We occasionally have discussions about protecting cameras in cold weather.
In the clip below, Axis explains how their frigid temperature models work. They disable the moving parts of the PTZ or Power Zoom models until the onboard heater warms everything up enough to thaw out:
The feature prevents damage from power outages where the heater is completely off for a period of time. It does not add more heating capacity beyond 'normal' onboard heaters.
With Axis' method, if a camera is indeed frozen, it might remain disabled or stationary until it warms up enough to operate without risk of damage.
Contrast this approach with 'other' more aggressive housings like Dotworkz Ring of Fire Camera Housing that beef up the heating element.
I think I would prefer a bigger/higher powered heater, but this might be needlessly expensive.
Does Axis' (delay until warm) approach surprise you? Anyone with field experience using it?