A Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a critical tool for modern security systems, but using it effectively requires knowledge and finesse. This ultimate guide offers clear, actionable steps to help you set up and maximize your NVR’s potential.

Outline

1.Introduction: Why a Network Video Recorder Is Essential

2.Understanding What a Network Video Recorder (NVR) Is

◦ Definition and Components

◦ Types of NVRs: Standalone vs. PC-based

3.How Does an NVR Work?

◦ Network Connectivity and Camera Integration

◦ Video Compression and Storage Formats

4.Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your NVR

◦ Unboxing and Connecting Hardware

◦ Configuring Network Settings

5.Configuring NVR for Optimal Performance

◦ Camera Setup and Network Configuration

◦ Storage Optimization and Backup Solutions

6.Best Practices for Managing and Monitoring NVR Footage

◦ User Interface Walkthrough

◦ Creating Custom Alerts and Notifications

7.Common Troubleshooting Tips

◦ Connectivity Issues

◦ Storage Problems and Maintenance

8.Top NVR Security Features You Need to Know

◦ Encryption and Data Protection

◦ User Authentication and Access Control

9.Integrating Your NVR with Other Smart Devices

◦ Smart Home Integration

◦ Cloud Storage Solutions

10.How to Scale Your NVR System

◦ Expanding Storage

◦ Adding Cameras and Devices

11.Conclusion: Making the Most of Your NVR System

Subject Headings

• Network Video Recorder

• NVR setup guide

• Security camera systems

• NVR camera connection

• NVR video storage

• Cloud backup for NVR

• NVR troubleshooting tips

• NVR home integration

• IP camera NVR configuration

• Remote access to NVR

Internal Links:

• [How to set up Hikvision Smart Hybrid Light cameras]

• [Hikvision Video Recorders FAQ]

• [The Ultimate Security Camera Buying Guide]

External Links:

• [What Is an NVR? – Security Basics]

• [Top 5 NVR Brands of 2024]

• [Best Cloud Storage Solutions for NVR Systems]

How to Use Network Video Recorder: The Ultimate Guide

Network Video Recorders, or NVRs, are at the heart of modern security and surveillance systems. Whether you’re setting up cameras for home security, monitoring your business, or integrating an NVR into a smart home, this guide will walk you through every critical aspect of using these powerful devices. Let’s dive into how to unlock the full potential of your NVR.

Introduction: Why a Network Video Recorder Is Essential

In today’s world, security is non-negotiable. Be it your home or business, keeping a watchful eye on your premises is a priority. But how do you keep all that footage organized and accessible? That’s where a Network Video Recorder comes in. The NVR is the backbone of modern security systems, responsible for recording and storing video data from IP cameras and ensuring that footage is easily retrievable.

Yet, despite their growing popularity, many people still struggle with how to properly set up and use these systems. The truth is, NVRs are incredibly versatile but require a bit of know-how to function at their best. Whether you’re a newbie or someone with basic knowledge, this guide will help you get the most out of your NVR system.

Understanding What a Network Video Recorder (NVR) Is

Definition and Components

First things first: what is a Network Video Recorder? In simple terms, an NVR is a device that records video from IP cameras and stores it digitally on hard drives. Unlike DVRs (Digital Video Recorders), which work with analog cameras, NVRs are built to handle IP cameras, which transmit data over a network.

Key Components of an NVR:

• Processor: Handles the incoming video feeds.

• Hard Drives: Where all the video footage is stored.

• Network Interface Card (NIC): Connects to the local network or internet.

• Operating System: Manages the recording, playback, and storage of video.

Types of NVRs: Standalone vs. PC-Based

There are generally two types of NVRs: standalone and PC-based. Standalone NVRs are dedicated devices that are easy to install and use, while PC-based NVRs allow for more customization but require more technical knowledge.

If you’re looking for simplicity, go for a standalone NVR. If you need flexibility and advanced features, a PC-based NVR might be more your speed.

How Does an NVR Work?

Network Connectivity and Camera Integration

An NVR works by connecting to IP cameras through a network. These cameras can be connected via Ethernet cables or wirelessly through Wi-Fi, though wired connections are generally more stable. Once connected, the cameras send video data to the NVR, where it’s processed, compressed, and stored.

The beauty of NVR systems is that they’re highly scalable. You can easily add more cameras or swap out old ones without having to upgrade the entire system.

Video Compression and Storage Formats

NVRs use various video compression techniques like H.264 or H.265 to ensure that high-quality footage doesn’t take up excessive storage space. Understanding how compression works is crucial to optimizing your NVR’s storage and performance. H.265, for example, offers superior compression, which means more footage can be stored without sacrificing video quality.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your NVR

Unboxing and Connecting Hardware

Once you’ve chosen the right NVR system, it’s time to set it up. Here’s a simple step-by-step process:

1.Unbox the NVR and Cameras: Start by laying out all components.

2.Connect the NVR to a Monitor: Most NVRs have HDMI or VGA ports.

3.Connect Cameras: Using Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi, link your IP cameras to the NVR.

4.Power Up: Ensure both the NVR and cameras are receiving power.

5.Connect to the Internet: This allows you to access the NVR remotely.

Configuring Network Settings

Once the hardware is connected, you’ll need to configure the network settings. This usually involves assigning IP addresses to each camera and ensuring they’re all properly communicating with the NVR. Most modern NVRs offer plug-and-play functionality, automatically detecting cameras on the network.

If you’re having trouble, use the NVR’s manual to navigate its settings interface and configure IP addresses manually.

Configuring NVR for Optimal Performance

Camera Setup and Network Configuration

After your initial setup, it’s time to configure the finer details. Log into the NVR’s user interface, usually through a web browser or mobile app, and tweak the camera settings to your liking. Adjust aspects like:

• Frame rate: For smooth video playback, a frame rate of at least 30 fps is recommended.

• Resolution: Ensure you’re recording in high definition (1080p or higher) for clear footage.

• Motion Detection Zones: Set up specific areas in the frame where you want motion detection to be active.

Storage Optimization and Backup Solutions

The amount of storage you have will determine how long you can store footage. It’s essential to configure your NVR to overwrite old footage or set up an alert system when storage is nearing capacity. External hard drives or cloud storage solutions can also be integrated to expand your storage capabilities.

Best Practices for Managing and Monitoring NVR Footage

User Interface Walkthrough

One of the biggest advantages of NVRs is the easy-to-navigate interface that allows you to monitor and manage multiple cameras simultaneously. Take advantage of the following features:

• Live View: Monitor real-time footage from all connected cameras.

• Playback Mode: Search for specific footage using time stamps or motion events.

• Snapshot Functionality: Capture still images from video for quick reference.

Creating Custom Alerts and Notifications

For maximum efficiency, set up motion detection alerts. Most NVRs allow you to receive notifications on your phone or email whenever movement is detected. This feature can be a lifesaver, especially for business owners who want to keep an eye on their premises after hours.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Connectivity Issues

If your cameras keep losing connection, the first thing to check is your network. Wired connections are always more reliable, but if you’re using Wi-Fi, ensure that your cameras are within range of your router. Another issue could be IP conflicts, so double-check that all devices have unique IP addresses.

Storage Problems and Maintenance

Running out of storage is a common issue with NVRs. Always ensure your system is set to overwrite old footage when space runs out. Also, periodically check the health of your hard drives and clean out any unnecessary files to avoid crashes or data loss.

Top NVR Security Features You Need to Know

Encryption and Data Protection

In an age of increasing cyber threats, it’s essential to ensure your NVR is protected from unauthorized access. Many modern NVRs come equipped with encryption features that protect your data both during transmission and when stored on your hard drives. Always enable encryption and regularly update your system to protect against new vulnerabilities.

User Authentication and Access Control

Another critical security feature is user authentication. Only authorized users should be able to access your NVR’s settings and footage. Set up unique usernames and passwords, and consider two-factor authentication for added security. Be sure to limit access to trusted individuals and regularly audit who has access to your system.

Integrating Your NVR with Other Smart Devices

Smart Home Integration

NVRs can be integrated with smart home systems like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit, enabling you to control and monitor your cameras through voice commands or centralized apps. Imagine being able to ask Alexa to display your front door camera on your living room TV.

This level of integration not only adds convenience but also increases the security of your home or business.

Cloud Storage Solutions

For those looking to safeguard their footage from potential hardware failures, cloud storage offers a flexible and secure solution. Many NVR brands now offer cloud-based backup options, ensuring that even if your local storage is compromised, your footage remains safe and accessible.

How to Scale Your NVR System

Expanding Storage

As your surveillance needs grow, so will your need for additional storage. Thankfully, scaling your NVR system is relatively straightforward. Most NVRs support external storage via USB or eSATA connections, allowing you to add more hard drives without replacing your existing ones.

Adding Cameras and Devices

Adding more cameras to your NVR is as simple as connecting them to the network. Before doing so, however, ensure your NVR can handle the additional bandwidth and storage requirements. If you’re running a business with multiple locations, consider setting up multiple NVRs that can be monitored from a single, centralized interface.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your NVR System

Your Network Video Recorder is the linchpin of your security system. From setup to monitoring, troubleshooting, and scaling, there are many aspects to consider when making the most of your NVR. By following the steps and best practices outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to optimize your NVR’s performance, ensuring that your security system remains reliable, efficient, and future-proof.

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• The local monitor(s) in your office/location show a black square or displays a NO VIDEO message where the camera is supposed to be:

• From the Video page in the Solink platform, you can hover over your locations to display camera information and determine whether your cameras are offline:

• You are not able to load video on the mobile apps or web application.

• One or more of your Solink Video Alarm cameras displays as offline:

What to do When Your Camera is Offline

The Solink support team is ready to help. Our team works with your location(s) to troubleshoot camera issues so that you can get back to recording as soon as possible. To do this, we check the following, based on your camera type:

Offline Camera Troubleshooting

IP Cameras: What to Look For

Solink support can identify what type of camera you have. IP cameras usually have one Ethernet cable connected to the camera.

These types of cameras optimize connection by getting power (Power over Ethernet, or POE for short) and transmitting data (sending data to the Solink system) over a single cable. A typical IP camera and Ethernet connection looks like this:

An Ethernet cable’s end looks like this:
​

Each camera will have an Ethernet cable that connects into a POE switch. In most environments, the switch will look similar to the following:

How to Troubleshoot an Offline IP Camera

Once you have found the POE switch, ensure that:

• All connections are securely fastened.

• The POE switch has lights for each cable (both on the cable, and on the LED panel on the front – normally, each port has one light for Link, and one for POE.

• No cables have broken ends/clips.

If everything is connected tightly and all cables have lights, you can attempt to restart the POE switch. Sometimes, a camera may become “frozen” and need a physical reboot.

Note: If you know which cable goes to the specific camera you need to troubleshoot, you can unplug and replug the cable. This is the same as rebooting the switch. Rebooting the POE switch causes all cameras to go offline for a short period of time until it powers back up fully.

If the camera still does not come back online after a physical reboot, it is possible that there is an issue on the camera end – either the cable is broken between the switch and the camera, the cable is unplugged at the camera side, or the camera itself has physical damage or defects. Solink support can assist with confirming this.

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Analog Cameras – What to Look For

Solink support can identify if your cameras are analog. Analog cameras usually have 2-3 cables attached – one for power, one for video signal, and one (optional) for an audio signal.

The different cables look similar to the following image:
​

If your cameras are analog, Solink supplies an analog encoder to your location. This device converts the old analog signal into digital so that we can record it properly on our system. A standard analog encoder is displayed in the following image:

Your analog camera video cables are connected to the rear side of the encoder.

The power cables for your analog cameras are usually wired to a CCTV power supply box, or are plugged into a UPS. The image below displays an example of a CCTV power supply box:

​

How to Troubleshoot an Offline Analog Camera

If an analog camera is offline, you will either see NO VIDEO text on the Solink interface (and Live Monitor, if applicable), or a black screen for some models. In this case, check the following:

• Ensure all cables are properly connected to the analog encoder. BNC cables are round and silver and connect to the rear side of the encoder.

• Ensure that the CCTV power supply is either plugged in properly; or if you are using a breaker box, ensure it is powered on and there are lights on all connections within the box.

If all cables are tightly connected and power seems to be working for all cameras, you may require an on-site technician. It is possible that the cabling, cable ends (BNC), power supply, or the camera itself has an issue or defect. Solink support can assist.

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Status of the Solink Software

Solink support can help confirm that there are no issues with the Solink interface itself that would cause a camera to stop recording. Please feel free to reach out to us at any time to confirm if there are any issues.

Troubleshoot Live Monitor

Troubleshoot Live Monitor

Is your live monitor down? Use this guide to troubleshoot.

If you encounter any of the following issues, please read the instructions in this section to attempt to troubleshoot the issue or reach out to our support team via live chat, phone or email.

No Input/Blank Screen

If the live monitor displays no input or a blank screen, try troubleshooting the issue with the following steps:

1.Check if the recording device is turned on. If not, turn the device on (this could take up to 10 minutes). The photos below display two different models of the recording device, for reference:

2.

2. If the recording device is on but the live monitor is still not working, ensure the cables are connected correctly; you should have an HDMI cable connected to HDMI port 1 or port 2. Additionally, follow the cord and ensure that it is securely plugged in to your monitor as well.

3. Reboot the HDMI/VGA adapter (the device shown in the following image). To reboot this device:

• Locate the VGA/HDMI adapter on the cord between the recording device and the monitor.

• Unplug both sides of the cord and wait 20-30 seconds.

If you followed the steps above and the issue still persists, please contact our support team via live chat, phone or email:

• Live Chat: Available in the bottom corner of the Solink platform, Help Center, mobile apps, and our website

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TurboNAS Login Screen

Please let the support team know if this screen is displayed. Use live chat or send the team an email at How To Setup Nas For Hikvision Ip Camera

Frozen Cameras

If any cameras are frozen on your live monitor, try the following steps to troubleshoot the issue:

1.Navigate to the Video page.

2.Each of your locations display the number of online cameras. Additionally, if you hover over a location, a health indicator displays to inform you of any offline cameras. In the following image, the health indicator is showing that the store has 21 out of 22 cameras online and which camera is offline:

3. If all cameras are online and your device is online or offline – please contact our support team using the information at the bottom of this section.

If some cameras are offline, please follow the steps in Troubleshoot Offline Camera.

As always, you can contact our support team with the following methods:

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I’ve wanted to make this list for a while, and hopefully it will help answer some simple questions or guide newcomers on their IP video quest. Feel free to add, change, or refine this!

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Most Popular Camera Manufactures (on this forum):

ACTi (http://www.acti.com) – Midrange camera – good price – free software.

Avtech (http://www.avtech.com.tw) – Has good ‘push’ support for events to mobile devices.

Avigilon (http://www.avigilon.com) – Similar to Axis cost – must buy through dealer – good software/support.

Axis (http://www.axis.com) – Popular choice – higher end cameras get expensive – easy to find online for sale – free + paid software options.

Dahua (http://www.dahuasecurity.com‎) – Re-branded as Q-See – low price – difficult to find updates/support.

Geovision (http://www.geovision.com.tw‎) – Midrange – have some LPR cameras.

Grandstream (http://www.grandstream.com) – Low cost – have some unique features.

Hikvision (http://www.hikvision.com‎) – Becoming more popular – re-branded as Lorex/Swann systems from Costco.

IQinVision (http://www.iqeye.com) Midrange pricing.

Mobotix (http://www.mobotix.com) – Cameras made in Germany – reliable but expensive – no moving parts to fail in their cameras.

Vivotek (http://www.vivotek.com) – Midrange pricing.

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Other Camera Manufactures:

Arecont (http://www.arecontvision.com/‎)

Brickcom (http://www.brickcom.com/)

Bosch (http://www.boschsecurity.us/en-us/ProductInformation/Cameras/NetworkCameras/)

Canon (http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/professional/products/security_video_solutions/network_cameras)

GE (Unknown Website Address)

Honeywell (http://www.honeywellvideo.com/products/cameras/ip/index.html)

JVC (http://pro.jvc.com/prof/attributes/category.jsp?productId=PRO5.2)

Panasonic (http://www.panasonic.com/business/psna/products-surveillance-monitoring/index.aspx)

Pelco (http://www.pelco.com/sites/global/en/home.page)

Samsung (https://www.samsung-security.com/)

Sony (http://pro.sony.com/bbsc/ssr/mkt-security/)

Toshiba (http://www.toshibasecurity.com/)

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IR Illuminators:

Raytec (http://www.rayteccctv.com/)

Axton (http://www.axtontech.com/)

Iluminar (http://www.iluminarinc.com/)

+Other Generic Brands

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Accessories:

PoE Switch (Unmanaged, or Managed which allows remote powering on/off of specific ports) (TRENDnet, Netgear, D-Link, Cisco, Axis, etc.)

Ethernet Cable (Regular/Burial Grade)

Lenses (C/CS/S/D Mounts)

IR Illuminators (Discussed Above)

Enclosures (Pelco, Videolarm, Axis, Generic Brand, etc.)

PIR Sensor (Optex, Bosch, etc)

UPS Battery Backup System

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Popular Places To Buy:

[Redacted – do a search on the forum for general ideas ]

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Video Recording Software:

ACTi VMS (Free) – Only supports ACTi Cameras.

Avigilon (Per channel: Core ~$100, Standard ~$200, Enterprise ~$350) – Purchase through authorized dealers.

Axis Camera Companion (Free) – Only supports certain (newer) Axis Cameras. 16 cameras max.

Axis Camera Station (~$90/license)

Axxon Next (Free for 16 channels) (http://www.axxonsoft.com/products/axxon_next/)

BlueIris ($29.95 – $49.95) (http://blueirissoftware.com/) – Supports a large variety of network cameras.

exacqVision ($50 – $150/license + $25 yearly for optional updates)

Genetec (Expensive)

Geovision (Free)

Luxriot ($99 – $1000+)

Milestone XProtect (Free – $1000+)

Mobotix Control Center (Free) – Supports other cameras for viewing. May be able to record with MXServer.

OnSSI (Unknown)

Vitamin D (Free/$49/$199) (http://www.vitamindinc.com/index.php) – PC + Mac Compatible

Zoneminder (Free) – Open source Linux software.

…Etc, Most Manufactures Provide Their Own Software.

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Network Video Recorders (NVR’s)/NAS Stations:

Synology (1 License Included – ~$50 /per additional license)

Dahua

QNAP

Luxriot

NUUO

Hikvision

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iPhone Viewing Apps:

Netcam Viewer (Free/$5.99) (http://bit.ly/18UfXMs)

Live Cams Pro ($1.99) (http://bit.ly/19RAleQ)

QCamPro ($7.99) (http://bit.ly/14iCWxR)

Official Mobotix (Free) (http://bit.ly/15XNtmo)

IP Cam Viewer Pro ($3.99) (http://bit.ly/10QAwYn)

Dahua iDMSS Lite (Free) (http://bit.ly/110ZjmV)

Dahua iDMSS Plus ($4.99) (http://bit.ly/12FyWpw)

+Specific Manufacturer’s Apps (Q-See, Hikvision, etc) (Search Manually) – Typically better integrated then 3rd party apps.

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Android Viewing Apps:

IP Cam Viewer Pro ($3.99) (http://bit.ly/TG6OyB)

Dahua gDMSS Lite (Free) (http://bit.ly/12zjvAs)

Dahua gDMSS Plus ($5.00) (http://bit.ly/12FzfAA)

+Specific Manufacturer’s Apps (Q-See, Hikvision, etc) (Search Manually) – Typically better integrated then 3rd party apps.

The Ultimate IP Camera Guide v3.

Review Sites/Sample Videos:

Network Camera Critic (http://www.networkcameracritic.com/)

Mateusz CCTVnerd (http://www.youtube.com/user/mateuszfen)

Megapixel Cameras – Images and Demos (viewtopic.php?f=19&t=11322)

Plazor (http://www.plazor.com)

Axis YouTube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/AxisCommunications)

Avigilon YouTube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/Avigilon)

MXInstaller (http://www.mxinstaller.com/)

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Companies That Rebrand/Resell:

Swann (Rebrands Hikvision Equipment)

Lorex (Rebrands Hikvision Equipment)

Q-See (Rebrands Dahua Equipment)

Toshiba (Appears To Rebrand Vivotek)

Cisco (Sometimes Rebrands Pelco)

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Other Helpful Links:

CCTV Lens Calculator (http://www.jvsg.com/online/#)

Identification And Recognition Guide (http://www.axis.com/academy/identification/index.htm) – Make sure you have the correct resolution for your application.

Security Today – IP Cameras (http://security-today.com/directory/list/ip-video.aspx)

CCTV Frame Rates Comparison (

) – Recordings don’t necessarily have to be 30fps for desired results.

IP Video 101 Training (http://ipvm.com/report/ip_video_training_course_101)

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Live Demo Cameras:

Mobotix Cameras (http://www.mobotix.ro/live-ro-p-3.html) or (http://comsurv.com/live-video-cameras/)

Axis Cameras (http://www.axis.com/camerademo/) or (http://ipcameralive.com/)

Mixture (http://camelive.info)

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Terminology:

CBR: “Constant bit rate [encoding] means that the rate at which a codec’s output data should be consumed is constant.” (i.e. the amount of data flowing from camera to user/nvr is always constant – even during movement or lack thereof. [See also VBR])

DSD: (http://www.dsdcctv.com/)

DVR: “a consumer electronics device or application software that records video in a digital format to a disk drive, USB flash drive, SD memory card or other local or networked mass storage device.”

Edge Recording: “The concept of taking audio/video from a camera, and storing it at the edge of the Ethernet network instead of transporting it across the network to a centralized recording facility such as a Network Video Recorder.” (Most cameras have this ability now.)

IR/IR Illuminator: LED’s (often a separate device) which provide illumination for cameras in near to total darkness. The light produced cannot be seen by the human eye. The camera must be sensitive to IR for this to be useful (some cameras have ‘fixed’ IR cut filters). ‘White light’ illuminators are also available. These produce light visible to the human eye and to a camera with or without an IR cut filter.

LPR/ANPR/AVI/CPR/LAPI: “A mass surveillance method that uses optical character recognition on images to read vehicle registration plates.”

NAS: Basically a box filled with hard drives for storage of data. Some cameras have the ability to record directly to these networked boxes without the need for an always on or dedicated computer.

NVR: “A software program that records video in a digital format to a disk drive, USB flash drive, SD memory card or other mass storage device.”

ONVIF: “Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF) is a global and open industry forum with the goal to facilitate the development and use of a global open standard for the interface of physical IP-based security products.”

PIR: Passive Infrared “is an electronic sensor that measures infrared (IR) light radiating from objects in its field of view. They are most often used in PIR-based motion detectors.”

PoE: “A system to safely pass electrical power, along with data, on Ethernet cabling.”

UPS: “uninterruptible power supply…is an electrical apparatus that provides emergency power to a load when the input power source, typically mains power, fails.”

VBR: “Variable bit rate files vary the amount of output data per time segment.” (i.e. Less data during still scenes, more data during high movement periods.)

WDR: “‘Wide dynamic range’ describes an attribute of an imaging system which can capture greater scene details from shadows to highlights than normal.”

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Commonly Asked Questions:

Q: “Which brand or manufacturer should I buy?”

A: Each brand has its strengths and weakness, whether it be price, size, low light capabilities, resolution, frame rate, support, software, compatibility, etc. There really isn’t one magical brand or camera. Each security scenario is different and requires a unique solution.

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Q: “Where can I buy an IP HD PTZ Outdoor Camera for $200?”

A: Probably not going to happen. PTZ cameras are expensive because of all the motors, belts, gears, and such. Perhaps instead consider using several fixed multi-megapixel HD cameras instead for coverage.

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Q: “How do I embed/add video from a camera to a website?”

A: See: http://www.networkcameracritic.com/?p=1290 or http://bit.ly/10rC8WV

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Q: “How do I view my cameras on my TV/Monitor?

A: Consider using an Android powered HDMI dongle. These mini computers are powerful and compact enough to be attached to a TV or monitor for camera viewing using an Android app. Also see: http://www.networkcameracritic.com/?p=1049

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Q: “Should I buy a Foscam?”

A: These cameras are not typically discussed here because of their poor reliability and feature set. They are often cloned and copied making firmware updates and support hard to come by. So in short, probably not. However if you are just starting with IP cameras, many members have since upgraded from these over time to bigger and better.

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Q: “How do I view my camera(s) from the internet?”

A: You need to setup your router for port forwarding. Here are several guides to assist you. See: http://www.networkcameracritic.com/?p=124 or http://bit.ly/184DTvf

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Q: “What shutter speed should I use during low light/night?”

A: “Typically 1/30 of a second is as low as you would want to have it set. Any longer and moving objects will be blurry making the footage less then useful.

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Q: “Should I use a wireless camera for my application?”

A: Wifi signals, especially at long distances, can drop or become unreliable. They also become targets of hacking “resulting in free access to your personal cameras (EXTREMLY DANGEROUS) or blocked cameras, ones that will not record anything.” It is best to use a hardwired connection via cable for installations. PoE installation can supply signal and power over one cable for easy installation. If a cable is not an option consider using a dedicated wifi access point, like the type made by Ubiquiti Networks.

Technical Guide to IP Cameras– Overview, Types, Applications

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An IP camera (Internet Protocol Camera) is a type of security camera that receives video data and sends video footage via an IP network. It is also known as network camera or IP security camera, often used as remote monitoring and management tools in many sectors and environments to protect the property or monitor home, business, or public security. Connected with other devices such as network video recorders and displays via a network, IP cameras allow you to monitor specific areas from any remote location, bringing much convenience to our daily lives.

How Does An IP Camera Work?

IP cameras work the same way as digital cameras to capture high-quality images. What sets them apart is the capability of IP cameras to compress those files and automatically transmit them to a network video recorder (NVR) via a network. Usually, IP cameras are connected to the network via ethernet cable with a broadband modem or router, or wirelessly via a Wi-Fi router.

In a building that has already been equipped with a network, all you have to do is to connect the IP surveillance cameras and other devices into your network system, just the same way that you would do when you connect your laptop or cell phone to your Wi-Fi.

After everything is well connected, the cameras can start working, capturing and sending video footage to the network video recorder.

Four Common Types of IP Camera

There are various video surveillance solutions, in which many different types of security cameras are adopted. Among those surveillance cameras, there are four most commonly used ones, dome cameras, bullet cameras, and turret cameras. Knowing more about the differences among dome vs bullet vs turret vs fisheye cameras will help you find out the one that fits you most.

Four Important Specifications of IP Cameras

When looking for a security camera, not only should you decide on the type of it, but also you need to notice that the specifications can make a huge difference. There are four of the most essential specifications.

Resolution

The resolution of IP cameras is the total number of pixels that make up an image, which is usually measured by the width and height of the image. The most common resolutions of security cameras are 720p, 1080p, 5MP, 4K and 8MP. Usually, higher resolutions mean that there are more pixels per inch (PPI), resulting in a high-quality, crisp image.

Field of View

The lens of an IP camera allows you to frame an area that you want to spot. Different lens systems come with different fields of view, which determines how wide an area you can see. A wider field of view will allow the camera to spot a larger area. Typically, for a large parking lot and a small room, you will need lenses with different viewing angles.

Focal Length

The focal length of a lens, which is measured in “mm”, determines the angle of view and how far the camera can see. There are two types of lens, fixed lens and varifocal lens. The most common fixed focal length is 3.6mm, which leads to a 90° view angle and a distance of 20 feet. There is also 8mm lens with a 40° view angle and identification distance of 40 feet. For varifocal lenses, the most common ones are 2.8-12mm lenses.

At 2.8mm you get around 100° view angle, with only around 10-feet identification distance. At 12mm you will achieve around a 30° angle of view and identification at around 50 feet. The wider the focal length, the further away it can focus and the narrower the field of view.

Low Light Sensitivity

Low-light sensitivity, usually measured in Lux(lx), refers to the ability of a camera to provide high-quality images even in low-light conditions by presenting details and reducing noise in the output images. There are few factors contributing to the low light performance of a camera, including pixel size, signal-to-noise ratio, lens aperture, etc. A lower Lux has the ability to present high-quality images in darker areas. For example, cameras with 100-1,000lx are applied to record under work-space light, while cameras with 0.0001lx are usually adopted for moonless nights or overcast nights.

Most Popular IP Camera Applications

Home Use

For those looking for tools to get close with their families, monitor family security or protect family property, IP cameras are always a go-for item. Many homeowners equip their families with a video surveillance system to make themselves and their families feel safer.

The IP cameras installed in home security systems have been used to serve a number of purposes. For example, they can be installed near the front door to capture the image of each one who steps into or sneaks around the house, or installed in the backyard to catch a view of their families’ happy moments, or installed inside the room, to make sure their baby is being well taken care of, etc.

Business Use

Commercial security cameras are often used in business buildings, supermarkets, shops, restaurants, etc. For business owners, security cameras can not only protect their property to ensure normal operations and prevent criminal acts with real-time monitoring, but also can keep them connected with daily operations and employee safety.

Outdoor perimeter security can also be maintained with video surveillance solutions to monitor the surroundings. Compared to traditional systems, commercial IP video surveillance systems offer greater reliability and security with built-in encryption, data compression, network connection, and cybersecurity measures.

Public Safety

Surveillance cameras play an important role in managing public rules, protecting public safety and property. It’s not difficult to find that there are plenty of monitoring cameras along the traffic roads, parking lots and around the governments or hospitals. Moreover, there are lots of public areas deployed with security cameras, including schools, parks, communities, neighborhoods, etc.

Conclusion

IP cameras have become a dispensable part of home, business or public surveillance systems. With the proper video management software, the video recorded by IP cameras can be viewed from anywhere worldwide via the network, whether using a laptop or a mobile phone. In many cases, IP cameras can also be controlled remotely, adding much convenience to our lives.

There are various types of security cameras that are designed for specific applications, and that’s why you need to take several factors into consideration when purchasing IP cameras for your security system. Before the next step, it would be better to figure out your budget and your requirements first.

Guide to Understanding IP Cameras

Welcome to a venture into the captivating digital world of Internet Protocol (IP) cameras. Whether you’re considering investing in this game-changing technology or you’re simply eager to boost your tech acumen, we’ve got your covered. Untangling complex technical jargon and translating it into simple language, this blog post will chart your course through the depths of understanding IP cameras.

What is an IP Camera?

An IP camera , also known as a network camera, is a digital video tool that sends and receives data via the internet. Unlike its analogue predecessor, the CCTV (Closed Circuit TV), it offers the functionality to view live or recorded footage from anywhere, anytime using a web-based platform or mobile application. Think of IP camera as the digital evolution.

Advantages of the IP Camera

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Understanding IP Camera Operation

Let’s dive deeper into how these fantastic little devices work.

Capturing Images

The essence of an IP security camera is in its lens, sensor, and processor. The lens focuses on the light emanating from the surroundings, which then hits a digital sensor. This sensor transforms the received light into an electronic signal that the processor can turn into a digital video stream.

Sending Images

The key difference between an IP camera and previous systems lies in its ingenious use of the Internet Protocol. Instead of sending unprocessed data to a recorder, IP cameras encode and process the signal on the device before transmitting it to be stored or viewed over the network. This reduces the workload for the recorder, enhancing the system’s efficiency.

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Most Popular Types of IP Cameras

Not all IP cameras are created equal, of course. Different styles suit different needs. Here’s a quick classification of the most commonly used types:

Bullet Cameras

These are named for their cylindrical shape, resembling a bullet. Bullet cameras are great for monitoring both wide focused areas such as entrances or small rooms.

Dome Cameras

Identified by their dome shape, these cameras provide a wider viewing angle ideal for bigger spaces like living rooms or stores.  Some come with adjustable lenses to hone in on important areas.

PTZ Cameras

PTZ stands for Pan-Tilt-Zoom. A PTZ IP camera provides the functionality to remotely control the movement and zoom of the camera, making it perfect for large, open spaces.

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IP Camera Installation: Tips and Tricks

Installing an IP camera isn’t rocket science. Here are some friendly tips to ensure you obtain the best surveillance results:

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Securing Your IP Camera

In an increasingly digital world, security is paramount. Here are a few guidelines to secure your IP camera system:

Change the Default Password

On purchase, devices often come with generic login credentials. It’s essential to change these immediately to a unique and complex password.

Regular Firmware Updates

Stay up-to-date with the latest firmware version provided by the manufacturer. This ensures your device is protected from any known loopholes.

Effective Network Security

Ensure your home or business network security is robust. Use established security measures such as firewalls and secure Wi-Fi protocols.

The captivating world of IP cameras offers the potential for superior surveillance solutions. The charm of hands-on control combined with the convenience of remote access can revolutionize how we approach security. Yet, it is crucial to remember that with great power comes great responsibility. In this digital age, securing our devices should always be a priority. Embrace the technology but don’t forget to keep it secure. Welcome to the future of surveillance.

Features:

(Supported features depend on camera features)

For more information download the Alibi Cloud VS Mobile App User Guide.

iOS App

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Android App

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Alibi Cloud VS

Direct Camera to Cloud Video Surveillance

Our cutting edge cloud-based VSaaS offering has gained significant traction with dealers and end-users and is poised for significant growth in 2023 and beyond. If you are not selling cloud-based video surveillance then you are missing out on opportunities to recession-proof your business. We’ll be hosting demo sessions to show you how simple it is to install/setup and how it saves you time and money by avoiding truck rolls with an easy to use interface that helps you solve most issues remotely. And it is super easy for your customer to use as well, making it incredibly appealing for home and business installs.
Learn how this powerful solution is gaining traction in cannabis, medical, retail/restaurant and education applications.

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Brivo Cloud Access Control

Brivo + Alibi Security: Better Together

Brivo and Alibi Security bring you the best of both worlds… Unlimited access to Brivo’s world-class solutions and support, plus Alibi’s dedicated sales support & innovative marketing platform. The Brivo Accelerate Program is designed to help accelerate growth of YOUR access control business!

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Alibi Arsenal

Our FREE Marketing Engine, Ready to Power
Your Business

Marketing is not easy. Alibi Arsenal business growth tools and resources make it easier. This FREE platform can help you generate leads with brandable sales/marketing flyers, get found online with improved Google My Business setup and to turn your current customer base into advocates through a powerful reviews engine. Plus, we give you access to tools that make it easier to tap into your current customer base to generate incremental business by cross-selling products and services.
Come by for a LIVE demo of this platform and to learn how you access these powerful tools.

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Expect More from
Your Security Provider

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Alibi Security is a trusted provider of security technology, cloud solutions, and growth enablement services—serving thousands of security professionals for more than 35 years. We are committed to quality, continuous innovation, and the investment in the PEOPLE, SOLUTIONS, and SUPPORT required to help our Dealer Partners succeed.

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Enterprise Performance
– Without Breaking the Bank

Alibi Cloud VS makes enterprise-level cloud surveillance accessible for virtually any-sized application or budget. Featuring an ultra-secure camera-to-cloud architecture, Alibi Cloud VS dramatically reduces your up-front hardware investment and maintenance requirements, saving you valuable time and money. Ideal for both business and residential applications, Alibi Cloud VS is remarkably scalable – and can easily support larger camera counts and multi-site projects.

Centralized
Management

View cameras from single or multiple locations via a single dashboard, simplifying management and streamlining review of your video evidence.

Eliminate Common
Failure Points

Stream directly from camera to the cloud, ensuring you never lose video footage due to a faulty recorder or failed hard drive.

Enhanced
Security

No port forwarding necessary. SSL/TSL handshakes are used to make the connection from camera to cloud, ensuring encrypted transmission up and down. Video is stored in ultra-secure Tier 4 data centers, featuring triple-redundancy and fault-tolerant infrastructure to ensure your evidence is always safe.

Lower Total Cost of
Ownership (TCO)

No recording equipment, minimal maintenance requirements, and on-demand scalability – so you only pay for what you need, when you need it.

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Before referring to this Mobile Application User Guide you must first download and install the mobile application on your mobile device (smartphone or tablet). You can find links to the mobile application(s) on www.alibisecurity.com at the following location:

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SUPPORT Menu > DOWNLOADS > ALIBI CLOUD VS MOBILE APP

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Choose the link that applies to your mobile device (iOS or Android), download and install the application. Now you are ready to install and activate cameras.

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Adding a Camera via the Mobile Application

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The first time you login to the mobile app, you will be required to enter your username (email address) and the password. The screen will show no cameras attached to your account. You will tap the ADD A CAMERA button on the screen and it will prompt you with a second screen to select the type of camera you want to install. Tap on the ADD A CLOUD CAM section. The next screen gives you specific instructions for attaching your cloud-enabled camera to the network.

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IMPORTANT: All POE and WiFi cameras must be hard-wired into the local network in order to be discovered by the Alibi Cloud VS solution.

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Once you have connected the cameras you want to add to your Alibi Cloud VS account to the local area network (LAN) you can tap the CONTINUE button.

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The next screen displays your local network and the cameras that are available to be added to your Alibi Cloud VS account. Tap on the camera you want to add from the list and you will be prompted to name your camera. Type in a name and choose CONTINUE. The system will ping your camera, check credentials and firmware and connect. You should receive a confirmation screen that the camera has been added then tap CONTINUE.

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To get your WiFi camera to the wireless network you need to connect the WiFi camera to the wireless network. Tap the zone that the WiFi camera is in. This takes you into the camera selector menu. Select the WiFi camera you want to attach and it will open the camera settings menu. On the main screen, under NETWORK

SETTINGS, it will say “Not Connected”. Select this menu option and it will take you into the wireless connection menu, displaying the available wireless networks to connect to.

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Tap the wireless network you want to attach the camera to. A login screen will open up asking you to enter the password for the wireless network. Enter the password and tap CONNECT. The system will them connect the camera to the wireless network and you will receive a confirmation screen once completed.

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IMPORTANT: You must keep the WiFi camera hard-wired into the network until you login to the wireless network. Once you get the camera connected to the wireless network you can disconnect the network cable and move the camera anywhere that it has good signal strength to connect to the wireless network.

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From the main dashboard screen you have two different ways you can add additional cameras to the system. If you want to add another camera to the same zone you already have setup, simply choose the zone on the main dashboard screen, it will pull up the camera viewing screen and you will tap the Gear icon at the bottom. It will open a screen that shows the current camera(s) assigned to the zone and the ADD A NEW CAMERA button.

Tap this and follow the instructions to add a new camera.

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The second option for adding cameras is to setup a new zone and add the camera to that new zone. From the main dashboard screen tap the + icon in the top left corner of the screen. This opens a new screen that lets you setup a new zone. Click ADD CAMERA and then follow the instructions for adding a new camera explained previously in the User Guide.

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From this menu you can also move cameras currently signed to other zones to the new zone. Simply click SELECT CAMERAS FROM OTHER ZONES. A menu will be displayed showing cameras already attached to other zones. Click the camera and move it to the new zone.

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After adding the camera you will be taken to the main camera dashboard screen. From this view you can see all of the zones cameras have been assigned to. Select the zone you want to view. An individual thumbnail view of the camera(s) will be displayed. Tap on the gear icon at the bottom of the screen and it will take you into the settings selection menu. Choose the arrow to the right of the camera that you want to adjust settings for and you will be taken to the settings menu for that specific camera.

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PoE Camera Setting Menu

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WiFi Camera Setting Menu

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In the settings menu for each camera you are able to control the following settings:

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Account Settings and TouchID/FaceID Login

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After you login and add a camera to your system you can select the home button at the bottom left of the screen and it will take you to your main dashboard. Select the person icon in the upper right and this will take you into account settings. From here you can enable remote support access, enable/disable push notifications and enable TouchID/FaceID login for easy access when starting the app.

To view live video from your cameras connected to Alibi Cloud VS, go to the main dashboard screen and select a zone to view. Once in the zone, you will see the individual cameras with ‘play arrows’ located in the middle of the thumbnail screen. Simply click on one of the ‘play arrows’ in the thumbnail and live viewing will begin. You will see the word “LIVE” appear at the top of the thumbnail viewing screen. Want to enlarge the viewing area? You can simply turn your smartphone/mobile device to landscape to view in full screen mode.

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Viewing recorded video (footage) is also very simple. You will need to choose the zone that includes the camera you want to review recorded video from. This will display thumbnail views of all cameras associated with this zone. If you have multiple cameras in a zone, you will see multiple thumbnails. To view recorded footage for

a specific camera tap the clock/rewind icon ( ) at the bottom of that camera thumbnail view. This will take you into the footage screen where you can review a timeline, with detection events noted. You can scroll through the timeline by scrolling with your finger, either up or down, to view events that happened earlier or later in the day.

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There are settings and features on the playback screen that make it easier for you to review video quickly. You can select the ZOOM IN button and the timeline will appear in smaller increments, allowing you to find events more accurately. You tap the MORE menu and adjust playback up to 10x faster than normal.

The SUMMARY button at the bottom of the page lets you create and download a video summary of detection events for the last 24 hours. Simply click the button and the app pulls detection events into a single summary video. Creating a summary takes a few minutes and once completed you have the option to save the 24 hour summary to your mobile device or share it with someone else.

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If you have forgotten your password or simply want to reset it, you can easily do this by selecting the person icon in the main dashboard screen. Click ‘Logout’ and on the next screen tap ‘Log In’ and it will take you to the main login page. Tap ‘Forgot Your Password?’ and a screen will appear for you to enter your email address. By entering your email address and clicking ‘Send’ you will receive a secure link in your email to reset your password for your Alibi Cloud VS account. This new password will be valid in desktop and mobile apps.

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So… let’s see. There are 3G hotspots that have ethernet ports on them. You can contact the company that provides you with your 3G modem, and tell you that you need a 3G modem with both WiFi and Ethernet. In fact… they have a sales department trained just for this. You tell them how you want to set up your home… and they will provide you with the proper equipment. Cool, right?

Otherwise… you’d have to use a computer as a middleman. The computer would need to have both wireless and ethernet…. like many laptops. You’d connect the laptop to the modem via Wireless, and you’d connect the DVR to the laptop via the ethernet, and then you’d enable Internet Connection Sharing in Windows, and designate the Wireless as the Source. Then, while you have the laptop on, your DVR would connect to the internet.

You could also purchase a WiFi extender, as most have ethernet ports. Then, you follow the instructions to set up the WiFi extender to the 3G modem, and you connect the DVR to the ethernet port on the WiFi extender.

You could do some research on what WiFi routers can also be used as range extenders when you replace the firmware with DD-WRT… the list isn’t all that long, but it means it is *possible* to take an old Wireless Router and turn it into a range extender. If you just happened to have one of those models, I guess that would save you from spending money.

But…. you definitely need some intermediate device between the internet connection and the DVR.

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To connect a DVR for CCTV to your PC sharing network, you can follow these general steps:

Keep in mind that the specific steps may vary depending on the make and model of your DVR and the software it uses. It’s always a good idea to refer to the DVR’s user manual or contact the manufacturer for detailed instructions.

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Connecting a DVR for CCTV to your PC sharing network involves several steps. Here’s a general guide:

Remember to consult the user manual of your DVR and the software for specific instructions, as steps may vary based on the brand and model. If you encounter difficulties, seeking assistance from a knowledgeable CCTV Camera Dealer in Chandigarh can provide guidance and support for network setup.

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How do I connect a CCTV DVR with a laptop using an HDMI cable?

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To connect a CCTV DVR with a laptop using an HDMI cable, follow these steps:

Overall, connecting a CCTV DVR to a laptop using an HDMI cable is a straightforward process, but it’s important to ensure that both devices have the necessary ports and settings to enable the connection. If you have any issues or questions, consult the user manual for your CCTV DVR or laptop, or seek assistance from a technical expert.

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How do I connect my Hikvision DVR to a laptop and share my WiFi network to it?

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I think you want to connect your DVR from Hikvision’s free DDNS hostinf service.

You can make your user ID on hikonline Resources and Information. After that you have to go to network settings menu and follow this video

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How Can I watch CCTV footage with my PC? I’m using Hikvision 8 channel DVR and had connected it with internet.

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Yes you can, Download and Install ivms-4200 software on your PC if it’s not at the same location as the cameras, or just type in the DVR ip address to your browser address bar if you are on the same network as the DVR.

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How do I connect a CCTV DVR with a laptop using an HDMI cable?

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A CCTV DVR is an analogue device so it uses baseband composite video. 9PAL or NTSC) at standard definition. You will need to find a video to HDMI converter if you really want to just view CCTV images on your laptop. You will still need to control the DVR locally via its remote control.

I abandoned DVRs some years ago.

A better approach is to replace the unit with a Network Video Recorder (NVR) that can be connected to your home network and can accept legacy SD video inputs from your cameras. Or you can go the whole way and upgrade your cameras to IP and connect them to your network directly via WiFi or Ethernet cabling.

Then you can access the NVR via Ethernet or via your WiFi to check recordings etc. It is also useful to add a “cloud key” that will allow secure access remotely from any external location via the Internet.

I have my CCTV surveillance integrated with my high speed home network using equipment provided by Ubiquiti. I can remotely access cameras at two properties using a Firefox or Chrome browser on my laptop and on my smartphone via the Ubiquity iOS video app.

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Can I connect CCTV cameras directly to a TV?

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CCTV cameras (usually) do not have HDMI but they may have coaxial out. See below:

The coaxial-out can be connected directly to the TV via the TV antenna input.

But this will work for one camera only.

You have options such as:

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Is it possible to connect the CCTV DVR, and watch on your laptop?

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There are lot of ways you can achieve this but let me talk on the simplest one.

By connecting the Ethernet port of your CCTV DVR to a switch and and hook up your PC to the same switch using RJ45 patch cable. Then go to the DVR network setup and set a static IP address if it is already enabled to use DHCP (dynamic Host Cofiguration Protocol). Set up something like this:

Save this and and restart your DVR for it to take effect.

Now head over to your PC Ethernet network configuration through control panel, go to your IPv4 and select “Use the following IP address”

Now enter something like this:

With this setting, the PC can successfully establish a link with the DVR through the gateway address.

Second Step:

Navigate to your internet explorer and type the DVR IP 192.168.001.010

you will be prompted to download an Active X, then follow the prompt and go to internet option on your internet explorer and enable the necessary Active X control, without doing this, you are not going to have your DVR web interface displayed properly.

watch this to learn how to enable Active X control

Once you are done with it, you should be able to see the number of channels, use exact user account on the DVR to login on your PC if prompted.

You will see Main Stream and Sub Stream, click on your desire channel and select Main Stream since you are not on the internet.

How do I connect DVR for CCTV on my PC sharing network?

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How do I connect a CCTV camera to a laptop?

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Connecting a CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) camera to a laptop can be accomplished through several methods. Please note that the exact steps might slightly vary depending on the brand and model of your camera.

Here’s a general guide on how to connect a CCTV camera to a laptop:

Using a USB Adapter:

Using an External Video Capture Card:

Via Network (IP cameras):

In all cases, you’ll want to consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer support for the most accurate and specific instructions for your particular camera and laptop setup. Remember, it’s important to secure your camera feed to prevent unauthorized access.

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How can I transfer CCTV footage from a DVR to a PC or mobile device?

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To transfer CCTV footage from a DVR (Digital Video Recorder) to a PC or mobile device, you can follow these general steps:

1. Determine the DVR output: Check the available output options on your DVR. Most DVRs offer different types of outputs, such as HDMI, VGA, or BNC. Identify the appropriate output that matches the input options on your PC or mobile device.

2. Connect the DVR to the PC or mobile device:

– For PC: Use the corresponding cable (HDMI, VGA, etc.) to connect the DVR output to the PC input port. If the PC does not have the required input port, you may need to use an adapter or a video capture card.

– For mobile device: Some DVR systems provide apps that allow remote access and viewing of CCTV footage on mobile devices. Check if your DVR offers such an app and install it on your mobile device. Follow the instructions provided by the app to connect to your DVR remotely.

3. Software or app setup: If you are using a PC, you may need to install software provided by the DVR manufacturer to facilitate the transfer of footage. This software often allows you to access, view, and export footage from the DVR. Follow the installation instructions and set up the software as needed. If you are using a mobile device, make sure you have the DVR app installed and configured properly.

4. Access and export footage: Once the connection is established between the DVR and your PC or mobile device, use the software or app to access the CCTV footage. You should be able to view the recorded footage and select specific clips or timeframes for export. The export options may vary depending on the software or app, but commonly, you can save the footage as video files on your PC or mobile device.

It’s important to note that the specific steps and options may differ depending on the brand and model of your DVR system. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult the user manual or documentation provided by the DVR manufacturer for detailed instructions tailored to your device.

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How do I connect my security cameras to my TV without a DVR?

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Digital video recorders are a popular option for this connection. If you don’t want to hook up your security camera to a DVR, you can bypass the component and connect directly to a TV or monitor for viewing the signal from the camera.

You can now monitor any area under camera surveillance without recording

For home application, I recommend use cloud storage instead, easy install and operate.

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What is the DVR used in CCTV?

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In CCTV systems, a DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. It’s a central component that acts like a storage device for the video footage captured by your security cameras. Here are some of its functionality:

Function: DVRs take the analog video signal from CCTV cameras, convert it into a digital format, and store it on a hard drive. This allows you to review past recordings for security purposes or to monitor activity remotely.

Appearance: DVRs are typically standalone devices that look like small computers. They have ports for connecting CCTV cameras, a monitor output for viewing footage, and a network connection for remote access (depending on the model).

Here are some additional points to consider about DVRs in CCTV systems

Compatibility: DVRs are designed to work with analog CCTV cameras. If you have IP cameras (digital cameras that transmit video over a network), you’ll need a Network Video Recorder (NVR) instead.

Storage Capacity: DVRs come with varying storage capacities. The amount of storage you need depends on the number of cameras you have, the recording resolution, and how long you want to keep footage.

Features: Modern DVRs offer various features such as motion detection recording, scheduled recording, and remote access through a mobile app.

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How do I connect a CCTV DVR with the Internet using a 3G/4G data SIM?

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If your DVR support 3G connection then you are good to go.

Unfortunately I won’t be able to provide you with pictures as DVR systems vary and I do not know your DVR brand.

First and foremost, I suggest you use Huwaei E303 dongle because it is one of the best dongle out there.

Make sure your sim card had already been provisioned for Data service by your ISP and don’t forget to obtain the APN details for your internet service.

Ensure cloud is enabled on your DVR by going through the setting icon.

Then head over to Network and look for the wireless service or 3G depending on the brand of your DVR.

Insert the 3G dongle to the back of your DVR and wait for the dongle to start blinking.

Select 3G and fill up the necessary information such as the APN details you got from the ISP.

After the settings, click save and restart, whenever the DVR is ready, you should see the dongle with a solid blue or green LED light showing that it is connected.

You should now be able to view your DVR online after the necessary remote view app installation and right configuration.

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The IVSEC brand comprises Australian selected components and hardware, and software servers for local updates within Australia. IVSEC has grown quickly while expanding and maintaining excellent customer service. For any enquiries, please contact our friendly staff.

My smartphone is showing “offline” or “connect close” in the IVSEC X mobile app?

When adding your Recorder or cameras to the IVSEC X mobile app if a message says “Offline” or the device status is showing “Connect close” please check the following:

Example of Offline message

Example of Connect Close message

1) Check that the QR code, username and password details have been entered correctly into the IVSEC X app

A. Connect HDMI LCD and USB mouse to IVSEC Recorder

B. Click on the 4-square / arrow icon on the bottom left-hand corner of the screen

C. Check the name shown in Current user:

Note: The default user is admin but this may have been modified by the installer

D. Open the IVSEC X app on your phone

E. Press the “Human” icon of the top left-hand corner of the app

F. Press “Device List’

G. Press the square icon with a pencil mark

H. Check the IP Address/ID is the same as the QR code located on top of the IVSEC recorder

I. HTTP Port / Client Port

J. Check the username is the same name as per point C (this is case sensitive)

K. Enter the correct password

L. Press Save or Apply

2) Check for Network Connectivity

A. Check that an ethernet cable is connected to the LAN port of your modem

B. Check that the other end of the ethernet cable is connected to the LAN/WAN port of the IVSEC Recorder

C. Check that the Green and Yellow LEDs light up after connecting the cable.

NOTE: If the LEDS do not light up then the IVSEC X app will not work. Try replacing the ethernet cable, if still no LEDS light up contact your installer

D. Connect an LCD and USB mouse to the recorder and check the “connect status” icon that appears on the bottom right hand corner of the taskbar (when LCD is connected to recorder). Ensure that the icon has a green tick as shown in below image

Refer to explanation below of other connection status:

3) Ensure you have the latest version of IVSEC X app installed on your phone. Check that your Android or Apple device has the latest software/firmware and security updates installed. Try un-installing, re-installing the app and add the device again

4) Power your modem and IVSEC Recorder off for 30 seconds. Power back on and wait 5 minutes for the internet connection to come back online.

5) If you are running a VPN app on your smartphone disable the app and try the IVSEC X app again.

Examples of VPN providers include Surfshark, NordVPN, Norton’s VPN.

6) Check the IVSEC Recorder substream settings

A. Using LCD and mouse connected to NVR go to setup – Record – Encode Check your NVR substream settings- “Substream” tab

Recommended substream settings to minimise mobile app bandwidth issue

Resolution: 640 x 480

Bitrate: 512kbps

B. Click Apply on bottom right corner

Please refer to YouTube link: Adjusting stream settings via IVSEC X Mobile app

or

Please refer to YouTube link: Adjusting Camera stream settings via NVR (LCD & mouse required)

7) Some older Samsung phones running Android 11 on the Telstra network may be unable to stream live view or the cameras will show as offline while connected to mobile data (4G/5G). The issue has been identified on the Telstra network where an Android update causes the APN to select IPv6 only. Click here for APN re-configuration (Applies to Telstra mobile customers only running Android)

8) Some Telstra NBN modem / routers may restrict access to cameras (firmware issue on the router). The cameras may be slow to appear or show as offline. Check the model number listed on the bottom of your Telstra router. Click on the documentation below which details the steps to configure port forwarding as a workaround to access your cameras

9) Connect to your wifi and perform a speed test – https://www.speedtest.net/

Click the GO button. If your upload speed result is 3Mbps or less, you should contact your Internet Provider to test your connection

10) Email service@ivsecurity.com.au for additional support

iVSEC X Mobile App

1. How to set up the IVSEC X app on my Smartphone

The IVSEC X app allows you to access your IVSEC cameras live view remotely, playback recordings and other useful features
Please refer to YouTube link: https://youtu.be/71mvg5QdsfY

Scan the appropriate QR code below to download the IVSEC X app

Apple Store | Google Play

2. My smartphone is showing “connect close” in the IVSEC X mobile app?

Click here for troubleshooting details.

3. How to reduce camera buffering when accessing IVSEC cameras on the mobile app.

If you have limited or slow Internet connection (either at home or on your smartphone) reducing the substream settings can help the cameras to show up quicker on the app

Video guide – How to modify the settings via the IVSEC X mobile app

Video guide – How to modify the settings via the Recorder using an LCD and mouse

Recommended substream settings
Resolution: 640 x 480 | Bitrate: 256 kbps

Recommended mobile stream settings
Resolution: 640 x 480 | Bitrate: 128 kbps

4. What does “Max User Playback” mean?

If you see “Max User Playback” when trying to playback footage in the app it means someone else is currently accessing playback either via the NVR or through the app. Restarting the NVR will clear this message.

Access via Windows / Mac

5. How to install setup the VMS Pro application for Windows.

Video Guide

NOTE: VMS for Windows setup is similar for Mac

Application download links available from ivsecurity.com.au or via the YouTube description

6. How to login to an IVSEC NVR or camera using Internet Explorer or Chrome

Refer to “How to upgrade my NVR firmware” FAQs. Once your NVR is upgraded to the latest firmware you will be able to log in using any browser using the NVR IP address.

7. How can I search for IVSEC devices on a network or change an IP address

To search for X range cameras and recorders on a network use the Device Config Tool.

8. How to setup the surveillance client on Windows

Please note surveillance client is no longer supported, refer to VMS Pro. For legacy installations please refer to YouTube links below:

Windows | Mac

9. My MAC is not letting me install any of the IVSEC applications

If your MAC blocks the app from opening click here for details

10. How to playback and export footage from surveillance client on a Mac

Watch Video Guide

11. How to get my old IVSEC app working (non X range NVR model)

Check the model number of your recorder (silver sticker either on the top or bottom of the recorder. If the model number does NOT have an X in the model number then click here for instructions on how to configure your non X range IVSEC NVR using port forwarding and DDNS.

Recorder

12. How to reset my NVR password?

Download IVSEC NVR Password Reset Procedure

13. How to perform NVR firmware update using a USB flash drive or online update

Watch Video Guide

14. How to setup motion detection on an IVSEC X-Range NVR

Watch Video Guide

15. How to export footage from an IVSEC X-Range NVR

Watch Video Guide

16. How to factory default an IVSEC X-Range NVR

Watch Video Guide

17. How to configure disk grouping for 16, 32 and 64 channel IVSEC recorders

The maximum number of channels (cameras) that can record to one hard drive is 16. If your recorder is compatible with disk grouping (e.g. NR316XB, NR316XC, NR532XA, NR564XA, NR564EXA and NR564EXB) you will need to configure disk grouping and ensure your cameras are recording. If you are using an NVR that is capable of 64 channels and have 64 cameras installed, you will need to install a minimum of 4 hard drives

16 cameras installed = 1 hard drive required (minimum)

32 cameras installed = 2 hard drives required (minimum)

64 cameras installed = 4 hard drive required (minimum)

Video – Disk grouping setup process

IP Camera

18. How to factory reset my IVSEC camera?

Download IVSEC Camera Reset Procedure (specific models)

19. How to factory reset my IVSEC camera?

Download IVSEC Camera Reset Procedure (specific models)

20. How to Setup 3rd Party cameras onto an IVSEC X-Range NVR

Watch Video Guide
Download Device manager tool (for non X range IVSEC branded cameras)
Download IVSEC PTZ Search Tool (for non X range IVSEC branded cameras)
Hikvision camera setup using onvif
Dahua camera setup using onvif

21. How to add 2N IP Verso Intercom camera to an IVSEC NVR

Watch Video Guide

22. Camera image is randomly showing distortion on the bottom of the image

If you are experiencing distortion at the near the bottom of the camera image please click here for useful troubleshooting steps

23. Modifying White Light Settings

Some of the iVSEC camera range have inbuilt white lights (LEDs) that turn on at night as a deterrent to intruders and for colour recording at night. Please follow this guide to learn how to disable this function or have then turn on only when motion is detected.

Smart Home Integration

24. iVSEC – Alexa

Now it’s even easier to see what’s happening. Amazon Alexa can be used to stream live camera video to your Amazon Echo Spot or Echo Show device simply by speaking your commands. Follow this guide to learn how to connect to Amazon Alexa for voice control.

25. iVSEC – Google

Now it’s even easier to see what’s happening. You can ask your Google Assistant to show your Cameras on your TV with Chromecast. Read this guide to learn how to connect your cameras to your Google Assistant and enable voice control.

How to upgrade IVSEC NC323XD Camera Firmware For additional support go to https://ivsecurity.com.au/ or email service@ivsecurity.com.au Video will demonstrate how to upgrade IVSEC NC323XD camera firmware. NOTE: Firmware compatible with models NC323XD, NC531XB, NC512XC, NC512XD & NC528XC Download NC323XD firmware (link below) https://ivsecurity.com.au/support/fir… Copy the entire folder to USB flash drive Connect USB to NVR and watch video demonstrating how to perform the upgrade.

How to playback and export footage from surveillance client onto a MAC

How to playback and export footage from surveillance client onto a MAC To download Surveillance client and Device Config Tool (MAC) – https://www.dropbox.com/s/49enfbklip4… To download VLC for MAC – https://www.videolan.org/vlc/download… For more information visit https://ivsecurity.com.au/

This is valid for our older 2MT-7XXX models and 2MT-7XXX-O models only.

First, you will need to download the application onto your phone and ensure that the DVR is connected to a network. We will focus on obtaining information from the DVR first before we focus on the phone app.

On the DVR, log into the menu, and then navigate to Setup → Network → NAT. Make sure that NAT is enabled (Note: you will not be able to access the cameras if NAT is not enabled).

Once NAT has been enabled, a QR code should appear. But if it does not, do not worry. The QR code can be found in a different section. If the QR code does not appear in NAT, it can be found in Information → QRCODE. If you are unable to scan the QR code for some reason, there will also be a serial number that will show below the QR code that you can input manually in order to connect your cameras to your phone.

Now that the QR code/serial number has been found we can focus on setting up the application. The first screen that you will see when you open the app is the Live View screen. From here, you can add a device by hitting the icon in the upper-right hand corner. This will open up the Server List.

Hit the Plus sign to add your device by either scanning the QR code or manually inputting the serial number that shows beneath the QR code. If you choose the QR code method, tap on the square icon and enable access to the phone’s camera. Then, the only other information that will need to be filled out is the name of the device (can be anything you would like for it to be), the username, and the password of the DVR.

Save the device, and go back to the Live View screen so that we can add your device to the Live View windows. There should be a drop down list underneath the windows that show your online devices. Just select the device, and the cameras should show on your screen.

Read Also : How to Set Up SuperLive Plus

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How to setup my CCTV remote connection for viewing
on smartphones and tablets.

We have put together this guide for setting up a remote connection with our DVR’s so you can view your cameras from potentially anywhere in the world. We can also offer our Remote Setup Service where we can setup the system for you, this utilises port forwarding on your router and has the added ability to view your cameras from a Mac or PC.

We will need to set up the DVR firstly so that it is ready to accept the connection from your devices this can be done by the follow steps:

First and foremost connect the the DVR to your router either by an ethernet cable or, if running an ethernet cable is a problem, using a wireless extender which will allow your router to pick up the DVR or a Home Plug can also be used.

On the DVR click on the “Start” button in the bottom left corner of the screen and then choose “Settings” from the popup menu, if you can not click it or its greyed out login to the DVR and try again.

Then under Network click on the TCP/IP link.

On this page make sure there is a tick in the “Obtain an IPv4 address automatically” box and then click apply to save.

Once done, across the top of the page next go to Port and change the HTTP port and Server port to any 3-5 digit number but they need to be different from each other, then click apply to save.

Across the top again to UPnP and make sure there is a tick in the “Enable” box and that the map type is set to auto and click apply to save.

Across the top again to NAT and make sure there is a tick in the “Enable” box and click apply to save.

Leave this page open on your screen as we will be needing the serial number which you can see under the QR code or the QR code itself later in the guide.

We will now be covering the app side of the connection.

So on your phone or tablet go to your app store, either the Appstore on Apple or Play store on Android and search for an app called “SuperLive Plus”, it should look like the image below and install the app and agree to any permissions it asks for.

When first starting the app it will take you through several tutorial pages which you can either swipe through or tap on skip and you will then be presented with the option of local or start, tap on start.

You will now need to fill in the details for the connection: The serial number (which can be found on the NAT page which should still be displayed on your monitor). A nickname of your choosing the default being “DeviceName1” and Username/Password for the DVR. If you would like to bypass this stage tap on skip in the top right corner which will then take you to the Live page.

From here you can access other features or add multiple DVRs or connections if you have them by doing the following. Tap on the three little lines in the top left to bring up the options menu and choose Server List.

This page will list all of you connection entries, but at the moment there should be none. Tap on the “+” symbol in the top right and choose scan code and then scan the QR code on the DVR monitor screen, the information will be filled out for you for adding a device. You may still need to fill out the device name, user and password for the DVR and tap save.

Once saved it will take you back to the server list page and there should now be one entry. All things being well the little wifi icon on the entry should be a solid and green colour at which point you can tap on the back arrow (top left) to take you out and back to your live camera feeds. If the Wifi icon is a grey/black colour and searching then tap on the pen and paper icon to allow you to edit the information and make sure all information is correct re-typing the password for example is a common culprit as is auto correcting on the user and domain host and save to keep the settings.

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Superlive Plus For PC: Free Download for windows 7/8/10/MAC

Here we are going to discuss SuperLive Plus for PC including window 7/8/10 and for MAC os as well. There are two methods by which you are able to take a good view of your CCTV cameras.

In this post, you can free download setup for Superlive plus for PC. After downloading the setup we will learn how to configure Superlive plus for PC.

SuperLive Plus For Windows PC

SuperLive Plus For MAC

Here we are going to use windows 7 and MAC but you can use the same setting for Windows 8 and Windows 10 as well. You can also use another application named “superlivepro for PC” So let’s start from the downloading the setup.

For the latest TVT DVRs and NVRs, a new app has been launched for remote monitoring. It is known as ‘NVMS Lite.’ Gradually, its updated versions are also introduced by the TVT Company. Here, we will learn to download and install the NVMS Lite 2.1 CMS App on Windows & Mac OS.

Download NVMS Lite 2.1 (Windows)

Download NVMS Lite 2.1 (Mac)

The NVMS Lite 2.1 CMS Software connects all TVT products seamlessly. Additionally, it also supports renowned manufacturer’s products like Hikvison, Dahua, Honeywell, etc.

Key Features & Functions of the NVMS Lite 2.1 CMS

Following are the key characteristics of it.

Download SuperLive Plus for Windows App to Monitor on Windows OS

The application file for Superlive plus for Windows CMS is shared here. The application is given in the below download button. Press the button to get the software. The complete installation process is defined below.

First you have to decompress the executable file and then download it. The complete installation part is demonstrated here step-by-step. It is shared in three parts. The first part denotes the installation of the app, the second step defines the sign-in process and the third step is reserved for the device addition.

Download NVMS Lite 2.1 (Windows)

Download SuperLive Plus for Mac CMS to Monitor on Macintosh PC

The company has provided the software for the SuperLive Plus for Mac CMS. It is given in the below download button. Click the button to get the executable file. Decompress them to install on your PC.

The installation to monitoring process are same as done for Windows OS.

Download NVMS Lite 2.1 (Mac)

Install SuperLive Plus for Android App to Monitor on Android Devices

The company keeps on updating its software for better user experience. It keeps on adding new features for safety and security. The SuperLive App is available for Android devices. The download link is given in the download button. Press it and get the link for your gadget.

Install SuperLive for Android

Install SuperLive Plus for iPhone App to Monitor on iOS

The SuperLive Plus App is given below. It is attached in a link button. You have to click the button to get the iOS software. After that, you can easily monitor your locations on Apple mobile.

Install SuperLive for iPhone

Install NVMS Lite 2.1 CMS, Log in & Connect Device to Monitor on Windows OS

The complete installation to monitoring steps are explained here. They are demonstrated with images and narrations for a better understanding. It is defined in three steps.

Step 1- Install NVMS Lite 2.1 on Windows

When we open the executable file, we get the following page. Here, we have to select the language.

Chooseyour language of preference and then press the ok button.

This page appears on the screen. It shows that the setup files are preparing to install.

When the setup file becomes ready, we get the next page.

It says that to install properly, take it with administrator account. Press the OK button and move to the next window.

The agreement page appears on the screen.

Select the ‘I accept the terms of the license agreement’ option and then press the next button.

The page for giving path and folder location to the software appears.

Give the proper path and folder location and then press the next button.

The files will begin to transfer on the PC.

App installation process is going on. When the process is finished, we get a new page informing it.

The installation process is finished. Press the ‘Finish’ button for the next step.

The step- 2 is about the login process.

Step 2- Log in to the NVMS Lite 2.1 App

When we open the installed app, we get the following page. It is the login page.

You have to fill the Username and password of the application. The by default username and password are respectively “admin” and “123456“.

You will login to the software. This way the step 2 is complete.

Now, we will go to add the devices.

Step 3- Add Devices for Monitoring

After the sign-in, we have to give these optional answers to recover password in case we forget them. It is an option. You can skip the process too if you want.

After that, the homepage of the NVMS Lite 2.1 appears.

We have to add the device. Press the marked option to connect devices.

This page surfaces. Press the add button now for connecting cameras.

When you press the add button, you get this page. Here, you can add cameras or devices. To add manually click the encircled button.

Fill the IP address and press ok to connect. You can add all the devices similarly.

Now move to the home page and select the live view option.

Added device will appear on screen. This way you can monitor from remote areas.

The full demonstration of this app must be helpful for readers and users.

SuperLive Plus For PC Free Download For Windows

Here you can download the latest version of Superlive Plus on your computer.

All you have to do is click on the download button according to your choice.

Superlive Plus is also available for MAC PC you can live your cameras on your MAC PC also.

Apply any given method and then you can see the live view of your cameras on your PC.

Method 1 (SuperLive Plus For PC using NVMS 1000)

Every CCTV company offers a CMS for Windows setup of its cameras. Superlive plus also offers its called NVMS 1000.

By using this, you can get a view of SuperLive plus camera on your computer screen. So download the setup for that from the given link.

Step 1.

Download the Setup from the given link below (Old Version).

Download Superlive Plus For PC

Download Superlive Plus for MAC

After downloading the setup open the folder where it has been downloaded the file name is “Superlive-Plus-for-PC. Just install this setup on your PC.

Step 2

Now come to the configuration of superlive plus for PC (windows).

After completing the installation process you will get an icon on your desktop named “NVMS-1000″. Just double click on that icon and it will ask for the registration of the user.

Here assign a user name and password and register the user. You may leave other options on the registration screen. This user name and password are only for this software not for your DVR/NVR.

Step 3

Now a new screen will open asking for the username and password. Insert the username and password that you registered at step 2. A screen will appear in front of you as shown below.

Step 4

Just click the option “Device” and you will find the next screen as shown below.

Click on the “Add Device” option and come to the next screen.

Step 5

Click on the “manually add” option from the top of the screen. Here, you have to add a device serial number, IP address or a domain as per your mode of DVR/NVR’s registration.

So choose one of them as per your desire. After filling the information. Just click on the “Test link” button. Test link must be popped up “Test connection success” then clicks “ok” and then “Add” button.

Now the device is registered successfully now you can see all the cameras on your computer screen. To do this you should go to the “live preview” option.

Method 2 (SuperLive Plus For PC using BlueStack)

To use this method you have to use an android emulator on your PC. One of the best emulators is  Bluestack. Just install it on your PC and follows the steps.

SuperLive Plus For PC Free Download For MAC

If you have a MAC system then you can also get your cameras on your MAC system. The company also offers set up it on your MAC OS. Here we are going to demonstrate how to download and configure super live plus for PC(MAC).

Step 1

Download the setup of superlive plus for pc from the given link below.

Download Superlive Plus for PC (MAC)

Just install it on your PC and come to the second step.

Step 2

Now you can see an icon on your computer screen named “MAC Super CMS…app”. Just open it and the screen will ask you for the account creation. Just create an account for that by putting a username and password.

After the registration window will ask you to log in. just logged in by using the username and password that you registered.

Step 3

After logging in you can see the screen as shown below.

On your right bottom, an option shows as  “Add”.  Click on that icon and you will see the next screen.

Step 4

In this step, a screen will appear as shown below.

It asks for some detail related to your device. Just fill it up. In the “Title” option you can choose a title your device as per your choice.  In the address, you have put the IP address of the device(DVR/NVR/IP camera).

Title: As per your choice.
Address: The IP address or domain name of the device you want to add.
Port: The HTTP port of the device you want to add.
Account: The login account of the device. The default account is “admin”.
Password: The login password of the device. The default password is 123456.

Step 5

Now click on the  “Save” button to save the information. Now you can see the DVR/NVR list in the device list as shown in the below picture.

Conclusion

So this is all about Superlive plus for PC. Using these steps you can easily configure the SuperlivePro DVR/NVR/IP camera for your window laptop and desktop. If you have any queries or suggestion please write to us in the comment box below.

Frequently Asked Question

What is NVMS Lite Edition?

NVMS Lite Edition and NVMS Lite 2.1 Edition are security management platforms given by TVT. They are software for connecting CCTV devices for remote access. You can be live from any place and monitor your locations.

What is the password for Nvms Lite Edition?

The by-default username and password for the NVMS lite are “admin” and “123456” respectively.

What is NVMS software?

It is a security surveillance app. It is designed to monitor CCTV devices from remote areas. It is available for Android, iPhone, Windows and Mac versions. It supports TVT cameras and recorders. It also connects some third-party devices.

What is the default IP address of the TVT CCTV camera?

The company has provided the following IP address and by default setting. IP address: 192.168. 226.201 Subnet Mask: 255.255. 255.0 Gateway: 192.168. 226.1 HTTP: 80 Data port: 9008 The default password of the administrator is “123456”

What is the default password for TVT security cameras?

The default password for CCTV cameras is 123456.

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Annke Vision – Access the DVR/NVR/IP Camera via Guarding Vision Software on PC (Via IP Address)

This article shows you the steps to access the ANNKE system on a computer via the client software Guarding Vision.

Adding via IP address only allow local access (ANNKE system and computer must be in the same network/router). But you will get a better experience when watching camera live view/playback and download recordings, etc.

To access the system remotely on Guarding Vision, please add via P2P Cloud. See this instruction.

 Read Also : LongPlus Apps FAQ

Video Guide:

Step by Step:

1. Download and install the software Guarding Vision on your computer.

For Windows, click here to download.
For Mac, click here to download.

2. Plug the ANNKE system into your router via an Ethernet cable.

3. Make sure your computer has been connected to the same router as the ANNKE system/IP camera.

4. Run the software Guarding Vision. Register an administrator account.

Note: This account is only for logging in to Guarding Vision. It’s not the same as your ANNKE system account. (It is suggested to select “Enable Auto-login)

5. Run the software, and go to Device Management -> Device Type -> Device.
If the system and computer are in the same LAN network, you can see the device information under the Online Device list. Select your device, click on Add to Client.

6. On the pop-up page, set the details as the picture below shows, then click on ‘Add’.

Note:

7. The device information will then be shown on the tab page Device for Management. You can see the Net Status is online as the picture shows..

8. Go to the Main View tab page, click on the folder under the Camera list to expand the camera channels. Double-click on the channels to see the live streaming.

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PS: If the camera list does not show any cameras, as shown below. Please go to the Device Management page and manually add the “Group” and name it. And then, please import the Group and select “import all”. Finally, we can go back to the Main View  tab page, and click on the folder under the Camera list to expand the camera channels. Double-click on the channels to see the live streaming.

Annke Vision – Access the DVR/NVR System via ANNKE Vision software on PC (Via P2P Cloud)

This article shows you the steps to access the ANNKE system on a computer via the client software ANNKE Vision.

Adding via P2P Cloud allows remote access (ANNKE system and computer can be in the different network/router). While you may find the camera live view/playback and recordings download become laggy due to unstable network.

To access the system locally on ANNKE Vision, please add via IP address. See this instruction.

Steps:

1. Download and install the software Annke Vision on your computer.

Here is the download link:

https://download.annke.com/software/HK/Annke_Vision_V3.7.0.50_E.exe

2. Plug the ANNKE system into your router via an Ethernet cable.

3. Run the software ANNKE Vision. Register an administrator account and set up Password Protection.

Note: This account is only for logging in to ANNKE Vision. It’s not the same as your ANNKE system account. (It is suggested to select “Enable Auto-login”)

The username and password can be anything. 

4. Register an account (P2P account) on the mobile app Annke Vision.
Register an account on Annke Vision via your phone number or email address.

5. Come back to ANNKE Vision. Go to Device Management and click Add.  Choose Cloud P2P and select your country/area(the phone APP account area), and click Login.

7. Then log in with the user name and password of your Annke Vision APP account. 

Note: If your user name is the phone number, please input it in this format ‘+441234567890‘ (no space between the country code and the phone number).

If the user name and password are both correct, but the App keeps asking you entering a verification code, please log in again with email address that you used to register the Annke Vision App.

8. If the ANNKE system has been added to the Annke Vision account beforehand, you can see it on the list automatically.
Otherwise, add the system to ANNKE vision account first..

9. Go to the Main View tab page, and click on the folder(the name is your APP account username) under the device list to expand the camera channels. Click the play button on the channels to see the live streaming...

Annke Vision – Access the DVR/NVR System via ANNKE Vision Software on PC (Via IP Address)

This article shows you the steps to access the ANNKE system on a computer via the client software ANNKE Vision.

Adding via IP address only allow local access (ANNKE system and computer must be in the same network/router). But you will get a better experience when watching the camera live view/playback and download recordings, etc.

To access the system remotely on ANNKE Vision, please add via P2P Cloud. See this instruction.

Step by Step:

1. Download and install the software ANNKE Vision on your computer. Here is the download link:

https://download.annke.com/software/HK/Annke_Vision_V3.7.0.50_E.exe

2. Plug the ANNKE system into your router via an Ethernet cable.

3. Make sure your computer has been connected to the same router as the ANNKE system.

4. Run the software ANNKE Vision. Register an administrator account and set up Password Protection.

Note: This account is only for logging in to ANNKE Vision. It’s not the same as your ANNKE system account. (It is suggested to select “Enable Auto-login”)

The username and password can be anything. 

5. Run the software, and go to Device Management.

6. Click Online Device. If the system and computer are in the same LAN network, you can see the device information at the bottom. 

7. Select your device, and click on Add. Then please fill in the information in the popped window.

Note:

8. The device information will then be shown on the tab page Device for Management. You can see the Net Status is online as the picture shows..

9. Go to the Main View tab page, and click on the folder under the DVR list to expand the camera channels. Click the play button on the channels to see the live streaming..

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Annke Vision – How to Live Stream Your ANNKE Device on YouTube by FFmpeg?

Using FFmpeg as an encoder for YouTube Live has fewer requirements on the hardware. While you may need some basic knowledge about FFmpeg.

Contents:

1. How it works?

2. How to achieve it?

3. Installing FFmpeg

4. Set a Static IP Address for your ANNKE device

5. Set up DDNS for your ANNKE device

6. Get the RTSP address

1. How it works?

With the RTSP address from your ANNKE device, and FFmpeg installed on your Windows computer, you can use the below command line in the CMD software to begin a live stream. The live stream will be uploaded to your YouTube channel automatically.

set USERNAME=device login username
set PASSWORD=device login password
set CAMERA=device IP
set STREAM_KEY=xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx from YouTube Live dashboard

Example：

ffmpeg -hide_banner -loglevel fatal -rtsp_transport tcp -i rtsp://%USERNAME%:%PASSWORD%@%CAMERA%:554/ Streaming/Channes/ID/?transportmode=unicast.sdp -f lavfi -i anullsrc -c:v copy -c:a aac -map 0:v -map 1 -f hls -hls_time 4 -hls_playlist_type event -method PUT “https://a.upload.youtube.com /http_upload_hls?cid=%STREAM_KEY%&copy=0&file=stream.m3u8”

2. How to achieve it?

To achieve the above, we will need to:
1). Install FFmpeg on your Windows computer.
2). Get the RTSP address. For a stable RTSP address, we will need to set a Static IP and set up DDNS for your ANNKE device.
3). Get the YouTube stream key: Once your YouTube account has access to YouTube Live, you can find the stream key as the below picture shows.
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3. Installing FFmpeg

Here is the instruction: https://www.wikihow.com/Install-FFmpeg-on-Windows#

4. Set a Static IP Address for your ANNKE device

Propose: An ANNKE Device with a static IP address can still be accessed by the same IP after reboot.

Step:
1) Disable DHCP
2) Make sure the device is online

1) Disable DHCP
Log in to your ANNKE Device. Below is the Web interface of the ANNKE device:
Go to Configuration-Network-Basic Settings-TCP/IP, Uncheck DHCP, fill in the below box per your computer in the same network.
Note: You can check DHCP and click Save at first, this will fill in the below box automatically. Then uncheck DHCP and leave the below box as they are.

2) Make sure the device is online
After the above, go to Configuration-Network-Advance Settings-Platform Access, make sure the option Enable is checked and Register Status shows Online as below picture.

If it shows Offline, refer to this instruction to make it online at first: https://help.annke.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000648061

5. Set up DDNS for your ANNKE device

Propose: An ANNKE device with DDNS service will have a static IP/hostname on the Internet. This allow you to visit the ANNKE device by a static URL. To achieve this, Port Forwarding on your router is also required.

Steps:
1) Setup your DDNS account
2) Enable DDNS on your ANNKE device
3) Port Forwarding

1) Setup your DDNS account
There are some free DDNS service providers. In this article, we will take NO-IP for example.
After you created an account on the NO-IP website, Click your name at the top right corner, go to Account, then Dynamic DNS
Click Create Hostname

Create your hostname in the box. Leave other parameters as default, click Create Hostname

You will see the hostname in the list.

2) Enable DDNS on your ANNKE device
Log in to your device, go to Configuration-Network-Basic Settings-DDNS, tick on Enable DDNS, fill in the boxes as below:
DDNS Type: NO-IP
Server Address: dynupdate.no-ip.com
Domain: your hostname on no-ip.com
User Name: your user name on no-ip.com
Password & Confirm: your account password on no-ip.com
Then click Save to apply the change.
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3) Port Forwarding

Purpose: Port forwarding allows other devices to visit a device in your local network.

Steps:
The steps may vary according to different routers. Below steps are based on the router Virgin Media Hub 3.0:

Click Create a new rule, then fill the boxes as below:
Local IP: your device’s IP.
Local start port: 554
Local end port: 554
External start port: 554
External end port: 554
After that, click Add rule to apply the change.

Now, you can go to canyouseeme.org, input your port number in the Port to Check box, and click Check Port. If you can see the message ‘Success, I can see your service on [your WAN IP] on port (554)’, then the port forwarding has finished.

6. Get the RTSP address

Steps:
1) RTSP address format
2) Test your RTSP address

1) RTSP address format
rtsp://IP:RTSPPort/Streaming/Channes/ID/?transportmode=unicast.sdp

Explanation
ID means mainstream or sub-stream and channel number. If the ID is 102, we will get
a sub-stream of the first channel. If the ID is 101, we will get mainstream.
RTSP URL supports to add username and password:
rtsp://admin:12345@IP:Port/Streaming/Channels/ID/?transportmode=unicast.sdp
The type of authorization supports BASIC and DIGEST.

Examples
Get sub-stream from IP camera on channel 1
rtsp://172.28.1.52:554/Streaming/Channels/102/?transportmode=unicast.sdp

2) Test your RTSP address
Once you finish getting the RSTP address, try it on the VLC player to make sure it’s working.
In VLC player, use the shortcut Ctrl+N or navigate to Media-Open Network Stream. Input your RTSP address in the box, click Play.
When the RTSP address is correct, you will see the live stream from your camera in about 5 seconds.

Annke Vision – Annke IP camera connect with Tinycam Pro

For the Tinycam can only working with IP cameras, It can not connect with NVR. So if you have already had a POE system( NVR+ IP camera), It can not directly get the steam from the POE port. Please connect the IP cameras directly to your router. Please do not forget to have an extended power ( 12V/1A ) for the cameras.
The APP Timycam can only support IP connection, so If you would like to have the image everywhere, Please do the port forwarding for the cameras, you need to contact the router manufactory or network provider to have the correct operation.

If you find the image is not smooth. That is caused by that the app will auto-adjust the stream for the image. so you can change the APP decode method or you can directly change the cameras’ video stream, you can adjust lower the resolution and bitrate from cameras’ setting page.

Step:

1.Adding the cameras. Please select “Add IP camera, NVR/DVR” and edit it.

2. Edit the camera name and select the correct Protocol type by the camera brand.

Please notice that the Tinycam Pro can not directly get Annke Brand, So you need to select the camera brand “Hikvision” and choose a model number( everyone is ok). Don’t worry, our connection protocol is the same as Hikvision.

3. Please input the correct IP and port information. 

“Hostname/IP address“: It would be LAN IP. WAN IP or DDNS. But please notice that If you connect with WAN IP or DDNS, Please do not forget the port forwarding.
“Web port number“: Default is 80. It follows with your camera setting.
“RTSP port number“: Default is 554. It follows with your camera setting.

3. Input the correct account information. the account information is your cameras’ account and password.

4. When you finished the parameter setting, you need to back to the top line to check the connection status.

“OK” means the camera is correct to connect to your system.

Click the “camera status“, you can get the detail stream information and image.

5. When you finish the camera setting, you can directly go to the live view to have the camera image.

Annke Vision – How to Activate ANNKE IP Camera via Web Browser (Without DVR/NVR)?

You may find the camera’s IP address and access/activate it on the local network via the web browser.

Video Guide:

 https://youtu.be/Z5jRKJ5UNQw

Text Guide:

1. Power on the camera by using the power adapter or POE switch for the POE cameras.

2. Connect the camera to the router/POE switch by ethernet cable.

3. Get a computer that is connected to the same router. In other words, computers and cameras are in the same network area.

4. Download software SADPTool and install it on the computer. Here is the software download link.

For Windows: https://download.annke.com/CMS/SADP_v3.0.2.4.zip
For Mac: https://download.annke.com/CMS/sadptool.pkg_.zip

5. Run the software SADP tool and click refresh. It will find the camera’s IP, and its status is Inactive.
Note: If the status is Active and the camera was connected to the ANNKE NVR before, the password of the camera is the same as the NVR.

6. Select the device on the tool and create a new password to activate it.
The new password should contain 8-16 characters with at least two combinations of numbers, lowercase, uppercase, and special characters, no ‘admin’ included.

7. Access the camera by inputting the IP address of the camera on the IE web browser. 
Then, input the user name admin and password you created.
Note: The cameras could be viewed on the IE web browser only because there is no web plug-in for any other web browser now.

8. Click the link to download the web plug-in to view the camera:

9. Once the web plug-in is installed successfully, the camera could be viewed on the web browser:

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Annke Vision – How to Access DVR/NVR System on The Web Browser from PC(in the Same Local Network)?

Safari browser is not supported.

The following browsers are supported:
IE 10, IE 11, Chrome 57.0+, Firefox 52.0+ and Edge 89+

Our device plugin is most compatible with IE 10 and IE 11 browsers. In IE browser we can view the device and modify the relevant settings more smoothly.

For Chrome 57.0+, Firefox 52.0+ and Edge 89+ browsers, we can view the device without the plugin. But please note that we still need to download the plugin if we want to change the relevant device settings from them.

(Here is an image for your reference to download the plugin)

General steps:

1. Plug the DVR/NVR into a router with a network cable.

2. Find DVR/NVR’s IP address.  There are two ways to find the IP address:
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Method #1

1) Find the IP address on the TV/monitor.

Please go to Menu–Configuration–Network–General.

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Method #2

Find the IP address on a computer.

Annke Vision — How to Access the Web interface of ANNKE PoE Cameras via Browser? (Without NVR)

Purpose: Some features of the ANNKE PoE camera need to be configured on the camera’s Web interface (it’s individual setting page).

Note:

Safari browser is not supported.

The following browsers are supported:
IE 10, IE 11, Chrome 57.0+, Firefox 52.0+ and Edge 89+

Our device plugin is most compatible with IE 10 and IE 11 browsers. In IE browser we can view the device and modify the relevant settings more smoothly.

For Chrome 57.0+, Firefox 52.0+ and Edge 89+ browsers, we can view the device without the plugin. But please note that we still need to download the plugin if we want to change the relevant device settings from them.

(Here is an image for your reference to download the plugin)

1) For all the mentioned camera models, their live stream will work on the IE browser after installing the plugin.
2) For model I91BM/I91BN/I91BL/I91BK/I81HB, their live stream can also work on Chrome and Firefox after installing the plugin.

Steps:

1. Connect the camera to a 12V DC power supply (must be 12 Volt, can be 1 Amp or above) and to a broadband router by ethernet cable.

2. Run the SADP software on a computer in the local network.

For Windows system:

https://download.annke.com/CMS/SADP_v3.0.2.4.zip

For Mac OS:

https://download.annke.com/document/Computer_Software/SADPTool.pkg.zip

The SADP will detect the camera’s IP address. Follow the below picture to enable DHCP for the camera.

Input the IP address in a Web browser ( IE browser is recommended).

3. Input the user name and password of the camera to log in. (Generally, the username is “admin” with all letters in lowercase)
If you use the camera for the first time, you need to activate the camera at first and set an admin password for it;
If the camera has been activated on the ANNKE NVR, the camera’s password is the same as your NVR’s admin password.

4. Now you can see the camera’s Web interface. Explore and have fun 🙂

Note:
If you find the camera live view fail to load when clicking the button “Start Live View “on the webpage, please try the below solutions:
1. Click the “Download Plug-in” button to download and install the webpage plugin.
2. Copy the webpage address then visit it via IE browser, or via Microsoft Edge browser (requires reloading the page into IE mode).

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Annke Vision – How to Access the Annke IP Camera’s Setting Page via Web Browsers?

Some of the cameras’ functions can only be configured in their individual setting page. Below is the instruction to enter Annke’s IP cameras’ individual setting page.

Step 1:

Connect your IP camera and your computer to the same network/router. The connection can be either via ethernet cable or WiFi.

Step 2:

Find the IP address of your IP camera. The procedures depend on your computer.

  a). If your computer is NOT a Windows computer: Please access your router to find the camera’s IP address (You may need to contact your router’s seller for further information).

b). If your computer is a Windows computer: You can use the software called SADP TOOL to find the IP address. Below are the steps:
b-1). Please download and install the software SADPTOOL.exe to your computer: 
https://download.annke.com/CMS/SADP_v3.0.2.4.zip
b-2). Run the software and you will find the camera’s IP address on the device list.


b-3). Double-click on the IP address (or input it into your web browser manually) then you will see the camera’s login page. Input the user name ‘admin’ and the camera’s password to proceed.


b-4). Click on the Configuration tab to enter the camera’s settings page.

Note: The web page layout may be a little different according to different camera models.

Annke Vision – Modify Output Resolution of ANNKE Systems on the Web Interface

Purpose: This instruction introduces the method to change the output resolution of the ANNKE system. It is effective when the ANNKE system doesn’t show any display on the TV/monitor due to a mismatch of output resolution between them.

Steps:

1.Connect your ANNKE system to your home router via an ethernet cable.

2.Connect your computer to the same router with the DVR wired or wirelessly.

3.Download the SADP software on your computer to search the IP of your DVR/NVR. 
For Windows: https://download.annke.com/CMS/SADP_v3.0.2.4.zip
For MacBook: https://download.annke.com/document/Computer_Software/SADPTool.pkg.zip 

4.Run SADP and it will show the IP address of your DVR/NVR automatically.

5.Input this IP address into the IE browser. The user name is ‘admin’ and the password is your system‘s login password.

6.When you log in, navigate to Configuration–System–System Settings–Menu Output. Change the VGA/HDMI resolution. It’s recommended to match this resolution to your TV/monitor resolution.
If you are not sure, just select the lowest resolution for the ANNKE system.

If this article is helpful to you, please click the “helpful” button after you review it. Any comments would be appreciated.

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Annke Vision – How to Restore the DVR/NVR on Computer Browser with Its IP Address Locally?

Steps:

1. Enter the DVR/NVR on the computer browser with its IP locally. Please refer to the below link:
https://help.annke.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000252182

2. After you enter the DVR/NVR on the computer browser, please go to Configuration>Maintenance>Upgrade&Maintenance>Restore.

3. Click ‘Restore’ to start. The system will be rebooted automatically when the restore is finished.

If this article is helpful to you, please click the “helpful” button after you review it. Any comments would be appreciated.

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Annke Vision – How to Get a Capture/Screenshot of the Camera’s Image on the Computer/Phone APP?

First of all, please add the cameras system to computer software and the phone APP.

For computer software: https://help.annke.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000252441

For phone APP: https://help.annke.com/hc/en-us/articles/360000252581

Secondly, please follow the below steps to get the capture/screenshot of the camera’s image:

On Guarding Vision, please select the camera and right-click the mouse, and then click Capture:

After that, the capture will be saved on the computer, and you could click the link on the right corner to check the capture directly:

On the phone APP, please preview the cameras, and then select the camera button to take a screenshot for the camera:

After that, you could check the screenshot of the camera’s image on the More–>Pictures and Videos:

If you view the cameras on the monitor and the computer, please select the camera and double-check it. Or please view the camera in one screen mode. After that, the camera will be displayed in the mainstream and the picture will be clearer so that you could get a clearer capture from the computer.

If you view the cameras on the phone APP, you could switch the mode from Basic to HD so that you could get a clearer screenshot from the mobile phone.

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Annke Vision – How to Stop Audible Alarming Via the Browser?

Purpose: If you want to stop audible alarming for the system, please refer to this instruction to change the setting.

Steps:

1. Please get a windows computer which is in the same network area as the camera is. In other words, the camera and computer must be connected to the same router, by cable or by wifi.

2 Install the software on the computer. Here is the download link.
support.annke.com/document/HK/general/tool/SADPtool.exe

3. Run the software to detect the system’s IP.

4. Please copy the IP address to Internet Explorer and access the system’s page by its IP. 

6. Please log in to the system and go to the Configuration-Basic event.
On this page, you could disable the audible warning for every event.
Here are the images of each interface. You could go to the interface of these setting to turn off the audible warning according to your needs.

For example, if you don’t want to have an audible warning when there is a motion detected, please go to the Motion Detection page to disable the audible warning. See the first picture below:

You could also go to smart event to disable the audible warning. Please note that this option is not available on all models and systems.

How to: Configure Your Camera with CMS5 PC Software

Once you’ve added your camera to CMS5, you may want to change a few of the settings to get the most out of your new camera. Some of them may not apply to your specific camera, but this guide will help get you up and running if you’re using CMS5.

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Entering Device Config Menu

Checking SD Card

Motion Recording

Enable Audio

Changing Camera Parameters

Set Camera Time

Playback Footage

How to Configure Gamut CMS5 PC Software

Read More : Gamut Surveillance Client Guide

Entering the Device Config Menu

For all of the steps below, you’ll have to first enter the ‘Device Config’ menu from the main page.

You will then have to select the camera from the ‘default group’ on the left hand pane.

From now on, whenever we talk about navigating to the ‘Device Config’ menu, it means following these steps.

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Checking SD Card

If your camera has SD card support, you can check the status of the card and format it under the ‘Disk Manager’  window under ‘Device Config’. A window like this means an SD card cannot be detected:

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If this is the case, ensure the memory card is inserted correctly in to the camera, and then power the camera off and then on. You should see some information populate the card field, such as a total size larger than 0MB. If the card shows an ‘Error’ in the status, you can highlight the row and click ‘Format’ on the side to re-format the card to work in the camera.

Note that the card gets formatted in a way that the CMS5 software can read, through the camera. If you remove the card and insert straight to your computer, it wont be able to be read and your computer will try and format the card before reading, which will remove all of the data. 

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Motion Recording

If your camera has a built in SD card reader, you can set up motion recording to capture events of interest, rather than sifting through hours of continuous footage. To enable this, navigate to ‘device config’, then select your camera on the left hand side.

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Enter the ‘record config’ menu and ensure that there is a tick in the ‘detect’ box. You can also set a schedule in the time section for when you want recording events to occur. By default, its set as 00:00 to 23:59, which is 24 hours a day. Click ‘apply’ to update any settings changes.

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Enable Audio

For cameras with a built-in microphone, or with an external microphone attached, you will have to enable audio for the camera. Now go to the encode option, you will see the mainstream Collom and extra stream Collom with four tick boxes at the bottom.

You will want all four of these boxes to be ticked and then press the apply and ok button.

On the live camera feed, you will see a speaker icon towards the top which you can click on to unmute the sound.

That’s everything set up, you will now be able to get audio on the live video feed from your camera.

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Changing Camera Parameters

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All of the cameras we sell will have preset parameters that will be suitable for most applications and usually won’t need to be amended. If you find that you need to change any settings, go to ‘device config’ and then ‘Camera Param’. Some of the settings are explained below:

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Set Camera Time

To keep an accurate log on when events have occurred, and to make searching for files easier, it’s best to keep the correct time set to the camera. Luckily, this is very simple to do. Navigate to the ‘Device Config’ window, and enter the ‘System Config’ menu.

Enter the system time in this menu apply these settings. 

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Playback Footage

If you have a camera with a built-in SD card, the footage will need to be played back and downloaded through the ‘Playback’ menu in CMS5. 

Select your camera from the right-hand side under the ‘Device’ menu.

Then set the parameters for the footage that you want to view. By default, the time parameters will be for today’s date, but you can modify this range, then click ‘search’.

The list of files and times will display on the bottom bar, as shown below.

Setting up your Gamut Pinhole IP Camera

Before You Begin

Test the Wi-Fi connection strength at the site of your pinhole camera using a smartphone, tablet or laptop. We suggest that you have a signal strength of at least 30%. 

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Download the XMEye app to your smartphone or tablet.

 Download for iOS        Download for Android

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Preparing Your Wi-Fi Pinhole Camera

Connecting the Camera Directly

When the camera is powered up, open the Wi-Fi settings on your smartphone or tablet and the following name should appear beye_***. Select and enter the password 1234567890

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Should this Wi-Fi Network not appear it may mean that you need to reset the camera.  To do this press and hold the reset button for 15 seconds on the camera as shown below.

Once connected, open the app and select the blue wireless icon at the bottom of the screen.

Your camera will be listed, so simply tap on it to check that you are receiving live images. 

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This method of connecting has limited functionality as you won’t be able to view the camera remotely or from other devices on your network. Furthermore, the range of the Wi-Fi from the camera in this mode is limited. 

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Therefore, we would recommend to now connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network.

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Connecting the Camera to Your Wi-Fi Network

First, ensure your smartphone or tablet is connected to the  Wi-Fi network you want the camera to use.

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Double press the white button found on the end of the cable on the camera.

Make sure you have the list of available Wi-Fi networks displaying on your device. You should see the beye_*** network disappear at the point of double pressing the button on your camera. 

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If this does not disappear you will want to turn the Wi-Fi off on your camera and then turn it back on again.

Next, open the app on your phone and tap the orange monitor/TV icon at the bottom (left).

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Now select the + icon in the top-right and tap Quick Configuration.

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Enter your Wi-Fi network password and select the two options Ensure the indicator and Device Operation.

Tap Complete all of the above operation at the bottom of the screen.

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You will be prompted with a question asking whether your device is post-2015; just select Yes.

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Wait for the app to scan the network and your device should show up as a green icon.

Tap this icon and it will automatically fill out all the details needed to connect to the camera.

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Select OK at the bottom of the screen.

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Your device will now show in your device list. Tap on the device in the list and then the name which appears beneath to view your camera.

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Hints & Tips

How to: Configure Port Forwarding on a Gamut Recorder

In this guide, we will go through setting up your Gamut Hybrid DVR for remote access so you can view it on your computer, Android and Apple mobile devices. Please follow through every step of the guide and make sure you keep notes of the IP Address correctly as these are needed.

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On your Android and Apple mobile devices, you will want to download the app called RXCamLinkPro.

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Step 1: Setting Up Your LAN (Internal Network)

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Step 2: Setting Up External Network Access

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* Go to PortForward.com, which has a comprehensive list of guides on how to forward ports for almost every router and hub ever manufactured. Simply select your router from the list and then click the “Click here to skip this advertisement…” link in the top right-hand corner of the next page. Then click the “Default Guide” link provided.

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Configuring Static IP or Dynamic DNS

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The last step in configuring your DVR involves finding a way around the fact that your external IP address (IP Address 3 from Section 2, Step 1 of this guide) changes on a  regular basis – think of it as writing a letter to someone who moves house every week! There are 2 ways of doing this, using either a Static IP address or a Dynamic DNS address.

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The easiest method is using a static IP address, but this can be expensive and not all internet service providers can facilitate it. To do this, call your ISP and ask them to arrange it for you (it’s not something you can easily do). Most ISPs will charge for this service, but once set up your external IP address (IP Address 3) will never change.

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To use a dynamic DNS service takes a little more setting up but is usually cheaper. The DVR is compatible with several DDNS providers, but we recommend Dyn.com (not affiliated with SpyCameraCCTV). Unfortunately, we cannot provide a step-by-step setting up guide for registering with these services.

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Need Help Setting Up?

If you are stuck and need extra help, in most cases our technical team can configure your DVR web access for you. We have two services available depending on the level of support you wish to have.

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How To: Connect To Your Gamut Recorder on Your iOS Device

Now that the port forwarding has been configured correctly you can start setting it up on your Apple Mobile Device. If you still need to configure this then you can visit here to set this up.

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The first step is downloading RXCamLinkPro onto your phone from the Apple App store.

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Once the app has finished downloading you want to load it up so that you can configure it. If you are wanting to view the camera while you are away from home you will want either a DNS address that you have set up or your external app address which can be located at canyouseeme.org.

With all the settings input correctly it will automatically take you over to the live camera view for your system.

How To: Connect To Your Gamut Recorder On Your Android Device

Now that the port forwarding has been configured correctly you can start setting it up on your Android Mobile Device. If you still need to configure this then you can visit here to set this up. 

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The first step is downloading RXCamLinkPro onto your phone from the Google Play store.

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Once the app has finished downloading you want to load it up so that you can configure it. If you are wanting to view the camera while you are away from home you will want either a DNS address that you have set up or your external app address which can be located at canyouseeme.org.

With all the settings input correctly it will automatically take you over to the live camera view for your system.

How to use two way audio on the Gamut Wireless Battery Powered CCTV System

Purpose of the Guide

This guide will show you what to do to use two-way audio between the wireless cameras and your smart phone.

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Before You Begin

You will need to have the recorder set up, connected to the internet, and paired to the cameras. 

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You will also need to connect your phone to the recorder by installing the RXCamView app.

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Let’s get Started

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Step 1

The first step is to activate the audio for each camera in the menu of the recorder. This is under ‘Channel’ in the main menu of the recorder.

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Step 2

Now we need to make sure the speaker icon is turned on in the app when viewing the live feed:

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Step 3

And finally, you just need to make sure that the camera has been activated by motion and is playing the live feed at the time, if it is in standby mode it won’t record any audio to send to the smart phone.

How to open the SPYPIR32WFGB / GT4TV2PIRGB

https://youtu.be/Lxn-tUw9-RI

How To: Add Your Gamut IP Camera to CMS5 Software on Windows PC

Thank you for purchasing one of our Gamut IP cameras! In this guide we will get the camera feed up on your Windows computer. Some basic computer knowledge – such as downloading and installing new programs – will be useful.

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Before You Begin

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Adding Your Camera to the Software

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Load up the CMS5 software. Your default UserName and Password will both be “admin”, allowing you to click “Login” right away. 

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Select your Wi-Fi network from the list and tick the DHCP box.

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Input your Wi-Fi password into the PPPOE Password box and press the apply button.

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Your camera will be connected to WiFi, you should be able to disconnect any Ethernet cables and still pick up the camera. Usually, it will take a minute or so for these changes to reflect in the software.

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Using iSpy you can do pretty much anything, from protecting your business and home with realtime SMS and Twitter alerts to scanning the skies for UFOs, nanny cams, machinery monitoring, neighbourhood watch, iSpy does it all! The best thing about iSpy though is that it’s open source and can therefore leverage some of the best open source libraries around representing literally millions of man hours of work – code that isn’t available to proprietary developers. No wonder iSpy is the most popular and downloaded home and business security and surveillance application in the world! It’s not just us saying that – check out our feedback.

This manual is a detailed guide to how iSpy works, what it can do and how you can get the most out of it. New software can seem daunting at first so we’ve put a lot of effort in to cover the most common scenarios along with comprehensive coverage of every feature of the software. iSpy has been designed to be easy to use although that simplicity belies the complexity under the hood – iSpy is capable of much more than just motion detection!

Throughout this guide we assume you have an iSpyConnect subscription and so have access to remote services, alerts, remote commands and the full feature set of the web side of iSpy. Without an online services subscription you are missing out on a large part of the functionality available within iSpy and iSpyConnect. Choose a subscription.

Supported Operating Systems

iSpy currently works on Windows based PCs only (both x86 and 64 bit versions). iSpy has been tested on Windows 7, 8 and 10 but may work on other Windows variants that support the .Net v4 Framework.

Recommended Hardware

Hardware recommendations vary a lot depending on how many cameras and microphones you are going to be using at any given time. A modern PC with 2GB of RAM and 200 GB of free hard disk space should be more than capable of running 4 cameras simultaneously at 320 x 240 resolution.

Performance Tips

iSpy will let you add an unlimited number of cameras and microphones – right up to the point where your computer cannot cope and will crash. Keep an eye on the performance counters on the status bar of iSpy as they will tell you when you are running out of memory or CPU. Note that CPU can spike when recording video and encoding. There are a number of things you can do to squeeze better performance out of iSpy:

You can also set a maximum CPU target value in settings. By default this is set to 90%. This means that when your CPU usage goes over 90% iSpy will start reducing the framerates of your cameras to help protect against a crash. Once the CPU drops back below 90% iSpy will increase the framerates again. Common causes for this are multiple simultaneous recordings or scheduled tasks like disk defragmenting.

Of course the better the hardware the better results you will get from iSpy. Using iSpyConnect you can connect multiple computers to one online account with a web based management interface that allows iSpy to scale up to any number of monitored cameras and microphones. A few of our users are monitoring over 150 cameras simultaneously via iSpyConnect. To work with multiple computers you must assign each computer a different external port address. See Multiple Computers for more information.

Agent DVR USER Guide

About

Agent DVR is a standalone replacement for iSpy that runs as a service, uses less CPU and features a web user interface that is accessible from anywhere with no port forwarding required!

We recommend that you use either iSpy or Agent – you can use both but it may cause issues with device drivers and network access.

Tip: Click the Menu button above to show/ hide the userguide index.

Using Agent DVR

Agent does not have a windows forms user interface like iSpy does. The user interface is all browser based via the local portal, web portal or mobile applications

Agent runs it’s own webserver. By default this is running at http://localhost:8090 on the PC running Agent (although it may be using a different port if that wasn’t available or was changed when it was installed – see the link “Agent UI” on the desktop on Windows). Agent will also work over your local network – you can use private IP addresses or computer names to access Agent locally (examples: http://192.168.1.10:8090 or http://nvr:8090). You may need to open your firewall to Agent for your local network.

Getting Started

Once you have the local UI open you can start adding devices to Agent. To add your first device click on the red Edit button in the UI:

You can use the top left menu to navigate Agent’s interfaces. The padlock indicates whether Agent is armed or not (will generate alerts). Click it to toggle. A green unlocked padlock means it’s disarmed. The  icon opens a menu to configure your Agent server settings. The menu next to that provides links to all the content views in Agent. The icon will change depending on which view you are currently working with.

Agent has help built into it – click on the “?” icon at top right of nearly all panels and menus to access contextual help.

Tip: Enable shortcut keys in Account menu – Theme Settings. “C” opens the Commands menu, “S” opens the server menu. Numeric digits open the various views. Enable Tool-Tips and mouse-over the bottom controls in the UI to show additional shortcut keys.

Any issues? First thing to check is the logs at /logs.html on the local server. That will give you details about any problems Agent is having. If that doesn’t help please feel free to jump onto our Reddit group and ask a question – include the logs and steps to reproduce the problem if possible.

Pro Tip: Watch a video to learn how to add cameras into Agent DVR with the wizard. Be sure to read the Performance Tips to get the most out of your system.

Supported Languages

The Agent DVR application has been translated into English, Arabic, Bengali, Czech, Danish, German, Spanish, Finnish, French, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Polish, Portugese, Russian, Swedish, Mandarin and Taiwanese.

To change the language, click on Account  – Language.

Installing

Download Agent DVR from here and run the installer. Agent runs as a service or as a console application on Windows 7+, Linux X64 (tested with Ubuntu 18.04+), OSX (+M1), Arm and Arm64 based operating systems (like Raspberry Pi).

Follow the setup instructions for your operating system on the download page

Once Agent is running, you can access it via most web browsers at http://localhost:8090

Installing (offline/ manual) on Windows

If for some reason you can’t use the installer from the download page (eg: no internet on the target device) then you can install AgentDVR on Windows offline instead. Note that the computer you install Agent DVR on will need to have network hardware installed and active for it to be able to start the server. Follow these steps:

Updating

Before updating Agent make sure you backup your configuration – either copy the files in Agent/Media/XML or export them via the web interface via server menu – backup/ restore.

You can check the update log for update inforrmation

If you have a business license or a subscription you can update Agent by clicking on the server menu and “Update Agent” at the top (will only display if an update is available).

To update Agent for Linux or OSX manually see the update instructions on the readme page of the install scripts

To update Agent for Windows manually just re-run the installer from the download page.

Uninstalling

If you installed Agent using the installer it will be in the add/ remove programs list on Windows. Use that to uninstall it. If it’s not there:

If Agent is running as a service then stop the service:

To remove the Agent DVR files just delete the Agent directory. By default Agent DVR is installed to C:\Program Files\Agent on Windows. On Linux/ OSX it will be installed wherever you ran the install script.

Troubleshooting Install

See offline install instructions for Agent DVR on Windows.

If the installer on Windows fails to complete and Agent doesn’t start or you are having issues accessing Agent or you need to use functionality that isn’t available when running as a windows service (like some GPU drivers and desktop monitoring) then you can run Agent from a command prompt:

Agent will then tell you if there are any problems starting and what local port it is running on. You can quit Agent at any time by pressing the enter key. When Agent is running in the console it is able to use more GPU devices and can record from the Desktop.

If you get an error like The type initializer for ‘Emgu.CV.Cuda.CudaInvoke’ threw an exception. on Windows you will need to install the Windows Media Feature Pack for your OS

If there is an anti virus app or firewall blocking Agent from listening on a local port then you may need to add Agent.exe to a safe list or open the port it is listening on in the local firewall.

If you are using a Windows N variant you will need to install the media feature pack for Windows N

On OSX, Linux and Raspberry Pi your system may not have some required libraries installed and Agent may fail to start with an error like libcvextern.so could not be found. You will need to use ldd or “objdump -r –dylibs-used /path/to/failed/library” on OSX to find which libraries are missing. To do this, open a terminal window, change to the Agent directory and run ldd libcvextern.so (or whatever library is causing issues). The output should tell you which dependencies need to be installed. Please let us know what’s needed and what operating system you are using so we can update our docs.

Corrupted Video / Playback Issues

Agent defaults to using UDP to connect to cameras. UDP is a fast network protocol which prioritises real-time, low delay video. Unfortunately UDP doesn’t have any error correction built into it so any electronic noise from faulty cabling to interference from power cables, amplifiers or other sources can result in corrupted video by the time the signal gets to Agent. You can switch to TCP instead which does have error correction built into it – but at the cost of some buffering and potential lag on the live feed. To switch to TCP instead, edit the camera, click to edit the Source on the General tab, select “FFMPEG” in the menu at top right and change the RTSP mode to TCP.

If you can’t get a good connection other options to try are available under General – Edit Source Type:

Corrupted video can result from too much noise on the network or when your computer is under too much load to decode the live video stream. Other ways to avoid it are to use a lower resolution video feed from the camera or to check the Resize option on the Adjustments tab when editing the camera.

Reolink Cameras are known to be susceptible to corrupted RTSP streams. You may get better results by going into the camera’s own User Interface and setting the encoder to use H264 instead of H265 (if available). Reolink cameras sometimes have alternate video endpoints that use the RTMP:// protocol instead of RTSP://. You can try using the Add Camera wizard in Agent DVR to scan the camera for RTMP:// options instead.

Stuttering Video? Some cameras (notably Reolink) emit frames in groups of audio and video which can result in stuttering live and recorded playback. To work around this, edit the camera, click to configure the videosource settings, select the FFMPEG tab and set a value for Max Delay (for example 4 seconds) and a value for Max Reorder Queue Size (for example 500).

Accessing Logs

Agent provides formatted live logs on the local server at /logs.html (so on a default install at http://localhost:8090/logs.html). As of version 3.5.6.0+ Agent also saves the 5 most recent raw logs in .json format to your Media location (on Windows that’s C:\Program Files\Agent\Media). You can use these for debugging and getting more information on what Agent is doing. You can also download the raw logs remotely via the server menu in the web portal. Feel free to jump on our Community boards to ask questions!

Upgrading from iSpy

Moving to a new Computer

Windows

Linux

OSX

Important

If you have a subscription you will now need to connect the new instance to your account – click on the Server icon in the local UI and Remote Access to pair it with your online account.

If you have a business license you will need to copy the license code to the new PC. See your license receipt email for instructions.

If you have a basic subscription and have 2 instances of Agent connected to your account only one will be visible on the web portal – you will need to stop the first one for the other to connect successfully.

If you had setup drives and storage directories on your old PC you will need to go into settings on the new PC and configure the storage settings for your new environment

Remove an instance from my account

You can either just uninstall Agent or if you want to keep it running just not connected to your account then:

Using Claim Codes

99% of the time you won’t need a claim code – they’re only used if you have installed Agent DVR on an operating system without a GUI and have retrieved a claim code by using the command line options. To connect your server to website services you just need to click on the server icon in the local Agent DVR UI and Remote Access. This will pass through the code to the website automatically.

Move instance to another account

Reset local login

If you’ve forgotten your login for local Agent DVR you can reset it (back to no login):

Remote Access

Agent DVR uses WebRTC to setup remote connections so doesn’t require any port forwarding setup and will work even over mobile internet connections. To connect remotely you will need to pair Agent with your iSpyConnect account. To do this, click on the server icon  in the local web interface and “Remote Access”. You’ll be redirected to the online portal.

Important: You do not need to install Agent DVR on other computers or setup port forwarding for remote access. Just open up a web browser on any device at https://www.ispyconnect.com/app once Agent is connected. Remote access to Agent is a subscription service.

Subscription not applied?: Usually payment notifications come through immediately and you are good to go – but sometimes it can take a few days for things to clear. With Agent DVR you don’t need a license code so no need to waiit for one to appear in your inbox – it’s all automatically done on our side.

If your trial had ended before you subscribed you will need to use the local UI of Agent DVR and click on the server icon and Remote Access button. This will tell Agent to reconnect to your account.

Is Agent is connecting with the same account you have upgraded? If it isn’t you will need to change it to link with the right account Any problems? Please Contact Us

No UI?: If you have downloaded Agent DVR to a VPS or a PC with no graphical UI you can still setup Agent for remote access by calling “Agent.exe register” on Windows or “agent-register.sh” on Linux/ OSX. This will give you a claim code you can use to access Agent from another PC.

Can’t connect?: In rare instances a connection may fail due to content filtering on a VPN connection. You’ll need to add exceptions in your content filtering software for *.ispyconnect.com and *.azurewebsites.net

Why use the website?: Agent uses webrtc for media connections which gets around most firewalls and port forwarding issues. On your local network your web browser can connect directly to Agent but for remote access web browsers can require SSL connections, STUN, TURN and relay servers for connection establishment which we provide via ispyconnect.com

Port Forwarding Access

Port forwarding is disabled with the free version of Agent DVR. To enable port forward access you will need to purchase a license. Note that port forward access isn’t guaranteed to work as some networks and firewalls will block the traffic that webrtc needs to establish a connection. If you have issues accessing Agent via port forwarding check that your firewall is not blocking the application and you have forwarded the following ports (both in and out) and unblocked them from any firewall or antivirus:

See SSL for instructions on setting up SSL connections.

LAN Access

To access Agent over your LAN you may need to open up several ports in your firewall/ antivirus as Agent uses Web RTC for connections:

To secure LAN access setup a login under Server Settings – Users. If you forget this password you can reset it by stopping Agent and calling “Agent.exe reset-local-login” on Windows or “agent-reset-local-login.sh” on OSX and Linux.

Some browser extensions can also block access so if you have issues connecting locally try a different browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox and the latest version of Edge should all work). Also try disabling any extensions and clearing your cache.

Passing in Parameters

You can add parameters to the url of the Agent DVR UI to customize it:

Set default theme options (theme options are available in the account menu – theme settings):

Auto play audio on load (v3.7.7.0+ may also require changing browser settings):

Start in minimised mode (top and bottom UI bars hidden) (v3.8.7.0+):

Pass in local username and password for auto login (v4.7.6.0+) (caution – this will expose your credentials to the network):

Start on a specific view and select a device (v4.9.8.0+)

Adding Cameras

Click on the Server icon  at the top left of the Agent UI and “Add Device” under Devices. Or in Live View click on the Edit icon  at the bottom right and “Add New Device”

Choose from the available list. To start the wizard, which walks you through discovering devices on the local network and uses the Agent camera database to connect to your camera click on “IP Camera Wizard”. If you have an ONVIF compatible camera click on “ONVIF”. If you have an RTSP or MJPEG or other URL already for your camera click on Video Source or if you are adding an audio source like a local USB microphone or other network audio source click on “Audio Source”.

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Configuration

The second step when adding a new device is to setup some basic features. If you check “Alerts” Agent will setup your camera with a simple motion detector so it’s ready to raise Alert events. To record when Agent detects motion check the “Record on Detect” option. If you have a high resolution camera you can check “Resize” to reduce the resolution of it and save some CPU usage. “Record Raw” means that Agent will record the stream directly from the camera to disk without encoding it which can dramatically reduce resource usage. Raw Record is only available for network video sources (not USB cameras or other local devices like Desktop streams). All of these options can be edited later.

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Using the Wizard

Start by typing the name of your camera manufacturer. Agent will provide suggestions. Click on a suggestion to select it. If your manufacturer isn’t known or isn’t listed you can choose “Unlisted” or if the model isn’t listed you can choose <Manufacturer>: Unlisted. Agent will use this to narrow down the addresses it will try to get a video connection (using just Unlisted may take a while as Agent has a database of tens of thousands of cameras).

Next enter your camera username and password. These should be the details you enter into the web or app interface to login to your camera (not your iSpyConnect.com login details!)

Enter the Channel (usually 0 for IP cameras but if you have a DVR with multiple cameras attached to it this might be a different number)

Next you will need to find or enter the Network Address of your camera. Agent can discover local addresses automatically. There’s usually not a lot of information available about the devices from the network scan unfortunately so this might take a bit of trial and error. Click on the Device name to open the address up in a web browser (if you’re on the same network Agent is running on) and if it’s your IP camera click “Use” next to it. Alternatively you can enter your network address manually. This should be formatted like http://IP-ADDRESS:PORT or https://WEB-ADDRESS:PORT if you are adding a camera from an internet address. Click the  icon to make Agent re-scan your network for devices.

Tip: It’s important to setup your IP cameras with static IP addresses on your local network. If the IP address changes then Agent won’t be able to connect to it. You can usually do this via your router configuration. There’s a good guide for this here 

When you have selected an address Agent will use the information you provided to scan the camera for available video endpoints. The ones it finds are provided in a list. Click “Use” to select it and finish adding the camera.

Tip: Try to choose an IP Camera option (instead of MJPEG or JPEG). IP Camera options frequently have audio and better framerates.

If nothing is found double check the details you entered are correct. You may need to contact the manufacturer and ask them how to connect directly to their camera video streams and then add a device using “Video Source” and manually configure the video stream URL instead of using the Wizard, or if it supports ONVIF then add it as an ONVIF device instead.

Live View

The live view is where you watch live streams from your devices. You can setup multiple live views in Agent and add whatever devices you like to them. Agent will intelligently arrange your devices to maximise the available space on whatever device you are using.

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Panel markers

The live view has some markers to provide device state and recording status:

Buttons/ Icons

The live view has icons along the bottom for controlling the selected device and the view itself. Buttons on the left control the current active device in the UI and on the right control the current View. The buttons on the left can change depending on what type of device is selected and what state it is currently in. Mouse-over the buttons to see a tool-tip explaining what they do and optional shortcut keys.

Buttons you may see in the device (left) section include:

Buttons you may see in the view (right) section include:

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Using Views

Click the views icon  at bottom right to open the views menu. Each view shows a preview of the layout that is associated with it. Click on a view button to switch to that view. If you set Cycle to a non-zero number like 3, Agent will automatically cycle through any views containing devices every 3 seconds. Default View sets the view that Agent first displays when you open the browser.

To edit the view (add devices to the view, rename, change layout etc) click on the edit icon  at bottom right.

To manually cycle through configured views from the live screen use the  and  controls (note: these will only show views you have added devices to)

See layouts for more information on using and customising layouts.

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Using the PTZ Controller

Click on the  icon to show/ hide the PTZ controller. Click on a device in the live view to select it and then you can use the PTZ controller to control it. Make sure you have configured PTZ on the device – edit the device and see See PTZ.

Gamepad/ Joystick control:

As of v3.9.7.0+ Agent supports PTZ via gamepad controls:

Tips:

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COMPRESSION FOMAT

Standard H.264 compression with low bit rate and better image quality

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LIVE SURVEILLANCE

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RECORD MEDIA

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BACKUP

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RECORD & PLAYBACK