So at work we have hired some new Techs that have limited experience with CCTV. So to train them up the Owner decided to swap out the old CCTV system to the latest and greatest IP based CCTV system with different Cameras to show off to customers. This has failed in a bad way and this got me thinking to share my Experiences and Tips for troubleshooting.
Existing IP Cameras, New NVR
Before slapping the Cameras onto a brand new NVR you need to do either two things for this to work. If you don’t you’re going to be kicking yourself for hours.
You need to reuse the old Admin password or IP Channel password (depends on the brand you use). If it’s a Hikvision based system reuse both Admin and IP Channel passwords. Also make sure you’re using the same IP Subnet. A lot of IP NVRs will learn in a Camera and set a Static IP. Make sure to do this to the NVR before plugging in any Cameras.
The other way is to use a Computer and access each Camera and change the Password to whatever you want to use on the new NVR. Also change the IP from Static to DHCP. Some CCTV companies have software tools for doing this. Hikvision for a example has the SADP Tool and Dahua has the IP Config Tool.
The last option and you’ll know you’re in trouble, at this point is to take down the Camera get 12 volt wall wart and factory reset the Camera. It differs to the Manufacturer, some you have to hold in the Reset then disconnect power then turn the power back on while holding reset. Others you hold in Reset the whole time. Others you just hold in Reset for 10 seconds. I’ve had better luck only applying power to the Camera for this. With the Data going on the DHCP Server of either the Network or NVR probably interferes with the Reset.
Cabling
Always test the cabling before plugging in Camera. All it takes is to short out the Camera and it could become a paper weight. Cable Testers are cheap these days. Also avoid using the passthru RJ45 ends. If you don’t have the right Tool or if the blade is dull then you’re in trouble.
Also rule of thumb is do not go over 328ft with the Cable. Some systems you can but will end up with handshake issues. There are inline boosters that is basically a 1 to 1 Ethernet Switch but they can cost a pretty penny and might require power.
The IT Garage 