AIDA Imaging PTZ3-X20L PTZ Camera:
MSRP: $1,295.00 USD (Stream Dudes priced at $1,095.00 USD)
Key Features:
- 20X Optical zoom (4.7-94mm f/1.8 to 3.5)
- 1/2.86-inch CMOS sensor
- SMPTE 424M/292M
- 4:2:2 (YCbCr) 10-bit color space
- Control via IP, RS-232, or RS-422
- 0.1 Lux (night) and .005 lux (slow shutter)
- Simultaneous 3G-SDI, HDMI, and DVI
Impressions:
Although the AIDA Imaging PTZ3-X20L PTZ Camera lacks native IP connectivity, it doesn’t mean that it is a bad camera. In fact, the AIDA fills a valuable void in the PTZ camera market where a quality image is needed, but price is a major factor, and IP streaming/control is unnecessary. Adding the Kiloview KV-E1 brings NDI and more to the AIDA while still undercutting the competition by over $300 and making this more of a complete solution.
“Adding the Kiloview KV-E1 brings NDI and more to the AIDA while still undercutting the competition by over $300 and making this more of a complete solution.”
Savings aside, the AIDA Imaging PTZ3-X20L was simple to setup and get going. Even in its factory-default settings, we found that the AIDA produced a good overall image that held up well against the pricier competition. Colors appeared a bit dull, but not totally washed out either.
Since there is no IP connectivity, there also is no browser interface. This means that all camera adjustments must be done via the in-camera menu and on-screen display. After some time playing around with the settings, we were able to amplify the colors a bit more. The difference is noticeable, but we still had an issue with some colors not being correctly reproduced.
Adding the Kiloview KV-E1 was a fun part of the test. Not only did the Kiloview add NDI to the AIDA PTZ camera, it could also be used like a traditional web video encoder as well. We found that the color quality remained the same and the conversion from SDI to NDI was under the advertised 67ms. This proved that the AIDA and Kiloview made it possible to get an NDI PTZ camera for under $2,000.00 USD.
Keeping with the theme of value, the AIDA Imaging PTZ3-X20L came with a nice IR remote controller and a unique bracket that folds out for wall mounting. The camera’s design might be reminiscent of the Daleks from the television series “Doctor Who,” but they still prove to be a decent value overall. We strongly suggest that adding the Kiloview KV-E1 or the AIDA Imaging CCS-USB will further enhance your experience.
TL;DR
Despite lacking IP control or streaming, the AIDA Imaging PTZ3-X20L is a decent option if you are on a budget.
Select another camera below:
