How to Add Audio Into a PTZOptics Camera 

thebuckstopshere - I agree 100% (this is Paul). Tucking that cable in on the non-camera side is something I do every time now :)

Hey Don, PTZOptics cameras typically feature a 3.5mm audio input jack that is designed to accept a line-level input. This type of input is generally unbalanced stereo, meaning that you can input stereo audio signals into the camera. When you mention using an XLR to TRRS cable, it suggests adapting a professional audio source to this 3.5mm input. Here's the breakdown of what you're dealing with: 1. Unbalanced Stereo: The 3.5mm input on PTZOptics cameras is suited for unbalanced stereo signals. This is common for devices designed to be versatile and compatible with a wide range of audio sources, including consumer-level audio equipment. 2. Balanced Mono vs. Unbalanced Stereo: A balanced audio signal is typically used with professional audio equipment, especially over long distances, to reduce noise and interference. This is commonly seen with XLR cables. However, when you adapt an XLR (which is usually mono and can be balanced) to a 3.5mm TRRS connector for use with a PTZOptics camera, you're likely summing that mono signal into a stereo input or splitting it into dual mono to feed both left and right channels of the camera's stereo input, depending on the wiring of your cable. 3. Channel Audio Support: When PTZOptics references support for 2-channel audio, they are indicating the camera can accept and process stereo audio inputs. This allows you to capture audio from a stereo source (like a mixer outputting a stereo mix) directly into your video feed. Given the specific mention of an XLR to TRRS cable, if your goal is to connect a balanced mono signal (like a microphone or a mono mix from an audio mixer) into the PTZOptics camera, the cable would need to appropriately convert and possibly unbalance the signal to match the camera's stereo input. This often involves wiring the XLR's positive and negative signals to the tip and ring of the TRRS connector, with ground going to the sleeve, effectively feeding the same mono signal into both the left and right channels of the camera's stereo input. It's important to ensure that the levels and impedance are matched appropriately for the camera's input to avoid any potential issues with audio quality or damage to the equipment. Thanks for checking out our Channel! Learn More: ptzoptics.com/

That's a really good use case and you can connect a 3.5mm audio input with a wireless lavalier microphone to the camera. We will try to make a video about this on the new Move SE cameras. Do you have a preferred lavalier microphone? I'm thinking the new DJI wireless microphone everyone is using because we just bought one :)

@@PTZOptics Thanks for such a quick response - you guys are the best. I use Sennheisser and Shure Lavalier mics. I am sure the one you suggested will work as well. I figured this method can capture the speaker “Spot on” with no ambient noise or worries about mic placement by the camera. The receiver can possibly be mounted under the wall mount with velcro for easy removal for adjustments and battery replacement. What is your take? When is your next show?

Hi John, Integrating audio from a sound mixing board into your camera setup and then transmitting it (either wired or wirelessly) to your computer for use in vMix can be a bit complex. Let's break down the process and troubleshoot the issues you might be facing, especially concerning the NDI audio signal from the camera. *Understanding the Setup* *1. Audio from Mixing Board to Camera:* - The audio output from your sound mixing board should be connected to the audio input of your camera. This typically requires a suitable cable (like XLR or 3.5mm, depending on the inputs available on your camera). - Ensure the mixing board's output level and the camera's audio input settings are correctly matched to avoid issues like low volume or distortion. *2. Camera to Computer (NDI):* - When using NDI, the camera's video and audio are transmitted over the network. Ensure your camera is correctly set up for NDI transmission. This often involves configuring settings in the camera to enable NDI and ensure audio is included in the NDI stream. *3. Receiving in vMix:* - In vMix, add the NDI source by selecting "Add Input" and then choosing "NDI/Desktop Capture." Select your camera from the list of available NDI sources. - Make sure that you are selecting the NDI feed that includes the audio (it should be a default feature unless specified otherwise in the camera settings). *4. Troubleshooting Audio Issues* - Check Camera Audio Settings: Ensure the audio is being captured by the camera and included in the NDI feed. You might need to dive into the camera's menu to check these settings. NDI Audio in vMix: In vMix, ensure that the audio from the NDI source is not muted and is routed correctly. Check the audio mixer in vMix to see if the NDI source's audio levels are visible during playback. - Network Stability: Ensure your network is stable and has sufficient bandwidth for NDI, as network issues can sometimes affect audio transmission. *5. Alternative Setup Using Yamaha UR12* - If you're currently running sound through a Yamaha UR12 audio interface into your computer, this setup bypasses the camera for audio. The UR12 is connected directly to your PC, and you can add this audio source separately in vMix. - In vMix, add the Yamaha UR12 as an audio input, ensuring it's correctly configured and not muted. *Simplifying the Process* *To simplify, you can consider one of these options:* 1. Direct Audio Input into Camera: If your camera supports it, this is the simplest method. The audio from the mixer goes directly into the camera and is then sent to your computer via NDI, all in sync with the video. 2. Separate Audio Input in vMix: Use the Yamaha UR12 or another audio interface to input audio directly into vMix. This method allows for more control over the audio in your production software but requires manual synchronization with the video. It's crucial to experiment with these setups during a non-critical time to ensure everything is working as expected. If you continue to experience issues, please provide more specific details about your current setup, including the camera model, the connections you're using, and the exact problem with the audio in vMix. This information will help in providing more targeted assistance.

Hello, So there is nothing on the camera itself to monitor audio meters. You would need to use a 3rd party software. If you use OBS or vMix, they have audio meters. If you have an NDI camera, the NDI Studio Monitor also has audio meters.

Hello! Connecting your Soundcraft Ui12 mixer to a PTZOptics NDI/HX 30x camera for streaming involves several steps, as you're dealing with both audio and video signals that need to be integrated into your stream. Here's a general guide on how to set this up: 1. Audio Setup with Soundcraft Ui12: - The Soundcraft Ui12 is a digital mixer that allows you to manage audio inputs (like microphones, instruments, etc.) and then output the mixed audio. Here's what you need to do: - Connect Audio Sources: Connect your microphones and/or other audio sources to the Soundcraft Ui12 mixer. - Mix the Audio: Use the Ui12's interface (accessible via a browser on a connected device) to mix and balance your audio as needed. - Audio Output: The Ui12 mixer outputs audio through its main outputs. You'll need to route this audio to your streaming setup. This can typically be done in two ways: 1. Direct Audio Injection into the Camera: If your PTZOptics camera supports external audio input (like a 3.5mm line-in), you can connect the mixer's output to the camera. You'll need an appropriate cable (likely XLR or 1/4" from the Ui12 to 3.5mm into the camera). 2. Separate Audio Capture for Streaming: Alternatively, you can route the audio into a separate audio interface connected to your streaming computer. 2. Video Setup with PTZOptics NDI/HX 30x: - Connect the Camera: Ensure your PTZOptics NDI/HX 30x camera is connected to your network. It should be on the same network as your streaming device for NDI to work effectively. - Configure the Camera: Access the camera’s settings via its web interface (you'll need the camera's IP address) to configure video settings and enable NDI if it's not already activated. - Control the Camera: You can control the PTZ features of the camera either through the PTZOptics software, a hardware controller, or any compatible control interface over the network. 3. Integrating Audio and Video for Streaming: Using a Software Encoder (like OBS, Wirecast, vMix): On your streaming computer, open your streaming software. - Add the PTZOptics camera as a video source via NDI. The software should be able to detect the NDI stream from the camera on the network. - Add the audio from the Ui12. If you've connected the Ui12’s output directly to the camera, the audio might already be embedded in the NDI stream. If not, add the audio as a separate source in your streaming software (either directly from the Ui12 or via an audio interface). - Sync Audio and Video: Ensure that the audio and video are in sync. Adjust in the streaming software if there's any noticeable delay. Streaming Platform Settings: Set up your stream's output settings according to the requirements of your streaming platform (like RU-vid, Twitch, etc.). Test the Setup: Before going live, thoroughly test your setup to ensure that both audio and video are being captured and streamed as expected. Remember, the specific details can vary based on your exact setup and equipment. It's essential to refer to the user manuals for your Soundcraft Ui12 and PTZOptics camera for specific instructions and capabilities. Additionally, ensure that all your devices are on the latest firmware for optimal performance.

"The connection is a 3.5mm stereo unbalanced line level input that will not supply any power. The camera does not feature any amplifier or pre-amplifier capabilities." ~ KnowledgeBase Forum help.ptzoptics.com/en/support/discussions/topics/13000023228

Hello! Could you elaborate your question? Thanks for checking out our Channel! Learn More: ptzoptics.com/

Matt Hejl - this is a condenser mic and it gets power from a battery inside.

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Yes, that is correct. You can embed the audio and it will go out the HDMI into an ATEM or other switcher.

@@PTZOptics Thank you for that information, most useful..

If you are using the USB camera you should see an audio option in Zoom for PTZOptics.

Thanks for the reply. It’s actually an SDI model but using HDMI.

Larry Loe - that is a difficult question when it comes to the cameras. But there is such thing as an SDI audio embedder

PTZOptics why is this a difficult question? I’m asking because after purchasing a 30x sdi camera and running bnc cable throughout our building I can’t get audio.

Larry Loe - Hi Larry. It’s a difficult question because it would require a redesign of our camera board. We have never supported embedding audio over SDI. But there is such thing as an SDI audio embed device if you do need this. We do embed audio over HDMI, IP, NDI and USB as we review in this video.

Hi Larry, Connecting a mixer to a PTZOptics Move camera to synchronize audio with video typically involves using an external device that can mix audio signals and then embedding that audio into the video stream. The PTZOptics Move cameras primarily focus on video capture, so incorporating audio directly from a mixer requires a setup that combines both signals before streaming or recording. Here's a basic outline of how you can achieve this: Equipment Needed: 1. PTZOptics Move Camera: The camera you're using for video capture. 2. Audio Mixer: The device you're using to manage audio inputs, such as microphones, instruments, or other audio sources. 3. Audio Embedder: This device is used to embed the mixed audio signal into the video signal coming from your camera. Depending on your setup, you might use an HDMI or SDI audio embedder, corresponding to the video output of your camera. 4. Cables: Ensure you have the correct cables for audio (typically XLR or ¼ inch from the mixer), HDMI or SDI (depending on your camera’s output and the input of your audio embedder), and possibly additional cables for connecting the embedder to a computer or streaming device. Steps to Connect: Prepare Audio and Video Sources: - Set up your PTZOptics Move camera and position it as needed for your production. Connect your audio sources (microphones, musical instruments, etc.) to your audio mixer. Connect Mixer to Audio Embedder: - Use an appropriate cable (XLR, ¼ inch, or RCA, depending on your mixer’s output and embedder’s input) to connect the mixer’s output to the audio embedder’s input. Connect Camera to Audio Embedder: - Connect the PTZOptics Move camera’s HDMI or SDI output to the audio embedder’s corresponding video input using an HDMI or SDI cable. Output from Audio Embedder to Streaming Device/Recorder: - Connect the output of the audio embedder, which now carries both video and embedded audio, to your streaming device, recorder, or computer. Use HDMI or SDI depending on your setup requirements and the capabilities of your receiving device. Configure Your Streaming/Recording Setup: - Ensure your streaming software or recording device is set to receive both audio and video from the embedder's output. You might need to select the correct video source and verify that audio is being received as expected. Test Your Setup: - Before going live or recording your main content, conduct a test to ensure the video and audio are synchronized and the quality meets your expectations. Adjust audio levels on the mixer as needed to match the video content. Additional Tips: - Latency: Be aware of any potential latency issues between video and audio. Test and adjust accordingly. - Audio Embedder Settings: Some audio embedders offer settings for audio levels or synchronization; refer to your device's manual for optimization options. - Firmware Updates: Ensure both your PTZOptics Move camera and audio embedder are updated to the latest firmware versions for optimal performance. This setup allows for professional-grade audiovisual synchronization for your productions, leveraging the high-quality video from PTZOptics cameras with superior audio from your mixer. Thanks for checking out our Channel! Learn More: ptzoptics.com/

If you are using a PTZOptics camera, you may need to log into that camera and make sure audio is enabled on your RTMP stream settings in the network tab.

@@StreamGeeksI have a fomako ptz Camera I’m also having issue getting audio I connected a 3.5mm cable to line in and then 1/4 to 1/4 trs end to a mixer but still not working help me

Sending audio from a soundboard or mixer to a camera for live streaming involves a few key steps. The process can vary slightly depending on the specific types of equipment you're using, but here's a general guide: 1. Determine Output Options on the Mixer Identify Available Outputs: Look at your mixer to identify available outputs. Common output types include XLR, 1/4” TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve), or RCA. Choose an Appropriate Output: For sending audio to a camera, you'll typically use a 'Line Out' or 'Aux Out'. Make sure the output level matches what your camera can accept (usually line level). 2. Determine Input Options on the Camera Identify Camera Input: Check your camera for an audio input. Many cameras have a 3.5mm (1/8”) stereo input, while professional cameras might have XLR or 1/4" inputs. Set the Correct Input Level: Ensure the camera is set to accept the type of signal you are sending from the mixer (line level is typical). 3. Select and Connect the Proper Cables Choose the Right Cable: Based on the output of your mixer and the input of your camera, you'll need the appropriate cable. Common scenarios include: XLR to XLR 1/4" TRS to 3.5mm TRS RCA to 3.5mm TRS Use DI Box if Necessary: If you need to match an unbalanced output (like RCA) to a balanced input (like XLR), you might need a Direct Box (DI Box). Connect the Cable: Plug one end of the cable into the mixer's output and the other into the camera's input. 4. Test and Adjust Levels Initial Testing: Before going live, play some audio through the mixer and check if it’s being picked up by the camera. Adjust Mixer Output: Use the mixer's output controls to ensure the signal sent to the camera is strong enough but not clipping (too loud). Adjust Camera Input Levels: On the camera, adjust the audio input levels as needed. You want a strong signal without peaking or distortion. 5. Monitoring Monitor Audio: If possible, use headphones to monitor the audio directly from the camera to ensure the sound quality is good. 6. Use an Audio Interface or External Recorder (Optional) If your camera doesn't have suitable audio inputs or you want higher quality audio, consider using an external audio recorder or an audio interface. In this setup, the audio from the mixer goes into the recorder/interface, and then the audio is synced with the video in post-production or sent to the streaming platform. 7. Consider Ambient Noise If you're in a noisy environment, remember that the camera’s internal mic might pick up ambient sound. Using an external mic closer to the sound source can help mitigate this. 8. Software Settings for Live Streaming If you’re streaming through a computer using software like OBS, you can also send the audio from the mixer directly to the computer via USB (if your mixer supports it) or using an appropriate audio interface. This setup allows you to use the high-quality audio from your soundboard or mixer for your live stream, which can significantly improve the overall audio experience for your viewers.

Hi Geoff, If you want to replace the built-in microphone of a camera with your own external audio source (like a stereo or mono line device) and have the camera synchronize the audio with the video internally, you can certainly do that in many cases. The process generally involves the following steps: Check Camera Input Capabilities: - Ensure that your camera has an external audio input, typically a 3.5mm microphone jack or XLR inputs (in more professional cameras). - Verify that the camera can accept the type of signal your audio device outputs (line-level or mic-level, stereo or mono). Select an Appropriate Audio Device: - Choose an external microphone or audio mixer that suits your needs. If you're using a mixer, it can combine multiple audio sources into a single output to feed into the camera. Connect the Audio Device to the Camera: - Use the appropriate cable to connect your audio device's output to the camera's external audio input. For a 3.5mm input, this will often be a standard 3.5mm cable. For professional cameras with XLR inputs, you'll need an XLR cable. - If your device outputs a line-level signal and your camera's input is designed for mic-level, you might need an attenuator cable to match the levels. Configure Camera Settings: - Go into your camera's audio settings and select the external microphone (or line in) as the audio source. - Adjust the input levels to ensure that the audio is being recorded at an appropriate volume. Avoid clipping or overly low levels. If your camera offers it, use manual audio level controls for better precision. Test the Setup: Before recording your main content, conduct a test recording to check the audio quality. Ensure that the external audio is being recorded and is in sync with the video. Monitor the Audio (if possible): If your camera has a headphone jack, use it to monitor the audio in real-time. This allows you to catch and rectify any audio issues on the spot. By following these steps, you can significantly improve the audio quality of your videos, as external microphones or audio devices generally offer better sound quality than built-in camera microphones. This approach is widely used in both amateur and professional video production to overcome the limitations of in-camera microphones.

You can enter the Facebook live RTMP information into the camera. Once you reboot the camera it will start streaming

That is correct

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Hello! A humming noise in the audio signal when adding audio to a PTZOptics camera can be caused by several factors. Identifying and resolving this issue involves checking various aspects of your audio setup and connections. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the humming noise: 1. Check Cable Connections Secure Connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected. Loose connections can cause interference or humming. Cable Quality: Use high-quality, shielded audio cables to minimize interference. Cable Length: Long cable runs can pick up electromagnetic interference. Keep cable lengths as short as practical. 2. Ground Loop Issues Identify Ground Loops: A common cause of humming is a ground loop, which occurs when there are multiple grounding points in an AV setup. This can create a loop that picks up electrical interference. DI Boxes: Use a Direct Injection (DI) box with ground lift capabilities to break the ground loop. Isolation Transformers: Audio isolation transformers on the audio line can also help eliminate ground loops. 3. Power Sources Separate Power Circuits: Ensure the camera and audio equipment are not on separate electrical circuits, which can contribute to ground loops. Power Conditioners: Use power conditioners to clean up the power supply and reduce electrical noise. 4. Interference from Other Equipment Physical Separation: Keep audio cables away from power cables, transformers, and other sources of electromagnetic interference. Turn Off Unnecessary Equipment: Try turning off other electronic devices nearby to see if they are causing interference. 5. Camera Audio Settings Adjust Levels: In the camera's settings, adjust the audio levels. Sometimes, too high or too low levels can introduce noise. Firmware Update: Ensure your camera's firmware is up to date, as firmware updates can sometimes resolve hardware-related audio issues. 6. Check the Audio Source Test Source Equipment: Test the microphone or mixer that is feeding audio into the camera to ensure the problem isn't originating there. 7. Test with Different Equipment Swap Out Components: Try using different microphones, cables, or mixers to pinpoint whether a specific component is causing the issue. 8. Balanced vs Unbalanced Audio Balanced Audio: If possible, use balanced audio connections (XLR or TRS) instead of unbalanced (RCA or TS), as balanced connections are better at rejecting interference. 9. Consult the Manual or Manufacturer Support Reference the Manual: Check the PTZOptics camera manual for specific audio troubleshooting advice. Contact Support: If the issue persists. By methodically going through these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the source of the humming noise in your audio setup.