How to setup / install my new Hikvision system?

This FAQ deals with one of our most common questions.

“I’ve just bought a Hikvision IP kit from you – what do I do?”

What you need:

• the Hikvision camera/s
• The Hikvision NVR
• Precrimped CAT5E / CAT6 Cables or an installer who supplies the cables (with RJ45 ends). (1 per camera and 1 from the NVR to the modem)
• A monitor or TV (with VGA or HDMI connections) (you can buy a 22′ 1080p monitor from Officeworks for around 110.)
• Screw driver
• Ladder

Steps:

• Mark the Locations: Based on your layout plan, mark the spots where you will install the cameras.
• Run the CAT6 cables to the locations you require (1 per camera). The cables should come back to the location where your NVR is located. Note the NVR makes a running fan noise so a cupboard / walk-in is ideal.
• Connect & install the cameras to one end of the CATcable and connect the other end to the NVR. Please seal connections with electrical tape to protect against water ingress. 
• Plug in the monitor via a VGA or HDMI cable to the NVR
• Connect an ethernet cable from the NVR to the modem (if you wish to do remote viewing).
• Turn on the NVR & Monitor – you should see a setup screen.
• Ensure you write down the username / password you choose. Its a pain in the bum to reset.
• After setup, you should see your cameras on the screen!
• To set up remote viewing, https://www.securitywholesalers.com.au/faq-items/can-use-hik-connect-set-remote-viewing/ (this is a useful video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNtB7Cjm7HY) If you get stuck at this step, please consult an IT professional as it could be your modem or other issue.
• If you’ve bought an Acusense system – how to configure acusense here

Our other FAQ articles are good for troubleshooting https://www.securitywholesalers.com.au/faq-items/ or you can try Googling / Youtubing the problem.

If you still can’t resolve your issue, please email us – support@securitywholesalers.com.au. Please be as detailed as possible regarding the issue.

USEFUL VIDEO FOR SETUP MORE DETAILED VIDEO FOR SETUP (for more complex arrangements)

 

A MORE DETAILED GUIDE – if the above didn’t give you enough info

️ What You’ll Need Before You Start

• Hikvision IP cameras (one or more, depending on your system)

• A Hikvision NVR (Network Video Recorder) with built-in PoE ports

• Pre-crimped CAT5e or CAT6 cables (one per camera + one for internet connection)

• A monitor or TV with HDMI or VGA input

• Basic tools: screwdrivers, ladder, cable clips or ties, and waterproofing materials (e.g., tape, weather boots)

• Optional: HDD pre-installed in the NVR, or a compatible hard drive to install yourself

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Step 1: Plan and Run Cables

1. Plan camera placement: Identify key areas (entrances, driveways, perimeter) that require coverage.

2. Mark mounting positions on walls, eaves, or poles ensuring clear fields of view and minimal obstruction.

3. Run cables from each camera location back to where the NVR will be housed.

   • Use CAT5e or CAT6 cabling.

   • Secure the cables using clips or conduit.

4. Also run a network cable from your NVR to your internet modem/router if remote access is needed.

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Step 2: Mount Cameras and Connect Cables

1. Mount cameras securely at the planned locations.

2. Connect one end of each network cable to the PoE port on the camera.

3. Connect the other end to a PoE port on the back of the NVR.

4. Waterproof all external RJ45 connections using tape, boots, or junction boxes to prevent corrosion or failure.

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Step 3: Connect Monitor and Power Up

1. Connect a monitor or TV to the NVR using HDMI (preferred) or VGA.

2. Plug in the NVR power adapter and switch it on.

3. Power on the monitor/TV and select the correct input.

4. Wait for the NVR to boot into its initial setup wizard.

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Step 4: NVR Setup Wizard

1. Choose language and time zone.

2. Create a strong admin password and write it down somewhere safe.

3. The NVR should auto-detect any connected cameras. Follow the on-screen instructions to assign channels.

4. Configure basic settings such as:

   • Date/time format

   • Display resolution

   • Recording schedule (optional at this stage)

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Step 5: Confirm Live Camera View

Once setup is complete:

• You should see all connected camera feeds on the monitor.

• Check each feed for focus, angle, and clarity.

• Adjust camera direction or zoom if needed.

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Step 6 (Optional): Enable Remote Viewing via Hik-Connect

On the NVR:

1. Go to Configuration → Network → Advanced Settings → Platform Access.

2. Enable “P2P”.

3. Confirm that the status shows “Online”.

On your smartphone:

1. Download the Hik-Connect app from the app store.

2. Register or sign in to your Hik-Connect account.

3. Tap the “+” icon, then scan the QR code shown on your NVR screen.

4. Confirm the verification code when prompted.

5. Once added, tap Live View to see camera feeds remotely.

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Step 7 (For AcuSense Camera Users)

If you have AcuSense cameras, follow these extra steps for intelligent detection:

1. On the camera:

   • Disable Basic Motion Detection

   • Enable Smart Events (e.g., line-crossing or intrusion detection)

   • Set detection type to Human/Vehicle

2. Under Linkage Method, configure alerts such as flashing light, siren, push notifications, or email alerts.

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Step 8: Testing and Final Checks

• Power cycle the system to ensure it starts up properly.

• Test each camera feed again.

• Test remote viewing by turning off Wi-Fi and checking the Hik-Connect app over mobile data.

• Confirm the NVR date and time are correct.

• Update firmware if needed using files from the official Hikvision site.

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Troubleshooting Tips

• No image? Check cable termination and try a different PoE port.

• Remote access not working? Make sure P2P is online and your modem isn’t blocking traffic.

• Camera not showing? Check if the NVR is set to DHCP and that cameras are on the same subnet.

• Playback issues? Make sure the hard drive is correctly installed and formatted.

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Quick Reference Table