FAQ

Generally, camera packages do not include the required CAT 6 cables. These are either purchased seperately, or provided by your installer. Every installation is different, and different lengths of cable are required for each camera link in every different environment, so your installer will calculate what is required for your installation.

We do have some Pre-Terminated CAT 6 lengths available if you need them.

• Please note most manufacturers recommend the use of a good quality CAT 6 cable for optimum performance and reliability.

Integrating new CCTV cameras and Network Video Recorders (NVRs) with older existing systems can be challenging due to various compatibility issues. Here are some key factors that affect compatibility:

1. Connection Type: Older CCTV systems often use analog video outputs (like BNC connectors), while modern cameras and NVRs typically use digital IP-based technologies. Adapters or converters may be necessary, or you might need to consider hybrid systems that support both analog and digital inputs.
2. Video Formats and Resolutions: Different systems may support different video formats and resolutions. Newer cameras often provide high-definition video which might not be supported by older NVRs. Ensuring that the resolution and format of the video from the new cameras can be handled by the older system is crucial.
3. Software and Firmware Compatibility: The software or firmware versions of the new cameras and NVRs may not be compatible with those of the existing systems. This can affect the ability to view or record video streams, and may require firmware updates or software patches.
4. Networking Protocols: Newer IP cameras use network protocols that may not be supported by older systems. Protocols like ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) are designed to ensure interoperability between different manufacturers’ devices, but not all older equipment supports such standards.
5. Physical and Electrical Compatibility: Physical connectors, power supply requirements, and PoE (Power over Ethernet) standards need to be compatible. Newer cameras might use different power specifications than what the older system can provide, requiring additional power solutions.
6. Features and Functionality: Advanced features like motion detection, facial recognition, or analytics provided by new cameras might not be supported by older NVRs. This limitation can prevent users from taking full advantage of newer technologies.
7. Manufacturer and Brand Specific Limitations: Sometimes, certain brands or models are designed to work only within their own ecosystem, limiting the ability to integrate with devices from other manufacturers unless explicitly supported.

To address these issues, it’s often helpful to consult with the manufacturers, a professional installer, or of course our friendly staff who can provide specific guidance on compatibility and necessary upgrades or replacements to ensure a seamless integration of new CCTV cameras and NVRs into existing systems.

When considering the purchase of a security system, particularly from high-quality brands like HikVision, HiLook, and Dahua, there are several factors to take into account. These brands are recognized for their superior quality and features compared to many of the security systems commonly found at hardware, office supply, and general retail stores. Here are the key considerations:

1. Assessment of Risk: Before choosing a security system, it’s crucial to assess the specific risks and security needs of your property. Determine what you are trying to protect against – whether it’s burglary, vandalism, or monitoring access to certain areas. This will help you decide which features are necessary, such as motion detection, night vision, or perimeter alarms.
2. CCTV Options: CCTV (closed-circuit television) is a cornerstone of modern security systems. When evaluating CCTV solutions from HikVision, HiLook, and Dahua:
   • Camera Resolution: Higher resolution cameras offer clearer images, which can be crucial for identifying intruders or other details.
   • Field of View: Consider the area each camera can cover. Wide-angle lenses reduce the number of cameras needed for full coverage but can sometimes offer less detail at the periphery.
   • Night Vision: Ensure that the cameras provide high-quality night vision, a common feature where these brands excel, to maintain security around the clock.
3. Alarm Systems: Alarms are essential for alerting you and potentially scaring off intruders. HikVision offers and integrated alarm system that can be linked with the HikVision and HiLook CCTV solutions. Consider features like:
   • Functionality: The HikVIsion AX Pro Alarm offers a wide range of devices with extended functionality.
   • Type of Alerts: Systems can provide different alert types, from loud alarms to notifications sent directly to your phone or local authorities.
4. Storage Solutions: Since your preference excludes cloud storage, focus on local storage options. These brands provide NVR (Network Video Recorder) systems that store high-resolution video locally. Ensure the storage capacity meets your needs based on the number of cameras and the amount you wish to record before overwriting old data. The amount of storage you require should also be considered,
5. Access and Integration: Modern security systems often offer remote access through mobile apps or web interfaces. Check that the systems from HikVision, HiLook, or Dahua allow you to easily monitor and manage the security settings from anywhere, without requiring a costly cloud storage solution.
6. Reliability and Support: Consider the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer. Reliable customer support can be crucial for troubleshooting and ensuring your system operates effectively.
7. Installation and Maintenance: Evaluate whether you will need professional installation or if you can handle it yourself. Also, consider the ease of maintenance of the systems you are considering.

By focusing on these key areas, you can select a security system that effectively addresses your specific security needs with robust and reliable technology from trusted brands like HikVision, HiLook, and Dahua. These systems are designed to provide a higher level of security and performance compared to many other commercially available options.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) are crucial for providing backup power during electrical outages, ensuring the protection of sensitive electronic equipment. The lifespan of UPS batteries, particularly those that are sealed lead-acid (SLA) types, which are common in many UPS systems, varies based on several factors including the make, model, usage, and the environment in which they are stored. Here’s a detailed exploration:

Typical Lifespan

• General Expectation: On average, UPS batteries have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years. However, this range can vary significantly based on the battery’s design, quality, and the conditions under which it’s used and stored.

Factors Affecting Lifespan

1. Temperature: The optimal storage temperature for most UPS batteries is around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Temperatures higher or lower can significantly reduce battery life. For instance, for every 10 degrees Celsius increase in temperature, the battery life can be halved.
2. Cycling Frequency: The more frequently a UPS goes through charge and discharge cycles, the shorter its battery life will be. This is due to the wear and tear on the battery materials with each cycle.
3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and calibration of the UPS can help extend battery life. Some UPS systems have features that optimize battery life by regulating charge voltage based on the battery temperature.
4. Design and Quality: High-quality batteries with robust design features can last longer than cheaper alternatives. Batteries designed for deep-cycle use, for example, may last longer in applications where frequent power outages occur.

Maintenance Tips for Extending Battery Life

• Keep at Recommended Temperature: Store and operate the UPS in a climate-controlled environment to prevent exposure to high temperatures.
• Regular Testing and Inspection: Periodically test the UPS system to ensure it’s operating correctly and inspect batteries for signs of wear or damage.
• Proper Loading: Avoid overloading the UPS system, as excessive loads can strain the battery, reducing its lifespan.
• Timely Replacement: Even with optimal conditions, batteries will degrade over time. Replacing batteries at the end of their rated service life, or sooner if performance declines, ensures the reliability of the UPS system.

Conclusion

While UPS batteries generally last between 3 to 5 years, their actual lifespan can vary greatly depending on several factors, including environmental conditions, usage patterns, and maintenance practices. Understanding and managing these factors can help extend the life of your UPS battery, ensuring a better return on investment and continued protection for your critical equipment.

Using an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) with your CCTV or alarm system is not a mandatory requirement, but it is highly recommended for several reasons. Below are key considerations that detail why incorporating a UPS into your security setup can be beneficial:

1. Continuous Operation During Short Term Power Outages

• CCTV Systems: Power interruptions can lead to gaps in video surveillance. A UPS ensures that your CCTV system continues to operate uninterrupted during short-term power outages, maintaining constant security monitoring.
• Alarm Systems: Similarly, an alarm system connected to a UPS will remain active and functional when the power goes out, ensuring that your property is protected at all times.

2. Protection Against Power Surges

• UPS units typically offer surge protection, shielding your sensitive CCTV and alarm system components from damage caused by power surges. This can extend the lifespan of your equipment and prevent costly repairs or replacements.

3. Data Integrity

• For digital CCTV systems, sudden power losses can corrupt data and lead to the loss of important surveillance footage. A UPS provides a buffer that can prevent data corruption by allowing systems to shut down properly.

4. Increased System Reliability

• Incorporating a UPS can significantly enhance the reliability of your security systems. Knowing that your CCTV and alarm systems will remain operational during power fluctuations adds an extra layer of security. Additionally, some UPS units provide EFI filtering which helps to address issues relating to poor quality power supply and mitigate it’s effects on electronic circuits.

5. Cost-Effectiveness

• The investment in a UPS can be cost-effective in the long run. It prevents potential losses from theft or vandalism during power outages and avoids the expenses associated with repairing or replacing equipment damaged by power issues.

How to Choose the Right UPS

When selecting a UPS for your CCTV or alarm system, consider the following factors:

• Power Capacity: Calculate the total power consumption of your security system to ensure the UPS can support it for a sufficient duration.
• Run Time: Consider how long you need the UPS to keep your systems running during an outage. This will depend on your specific security needs and the typical duration of power outages in your area.
• Quality and Features: Look for a UPS with a good track record of reliability and features such as automatic voltage regulation, surge protection, and user-friendly status indicators.

Conclusion

While not strictly necessary, using a UPS with your CCTV and alarm systems is a wise precaution that enhances security, protects your investment, and ensures peace of mind. The choice to use a UPS should be based on an assessment of your security needs, the value of the assets being protected, and the reliability of your local power supply.

WizSense and AcuSense are both advanced security technologies that utilize deep learning algorithms for enhanced surveillance capabilities, developed by Dahua Technology and Hikvision, respectively. While both technologies aim to minimize false alarms and improve the accuracy of threat detection, they are designed for integration into different ecosystems of products and have distinct features tailored to their respective brand’s offerings.

WizSense, developed by Dahua Technology, is a series of AI products and solutions that employ an independent AI chip and deep learning algorithm. It is designed to accurately recognize humans and vehicles within an image, allowing users to concentrate on real threats. WizSense aims to deliver intelligent video analysis, simplifying operations and enhancing the efficiency of video surveillance systems.

AcuSense, on the other hand, is Hikvision’s approach to applying deep learning algorithms within select security cameras and video recorders. AcuSense technology is engineered to automatically detect humans and vehicles through real-time video analytics, providing instant notifications to users. By distinguishing between human and vehicle movements and other innocuous movements (such as animals, falling leaves, or heavy rain), AcuSense aims to reduce false alarms significantly, enabling users to focus on genuine security threats.

Both technologies represent their companies’ strides towards integrating artificial intelligence into security systems, making advanced surveillance accessible and reducing the workload on monitoring personnel by filtering out irrelevant alerts. While they share a common goal of improving surveillance efficiency and accuracy, the choice between WizSense and AcuSense may come down to compatibility with existing security systems, specific feature preferences, and brand loyalty.

Please follow the following steps:

1. From the NVR Admin menu select. CONFIGURATION => RECORD => PARAMETER
2. Select the desired camera
3. Immediately below this firstly select MAIN STREAM and change the stream type to VIDEO & AUDIO
4. Immediately next to this select SUB-STREAM and change the stream type to VIDEO & AUDIO
5. Press the APPlY button to apply these changes.

In addition to the above instructions, we have made a brief video to illustrate the points above.

Choosing between a 2.8mm and 4mm lens for CCTV cameras largely depends on the intended use and the area you wish to cover. A 2.8mm lens is generally favored for its wider field of view, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor environments across domestic, retail, commercial, and general applications. This lens allows for broader coverage, which is ideal for monitoring large areas with a single camera, such as front and back yards, retail spaces, warehouse space, parking lots and other open areas. For specific situations or settings where detail at a distance beyond the range of a 2.8mm is important, a 4mm lens might be considered, but the versatility and coverage provided by a 2.8mm lens often make it the preferred choice. Also, if detail at a distance is required, a varifocal camera may be a better choice than a 4mm lens. It’s important to consult with a professional to ensure the chosen lens meets your specific requirements and maximizes the effectiveness of your CCTV system. If in doubt, call us…. we’re here to help!

All products we offer are sourced exclusively from Authorised Australian Distributors, ensuring they are specifically designated for the Australian market. We firmly stand against the sale of grey imports. As such, every item you purchase from us is fully covered by the manufacturer’s warranty applicable within Australia, guaranteeing authenticity and local support for your peace of mind. This policy ensures that our customers receive only genuine products that adhere to the specifications set for the Australian market, backed by manufacturer support.

Choosing between a 6MP and an 8MP camera for your CCTV system depends on your specific needs for image quality, area coverage, and storage considerations.

• 6MP cameras offer high-resolution images that are suitable for most security needs, requiring less storage space than 8MP cameras. They provide a good balance between image clarity and file size, making them cost-effective for many applications.
• 8MP cameras, also known as 4K cameras, deliver superior image quality with more detail, especially useful for covering larger areas or when a limited digital zoom is needed without significant loss of detail. However, they require more bandwidth and storage capacity.

Pros of 6MP:

• Sufficient resolution for general surveillance needs.
• Lower storage and bandwidth requirements than 8MP.

Cons of 6MP:

• Less detail compared to 8MP, especially in zoom.

Pros of 8MP:

• Higher detail and clarity, beneficial for identifying subjects at a distance.
• Better for large area surveillance.

Cons of 8MP:

• Higher cost for storage and bandwidth.
• Potentially higher initial cost.

Your choice should align with your surveillance objectives, considering the trade-offs between resolution, storage, and cost.

PLEASE NOTE that whilst a standard fixed lens 8mp camera will allow for a limited digital zoom due to it’s higher resolution, it does not replace the function of varifocal or PTZ cameras which have an optical zoom. If a zoom requirement is important to you, you should discuss this with your installer, or feel free to call us…. we’re here to help!

When you buy one of our CCTV kits, a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) will generally already be installed in the system when specified. The capacity of the pre-installed HDD can be found both on the product’s page and on your invoice. If it is not clearly shown, then it is not included. If however you’re purchasing an NVR separately, it generally does not include a HDD unless the product description explicitly states otherwise, as is the case with certain HikVision NVR models.

Should you need a Surveillance HDD tailored to your NVR, or if you’re looking to expand your system with additional drives (if your NVR accommodates more than one HDD), we invite you to explore our wide range of options here:

https://commsdirect.com.au/product-category/cctv-systems/cctv-systems-by-brand/dahua-solutions/dahua-accessories/dahua-hdd-storage/

We recommend verifying the number of HDDs your NVR can support before making any additional purchases.

The Hikvision SADP tool, which stands for Search Active Device Protocol, is a user-friendly and powerful utility developed by Hikvision. This tool is designed to help users search for Hikvision devices such as IP cameras, NVRs, and DVRs within a local network. It is an indispensable resource for both installers and end-users for setting up and maintaining Hikvision security solutions efficiently.

Key Features of the Hikvision SADP Tool:

• Device Search: Quickly identifies Hikvision devices connected to the local network, displaying key information such as IP addresses, device models, and serial numbers.
• Network Configuration: Allows for the modification of network parameters of Hikvision devices, including IP addresses, gateways, and port numbers, facilitating seamless integration into your network.
• Password Reset: Provides a secure way to reset device passwords, ensuring access control and system security.
• Firmware Information: Displays the firmware version of the devices, helping users identify if an update is required for the latest features and security patches.

Where Can I Find the Hikvision SADP Tool?

To download the Hikvision SADP tool, please follow these steps:

1. ·  Visit the official Hikvision website and  Download from Hikvision’s official website.
2. ·  Find the SADP tool from the list of available tools and select it.
3. ·  Choose the version that is compatible with your operating system (Windows or MacOS).
4. ·  Click on the download link and follow the instructions to install the tool on your computer.

Getting Started:

Once installed, you can open the SADP tool to begin searching for Hikvision devices on your network. The interface is straightforward, allowing for easy navigation and operation. Should you need any assistance in using the SADP tool or have any further questions, Hikvision provides comprehensive user guides and support services to help you maximize the utility of this tool.

The Hikvision SADP tool is a critical asset for the effective management and setup of Hikvision security devices, ensuring that users can enjoy the full potential of their security systems with minimal effort.

Thank you for your inquiry about locating your courier tracking details. We understand the importance of being able to track your order every step of the way and are committed to providing you with timely and accurate shipping information.

When the pick up of your order has been booked with the relevant courier, our system automatically generates a confirmation email which is sent directly to the billing email address associated with your order. This email serves a dual purpose: not only does it confirm that your goods have been cleared for dispatch and are awaiting imminent pickup, but it also contains the essential tracking details you’ll need to follow the progress of your delivery.

Here’s what you can expect in the shipment confirmation email:

1. Shipment Confirmation: A brief statement confirming that your goods are awaiting imminent pickup by the designated courier.
2. Tracking Details: A tracking number unique to your order, along with a direct link to the courier’s tracking page. By clicking on this link or entering the tracking number on the courier’s website, you can access real-time updates on your shipment’s status, location, and estimated delivery date.
3. Tax Invoice: Attached to the same email, you will find a PDF document of your tax invoice for the order. This invoice includes a detailed breakdown of your purchase, including itemized costs, taxes applied, and the total amount billed.

How to Use Your Tracking Details:

• Click on the link provided in your shipment confirmation email to be redirected to the courier’s tracking page. Alternatively, visit the courier’s official website and enter the provided tracking number in their tracking section.
• For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check your tracking details periodically until your package arrives.

Didn’t Receive an Email?

If you haven’t received a shipment confirmation email from us within a reasonable timeframe after placing your order, please check your email account’s “Spam” or “Junk” folders to ensure it wasn’t mistakenly filtered. If the email is not found, please contact our customer service team with your order details, and we will promptly assist you in retrieving your tracking information.

We appreciate your business and are here to ensure that your experience with us is smooth and satisfactory. Should you have any further questions or require additional assistance, do not hesitate to reach out.

Absolutely we do. Our range of Cat6 Pre-Terminated CCTV cables come in Blue, and in lengths of 5m, 10m, 15m 20m, 25m and 50m from stock. No wasting time cutting, crimping and terminating cables with RJ45 plugs. No need to worry about cable pairing conventions. With these high quality leads, run between the NVR and the camera. Plug one end into the camera, the other into the NVR and that link is done.

When to Expect Your Refund:
We strive to process refunds swiftly and efficiently. Here’s how our refund process works:

1. For Returned Goods:
   • If you return an item with an authorized Return Authorization (RA) number, we’ll start the refund process once we email you to confirm the receipt, inspection, and written acceptance of the returned item, ensuring it aligns with our return policy. Signing for, and receiving returned goods does not signify acceptance and confirmation of the goods for the purpose of a refund. This only signifies that we have received the goods you have returned and that we will assess them in line with our returns policy.
2. For Cancelled Orders:
   • If your order hasn’t shipped and doesn’t involve custom-built or special order items, we’ll process your refund once we confirm in writing that your order has been cancelled as per your instructions.
3. Written Confirmation of Refunds:
   • If we confirm via written communication that a refund will be issued for any specified reason, we’ll initiate the refund process accordingly.
4. EFT Payments:
   • If you paid via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) and a refund is due, we’ll need you to provide your bank details (including your Name, BSB, and Account Number) to process the refund. The refund process begins the day after we receive your bank details.

Refund Timing:
Refunds are generally processed by us within 5-7 business days from the applicable date based on the scenarios above, however this can vary over holiday periods. It may take a few days longer for refunds returned to the credit card used to pay for the original transaction to appear on your account, depending on your bank or other financial institution. Refunds made by us via EFT will in most cases appear on the same day we process the refund, or alternatively, the next business day.

Refund Method:

• For payments made by methods other than EFT, your refund will be credited back to your original payment method.
• For payments made by EFT, upon receiving your bank details, we will process your refund via EFT.

Providing Bank Details for EFT Refunds:
To process an EFT refund, we require your bank account information. Please ensure you provide accurate details to avoid any delays in receiving your refund. We will require: : Account Name, BSB, and Account #.

Questions?
If you have any questions regarding the refund process or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team. We’re here to help ensure your refund is processed smoothly.