DH Vision currently offers a few cameras with Wi-Fi capability such as the K100W cube camera and the HF3500N-W box camera. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to setup the Wi-Fi connection on Dahua Wi-Fi capable cameras. NOTE: The guide uses the HF3500N-W with Software Version 2.212.0001.0.R, build 2013-12-24 and WEB Version 3.2.1.159256.
1. Connect the camera via Ethernet cable to the local area network (LAN).
2. Using a web browser, log into the cameras Web Service using the device’s IP address. The IP address can be found using the Config Tool (Windows only).
3. Allow the web plugin to install. If having trouble viewing cameras in a web browser, refer to the Cannot view the video recorder or network camera on the web browser (Windows) article.
4. After logging into the Web Service, navigate to the Setup tab and then on the left select the Network > TCP/P menu.
5. If the camera supports Wi-Fi, in the TCP/IP menu, there will be an Ethernet Card option that will allow a default card to be selected. Selected the Wireless option and then click the Select as Default Card button. Note the IP Address is different than the one used to access the camera using a wired connection. Make sure the IP address is available or select a new address to be used.
6. Navigate to the Network > WIFI menu. Check the Enable option on. Click the Search SSID button. After a few moments the ID List will populate with available Wi-Fi routing devices.
7. Select the SSID of the routing device that the camera will connect to. A dialog box will display requiring a password (WEP key). Enter in the WEP key (if applicable) and click the Connecting button. If the key was entered correctly and camera connects successfully, a connected status will be displayed in the WIFI Info section.
8. Test the camera by disconnecting the Ethernet cable and entering in the Wireless IP address noted from Step 5 into the web browser. If the Web Service is accessible, log in and verify the image quality.
NOTE: Wi-Fi is a half-duplex connection and is typically capable of about 1/4th the throughput of what a hardwired Ethernet connection will achieve. If signal strength is lacking and causes the live video stream on the camera to appear laggy or produces freeze frames, try the following:
1. View the live preview in sub stream. Sub stream utilizes a lower resolution and bitrate to reduce the bandwidth requirements for live preview. The sub stream settings can be modified in the Camera > Video menu.
2. Try changing the wireless channel of the router. The channel range is typically 1 through 11. This may improve connection if there are multiple cordless devices on the network.
3. Try changing the network broadcast mode on the router to 802.11n the router supports it (better range and signal strength than 802.11 a/b/g).
4. Try relocating the router; raising the router to a higher location can increase the effective broadcast range. Placing the router in a more centralized location can widen the coverage. Move the router away from metal such as filing cabinets and racks. Make sure the router is not overheating; avoid placing the router in hot attics, desk drawers and other types of enclosures that are not well ventilated.
5. Updating the routing device to a dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) router can reduce interference caused by other Wi-Fi signals and cordless devices. Devices than can cause interference include cordless phones, microwave ovens, baby monitors, security alarms, television remote controls and automatic garage door openers.
6. A typical Wi-Fi router signal is about 100ft, and the further the device is away from the camera, the weaker the signal. Also if the signal must penetrate through walls before reaching the camera, this can cause signal loss. Bridging the camera’s router to another router or wireless access point can extend the signal if the camera is mounted beyond 100ft.
For more networking help and troubleshooting, please visit our Networking page.