CCTV Troubleshooting: Fix Camera Issues Like a Pro!

CCTV Troubleshooting: Fix Camera Issues Like a Pro!

Security cameras are critical for businesses—but when they fail, security is at risk.
Nothing is worse than hearing, “The cameras went offline right before the incident.”
If you’re in IT Support, System Administration, or Security Infrastructure, you NEED to know how to troubleshoot CCTV systems efficiently.
Here are 6 common CCTV problems and how to fix them like a Senior IT Specialist!
1. CCTV Camera Not Powering On
What Happens?
The camera has no LED lights, no video signal, and won’t respond.
✅ How to Fix It:
1️⃣ Check power supply voltage (Most cameras need 12V DC or PoE).
2️⃣ If PoE-powered, verify switch power with:
bash
CopyEdit
show power inline
3️⃣ Test with a different power adapter or PoE injector.
4️⃣ Inspect cables & connectors for damage.
5️⃣ Try a factory reset (Refer to camera model guide).
2. No Video Signal or Black Screen
What Happens?
The camera is on, but the DVR/NVR isn’t receiving video.
✅ How to Fix It:
1️⃣ Check if the camera is listed in the NVR settings.
2️⃣ If using BNC cables (Analog):
✔ Ensure coaxial cables aren’t damaged.
✔ Switch to another video input port.
3️⃣ If using IP Cameras:
✔ Verify network connectivity with:
powershell
CopyEdit
ping camera-IP-address
✔ Check if the camera IP matches the subnet of the NVR.
✔ Try reconnecting via ONVIF or RTSP stream.
3. CCTV Footage is Blurry or Distorted
What Happens?
Video appears fuzzy, pixelated, or has interference.
✅ How to Fix It:
1️⃣ Adjust camera focus & lens settings manually.
2️⃣ Use higher-quality coaxial cables (for analog systems).
3️⃣ If using IP cameras, check network bandwidth:
powershell
CopyEdit
Get-NetAdapterStatistics
4️⃣ For wireless cameras, reduce Wi-Fi interference by changing the channel.
5️⃣ Ensure NVR recording settings are set to highest resolution & frame rate.
4. NVR/DVR Not Recording
What Happens?
The system is online, but no footage is saved.
✅ How to Fix It:
1️⃣ Check storage space—run:
powershell
CopyEdit
Get-Volume
2️⃣ Format the HDD inside the NVR (Menu > Storage > Format).
3️⃣ If the HDD isn’t detected, replace it with a Surveillance-Grade HDD (WD Purple, Seagate SkyHawk).
4️⃣ Verify motion detection & schedule settings in the recording menu.
5️⃣ Restart the DVR/NVR and check logs for errors.
Master CCTV Troubleshooting & Secure Your Business!
CCTV failures can put businesses at risk. The best IT professionals don’t just install cameras—they know how to troubleshoot and fix issues fast.

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Source: LinkedIn

Credits: Mr. Amir Sakr