Our neighbor has security camera which has "dry contact control" pins for zoom, focus, menu and com.

If we put 12V to let say zoom pin, then does it zoom? Or what this means?

 

My guess is that it means that a simple switch closure across two terminals is all that is required in order to perform the stated function. No voltage must be applied to the terminals.

 

My guess is that it means that a simple switch closure across two terminals is all that is required in order to perform the stated function. No voltage must be applied to the terminals.

Thanks.

These dry contacts are under "Controller" text in picture. If i want to zoom, what i connect where?

Here is picture:

 

What does the instruction manual say?
What is the make and model of the security camera?

Edit: Connect a NO (Normally Open) push button switch between Z and C to zoom.

 

One definition of, "dry contact" is that very little current flows through them. The last one I saw was limited to .01 amps. They are gold plated so they will make contact with almost no voltage to pierce through an unfortunate oxide layer. If you exceed the current rating, the gold will disappear and the contacts will start failing to connect properly.

The moral of the story is, do not apply current from your own source. Just make the connection.

 

It generally means a contact that does not control the main current of the relevant circuit, IOW, it is used to control the primary operator in an auxiliary fashion.
In this case it could be the low level input to the drive or whatever the means of driving the zoom motor or operator is.
Max.

 

Dry means contacts that are potential free. e.g. A simple switch

 

There is always a potential, it usually means that the current carried is inconsequential or insignificant.
Max.

 

OK, free from any externally applied potential.

I don;t go along with insignificant current ratings.

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...f_RaDiKFK_BP3Jw&bvm=bv.65788261,d.cWc&cad=rja

Dry contacts can be inputs to outputs. The ones referenced above are rated at 2 Amps, Hardly insignificant.

I did a fair amount of fire alarm interfacing with hydrogen and toxic gas alarms and the design of my own panels that communicated with dry contacts. My external "dry contact" would complete the circuit to a 24 VAC relay.

For my sanity and electrical safety, all communication was with dry contacts unless the box' responsibility directly controlled something like a siren or valve. A light in a panel in another room had to be powered by the room enclosure. I could not give the "impression" that the panel was operational.