“IP Camera Does Not Exist”? for Hikvision error

What Should I Do If My Hikvision Camera Shows “IP Camera Does Not Exist”?

Question: What should I do if my Hikvision camera shows “IP camera does not exist”?

Answer:

If your Hikvision camera shows the error message “IP camera does not exist,” it indicates a connectivity issue between the camera and the NVR or network. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve this issue:

Step 1: Check Physical Connections

1. Verify Power Supply:
   • Ensure that the camera is properly powered. If using a PoE switch or NVR, check that the Ethernet cable is securely connected and providing power.
   • If using a separate power adapter, confirm that it is plugged in and functioning correctly.
2. Check Ethernet Cables:
   • Ensure that the Ethernet cable connecting the camera to the network or NVR is properly connected and not damaged.
   • Try replacing the Ethernet cable with a known working one to rule out cable issues.

Step 2: Confirm Network Configuration

1. IP Address Conflicts:
   • Ensure that the IP address of the camera does not conflict with any other devices on the network.
   • Use the SADP Tool to scan your network and verify the IP address of the camera.
2. Subnet and Gateway:
   • Make sure the camera’s IP address is on the same subnet as the NVR.
   • Check the gateway settings to ensure they are correctly configured.

Step 3: Use the SADP Tool for Troubleshooting

1. Download and Install SADP Tool:
   • Download the SADP Tool from the Hikvision website and install it on your computer.
2. Scan for Devices:
   • Open the SADP Tool and let it scan your network for Hikvision devices.
3. Check Camera Status:
   • Find your camera in the list and check its status. If it shows as “Inactive,” you need to activate it by setting a new password.
4. Modify Network Settings:
   • If necessary, use the SADP Tool to modify the camera’s IP address, subnet mask, and gateway settings to ensure they match the network configuration.

Step 4: Access the Camera’s Web Interface

1. Log into the Camera:
   • Open a web browser and enter the camera’s IP address.
   • Log in with the camera’s username and password (default username is admin and the default password might be 12345 or the one you set).
2. Check Camera Settings:
   • Navigate to the network settings and ensure that all configurations are correct.
   • Check for firmware updates and apply them if necessary.

Step 5: Add the Camera to the NVR Manually

1. Access the NVR’s Camera Management:
   • Log into your NVR’s web interface or use the local interface.
   • Navigate to Configuration > Camera Management.
2. Manual Camera Addition:
   • Click on the Add or Manual Add button.
   • Enter the camera’s IP address, port, username, and password.
   • Choose the correct protocol (e.g., Hikvision or ONVIF).
   • Save the settings and check if the camera appears online.

Step 6: Reset the Camera

1. Factory Reset:
   • If all else fails, perform a factory reset on the camera. Locate the reset button (usually a small pinhole) and press it for about 10-15 seconds while the camera is powered on.
   • After the reset, reconfigure the camera and try adding it to the NVR again.

Step 7: Additional Troubleshooting

1. Firmware Compatibility:
   • Ensure that both the NVR and the camera are running the latest firmware versions to avoid compatibility issues.
2. Network Equipment:
   • Check if other network devices (switches, routers) are functioning correctly and not blocking the camera’s connection.
3. Consult Support:
   • If the issue persists, contact our support for further assistance.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the “IP camera does not exist” error and get your Hikvision camera back online.