How can I tell which direction the video cameras are pointing?
There is no easy way to identify the direction a camera is pointed. In our control room, we rely on the ability to pan/tilt/zoom the cameras at visual clues such as traffic signs, mountains and buildings. Because of this, our cameras are subject to be pointed in any direction when a snapshot is taken. The camera pan/tilt drives are not equipped with azimuth sensors which would indicate direction. We have a typical morning scheme & afternoon scheme which automatically sends all cameras to pre-set directions, but then the operators have full ability to change any & all settings. Generally speaking, these automatic settings keep the cameras pointed so that the heaviest traffic flow is oncoming or heading toward the camera. We have speculated about solutions for this problem and have discussed adding “skirts” with 8 or more directional indicators, painting directional indicators on the roadway or landscape and even adding a compass / prism assembly directly to the camera faceplates but non
