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Brand and Model Selections

Choose the correct camera brand and model to unlock full control capabilities in Iris.

Updated this week


Overview

When adding a new source in Iris, selecting the appropriate brand and model is critical for enabling firmware-based control features. This guide explains how the selection process works, what to expect from each driver status, and what to do if your device isn’t listed.


Step-by-Step Guide

1. Add a New Source

  • In the Iris UI, go to the Sources tray on the left of your screen.

  • Click Add a New Source [+]

  • Select a device to begin setup.

2. Set Video Settings

  • Configure resolution, frame rate, and other video parameters.

3. Select Camera Brand and Model

  • In the Controls section, choose your Camera Brand.

  • Then select the corresponding Camera Model.

4. If Your Brand or Model Is Missing

  • Choose Other as your brand/model.

  • You will see a prompt that recommends you add a camera Make and Model. This is meant as a friendly nudge to find the exact make and model so you have the best experience. If that's not possible, that's okay! Click the "Skip" button to continue with a generic Other driver.

  • You unfortunately won't have access to the major features of your camera nor our Magic Movement Tools, but you will have access to its basic control schema with our generic driver.

4. Wait for Iris to Connect

  • After clicking Continue in the Video Source tab, allow 10–15 seconds for Iris to sync with the camera.

5. Test Control Features

  • If you have selected a unique driver matching your camera, try the Magic Movement features like Joystick, CineFrame, Zoom, or Focus to validate functionality. If you chose a generic Other driver, these will be disabled, but the controls in the Control Tray will be active for you to use.


How It Works and What to Expect

  • Each camera brand/model has unique command protocols for control functions like pan, tilt, zoom, and pedestal.

  • Iris references internal camera drivers that vary in status: Beta and Stable.

  • After setup, supported functions will become available within the UI.

  • Calibration for Generic models ensures basic functionality is still accessible.


Tips, Limitations, and Best Practices

  • Always wait 10–15 seconds after selecting your model before testing controls.

  • Choosing the correct model ensures maximum compatibility and feature access.

  • If unsure about your model’s support status, refer to the Camera Drivers article.


FAQs

  1. Why is selecting a brand and model required?

    To map correct firmware commands for control functions.

  2. What if my camera isn't listed?

    Choose Other/Generic and perform a calibration. Be sure to message Support@tryiris.ai with your Brand & Model for us to add to the next batch of added drivers!

  3. What does driver status mean?

    Beta: Added with most functionality and in active development.
    Certified: Fully production ready.

  4. How long does linking take after selection?

    Typically 10 seconds.

  5. Can I use Iris without selecting a model?

    No, controls require a model. If you’re unsure or if the correct selection isn’t available, select Other.

  6. What happens during calibration?

    Iris learns available functions one by one and maps those functions to the UI for ease of use.


Use Cases

  1. Integrating a PTZ camera with full motion control.

  2. Setting up a camera with limited documentation.

  3. Testing experimental camera models via Beta drivers.

  4. Using a generic encoder with manual function discovery.


Selecting your device’s brand and model ensures optimal control integration in Iris. If your device isn’t recognized, email support@tryiris.ai with your make and model of camera and we will prioritize development for you!


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