In this article, we will be comparing the Armadex OZC 3 and the now succeeded OZC 2, two explosion-proof (ATEX) cameras from our product line. The Armadex OZC 3, our latest and most advanced offering, was introduced to the market in January 2024.
A common point of confusion for our customers is the difference in megapixel count between these two models. The OZC 2 features a 20MP sensor, while the OZC 3 has a 12MP sensor. However, as we’ll explore in this comparison, the number of megapixels alone doesn’t tell the whole story when it comes to image quality and overall camera performance.
Let’s take a brief look at the main features of the Armadex OZC 3 and OZC 2 before we dive into a more detailed comparison. This overview will help clarify the distinct advantages of each model and why the OZC 3 is our flagship explosion-proof camera despite its lower megapixel count.
OZC 3 vs. OZC 2: Specifications Compared
Armadex OZC 3 Key Specs
- Announcement Date: 2024-01-17
- 12MP – BSI-CMOS Sensor
- ISO 100 – 12800
- 25-100 mm F2.0-4.9 Zoom Lens
- Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
- 3.00″ Fixed Type Screen
- 20.0fps continuous shooting
- 4K (UHD) – 3840 x 2160 video resolution
- Built-in Wireless
- Built-in GPS
- 253g. 114 x 66 x 33 mm
- Weather-sealed Body – IP6X Rated
Armadex. OZC 2 Key Specs
- Announcement Date: 2022-01-10
- 20MP – BSI-CMOS Sensor
- ISO 125 – 6400
- 28-140 mm F3.5-5.5 Zoom Lens
- 3.00″ Fixed Type Screen
- 14.0fps continuous shooting
- 4K (UHD) – 3840 x 2160 video resolution
- Built-in GPS
- 246g. 118 x 66 x 33 mm
- Weather-sealed Body
In the following sections, we’ll explore how these specifications translate into real-world performance, helping you understand why the OZC 3 is our recommended choice for industrial photography in hazardous environments.
Image Quality and Sensor
Interestingly, the OZC 3 features a 12MP BSI-CMOS sensor, while the OZC 2 has a 20MP BSI-CMOS sensor. However, the lower megapixel count doesn’t necessarily mean inferior image quality:
- The OZC 3 has a larger pixel area (2.34µm² vs 1.39µm²), which can contribute to better low-light performance and dynamic range.
- The OZC 3 supports RAW format, unlike the OZC 2, allowing for more flexibility in post-processing.
- The OZC 3 has a higher maximum ISO (12,800 vs 6,400), potentially offering better performance in low-light conditions.
Lens and Optical Features
Both cameras feature zoom lenses, but with some key differences:
- OZC 3: 25-100 mm F2.0-4.9
- OZC 2: 28-140 mm F3.5-5.5
The OZC 3 offers a wider angle and faster apertures, which can be advantageous in confined spaces and low-light situations. However, the OZC 2 provides more zoom range.
The OZC 3 also introduces sensor-shift image stabilization, a feature absent in the OZC 2. This can help produce sharper images, especially in challenging lighting conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed
The OZC 3 shows significant improvements in this area:
- 25 AF points compared to 9 in the OZC 2
- 20 fps continuous shooting vs 14 fps in the OZC 2
- Focus bracketing and focus stacking features, not available in the OZC 2
These enhancements can be particularly useful in dynamic industrial environments where quick and accurate focus is crucial.
Remote Control Capabilities with OI Share App
One of the standout features of the Armadex OZC 3 is its compatibility with the OI Share app, which allows for remote control using an explosion-proof smartphone. This functionality significantly enhances the camera’s versatility, especially in challenging industrial environments.
Key benefits of the OI Share app integration:
- Extended Reach: The OZC 3 can be mounted on a telescopic pole or mount of up to 8 meters in length. This setup, combined with remote control via the OI Share app, enables inspections at considerable heights without the need for scaffolding.
- Ceiling Inspections: For example, inspecting pipes or equipment located near high ceilings becomes much more accessible. Operators can position the camera using the extended mount and control it from ground level, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Cost-Effective Solution: By eliminating the need for scaffolding in many inspection scenarios, the OZC 3 with remote control can significantly reduce costs and setup time for maintenance and inspection tasks.
- Real-Time Viewing: The app allows for real-time viewing of the camera feed on the smartphone screen, ensuring precise framing and focus even when the camera is out of direct reach.
- Full Camera Control: Users can adjust camera settings, zoom, focus, and capture images or video directly from the app, providing full control even in complex shooting situations.
The integration of the OI Share app with the OZC 3 represents a significant advancement in industrial inspection capabilities. It not only extends the physical reach of the camera but also enhances safety and efficiency in various industrial applications, from routine maintenance checks to detailed equipment inspections in hard-to-reach areas.
Connectivity and Additional Features
The OZC 3 offers several modern connectivity features:
- Built-in wireless capabilities
- Smartphone remote control
- UHS-I card support for faster data transfer
The OZC 2, being an older model, lacks these features but does support FlashAir SD cards for wireless transfer.
Both cameras offer 4K video recording and built-in GPS, maintaining consistency in these areas.
Body and Handling
Both the OZC 3 and OZC 2 are designed for use in hazardous environments, featuring weather-sealed bodies. The OZC 3 takes this a step further with an IP6X rating, offering enhanced protection against dust and water ingress. In terms of size and weight, the cameras are quite similar:
- OZC 3: 253g, 114 x 66 x 33 mm
- OZC 2: 246g, 118 x 66 x 33 mm
The OZC 3 is slightly lighter and more compact, which could be beneficial for extended use or in tight spaces.
OZC 3 Benefits listed
| Feature | OZC 3 than OZC 2 is better because.. | In practice |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Connection | Built-In vs Supports FlashAir SD cards | Better connectivity |
| Live Composite Mode | Yes vs No | Excellent help for long-exposure photography |
| In-built Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift vs None | Sharper images at longer focal lengths and   slow shutter speeds |
| RAW Support | Yes vs No | Better image quality |
| Max ISO | 12.800 vs 6.400 | 100% higher Max ISO |
| Number of Focus Points | 25 vs 9 | 16 more focus points |
| Continuous Shooting | 20.0fps vs 14.0fps | 6 fps faster |
| Focal Length – Wide | 25mm vs 28mm | 3 mm wider coverage |
| Max Aperture – Wide | 2.00 vs 3.50 | Lens captures more light |
| Max Aperture – Tele | 4.90 vs 5.50 | Lens captures more light |
| Sensor Pixel Area | 2.34µm2 vs 1.39µm2 | 68% larger pixel area |
| Focus Bracketing | Yes vs No | Take multiple photos shifting focus point |
| Focus Stacking | Yes vs No | Stacks photos in-camera to maximize depth of   field |
| Smartphone Remote | Yes vs No | Remote control your camera with a smartphone |
| UHS Card Support | UHS-I vs none | Read/Write in High Speeds |
Conclusion
The Armadex OZC 3 represents a significant advancement in our line of explosion-proof cameras, effectively replacing the OZC 2. As the OZC 2 is no longer available, the OZC 3 stands as our current offering for industrial photography in hazardous environments.
The OZC 3 brings substantial improvements over its predecessor:
- Enhanced low-light performance with a larger pixel area and higher maximum ISO
- Remote control
- Advanced autofocus system with more AF points
- Faster continuous shooting at 20 fps
- Built-in wireless capabilities and smartphone remote control
- Sensor-shift image stabilization for sharper images
- RAW support for greater post-processing flexibility
- Improved weather sealing with IP6X rating
These enhancements make the OZC 3 a more versatile and capable tool for a wide range of industrial applications. While the megapixel count is lower than the OZC 2, the overall image quality and performance improvements more than compensate for this difference.
