The AC180 on-board PTZ camera was a special design and build project for the AC yacht race. Some of the key features were that it should be aerodynamic and present the minimum fouling potential for ropes and crew. It was also important that it fitted the style of the yachts and didn’t look out of place.  It is impervious to sea spray, or even a capsize, and has a hidden wash wipe system that does not disturb the aerodynamics. Automatic horizon levelling in both pitch and roll, plus a host of other unique features make this design a real achievement.

Taking many of the proven features of the Camball4, the AC180 takes everything quite a bit further.

The aerodynamic differences presented from any angle are minimal and also do not cause the camera to be ‘pushed’ by the wind nor affect the dynamics of the boat.  This leads to many other uses particularly in very exposed camera locations.

The wash/wipe system is hidden under the camera and consists of both a washer nozzle and dual motorised wipers.  The camera lens can also be parked with the lens hidden and  therefore protected from the main elements.

Internally, there are dual fans which circulate the warm air from the camera, keeping the lens from fogging.  The standard version is fitted with a wide angle lens for close up operation but this can be removed for other applications.  A typical application would be on a tall mast that might sway in the wind.