Help centre
Step-by-step fixes for the systems we install every day: CCTV, attendance machines and automatic gates. If you get stuck, WhatsApp us.
CCTV, DVR and NVR
- How to set up Hik-Connect to view your CCTV on your phoneSwitch on Hik-Connect in the recorder's network settings (look for Platform Access), choose a verification code, and scan the QR code on that screen with the Hik-Connect app. The recorder needs a cable connection to your internet router.5 min read
- Forgot your Hikvision DVR or NVR password? How to reset itClick Forgot Password on the recorder's login screen. You can reset it with the reserved email (using the Hik-Connect app), a GUID file you saved earlier, or your security questions. If none were set up, an authorised installer or Hikvision support can reset it with proof of ownership.5 min read
- CCTV not recording? 7 common causes and how to fix themMost often the hard disk has failed or is full with overwrite turned off, or the recording schedule is off. Check the hard disk status first, then the overwrite setting, then the schedule. The menu paths below are for Hikvision; other brands use similar names.6 min read
- CCTV camera showing a black screen or "No Video"? Here's how to fix itIf one camera is black, it is almost always power or cable to that camera. If every camera is black, look at the recorder, the power supply or the monitor. If a camera is black only at night, its infrared lights have failed. Start with the checks below for your case.6 min read
- CCTV picture blurry, pixelated or foggy? Causes and fixesBlocky, pixelated video on your phone is usually a slow internet connection, so switch the app to a lower-quality stream. A blurry or hazy picture on the recorder is usually a dirty lens or dome, spider webs, focus, or infrared reflecting at night. Clean first, then check the settings.5 min read
- How to install or replace the hard disk in your DVR or NVRSwitch the recorder off and unplug it (CCTV disks are not hot-swappable), connect the disk's data and power cables, screw it in, power on, then initialise the disk in Storage > Storage Device. Use a surveillance-grade disk within the recorder's maximum size per bay.5 min read
- How much hard disk does your CCTV need for 30 or 60 days?A 4MP camera recording 24/7 in H.265 uses roughly 20 to 45 GB a day. So four cameras need about 4 to 6 TB for 30 days, and eight cameras about 8 to 12 TB. Use the formula below for your setup: GB per day = bitrate in Mbps × 10.8.6 min read
- How to get CCTV motion alerts on your phone, without the false alarmsTurn on the event (motion, line crossing or intrusion) for the camera on the recorder, tick the option that sends it to the cloud or app (Notify Surveillance Center on Hikvision), then switch on notifications for that device in Hik-Connect. Use person and vehicle detection and a schedule to cut false alerts.5 min read
- AI CCTV cameras: is human and vehicle detection worth it?Yes, if you want alerts you actually read. Normal motion detection triggers on anything that moves: cats, palm trees, headlights and shadows. AI detection only alerts for people or vehicles, so false alarms drop sharply and searching recordings becomes much faster.5 min read
- 4G solar CCTV cameras in the UAE: do they really work in the heat?They work well for sites with no electricity or internet, such as farms, construction sites and desert chalets. Each camera needs a data SIM and decent 4G signal. The catches in the UAE are heat (mount them in shade), dust on the solar panel, and that many models record only on motion, not 24/7.6 min read
- Adding audio to your CCTV: microphones, settings and the privacy rulesMany cameras have a built-in microphone; others need an external mic wired to the camera's audio-in. Then set the stream type to Video & Audio in the camera's video settings. Before you do, think about privacy: recording people's conversations without their knowledge can break UAE law.5 min read
Rules and privacy
- Raqib and Sharjah Police CCTV connection: what your business needs to knowSome businesses in Sharjah must not only install approved CCTV but also connect it to the Sharjah Police operations room. This connection is widely known as Raqib. Banks, exchange houses and jewellers are among those required to connect. Systems that don't meet the requirements can lead to fines of AED 5,000 to AED 15,000, closure or licence suspension.6 min read
- SIRA Video Guard in Dubai: what it is, what it costs and how to get readyVideo Guard is SIRA's monitoring system for CCTV in Dubai. It watches the performance of your cameras and recorder and reports faults, so a system that stops working gets noticed. SIRA lists three device packages: 4 ports for AED 3,300, 8 ports for AED 4,550 and 14 ports for AED 5,800.5 min read
- Is home CCTV legal in the UAE? Neighbours, privacy and finesYes. You can install cameras at your own home in the UAE, as long as they cover your own property and do not look into a neighbour's home or private spaces. The big risk is sharing footage: posting images of people online without consent can break the UAE's cybercrime law, with fines from AED 150,000 to AED 500,000.6 min read
- Can I put a camera or video doorbell outside my apartment door?Usually yes, but ask first. The corridor is a common area controlled by the building, so get written approval from building management (and your landlord if you rent). Point the camera only at your own door. If the building says no, a door viewer camera fitted inside the door's peephole is a good alternative.5 min read
Time attendance
- How to export a monthly attendance report from a ZKTeco machineEither download the attendance data from the machine to a USB stick (Menu > USB Manager > Download > Attendance Data) and import it into the attendance software, or, if the machine is on the network, sync it in the software and run the monthly report. The machine itself saves raw punches; the report comes from the software.5 min read
- Face recognition or fingerprint attendance: which should you choose?For offices and shops, either works, and fingerprint is usually cheaper. For construction, workshops, cleaning and kitchen staff, choose face recognition: worn, dusty or wet fingers cause failed punches. Many businesses now pick a machine that does both, plus a card as backup.5 min read
Gates and intercom
CCTV terms explained
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