It comes as no surprise that Sony continues to be the world’s leading robotic camera manufacturer. However, in the realm of robotic Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) cameras, contrasts are as apparent as similarities.

With that in mind, let’s compare, four of the Sony PTZ cameras: Models EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V), EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) and Models EVI-D70 (EVID70), EVI-D100 (EVID100).  While all four models are robotic in nature, certain qualities make each camera unique.

Models EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) and EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) PTZ cameras

EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) and the EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) cameras are fortunate enough to benefit from their predecessor, Sony’s EVI-HD1 (EVIHD1)’s strong presence in the PTZ arena.  These high definition cameras inherited such solid characteristics and features as smooth, high-speed pan/tilt operation, effortless wide-angle field of view, external/remote control, 16x9 aspect ratio images, autofocus, a quite PTZ operation, and a 10x optical, 40x digital and optical zoom; these cameras were ahead of the pan/tilt/zoom game from their release. Camera settings and pan/tilt/zoom functions have the ability to be carried out remotely at high communication speeds via the RS-232C interface (VISCA protocol).   Both of these cameras are the same size, measuring 9-7/8” x 6” x 5-3/8” and weighing 3 pounds, 5 ounces. Additional shared characteristics for the EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) and the EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) include:
  • Approximately 2M effective pixels
  • Video Output: DVI-I (digital and analog), Y/Cb/Cr, Y/Pb/Pr, or RGB selectable
  • VISCA RS-232C Camera Control Interface
  • 6 position presets
  • Pan: -100 to +100 deg. (Max. speed 300 deg./sec)
  • Tilt: -25 to +25 deg. (Max. speed 125 deg./sec)
  • Minimum Illumination: 15 lux (50 IRE, F1.8)
  • Horizontal viewing angle: 8° (Tele) to 70° (Wide)
  • Power requirements: 12 V dc (10.8 to 13.0V dc)
Joining the ever-popular EVI family of Sony cameras, the EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) offers high definition picture quality at an affordable price.  This all-in-one Pan/Tilt Zoom color video camera utilizes 1/3 type high-quality CMOS imaging sensors, providing exceptional full, high definition picture quality with its class leading all-in-one Pan/Tilt /Zoom capability. Depending on the application and infrastructure possibilities, the EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) has flexibility, providing 4 selectable HD video output options in progressive scan, and is able to support VGA mode for added migration support. Utilizing Sony’s strong heritage in PTZ mechanics, combined with incredible high definition picture quality at up to 720p/60, the EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) camera provides an optimized high definition camera option for application environments where the desire is for a mid-range solution, or where infrastructure restrictions exist. Always ahead of the game, Sony has strengthened its leadership position in high definition cameras by combining their strong tradition in Pan/Tilt/Zoom technology with the release of the EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V), the first Full HD 1080/60p camera to join the ever-popular EVI selection of products, The EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) and the EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) cameras are both suitable for the video conferencing market, broadcast, distance learning, houses of worship, corporate training and small sized rooms such as courtrooms, and boardrooms. These, and other A/V markets continue to utilize high definition cameras, and the Sony EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) and EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) support these applications, and continue to raise the bar with outstanding picture quality in Full HD. Now, you are saying to yourself, if they are so similar, what makes them different? COMPARISON CHART:  
EVI-HD1 EVI-HD3V EVI-HD7V
Video formats 1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, 1080/29.97p, 1080/25p, 720/59.94p, 720/50p, 720/29.97p, 720/25p, NTSC, PAL 720/59.94; 720p/50;720p/29.97; 720p/25; 640 x 480p/59.94 (letterbox) 1080p/59.94; 1080p/29.97; 1080i/59.94; 720p/59.94; 720p/29.97; 640x480p/59.94 (letterbox); 1080p/50; 1080p/25; 1080i/50; 720p/50; 720p/25
Video outputs Video Outputs: HD-SDI, HD Analog component (Y/Pb/Pr), VBS, Y/C DVI-I (digital and analog), Y/Cb/Cr, Y/Pb/Pr, or RGB selectable Video Output: DVI-I (digital and analog), Y/Cb/Cr, Y/Pb/Pr, or RGB selectable
As you can see, the differences between the two  PTZ cameras lie in the Video Format and Video Outputs.  The EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V) P/T/Z camera provides high definition up to 720/60p.  The EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V) also presents exceptional, full high definition picture quality up to 1080/60p with this class leading all-in-one Color Video Camera.

Models EVI-D70P (EVI70P) and EVI-D100P (EVID100P) PTZ cameras

Complimenting the Sony line-up for EVI robotic color Pan/Tilt/Zoom cameras are the EVI-D70/P (EVID70/P) and the EVI-D100/100P (EVID100/100P) cameras. When replacing an item in their robotic camera line-up, Sony does it better than anyone!   Taking the place of the industry leading Sony EVI-D30 (EVID30) color PTZ video camera is the new EVI-D70 (EVID70) PTZ video camera.  While these PTZ cameras are not high definition, that doesn't stop their ability to produce exceptional images! User-friendly, this camera combines a high quality ¼ type EXview HAD CCD, with the flexibility of a remote pan/tilt/zoom operation for excellent picture quality.  Unlike the EVI-D30 (EVID30), the EVI-D70 (EVID70) includes a wider P/T/Z range, and an 18x optical zoom lens, allowing the user to zoom in on a small or distant object with outstanding clarity.  Also upgraded from the EVI-D30  (EVID30), is a faster and smoother pan/tilt, with a wider range; 340 degrees versus 100 degrees of pan, and 120 degrees versus 25 degrees for the tilt mechanism. Utilizing this optical zoom lens and a faster pan/tilt mechanism, it is the ideal choice for distance learning, video conferencing, houses of worship, courtrooms, hospitals and nursing homes, events and concert halls, and just about any other remote shooting application. And best of all, it's ceiling mountable (also desktop mountable)- a first for Sony's popular EVI cameras! The EVI-D70 (EVID70) is small: 5-1/4” x 5-3/4” x 5-3/4”, and weighs a mere 2 pounds, 2 ounces. The EVI-D70 (EVID70) camera’s auto ICR function is able to automatically switch the settings to attach or remove the IR Cut filter for increased sensitivity. With a set level of darkness, the IR Cut Filter is automatically disabled (ICR ON), and the infrared sensitivity is increased. With a set level of brightness, the filter automatically engages depending on the ambient light, allowing the camera to be effective both in day and night environments.  Using Auto-Tracking, a user can pre-define subjects to be continuously tracked, as four modes for pre-defining are available i.e., pan and tilt, auto zoom, auto exposure, and motion detection.  All camera settings and pan/tilt/zoom functions can be controlled remotely via a PC.   Sony EVI-D100P (EVID100P) P/T/Zoom camera is also a high quality CCD camera with a wide angle view and 40x zoom (10x optical and 4x digital), complete with impressive features of auto focus, auto white balance and automatic exposure control for fast, stable, hands-free operation when the camera changes pan/tilt positions. Because of its high speed, wide range pan/tilt head, the EVI-D100P (EVID100P) camera moves to pre-determined positions quickly and immediately, with one of the highest pan/tilt speeds in its class.  A supplied remote commander is effective for fundamental P/T/Z camera control.  When the Auto Sleep function is in use, the camera can be set to automatically turn off when not in use after a specific period of time.   The EVI-D100P (EVID100P) camera, like the EVI-D70 (EVID70), has a 6-position preset (with battery backup), multi-function IR Remote Commander unit, high speed, and wide range pan/tilt, and can be controlled through the VISCA input on the rear of the camera.   With its direct drive motors for the gear-less structure of the camera, the noise of the pan/tilt motion is drastically reduced. The dimensions of the EVI-D100/100P (EVID100/100P) are 4-1/2” x 4 -3/4” x 5-1/4”, and it’s weight is 1 pounds, 14 ounces; smaller and lighter than the EVID-70 (EVID70) PTZ camera. The EVI-D100P (EVID100P) is ideal for applications such as videoconferencing, distance learning and corporate training, surveillance, sports, concerts and Internet communications such as web casting. Included are easy to use presets, daisy-chaining capability and various digital picture effects.

What ever your camera choice, the Sony EVI-D70 (EVID70), EVI-D100 (EVID100), EVI-HD3V (EVIHD3V), or the EVI-HD7V (EVIHD7V), you can be assured you have made the best decision available in the area of robotic Pan/Tilt/Zoom cameras!

Gail De Salvo Aegis Electronic Group, Inc.