Customers looking for or that have an audio function in their security cameras may run into any number of issues that cause poor sound quality in their video footage. While not all may have the function, it is critically important that it work when present. Below, HOKDIGITAL Security Cameras has identified common problems that are known to us or that we have fixed for our customers upon being reported. This list is divided into sections explicitly concerning cameras that fall into the categories of:
- Wired cameras and CCTV microphones
- Internet protocol cameras
- Wi-Fi and wireless cameras
Externally connected CCTV microphones
For many security cameras, the only method to record sound and include it in your video footage is to purchase an audio surveillance microphone and then connect it externally. However, when it comes to a wired security camera system, the issues involved with audio surveillance typically arise from the connection between the camera and recorder, the physical design of the audio surveillance microphone, or the surrounding environment.
How do I add a microphone to my security camera?
Similar to other electronic systems, security cameras and recorders have correlating ports for prospective audio surveillance microphones. Furthermore, each kit should feature a manual to provide step-by-step instructions and match the additional audio enhancement to the specific camera or recorder. How you physically set up such a device, concerning the manual, should be the matching of plug-ins and appropriate placement of the cctv microphone.
How do I enable sound on my CCTV camera?
The process of enabling an audio surveillance microphone on a camera is done entirely through the DVR or NVR after the initial installation. Typically, the process goes as follows:
- Access the main menu through the main screen
- Through the main menu, access the camera settings
- Access the encoding option present in the camera settings
- In the encoding section, find the audio video boxes and check them
- Nearby, access the drop-down audio source menu and apply the appropriate change
- Save changes after clicking the apply button
Video footage filled with white noise: Audio surveillance producing excessive or only white noise has three possible problems affecting video data. The sources of such include:
- Poor wire quality or connection: Wires that are damaged or degraded will lead to unsatisfactory results. Upon finding this to be the case, the only solution should be to replace the wire outright.
- Lack of noise suppression processing: Most audio surveillance microphones feature a type of noise suppression, but older ones may not have such a feature. Aside from adjusting the surrounding environment, a cover could be applied to the device itself, the settings may be reduced, or adjustment to video data may be required. Unfortunately, with older systems, the options may be more limited.
- Ineffective power connection or lack of voltage: Less than required power feeding into the audio aspect of a security system will result in poor performance. When applicable, A1 Security Cameras recommends using a DC power supply or similar transformer.
Problems with IP camera audio
Do IP cameras support audio?: Like CCTV security cameras, IP cameras that do not have internal audio functionality can have an audio surveillance microphone installed.
How do I connect audio to my IP camera?: IP security cameras make integration to a security system far more straightforward than ever before. Each modern internet protocol camera features a POE input, RCA input, and audio input when applicable. Therefore, any connection should be applied through such.
How do I add audio to NVR?: Unless it is specifically a wireless NVR, the recorder should have audio ports for direct audio connection.
Problems with Wi-Fi and wireless camera audio
Why is my camera feed losing audio?: When it comes to modern wireless cameras, the majority have internal audio capabilities. Typically, the newer the device, the more capable or dependable the microphone is. For that reason, the most common issue behind losing audio capabilities in a wireless camera involves the Wi-Fi, cellular, or Bluetooth connection.
Can security cameras legally have audio?
The answer to whether audio surveillance is legal in a security camera system depends on the location. According to a 2021 study in IPVM by Zach Segal, only 10% of the 175+ integrators asked apply audio surveillance with security camera systems. While that had doubled from the previous study done in 2018, the low percentage matches both the laws established in each country and the attitude from businesses. For example, laws differ from state to state in the United States, with heavy restrictions applied in states like California, Pennsylvania, Washington, and New York. Furthermore, countries like Canada and Portugal have clear laws that restrict if not outlaw audio surveillance based on one, two, or all-party consent. Concerning private businesses, audio capability either applies liability to the owner of the installed cameras or there is a very low to nonexistent demand for it in the first place.
A1 Security Cameras offers many solutions involving security cameras, recorders, and more. Residents and business owners of Dallas Fort Worth can significantly benefit by requesting security camera systems installation services from our team. Contact our team today for more information on our services and products!