Many people enjoy having all their technology right at their fingertips by being able to access it via a smartphone or tablet. With an increasing number of people installing video surveillance systems to protect their homes and businesses, it’s no wonder that a lot of them wonder if CCTV can be connected to phones. The good news is that most modern CCTV systems offer this functionality, provided you have a compatible smartphone or tablet.
Dorani is on the frontline when it comes to research, development, design and building processes for security solutions in Australia. When you work with us, rest assured that you’ll have access to some of the most innovative technology on the market. Contact our team today for more information on CCTV systems that can connect to smart devices or for a free quote.
Why Would I Want to Connect my CCTV to my Phone?
There are actually a number of benefits to connecting your home or business CCTV system to your phone, the most notable of which is that it allows you to check on your cameras from wherever you are in the world. If you notice anything unusual in the footage, such as an intruder or even a fire, you will be able to alert the relevant authorities immediately. Some systems can be set up so that they alert you to move when you’re out, letting you know instantly that something is amiss.
Some CCTV systems also offer the ability for two-way audio, allowing you to have a conversation with someone at your home or business even if you’re on the other side of the world.
At Home
Some people use their CCTV cameras to check on their children or pets when they’re at home alone. This can provide you with peace of mind that everyone is okay and where they’re supposed to be. They can also alert you when packages are delivered, when contractors arrive or leave, and when surprise visitors turn up.
In a Business
Some people use their CCTV cameras to check on their employees and ensure that they’re doing their jobs correctly. They can also be used to identify visitors to your premises and buzz them into the building remotely. In loading dock or retail areas that aren’t always manned, you can be alerted when a delivery or customer has arrived.
How do I View CCTV on my Phone?
Setting up your CCTV cameras so that the feed is viewable on your phone is actually quite simple:
The very first thing you need to do is determine whether your system allows for remote viewing. This information should be available in your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. You may also need to download an app or install software to make remote viewing possible.
To view your cameras from your phone, most – if not all – systems require an online connection. You will need to ensure that your CCTV cameras are connected to your home or business’s WiFi.
From your computer or network video recorder (NVR), you will need to configure the account that manages your CCTV system. You will need to set a secure account name and password. This is absolutely critical, as it will ensure that you are the only person who can access the feed.
Not having a password on the account could allow anyone to access your cameras and use them for their own nefarious purposes.
Once your account name and password have been set, you will be able to input these into the app on your smartphone or tablet. This will provide you with access to the app version of the management system.
View the camera feed from wherever you are.
If your system allows, you can enable push notifications (usually motion activated) so that you’re alerted to the goings-on around your home or business. Some systems allow you to set timeframes that you want to be alerted during and even allow you to set the sensitivity of the sensor.
ALL Dorani CCTV systems can be viewed on mobile devices with the correct network settings and connection through either Dorani IP Viewer App, Dorani Smart View App and Dorani PC Management Software.
Troubleshooting Guide
It’s not unusual for there to be a few issues with viewing your CCTV on your phone from time to time. Use these basic troubleshooting tips or contact your provider for more personalised assistance:
I can’t see my camera’s feed
This may be a router issue – check if your cameras have been correctly configured to your router. The network may also be down, so the cameras can’t stream the feed to you.
Alternatively, it could be your phone’s network that’s down. Remember that streaming video tends to take up a lot of data. Your connection may be slow or weak and that is affecting the stream.
My camera’s feed isn’t clear
Check your camera lens for any smudges or obstructions. Ensure that they have been placed in locations where they get an unrestricted view of the area.
A weak internet connection could also be the culprit. Your phone may not have the data speed or connection necessary to stream the feed with full clarity.
I can’t hear my camera feed’s audio
Check to see whether your particular camera offers sound recording. If it does, ensure that this feature has been enabled (some systems don’t enable it in order to save data space).
Watch Over Your Property from Anywhere
The ability to check in on your home or business from anywhere in the world is a feature that many people find desirable. Dorani offers a range of CCTV cameras that can be connected to smartphone and tablet devices, allowing you the flexibility to check the feed at any time and from anywhere. To learn more about which systems offer this functionality, contact our skilled team.