Ive just picked up a VCL PTZ. Ive powered it up and connected it to a TV just to test it. I think its working ok but I'm not 100% sure. It displays a picture but the camera is set to some sort of sequence. The dome is turning, the camera is tilting, zooming and focusing, it just keeps on repeating the same sequence over and over. I was hoping to connect this to my computer via a RS232 to RS485 adaptor, when I plug the adaptor into the computer using a free trial of some PTZ software I can't control the camera.

check that the protocols are the same eg Pelco D at camera and controller.

Ive seen the setting on the software but Im not sure about the setting on the camera.

Ah, I think I know what I am doing wrong. I only have the camera, no controller. Ive got the camera connected staight to the RS845 adaptor, is this wrong?

Can you put up a link to the dome make/model and to the free ptz software.

Quick check list:

1)Protocols

2) Baud Rates

3) Address

4) Polarity of RS485

5) Check data is being sent out the port when a function is selected (put an LED across the connections it should light when a signal is being sent)

This is the dome, externally it is different but the internals are the same

http://www.honeywellvideo.com/documents/RDMU000995-B_Outdoor_RapidDomeGold_Installation.pdf

This is the software, dont know if it any good though

http://www.serialporttool.com/PTZ.htm

Is the dome RS422 or RS485? Manual says RS422

Now im not 100% sure on that one. It could be 422 as the manual says. Ive got an adaptor on the way, will let you know how I get on with it.

I got the RS422 adaptor today

Protocol Set to Pelco D on the PTZ and the software

Baud rate tried them all

Still nothing

Check that data is exiting the port each time a command is being sent. This will verify the basics are right with the PC and software before getting to protocols, etc.

Can you describe all of the connections on the data line, from PC to PTZ and everything in between?