lens covers a true 18× optical zoom with a bright f/1.6 wide end for shallow depth and clean low-light capture. Horizontal field of view spans roughly ≈55° down to ≈3.6°, enabling wide establishes and tight speaker crops from the same position. Minimum focus reaches 10 cm at wide; at tele the working distance is about 2.2 m. Electronic image stabilization assists against platform vibration, and an internal OLPF-free optical path preserves crisp micro-contrast for keying and AR pipelines.

Lens module (front view)

PDAF autofocus and auto-tracking that sticks to the subject

Contrast AF often hunts in PTZ systems; the P2-R1 platform uses phase-detect autofocus (PDAF) with face/subject tracking to hold focus during fast pans or presenter movement. Built-in Auto Framing centers presenters automatically for classrooms, auditoriums and meeting rooms. Motion accuracy is 0.01°, with pan/tilt speeds from 0.1–180°/s and ranges of 350° pan (±175°) and 240° tilt (-30° to +210°). Tally indicators on the body inform talent from multiple angles.

Internal recording and live redundancy

For risk-controlled production the camera records directly to an SD card while feeding switchers or encoders. Internal codecs cover H.265 4K60 8-bit, useful for archiving or quick turnaround edits. This on-board record path removes single-point-of-failure concerns when a network or ingest device misbehaves. Analog audio arrives via a 3.5 mm TRS mic/line input and is embedded on digital outputs and IP streams for coherent ingest across systems.

Multiple connectors and modern IP protocols

Connectivity is broad and production-oriented. HDMI outputs up to UHD 4K60. 3G-SDI outputs up to 1080p60 for legacy routers and long cable runs. USB-C (3.0, UVC) turns the head into a pro webcam for applications like Zoom, Teams or vMix Call. Over RJ-45, the camera streams H.264/H.265 via RTMP/RTMPS, RTSP, SRT and SSP, while also supporting UVC over IP. The P2-R1N adds NDI|HX3 for low-latency, bandwidth-efficient contribution in all-IP studios. Both versions accept VISCA over RS-422 and VISCA IP, include a browser web client, and expose CGI command control for integration scripting.

Genlock, FreeD and multi-camera discipline

The head provides a genlock input to keep frames aligned across large switchers. For virtual sets and live XR, FreeD output delivers camera pose data for AR/VR engines, enabling accurate graphics compositing from pan/tilt/zoom motion. Up to 256 presets (CGI), 100 via VISCA and 9 on the IR remote accelerate blocking on scripted shows, council meetings and worship services.

Power, thermals and installation

System power sits at a modest ≈18 W. A single Ethernet cable can supply PoE+ (802.3at) and IP, which simplifies ceiling or truss locations. The unit weighs about 3.35 kg and operates between 0–40 °C in a fanless chassis for silent stages. Mounting uses a 3/8-inch base thread with a supplied ceiling plate; an adapter supports 1/4-inch accessories where required.

Model guidance: P2-R1 vs P2-R1N

Pick the Z CAM P2-R1 when HDMI/SDI, USB-C and IP (RTMP/RTSP/SRT/SSP) cover your routing and you want internal SD recording, PDAF, auto-tracking and genlock at 4K60. Choose the Z CAM P2-R1N when an NDI|HX3 workflow is preferred for switching and tally over the network, with the same optics, sensor and mechanics. Both provide PoE+, FreeD, browser control and deep preset memory.

Why it stands out in daily production

The uniqueness of the P2-R1 family stems from the sensor-to-protocol stack. You get a larger imager than typical PTZs in this class, a bright zoom that maintains detail from wide podiums to arena shots, advanced phase-detect AF and subject tracking, plus true 4K60 delivery over HDMI and IP. The addition of genlock and FreeD extends use beyond lecture capture into real-time graphics and XR. And with fanless acoustics, PoE+ and robust control options, crews can deploy units quickly and maintain consistent results across shows.

Ready for your control room

For professional buyers building classrooms, houses of worship, corporate studios or remote galleries, the P2-R1 line reduces ancillary hardware while raising picture fidelity. Explore the product pages: Z CAM P2-R1 and Z CAM P2-R1N. Add them to existing SDI plants, USB-based rooms or NDI|HX3 networks and keep a safety copy rolling via internal recording—all inside one PTZ head.

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