Using PTZ Action

In QuickLink StudioPro, the PTZ Action Source enables you to use Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) camera controls in your live production workflow. A PTZ Action Source refers to the specific video source in your StudioPro scene—typically a Video Capture Device or NDI source—that is directly linked to a controllable PTZ camera.

By assigning a PTZ Action Source, StudioPro can send control commands—such as panning, tilting, zooming, and preset recalls to the camera. This connection allows you to automate camera movements based on scene changes, recall predefined camera positions with a single click, and enhance your live production with dynamic camera controls.

Whether you’re running a multi-camera setup for a live stream, conference, church service, or broadcast, the PTZ Action Source makes it easy to control your cameras right inside StudioPro. With built-in filters, hotkeys, and scene transitions, you can automate your workflow and add a professional polish to your production.

 

What is a “PTZ Action Source” Used For?

  • It links a specific video source in StudioPro (like a Video Capture Device or NDI Source) to PTZ control functionality.

  • When a preset recall is triggered (e.g., by a hotkey or scene change), StudioPro uses the PTZ Action Source to:

    • Send the correct PTZ command to the linked camera

    • Recall the assigned preset position

 

How to Setup a PTZ Camera

This article will guide you through setting up a PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) camera, configuring camera controls, and setting up PTZ actions and hotkeys for dynamic camera management.

 

Step 1: Enable PTZ Controls

To begin using your PTZ camera, first enable PTZ controls in your software settings:

  1. Navigate to:
    Settings > Advanced > Dock Configuration

  2. Check the box to enable:   PTZ

  3. Click OK

This will activate a new dock labeled Control above your sources panel, where PTZ configuration will take place.

 

Step 2: Add and Configure the PTZ Camera

  1. Go to the Control dock and locate the PTZ section.

  2. Click the “+” button to add a new camera.

  3. Select your protocol type (usually UDP).

 

4.  You will now see the PTZ Device Settings window:

  • Select your Camera Source (You will need to add the SDI camera source to a scene for it to be selectable)

  • Enter the Camera IP Address and Port Number

  • Adjust any additional settings as needed

  1. Click OK

 

Once configured, camera control arrows will appear in the PTZ dock.

Test Camera Controls
Use the directional arrows to verify that your PTZ camera responds correctly.

How to set-up PTZ Action settings

Now that the PTZ camera is set up you can now use the PTZ action source to set up presets for camera control, pan/tilt etc.

To do this, add a "PTZ action" source to your scene, once added the configuration page should appear. If not, click properties to open the settings.

 

Action Trigger - Automatically recall a preset when a scene becomes active.

Camera - Select the camera you'd like to assign the trigger to

Action type:

Action TypeDescription
Preset RecallMoves the camera to a previously saved position (pan, tilt, zoom).
Preset SaveSaves the current camera position as a numbered preset.
Pan/TiltMoves the camera left/right (pan) or up/down (tilt); can be continuous or step-based.
StopImmediately stops any current camera movement (useful for continuous actions).

Tip: Use the "Test Action" button to preview the action and confirm it behaves as expected before finalizing.

Once configured, click OK to save the settings.

 

Step 4: Set Up PTZ Hotkeys

You can also set up Hotkeys for a variety of actions:

  1. Go to: Settings > Hotkeys

  2. Assign hotkeys to any of the following actions:

    • Preset Recalls

    • Pan/Tilt movements

    • Zoom in/out

    • Stop movement

This allows quick manual control of your camera during live operation or production.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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