Marmot789

so the theoretical limit is still 328ft for Cat5, no devices would extend this without putting some kind of repeater (switch) half way between my run of 600 ft? If I didn't run fiber, there isn't a way to run an IP camera to this location? Has anyone extended there network just to reach a IP camera location? I thought I could use the Panasonic wv-7260d Pan/Tilt mounted with a almost any Panasonic camera, and then just control the camera's zoom. This would not work? What would be the best alternative for doing a PTZ IP camera (not necessarily Panasonic) without running fiber, something relatively simple. Thanks

I'd like to replace my Dock camera (Pelco Esprit PTZ controlled through Coax) with a Panasonic Hybrid or possibly an IP based camera. But I'm not sure what this entails for wiring or how it would record if I did go with IP based? the camera location is about 800 ft from the current Dedicated Micros DVR. I'd like to start switching over cams (6) to an IP based system starting with this one. I have 120v power supplied at the dock. from my understanding I have to run cat5 for an IP cam. I have a Network switch (AP) 200 feet closer that I could run the Cat5 from cutting the distance down to 600 ft. From the other forums I"ve read this would still require active baluns to run this far? what is required for wiring including the PTZ control and camera itself. Power shouldn't be an issue. I know Panasonic sells camera management software- is this required to use and control an IP camera or can I record into a CPU over the network without this software? what about using a Geovision card when they start supporting IP?

I have a 4 year old Esprit that the Pan-tilt has gone out on, the camera and zoom lens have tested fine. The Lens is a 6-20x variable motorized lens auto-iris worth somewhere in the neighborhood of $500. The camera is standard res color, I might be able to get $100 for it. The auto zoom part will not work as the circuit boards in the Pan tilt housing are what control it. I would like to keep the lens, and switch to a b/w camera. Its a standard 1/3" CS mount. does anybody have any suggestions for switching out the camera to another manufacturer that would allow me auto zooming? Mark

well I would use it like it is, but I don't know how if it will stay stationary or locked in the correct position...if a strong wind came up it could move it. also, when the power is lost to these the camera will just fall forward, so that is the reason I thought I'd have to move it to a fixed mount. yes, I also thought 4 years was a short life span...but then again when you leave it out in the rain with the covers off, it doesn't exactly help things. This was a hand me down from someone else...I'm just trying to salvage what I can..

This Pelco went in for repair and came back with an $800 repair estimate, the camera is 4 years old and don't think it is worth the repair. as the gearing and circuit boards are shot for the Pan, Tilt part of the housing. The camera and lens (20X) tested fine. I'm just wondering how I can salvage the camera and lens and will the zoom portion still work. I used to be able to control the cam through coaxitron. But if I take the camera and lens out of the housing and put into a fixed mount enclosure, will I still be able to control the zoom portion through coaxitron. (or is this decoding done somewhere in the PTZ housing. I'd like to set it up and zoom in when needed for an lpr setting (people feel they can steal Christmas trees), the area where they can park is pretty small. Do you think I could keep it in original housing (just bypassing the PT) as it would be quite intimidating instead of the fixed mount. this unit also has a defroster/heater in it. or would I be better off trying to just sell the unit as is..and buying something that would fit my application a little better?

The Pelco domes seem like they are built better than these older Legacy style cams. I think the Pelco's are built to withstand the elements a little better than the Panasonic. But at a 4-5 year lifespan (motor or anything else) anyway, I do also like the features on the Panasonic PTZ. I figure if I get at least 4 years out of it, it would be somewhat comparable to the Pelco. I guess I'm just trying to rationalize buying the Panasonic. know anything about the Panasonic WV-CW964?

Hi, I'm looking for a little input on the longevity of typical PTZ cameras, Pelco's specifically. I know the elements are harsh but is 4 years typical or should they last longer. These are the older (legacy) style PTZ's and used in Minnesota (with somewhat harsh Winters). The 2nd Camera just went down in less than 2 months. Can I expect MUCH more reliability out of the newer dome style PTZ's? How do Pelco's and Panasonic's compare to other brands? Thanks, Marmot789

Just wanted to introduce myself...most of my experience comes from the Home Theater biz for a couple years and before that the IT industry. I am finding myself more involved in security systems and am always looking for simpler and better ways to do things. I have done a few simple bullet style cams before but would still consider myself a Noobie. I am looking for help in the PTZ category, will contribute where my experience allows. Thanks, Marmot789