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How to Enable & Disable Auto-Tracking on PTZOptics 3rd Gen Cameras with a Network Joystick

April 21, 2025​

How to Enable and disable tracking on the 3rd gen PTZOptics cameras with a PTZOptics network joystick

This guide applies to both the PT-JOY-G4 and PT-Superjoy-G1 models; it is not compatible with the HC-JOY-G4 or earlier versions.

One of these joysticks' unique features is the ability to toggle the auto-tracking function of PTZOptics Move cameras, which can automatically follow a specific subject.

Please note: If you have recently updated the firmware on a PTZOptIcs G3 camera and have lost control with your custom buttons please refer to [this article] .

Auto-Tracking Commands​

To control auto-tracking, you can use the following HTTP commands:

Turn Auto-Tracking On: http://<camera-ip-address>/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set_overlay&autotracking&on

Turn Auto-Tracking Off: http://<camera-ip-address>/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set_overlay&autotracking&off

For example:

http://192.168.1.21/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set\_overlay&autotracking&on

New Firmware Feature: Current Camera Command​

With the latest joystick firmware update, a new command {{CURRENT_CAM}} has been introduced. This allows you to control the auto-tracking of the currently selected camera directly:

Turn Auto-Tracking On:

http://{{CURRENT_CAM}}/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set_overlay&autotracking&on

Turn Auto-Tracking Off:

http://{{CURRENT_CAM}}/cgi-bin/param.cgi?set_overlay&autotracking&off

Setting Up the SuperJoy​

You can assign these HTTP commands to the Custom buttons on the PTZOptics SuperJoy. Access the joystick controller's web interface using the local IP address displayed on the joystick. Log in with the default username "admin" (no password required), and navigate to the Custom Buttons page. Follow the STEPS HERE to setup a custom button

Setting Up the PT-JOY-G4

For the PT-JOY-G4, custom button programming was introduced in firmware version 4.1.8. Ensure your joystick is updated to this version, which you can download from the PTZOptics website. Once updated, follow the steps provided on the site to assign the auto-tracking commands to the joystick's top button. This setup allows you to control tracking for any camera you're currently operating, making it easy to manage multiple cameras.

STEPS HERE .

Conclusion​

These HTTP commands can also be integrated with other systems, such as the Elgato StreamDeck or software like Open Broadcaster Software (OBS). If you need further assistance with this setup, our support team is here to help.

Support can be reached M-F 8AM-6PM EST.