IP cameras can be seamlessly integrated into PoE NVR using either the Manual mode or the convenient Plug-and-Play mode.
In the case of utilizing Plug-and-Play mode, it’s important to ensure that the camera is indeed of Hikvision brand (logo, or OEM version) and that the password for the camera matches that of the NVR.
Normally, all you have to do is plug the cameras at the back of the NVR and they’ll come up online automatically a few minutes later.
However, this is not the case if the camera has been previously activated (which means that the camera comes already with a password). If that’s the case, the “No Link” situation occurs.
The cameras can’t communicate with the NVR, and you’ll see a black screen on the monitor with the “No Link” message showing up. Sometimes, you may even see an “incorrect password or username” error type.
In this guide, we will show step-by-step how to fix this kind of issue.
How to Fix Camera No Link Issue on Hikvision Recorders
To address this, navigate to NVR settings via the local monitor and interface. Access the Menu, proceed to Camera, then select IP Camera.
By clicking on the Status icon for the camera in question, you can promptly review any error messages that may have been generated. This smart approach allows for efficient troubleshooting and resolution.
”The username or the password is wrong”
The error message “The user name or the password is wrong” typically indicates a mismatch between the provided login credentials and the recorder’s authentication requirements.
You’ll see this message if the cameras are previously activated and running a non-default password.
You can reset the camera to erase the password, and then you can re-plug into the NVR and let the machine activate it.
If the IP camera comes with a hard reset button (sometimes located in the motherboard), initiating a restoration process is straightforward.
Begin by switching off the camera, effectively cutting off its power supply. Holding down the reset button for a duration of at least 30 seconds, concurrently power on the camera.
This sequence reinstates the device to an inactive status. Consequently, the PoE NVR will start an automatic activation, promptly establishing a proper connection with the camera.
In instances where the IP camera lacks a hard reset button, the SADP tool offers a viable solution for resetting the camera’s password. This procedure unfolds through the following steps:
- Download and install the latest iteration of the SADP tool on your computer. The tool can be downloaded here.
- Establish a connection between your computer and one of the PoE ports on the NVR using a network cable. So, a cable will go from your computer/laptop to one of the ports at the back of the NVR.
Launch the SADP tool, initiating a search for available cameras. The tool will scan the network and list all the found cameras.
Upon identifying the target device, proceed to click the “forgot password” button.
If an export option is present, clicking it generates an XML file containing the device’s data. This file can be sent to your regional support team for password reset assistance.
So, either send it to the Hikvision USA, or to the dealer where the cameras were purchased from.
Subsequently, obtain the import file from the support team and utilize it to perform the reset of the device’s password. Note: ensure that the new camera password is the same as that of the NVR.
Once again, the PoE NVR automatically takes charge, establishing connections with the cameras, now unified under the same password.
”Network is Unreachable”
The error message “Network is Unreachable” in Hikvision devices indicates that the device is unable to establish a connection to the network. T
his can occur for various reasons, such as incorrect network settings, issues with the physical network connection, or disruptions in network communication.
If the camera is connected to the NVR PoE port (at the back of the recorder), follow the steps below.
First, download and install the latest SADP tool on your computer (as shown in the section above).
Establish a connection between your computer and one of the PoE ports on the NVR using a network cable.
Launch the SADP tool and initiate a search for the connected camera. Verify the device’s IP address as displayed.
To access the camera’s settings, use a web browser as shown in the screenshot below. You need to type the camera’s IP address on the browser. Log in with the camera’s credentials.
Navigate to the Configuration section, followed by Maintenance, and then Default.
This step restores the camera to its factory settings. After that, the PoE NVR will automatically activate and connect the camera.
If the camera is connected to the PoE switch, please connect the switch to the NVR LAN port.
First, ensure the PoE switch is connected to the NVR’s LAN port. The IP address of the camera must be in the same network segment as the IPv4 address of NVR.
Proceed to the NVR’s Menu and navigate to Camera, followed by IP Camera. Select the desired camera and engage the Edit icon.
Within the camera settings, opt for Manual mode in the Adding section. Carefully input the camera’s IP address and the correct password, and then finalize the process by selecting OK.
Do so for all the cameras you need to add. In other words, you’re entering the setting manually instead of letting the machine do so automatically.
”IP camera does not exist”
The error message “IP camera does not exist” in Hikvision devices typically indicates that the camera being accessed or configured cannot be located or recognized within the network.
In other words, the error indicates that the NVR does not detect the camera input.
Ensure that the camera is securely and correctly linked to the NVR’s designated POE port. A loose or improper connection can lead to communication breakdowns.
In case of doubt, attempting the usage of a shorter network cable may be beneficial. This helps eliminate potential issues stemming from cable length.
Alternatively, you can explore the option of switching to a different PoE port on the NVR.
For further troubleshooting, providing an external power supply to the IP camera is a viable option. This allows for a controlled test to ascertain whether power-related factors are contributing to the problem.
