Accessing And Viewing Cc Camera Footage: A Step-By-Step Guide

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are an increasingly popular security measure for businesses and homes. They can be monitored in real-time and footage can be viewed at a later date. This can be done via a mobile phone, computer, or television. To view the footage, you will need to download the appropriate security camera viewing app or software. This could be a third-party app or the official app offered by the seller of your CCTV camera. Once you have the correct app, you can log in and select the location of the camera and the date and time of the footage you wish to view.

How to see CCTV footage on your phone

Step 1: Install a security camera viewer

To view your CCTV footage on your phone, you'll first need to install a security camera viewer. You can either use a third-party app, which may be paid, or use the security camera software offered by the seller. The latter is recommended as it will have more advanced features and won't charge any fees.

Step 2: Download the relevant app

Download the relevant app for your CCTV provider. For example, Reolink offers a free app for iOS and Android that allows users to view their CCTV footage.

Step 3: Connect your phone to the same network as the CCTV system

Make sure your phone is connected to the same network as the CCTV system.

Step 4: Launch the app and log in

Launch the app and log in to your account.

Step 5: View your footage

You should now be able to view your recorded footage and perform functions such as playback, zooming, and exporting footage.

Additional tips:

• If you're using an SD card, DVR/NVR, FTP server, or Cloud to store your footage, simply open the app or program where it is stored and select the video you want to watch.
• If you're using an NVR security camera system, you'll need to select a specific camera channel to view the recorded footage.
• If you're using cloud storage, log in to your account from a web browser or use the mobile app to view the footage.
• If you're having trouble accessing your footage, make sure your phone is connected to the network and that you've selected the correct camera, time period, and video type.

How to see CCTV footage on your computer

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems are widely used for surveillance and security in homes, businesses, and public spaces. They are an excellent way to deter crime, monitor traffic, and observe unsafe industrial environments. With the advancement of technology, it is now possible to view CCTV footage on your computer, in addition to other devices. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to see CCTV footage on your computer:

Choosing a Storage Option

Before setting up your CCTV camera, decide where you want the footage to be stored. The most common options are an SD card, DVR/NVR, FTP server, or Cloud storage. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs.

Installing Compatible Software

Most CCTV systems come with software that you can install on your computer. This software allows you to view and manage your CCTV footage. If your CCTV system does not include software, you may need to install a third-party application that is compatible with your system. It is recommended to opt for the player offered by your CCTV seller, as it ensures compatibility and may provide advanced features without additional fees.

Connecting the CCTV System

After installing the necessary software, you need to connect your CCTV system to your computer. Use a USB cable or a network cable to connect the CCTV system's digital video recorder (DVR) to your computer. Ensure that the DVR is powered on and recognised by your computer.

Logging In and Accessing Footage

Once the physical connection is established, open the CCTV software on your computer. Log in using your credentials, and you should be able to access the live feed and recorded footage. You may also have additional features such as exporting, recording, and playback options.

Using a Web Browser

Some CCTV cameras allow you to view the live feed through a web browser. First, find the IP address of your CCTV camera, usually found in the camera's manual or settings. Open your web browser, enter the IP address in the address bar, and log in with your credentials. If prompted, install any necessary plugins to view the live feed.

Using Dedicated VMS Software

If you prefer, you can use dedicated video management software (VMS) such as Prama VMS Software. Download and install the software, then add your CCTV device by entering the IP address, port number, username, and password. Once your device is added, you can double-click on the device folder to open the live view of your CCTV camera feed.

Remember to keep your firmware and software up to date to ensure optimal performance and address any potential security vulnerabilities. Additionally, ensure that you have a fast and stable internet connection to view your CCTV footage without interruptions.

How to request CCTV footage of yourself

You have the right to request CCTV footage of yourself. However, most CCTV footage is deleted 30 days after it has been recorded, so you will need to act quickly.

Step 1: Identify the owner of the CCTV system

The owner's details are usually written on a sign attached to the camera, unless the owner is obvious (like a shop).

Step 2: Make a request to the owner

You can do this either in writing or verbally. Tell them you’re requesting information held about you under data protection law.

Step 3: Provide information to help the owner identify you

This includes:

• A specific date and time
• Proof of your identity
• A description of yourself

Step 4: Receive the footage

The CCTV owner must usually provide the footage free of charge within 1 calendar month.

The CCTV owner might not be allowed to share any footage if:

• Other people can be seen in it and they’re not able to edit the footage to protect their identity
• Sharing the footage could put an ongoing criminal investigation at risk

The CCTV owner can invite you to a viewing of the footage if they’re unable to provide you with the footage itself and you agree to that arrangement.

How to view CCTV footage stored on an SD card

To view CCTV footage stored on an SD card, you will first need to insert the SD card into your computer's SD card slot or an SD card adapter. If you are using an SD card adapter, insert it into a USB port on your computer. Depending on your computer's settings, a dialog box may appear. If a dialog box does not appear, open Windows File Explorer to locate and select the SD card on the left side of the window.

If you are using a Mac and the SD card for the first time, your device will install the necessary driver software automatically. A device icon will appear on your screen. Double-click the icon or click "Finder" to open the Finder window and choose the SD card icon under "Devices". The contents of the SD card will display in a separate window.

Once you have located the CCTV footage on the SD card, you can simply open the file to view the video. You may also need to download a specific player that supports the file format of the CCTV footage, such as VLC player.

It is important to note that some CCTV footage may be encrypted or password-protected, so you may need additional software or a password to access the footage. Additionally, the file format of the CCTV footage may vary depending on the camera system used, so you may need to convert the files to a different format to view them on your computer.

• Insert the SD card into your computer's SD card slot or an SD card adapter.
• If using an SD card adapter, insert it into a USB port on your computer.
• Locate the SD card on your computer. A dialog box may appear, or you may need to open Windows File Explorer to locate it.
• If using a Mac for the first time, wait for the necessary driver software to install automatically.
• Double-click the SD card icon or open it through the "Finder" window.
• Locate the CCTV footage on the SD card.
• Open the file to play the video, ensuring you have the correct player for the file format.
• If needed, download a specific player such as VLC player or convert the file format.

How to view CCTV footage without an internet connection

While an internet connection is useful for accessing CCTV footage remotely, it is not necessary to view CCTV footage. Here are the steps to view CCTV footage without an internet connection:

Select suitable CCTV cameras:

Firstly, ensure your CCTV cameras support offline viewing. Most modern Internet Protocol (IP) cameras offer this functionality. If you have older CCTV cameras, you may need to upgrade to IP cameras or consult a professional for compatibility options.

Set up your CCTV cameras:

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to set up your CCTV cameras. For larger or more complex systems, consider seeking assistance from a professional video surveillance company for proper installation.

Connect your CCTV camera to a monitor:

To view CCTV footage without an internet connection, you can connect your CCTV camera directly to a monitor. This allows you to view live footage on your screen 24 hours a day and keep a constant eye on your property.

Save CCTV footage on an SD card or NVR:

You can also save recorded CCTV footage on external storage devices like an SD card or NVR without an internet connection. Just ensure you have enough memory on your chosen storage device.

Use a cellular-powered battery:

Even if you have a direct power supply, it is recommended to use a backup battery in case of power outages. In locations without electricity, you can use cellular-powered batteries to run your CCTV cameras with all the regular functions.

Limitations of offline CCTV viewing:

It is important to note that without an internet connection, certain features of your CCTV system may be unavailable. These include remote access and monitoring, push notifications from the system, and backing up footage on cloud-based or FTP storage solutions.

Frequently asked questions