FAQ

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.

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.

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.

When you buy one of our CCTV kits, in many cases 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. Be aware that some of our kits do not include a HDD, so you can choose a capacity that is right for you. If it is not clearly stated that a Hard Disk of a particular capacity is included, then a HDD is not included. If you are 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.

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.

To update the firmware:

1. Visit the official HiLook website to download the latest firmware version for your camera and NVR.
2. Save the firmware files to a USB flash drive.
3. Insert the USB flash drive into the NVR’s USB port.
4. Access the NVR’s menu, navigate to the system or maintenance settings, and select the firmware upgrade option.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to select the firmware file for the upgrade process. Ensure not to power off the device during the update.

Note: It’s crucial to ensure that the firmware is specifically designed for your model to avoid damaging the device and voiding warranty.

If the camera is not recording, consider the following checks:

• Recording Schedule: Ensure a recording schedule is set. You might have it set only to record on motion detection or at specific times.
• Storage: Verify that the NVR’s hard drive is properly installed, recognized, and has sufficient free space.
• Camera/NVR Configuration: Double-check that the camera is enabled for recording in the NVR’s settings. There might be specific settings that prevent continuous recording or recording under certain conditions.

If you’re unable to view the live feed, check the following:

• Physical Connections: Ensure the camera is properly connected to the NVR via an Ethernet cable.
• Power Supply: Verify both the camera and the NVR are powered on.
• IP Configuration: Ensure the camera’s IP address is compatible with the NVR’s network range. Auto-IP assignment should typically handle this, but manual configuration may be necessary in some networks.
• Compatibility: Make sure the camera is compatible with the NVR, especially regarding resolution and protocol support.

Setting up your HiLook IP camera with an NVR involves a few straightforward steps:

1. Connect the Camera: Physically connect your HiLook IP camera to the NVR using an Ethernet cable. Plug one end into the camera and the other end into one of the PoE (Power over Ethernet) ports on the NVR.
2. Power and Initialization: Ensure both the camera and the NVR are powered on. The NVR should automatically detect the camera and initialize it.
3. Configuration: Access the NVR’s menu using a connected monitor and a mouse. Navigate to the camera management section to see the connected cameras. Here, you can configure settings such as IP address allocation, recording schedules, and motion detection areas.

To reset your HiLook IP camera to factory settings, follow these steps:

1. Locate the Reset Button: Find the reset button on your camera. This is often located on the underside or back of the camera, possibly under a protective cover.
2. Press and Hold: Using a small, pointed object, press and hold the reset button for 30 to 40 seconds.
3. Wait for Reboot: Release the button and wait for the camera to reboot. This may take a few minutes.
4. Reconfigure: After resetting, you’ll need to reconfigure your camera settings.

Embarking on the journey to access your camera feeds remotely via HiLookVision requires a few straightforward steps. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from initial configuration to the final connection using your smartphone. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to monitor your cameras anytime, anywhere.

Initial Configuration on Your Device

1. Navigate to the HiLookVision Settings: Start by opening the Configuration menu on your device. Look for the “Network” section, and within that, you’ll find the option for “HiLookVision.” This is your gateway to enabling remote viewing capabilities.
2. Activating HiLookVision: Within the HiLookVision settings, you’ll come across a field labeled “Access Type.” Please ensure that you select “HiLookVision” from the options available. This action signifies that you are opting to use HiLookVision for remote access.
3. Enabling the Service: You’ll notice an “Enable” switch or button within the same menu. Turning this on is crucial as it activates the HiLookVision service. Upon doing so, a set of service terms will appear on your screen. Carefully read through these terms and click “OK” to agree, signifying that you understand and accept the conditions laid out for using the HiLookVision service.
4. Verification Code Setup: The next step involves setting up a verification code. This code plays a vital role in ensuring the security of your connection. Click on the specified area to create your unique code. Remember, you will need to use this code later when setting up the app on your smartphone, so keep it in a safe and accessible place.

Connecting via Smartphone

1. Downloading the HiLookVision App: Now, shift your focus to your smartphone. You’ll need the HiLookVision app to view your cameras remotely. This app is readily available for download at the HiLookVision official app store – you can access it directly through https://appstore.hikvision.com. Ensure you download the official app to avoid any security risks.
2. Scanning the Device QR Code: With the HiLookVision app installed on your smartphone, open the app and proceed to scan the QR code displayed on your device’s monitor. This QR code is a direct link to your specific camera setup, ensuring a secure and personalized connection.
3. Accessing Your Cameras: Once the QR code has been successfully scanned, the app will connect to your device. You should now be able to view live feeds from your cameras directly on your smartphone. This accessibility allows you to monitor your premises remotely, offering peace of mind and real-time surveillance capabilities.

By following these detailed steps, you’ve successfully configured your device for remote access and connected it to your smartphone via the HiLookVision app. This setup not only enhances the security of your premises but also offers you the flexibility to monitor your cameras from any location, at any time. Should you encounter any issues during setup or require further assistance, don’t hesitate to consult the HiLookVision support resources or contact their customer service for personalized guidance.