Frequently Asked Questions
How many cameras do I need for my CCTV system?
Start by counting the areas that need their own continuous view. A smaller home or shop may only need cameras covering the front, rear, driveway and one additional access point, while larger properties may require six or eight cameras to cover side access, car parks, stock areas or multiple entrances. Camera count should be based on coverage rather than property size alone, because every blind spot or critical area may require its own fixed camera.
How do strobe and two-way audio work in these Hikvision kits?
The supported cameras in these kits include active deterrence and audio functions within the camera itself. When configured events occur, the camera can provide a visible or audible warning, while two-way audio allows users to hear and communicate through supported apps or system interfaces. Because the cameras are connected using PoE, power and network data can share the Ethernet connection. The exact deterrence behaviour and available controls depend on the camera and recorder combination.
What is included in a Hikvision 6MP CCTV kit?
These packages combine Hikvision 6MP cameras with a compatible PoE NVR, providing the core equipment required for a multi-camera CCTV system. The cameras in this category are selected around strobe deterrence and two-way audio, while camera count, housing style, night-imaging technology and storage vary between packages. HDD inclusion also differs, so compare the individual kit inclusions to make sure the package contains the storage and camera configuration you require.
Is a hard drive included with every Hikvision CCTV kit?
No. HDD inclusion varies between packages. Some systems include surveillance storage, while others allow the hard drive to be selected separately according to the recording duration required. The amount of storage you need depends on camera count, resolution, recording settings and how long you want footage retained. If storage is not included with the selected kit, a suitable surveillance HDD will be required for continuous recording.
Should I choose turret or mini bullet cameras?
Both styles can provide the 6MP surveillance, deterrence and audio functionality offered within this category, but the physical design is different. Turret cameras provide a compact shape that works well under eaves and on walls, while mini bullet cameras have a more directional appearance that can suit boundaries, driveways and other positions where the viewing direction should be visually obvious. The better option generally comes down to mounting position and appearance.
Should I choose a 4CH, 8CH or larger Hikvision NVR?
Choose the recorder according to both the number of cameras being installed now and the likelihood of expanding later. An NVR can have more channels than the number of cameras supplied in the kit, which leaves capacity for additional cameras. Available PoE connections are also important because each directly connected PoE camera requires a suitable port. If future expansion is likely, allowing spare recorder capacity from the beginning can avoid replacing the NVR later.
Can I add more cameras to the system later?
Yes, provided the NVR has spare camera channels, sufficient PoE capacity and support for the additional cameras. Adding more cameras can also increase bandwidth and storage requirements, so HDD capacity should be considered when expanding the system. If you expect the property to need more surveillance points in the future, choosing a recorder with additional capacity from the start can make expansion much easier.
What is the difference between 6MP and 8MP strobe CCTV kits?
The main difference is image resolution. An 8MP system records more image pixels and can provide additional detail where camera position, lens and lighting conditions allow it, while 6MP offers strong image detail with generally lower bandwidth and storage requirements. Both ranges can include active deterrence and two-way audio options. Choose according to the level of detail required at the property as well as the recorder and storage capacity available.