Modular Pan-Tilt Unit offers speeds over 300°/sec.

Press Release Summary:

Computer-controlled Model PTU-D46 provides dynamic position control of 0.012857° resolution. Measuring less than 5.2 x 3.6 in., unit features payload capacity up to 9 lb. and is rated for millions of moves. Direct control of Model PTU-D46 is plug-and-play using RS-232 terminal. Built-in RS-485 multidrop network capabilities allow single host port to control up to 30 pan-tilt devices. Self-calibration upon reset ensures absolute positioning.

Original Press Release:

Fast, Small, Computer-Controlled Pan-Tilt Unit Positions Any Sensor

Plug-and-play unit provides precision, speed, and reliability BURLINGAME, California. February 19, 2004 - Directed Perception, Inc. today announced the release of its PTU-D46 family of computer controlled pan-tilt units. At speeds over 300°/second, and precise dynamic position control of 0.012857 degrees resolution, the PTU-D46 family provides the highest performance available in a modular computer-controlled pan-tilt unit. The PTU-D46 has been designed from the ground-up to support a wide range of applications including intelligent video surveillance, tracking, directional antenna control, laser motion control, mobile robotics, and teleconferencing & distance learning. For video surveillance applications the PTU-D46 allows users to move beyond simple joystick-controlled systems to fully automated detection and tracking, thereby improving security and reducing operating costs. The PTU-D46 enhances directional microwave imaging and communications systems substantially by increasing coverage and enabling intelligent tracking of sender/receiver. The high angular accuracy and stiffness of the PTU-D46 is an excellent match for laser-based imaging systems to improve overall system resolution. Precision and High-Performance Ruggedness for Advanced Applications The PTU-D46 family offers OEMs and systems integrators developing sophisticated systems for surveillance, machine vision, communications, and robotics several unique features not found in competing products, including: o accurate control of speed, acceleration, and position (to 0.012857 degrees resolution) o on-the-fly speed/position changes to allow both position and velocity servocontrol o Speeds up to 300°/second o payload capacity up to 9 pounds, with mounting for virtually any type of payload o Compact size (less than 5.2" x 3.6" footprint) and low weight (less than 3 lbs.) o Designed for 100% duty cycle and rated for millions of moves o Rugged design with outdoor option Control from any device or software package Direct control of the PTU-D46 is plug-and-play using an RS-232 terminal. Users can be up and running in minutes. Self-calibration upon reset ensures reliable absolute positioning. For programmed control, binary commands provide compact and efficient control communications to support high-speed, dynamic motion. Built-in RS-485 multidrop network capabilities allow a single host port to control up to 30 pan-tilt devices. An optional C-language Application Programming Interface (CAPI) is available for integrating precision control from any software application running on embedded or desktop computers. A native LabView driver is also available. Adapters can be used to control the PTU-D46 over wireless 802.11b (WiFi) or Ethernet networks. Price and Availability The PTU-D46s are available from stock now. Pricing is less than $900 in quantity. About Directed Perception, Inc. Directed Perception is a leading manufacturer of innovative devices and software for the intelligent control of sensors and sensor processing including video cameras, IR sensors, laser rangers, microwave antennas, thermo-imaging sensors, and more. The Company's products are designed with precision, ruggedness, and low-cost to support demanding applications, such as tracking, in a broad range of OEM and end-user applications. Directed Perception's flagship miniature computer-controlled pan-tilt tracking mounts was one of the first of its kind and has been sold to OEMs and end-users world-wide since 1992. The Company's patented products are used in a wide range of industries including Security & Surveillance, Industrial Automation, Robotics, Communications, Military/Aerospace, Law Enforcement, Education, R&D, Webcams, and Teleconferencing/distance learning. Directed Perception customers include industry-leading companies worldwide in aerospace, defense, security & surveillance, robotics and industrial automation Directed Perception sells its products direct and through distributors and partners world-wide. Directed Perception is privately held and headquartered in Burlingame, in Northern California.