It seems to me that there are (at least) two uses for CCTV cameras. The identification use needing a close enough zoom to get enough detail but also a wider overview with alarm trigger to see the presence of intruders on the property.

Obviously for this it needs multiple cameras set up with different zooms. I was thinking that it would be really useful to have a single unit that comprised a high quality cam for identification but also another, smaller and perhaps lower quality cam set to a wide angle for overview duties.

Do these exist and if not would this be useful?

Hi Driller,

Yes they already exist, there's several manufacturers that make them: Bosch, Videoswitch, Arecont Vision, Derwent etc

Hi Driller,

Yes they already exist, there's several manufacturers that make them: Bosch, Videoswitch, Arecont Vision, Derwent etc

Hi Alpat, thanks for that. Is there a standard industry name for them and are they used much? (not in domestic I'll wager).

There more often than not used for ANPR (Automatic number plate recognition). One for close up on number plate, other to give over-view of vehicle.

Mobotix use dual sensor cctv in a slightly different way. One sensor for day use(colour), the other for night(B/W).

We've installed the VideoSwitch dual head PTZ a couple of times. They allow the operator to zoom into a subject whilst still having an over-view of the scene. Comes in very handy if youre trying to track a number of subjects.

Mmm, ANPR chez moi...not a bad idea that

Another option could be a small PTZ dome with a sensor.

These little Vista Powerdome Lites only have one preset.

The Home Preset could be used for the wide angle and the Preset for Zoom.

Obviously because there is only one camera, when the preset is active the wide angle is sacrificed.

But could be a good solution on some sites.

Link

Another option could be a small PTZ dome with a sensor.

These little Vista Powerdome Lites only have one preset.

The Home Preset could be used for the wide angle and the Preset for Zoom.

Obviously because there is only one camera, when the preset is active the wide angle is sacrificed.

But could be a good solution on some sites.

Link

Hey SWB, just saw your reply. Thanks for the info and link