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Common reasons and solutions for security camera video loss

When you set up security cameras, you need to keep an eye on things. Either internal to your organization or external to your property. So when those cameras stop working, it can be a big deal. And it's important to find out why and find out quickly .

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We've compiled a list of the most likely reasons for your CCTV security cameras and systems and DVR camera systems to lose video signal. We'll also give you tips on where to look to fix these problems quickly and efficiently and get you up and running bring.

What does video loss look like?

Sometimes a CCTV system will lose video feeds from one or more cameras, a camera will have a loose connection, go black at night, or not get video with a camera showing a black screen. Sometimes the camera video will flicker, showing a lined screen and monitor or the DVR is not getting a picture or signal from the camera. As you can see, there are many potential issues that can arise in the operation of your system.

Let's take a look at the top offenders.

Reason #1: Inadequate performance

So that we understand each other. The situation is different when there is a power outage. This is a situation where there is not enough power available, resulting in a loss of video signal, a camera goes black or the camera video turns on and off. Here are a few common reasons for insufficient power supply:

Loose cable connections

PoE switch or PoE injector not working

The cable is too long or one cable powers too many cameras at the same time

Faulty power cords (old, damaged, worn out)

What is the solution?

Check all power connections, power distribution points, and cable connections to rule out connection problems

Switch ports to ensure that the DVR/NVR port supplies power to the cameras

Connect the cameras directly to the NVR instead of PoE if the PoE switch might not provide enough power. This is because PTZ cameras and IR cameras need more power.

Try using shorter BNC or Ethernet cables to power cameras and avoid using inferior extension cords or extension cords.

If you are using battery powered cameras, make sure the battery is not dead or the solar charger is blocked.

Reason #2: Power spikes and glitches

A power spike can be a terrible problem for a system. This can result in a sudden loss of video, completely black screens or vertical lines, and serious damage to the camera's circuit boards or other components. Here's how it can happen:

Mount the cameras on a metallic/conductive surface

lightning strikes

Power interference from nearby electrical equipment

What is the solution?

Use current and lightning surge protectors to protect your equipment

UPS (uninterruptible power supply) units protect your equipment from power failures

Use a block of wood in between if there is no non-metallic surface to mount your cameras

Reason #3: Weak WiFi connection or low bandwidth

Video loss or weak video signal from security cameras on a wireless network segment can be caused by unstable network connections, weak WiFi connection or low internet bandwidth. Here are some reasons:

The camera(s) are too far from the home router

There are too many physical barriers between your camera and the router

Interruption and disruption of the WiFi signal

What is the solution?

Move your cameras closer to the router if possible (or move your router closer to the cameras if not)

Choose the correct channel (some routers can broadcast 2.4 and 5 GHz signals)

Avoid physical barriers (walls, trees, etc.)

use a WiFi extender)

Reconnect the BNC connector and unplug the PoE switch to fix analog and IP PoE camera video loss

Check cameras on a wireless network segment, network and possible network disruption

For cellular security cameras, make sure the SIM card is inserted correctly and the data is not exhausted.

Reason #4: Faulty IR night vision

One of the main reasons many security cameras are installed is to keep an eye on things at night when the store is closed and unmanned. The building is dark inside and out and the need for IR night vision cameras is imperative. So it's a big problem of not having working IR night vision. Here are some of the problems:

You don't have an IR camera installed

Faulty IR sensor

I forgot to turn on the IR

What is the solution?

Check your NVR/DVR settings to make sure IR is turned on

Use external IR illuminators or a floodlight

Reason #5: Signal Type and Compatibility

If your DVR or NVR shows video loss or no video, it may be because your system cannot decode the video stream of different brands of cameras. What can be the problem?

Cameras and NVR/DVR are not compatible

5MP or 4MP cameras are not compatible with NVRs and DVRs that decode 1080p cameras

Some DVRs cannot decode from older CCTV cameras

What is the solution?

Contact a local technician

Use the same brand of DVR/NVR as your cameras

Reason #6: Problems with cabling or wires

BNC cables or Ethernet network cables can affect the functionality of surveillance cameras to some extent. This is especially true for analog CCTV cameras, where the risk of video or signal loss could be higher than for PoE cameras. Some causes can be:

Hardwired (analog, PoE) cameras can get twisted or bent cables

What is the solution?

Check every inch of wiring - no frayed wires, cuts, bends, chews

If necessary, try to replace the wiring

Reason #7: Hardware and firmware issue

If you've ruled out everything else but still haven't fixed the issue, it could be that your NVR/DVR or security cameras are in bad shape. Some of these possible causes can include:

Old or buggy firmware

Firmware needs an update

What is the solution?

Update your firmware.

Replace your cameras with a new quality system. Feel free

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Your peace of mind is what this is all about. The reason you installed the system in the first place. Isn't it worth making sure it's the best possible system and working 24/7 for you? Sure, you can trade-offs with inferior cameras and there are plenty of great money-saving ideas out there. But if you're constantly struggling with connection issues, pixelated videos, video loss, bugs, and more, haven't you stressed yourself out more, no less?

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Video loss solutions and installation of camera systems

Are you looking for a solution to video loss in your company's security system? Our security engineers can give you a free security consultation and quote what the solution will cost. Even if you're not sure what you need, our security engineers will walk you through it the things needed for a hassle-free security camera system. Whether you need help with insufficient power to your cameras or your NVR, a weak WiFi connection, faulty infrared, wiring issues and compatibility issues - or even replacing or upgrading your entire camera system need, our technicians will be happy to help you.

If you have any questions about video loss, security cameras, access control, or the purchase and installation process, contact us today at 800-440-1662 or

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