One of the most common questions we hear: "We already have security cameras. Do we need to buy new equipment?"
The answer is almost always no. CamView is designed to work with your existing camera infrastructure. If you have an NVR (Network Video Recorder) or DVR system, there's a good chance we can connect to it without any hardware changes.
Compatible Systems
CamView works with most IP camera systems that support RTSP streaming, including:
- Hikvision — NVRs and standalone IP cameras
- Dahua — Including OEM versions (Lorex, Amcrest, etc.)
- Uniview — All NVR and camera models
- Axis — Professional-grade cameras
- Hanwha (Samsung) — Commercial systems
- Reolink — Consumer and prosumer models
- Ubiquiti UniFi Protect — With RTSP enabled
If your system supports RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol), it will likely work with CamView. Most commercial systems installed in the last 10 years support this standard.
What We Need From You
To set up CamView with your existing system, we'll need:
- Camera/NVR information: Make, model, and approximate age of your system
- Network access: CamView connects to your cameras over your local network. We'll work with your IT team or installer to configure secure access.
- Camera credentials: Username and password for RTSP streams (usually separate from admin login)
- Camera locations: Which cameras should be shared with residents (tennis courts, pool area, etc.)
The Setup Process
Step 1: Discovery
We start with a brief call to understand your current setup. What cameras do you have? Where are they located? What do residents want to see?
Step 2: Network Configuration
Our team works with your IT provider or camera installer to establish a secure connection. This typically involves:
- Creating dedicated streaming credentials
- Configuring firewall rules if needed
- Testing stream quality and reliability
Step 3: CamView Configuration
We add your cameras to the CamView platform, configure stream settings for optimal performance, and set up your property's resident portal.
Step 4: Testing
Before going live, we verify everything works correctly. You'll review the setup and confirm which cameras should be visible to residents.
Step 5: Launch
Once approved, we provide resident access instructions and you're live. The whole process typically takes 1-2 weeks from initial contact to launch.
What If My System Isn't Compatible?
In rare cases where existing cameras don't support RTSP streaming, we can recommend upgrade paths. Often, replacing just the NVR (while keeping existing cameras) is enough to add RTSP capability. We can connect you with trusted installers who specialize in HOA camera systems.
Security Considerations
We take security seriously. CamView never stores your camera credentials in plaintext. Streams are delivered securely to authenticated residents only. We don't require opening ports to the public internet—our architecture keeps your cameras protected.
Have questions about connecting your specific system? Contact us and we'll let you know if CamView will work with your setup—before you commit to anything.