Tutorials · Video Surveillance

How to Configure PTZ Camera Presets, Patrols and Auto-Tracking

Make PTZ cameras work for you: save presets, build patrol tours, set park positions and use smart tracking where supported.

Intermediate12 min7 steps

Before you start

  • A PTZ camera on a PoE+ or PoE++ port
  • Access to the camera or NVR interface

Step by step

  1. Mount and level

    Mount the PTZ securely and high enough to see over obstacles. Check power is sufficient for motors and heaters.

  2. Create presets

    Move to key views (gate, car park, loading bay) and save each as a preset with a clear name.

  3. Build a patrol

    Combine presets into a tour with dwell times, for example 15 seconds per preset.

  4. Set a park position

    After manual control, the camera returns to a default view or patrol after a timeout.

  5. Enable smart tracking

    Where supported, let the camera follow people or vehicles that enter a zone, then return to patrol.

  6. Link to alarms

    Move to a preset when an alarm input or line-crossing rule triggers.

  7. Test day and night

    Check focus and IR at night at each preset.

Pro tips

  • Avoid constant patrols on a single critical view; pair the PTZ with a fixed camera.
  • Mechanical parts wear: schedule inspections.
How to Configure PTZ Camera Presets, Patrols and Auto-Tracking | Navijin Tutorials