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Setting up your PT-JOY-G3

April 21, 2025

PT-JOY-G3 Joystick Controller: Basic Setup Guide

The PT-JOY-G3 utilizes a VISCA-based command set over TCP/IP for PTZ camera control. This guide covers the basic setup process for the PT-JOY-G3 joystick controller, shown in the image below.

💡 Looking for RS232 or RS422 control?
For non-network-based control (RS232/RS422), refer to our HC-JOY-G3 joystick controller setup guide instead.


Step 1: Requirements

Before setup, make sure you have the following:

  • PT-JOY-G3 Joystick Controller
    Easily identified by its six (6) CAM buttons on the left panel.

  • PTZOptics Camera
    (Note: While other brands may work, compatibility is only guaranteed with PTZOptics cameras.)

  • Network Infrastructure
    A Network switch, router, or an existing LAN is sufficient.

    ⚠️For best results Ensure the joystick and cameras are on the same subnet.

  • Cat5e or Better Network Cables
    Also known as Ethernet or network cables , used to connect devices to your network.

  • Computer
    Suggested for initial camera setup (if not already configured).


Step 2: Camera Setup

Ensure your PTZOptics cameras are:

  • Connected to the network

🔧 Network Setup Resources: [This Guide] will go over setting up the camera on the network.


Step 3: Joystick Setup

  1. Connect the Joystick
    Plug the joystick into your switch/router.

    • If using a PoE switch , no separate power supply is needed.

    • If not PoE-capable, use the included power adapter .

  2. Assign IP Address (if DHCP is not available on the network)

    • Press the SETUP button on the joystick.

    • Scroll to IP Settings (3rd option).

    • Change to Static , then:

      • IP Address (e.g., 192.168.100.90 )

      • Subnet Mask (e.g., 255.255.255.0 )

      • Default Gateway (e.g., 192.168.100.1 )

    • Press Enter to confirm or ESC to discard.

    • The joystick will restart to apply changes.


Step 4: Add Cameras to Joystick

  1. Press the SETUP button.

  2. In the menu Scroll to the right until you reach add device and hit enter.

  3. Choose a camera ID (1–254).

    ⚠️ IDs 1–6 map to the six CAM select buttons.

  4. Enter the camera’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.100.101 ).

  5. Choose control type :

    • UDP – Port 1259

    • TCP – Port 5678

  6. Confirm settings. The camera is now ready for control.

Test camera control by pressing the assigned CAM button and using the joystick to pan, tilt, or zoom.

🔁 Repeat for all additional cameras.

Please contact support if you are having any issues or if there is anything we can help with.
Support can be reached M-TH 8AM-6PM EST and F 8AM-4PM EST