ACSL SOTEN Optical Zoom Camera

ACSL SOTEN Optical Zoom Camera: Stabilized zoom imaging for compliant aerial inspection

The ACSL SOTEN Optical Zoom Camera is a precision RGB zoom payload designed specifically for the ACSL SOTEN NDAA-compliant drone platform. It combines a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with optical zoom capability, mechanical and electronic shutter support, and a 3-axis stabilized gimbal to deliver controlled visual capture from safe operating distances.

Built for modular SOTEN operations, this camera supports inspection, monitoring, and documentation missions where image clarity, framing control, and compliance requirements are critical.

Optical imaging and zoom system

• 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with 20 MP effective pixel architecture.
• 2.5× optical zoom enables magnified capture without digital image degradation.
• Up to 25× combined zoom supports long-range visual observation.
• 35 mm equivalent focal lengths of 28 mm wide and 18–45 mm zoom.
• Defined wide and tele field-of-view angles support precise framing.
• Aperture values of f/2.0 wide and f/3.0 tele balance light intake.
• ISO sensitivity from 100 to 6400 supports varied lighting environments.
• JPEG and DNG still formats support flexible post-processing workflows.

Stabilized capture for dynamic flight operations

The ACSL SOTEN Optical Zoom Camera integrates a 3-axis gimbal controlling pan, tilt, and roll to maintain image stability during flight. With a minimum control angle of ±0.02°, the gimbal delivers precise framing even while zoomed. Mechanical and electronic shutter options further reduce motion artifacts during maneuvering, supporting consistent image quality across inspection and monitoring missions.

Modular payload flexibility for evolving mission needs

Designed as part of the SOTEN modular payload ecosystem, the Optical Zoom Camera can be hot-swapped with other compatible SOTEN sensors. This architecture allows operators to reconfigure aircraft capabilities quickly without extensive downtime. By supporting rapid transitions between payloads, the camera enables efficient multi-role operations within a single deployment window.

Platform compatibility and hardware integration

• Exclusive compatibility with the ACSL SOTEN drone platform.
• Hot-swappable payload interface supports rapid field replacement.
• 10-pin pogo connector provides power and data communication.
• USB interface supports UVC streaming and control signals.
• microSD storage supports onboard recording up to 512 GB capacity.

Professional application scenarios

• Infrastructure inspection: capture zoomed imagery of structures from safe standoff distances
• Public safety monitoring: observe targets clearly during controlled response operations
• Environmental surveys: document terrain features and surface changes over time
• Facility inspections: assess assets without close-proximity maneuvering risks
• Government missions: support NDAA-compliant visual documentation requirements
• Training operations: develop pilot proficiency using stabilized zoom workflows
• Incident documentation: record detailed imagery for post-mission analysis
• General surveillance: perform controlled visual monitoring across regulated environments

Secure data handling within regulated workflows

The ACSL SOTEN Optical Zoom Camera supports encrypted data transmission as part of the SOTEN platform’s security feature options. This capability helps protect visual data before storage and transfer, supporting organizations with strict data-handling requirements. Integrated security features eliminate the need for external encryption hardware while maintaining controlled imaging workflows.

The ACSL SOTEN Optical Zoom Camera delivers controlled zoom imaging, stabilization, and modular flexibility for professional SOTEN missions. It is built for teams requiring compliant, stand-off visual inspection capabilities.

Available from DSLRPros, supporting NDAA-compliant aerial operations with platform expertise and long-term support.