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 need cameras covering the front, rear, driveway and another access point, while larger properties can require six or eight cameras for side access, car parks, stock areas or multiple entrances. Camera count should be based on the number of important viewpoints rather than property size alone, because each 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 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 warning behaviour and available audio controls depend on the camera and recorder combination.
What is included in a Hikvision 8MP CCTV kit?
These packages combine Hikvision 8MP 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 needed depends on camera count, resolution, recording settings and how long you want footage retained. Because 8MP video can require more storage than lower-resolution recording, HDD capacity is an important part of choosing the complete system.
Should I choose turret or bullet cameras?
Both camera styles can provide the 8MP surveillance, deterrence and audio functionality available within this category, but their physical designs suit different installations. Turret cameras provide a compact form that works well under eaves and on walls, while bullet cameras have a more directional appearance that can suit boundaries, driveways and longer approaches. The better option depends on mounting position, required viewing direction and the appearance you prefer for the property.
Should I choose a 4CH, 8CH or 16CH Hikvision NVR?
Choose the recorder according to the number of cameras being installed, the recording demands of those cameras and whether the system may expand later. An NVR can have more channels than the number of cameras supplied with the kit, leaving room for future additions. Available PoE connections are also important. With multiple 8MP cameras, recorder capability matters alongside channel count, so choosing suitable headroom can make later expansion easier.
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 8MP cameras can also increase recording bandwidth and storage requirements, so HDD capacity should be considered when expanding the system. If you expect the property to need additional surveillance points in the future, choosing a recorder with spare capacity from the beginning can make expansion considerably 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 quality with generally lower bandwidth and storage requirements. Both ranges can include active deterrence and two-way audio. Choose according to the level of image detail required at the property as well as the recorder and storage capacity available.
