Canon India, a leading company in digital imaging solutions, announced that they will begin offering firmware updates in early July 2024 to enhance functions and performance, including auto tracking, for its 4K remote PTZ cameras1 and remote camera controllers2. Notably, the firmware will include a limited feature version of the Auto Tracking Add-On Application on supported cameras3 at no charge.
Canon India has been enhancing its product line-up of remote PTZ camera systems by providing application software4 that adds necessary functions according to their usage to camera systems, including 4K remote PTZ cameras and specialised controllers. With upgrades to firmware and applications across the system to improve their respective functionality and performance, Canon aims to assist workflow improvements on video production projects and aid visual communication in situations such as web conferences and lecture broadcasts.
Enhanced Auto Tracking Performance and Free Auto Tracking Application (Lite)
Enhancements to the Auto Tracking Add-On Application5 results in smoother, more natural pan tilt movement, and algorithm improvements to help maintain tracking of the desired subject even when crossing paths with others. Additionally, detailed auto tracking settings can now be adjusted from the controller, enabling operation without a PC. Canon will also be including in the firmware update a free lite version of the Auto Tracking Add-On application. Named Auto Tracking Application (Lite), this free version provides the same smooth and precise auto tracking experience as the paid version, but without some of the advanced customizations that are available in the full licensed version.
CR-N100 & CR-N300 Improved Frame Rate for USB Camera Output
The CR-N100 and CR-N300 will also see some significant improvements with this firmware. Their performance when in USB webcam mode will see a significant boost with higher frame rates and the addition of YUV format, which facilitates easier post-shooting image processing, making them versatile for various web conferencing applications in the Corporate and Education markets.
Improved Camera Control Experience
The remote camera controller RC-IP1000 will now be able to display thumbnail images of the camera’s registered preset/trace functions on its touch panel. This allows for intuitive control by reducing operation errors when recalling functions based on thumbnail images. Additionally, up to nine camera feeds displayed on the touch panel can be output to external monitors via SDI and HDMI. This capability enhances on-site operational convenience by enabling control while viewing multi-camera displays on large screens.
