CA101 Series - 1080p Analog Wired Turret Camera - FAQ & Troubleshooting Guide

Modified on January 13, 2026

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The CA101 Series is a 1080p analog HD wired turret camera designed for indoor/outdoor use. It connects to a compatible DVR using a BNC video connection and is powered by a 12V DC adapter.

Helpful links: Product support page  |  Installation guide  |  Compatibility page


TABLE OF CONTENTS


Quick Specs

  • Video: 1080p (1920 × 1080) analog HD over coax (BNC)
  • Supported formats: TVI / AHD / CVI / CVBS
  • Lens: Fixed 2.8mm (F2.0)
  • Field of View: 88° (H) / 48° (V) / 104° (D)
  • Minimum focus distance: 6.6 ft / 2 m
  • Night vision: IR up to 65 ft / 20 m (in total darkness; varies by scene)
  • Weather rating: IP66 (not intended for submersion; sheltered installation recommended)
  • Operating range: -22°F to 131°F (-30°C to 55°C), up to 90% RH
  • Power: 12V DC (±30%), up to 3.5W (IR on)

Before You Start

  • Confirm compatibility: CA101 is compatible with select Lorex DVRs. Use the Compatibility page and search for your DVR model.
  • Know the connections: CA101 uses BNC for video and 12V DC for power. (The BNC connection does not supply power.)
  • Test before drilling: Connect the camera to the DVR and power it on first so you can confirm video, framing, and night vision before final mounting.
  • Avoid cable issues: For best reliability, use a single continuous cable run between camera and DVR whenever possible. Avoid stacking multiple extensions together.

Quick Install Checklist

  • Placement: Install about 8–10 ft (2.5–3 m) high and angle the camera slightly downward to capture faces and key details.
  • Reduce night glare: Keep nearby walls, soffits, gutters, or reflective surfaces out of the camera’s immediate view to reduce IR reflection (night “white haze”).
  • Outdoor installs: Although rated for outdoor use, install in a sheltered location when possible to reduce direct exposure to heavy rain and debris.
  • Finish-up: Remove any protective film from the lens after mounting and aiming.

FAQ

Does the CA101 work without a DVR?

CA101 is an analog wired camera designed to send video to a compatible DVR over BNC. If you don’t have a DVR with analog BNC inputs, you won’t be able to view/record video.

Can I connect the CA101 directly to my router, Wi‑Fi, or an NVR (PoE)?

No. CA101 is analog (BNC), not an IP/PoE camera. It does not connect directly to a router via Ethernet and it does not connect to Wi‑Fi. To view remotely on a phone, the DVR must be connected to the internet.

What’s included with the CA101 camera?

Typical box contents include the camera, mounting hardware (template/anchors/screws), a BNC/DC combined cable, and a 12V power adapter.

What resolution will I see and record?

The camera supports 1080p (1920×1080). Actual recorded resolution and frame rate depend on the DVR and its settings. Some DVRs may record 1080p at a lower frame rate to save storage.

Does the CA101 record audio?

The CA101 is a video-focused analog camera and is commonly used without audio. If you need audio, you typically need either a compatible analog audio camera (audio-over-coax) or an external microphone connected to the DVR (model-dependent). Always follow local laws regarding audio recording and consent.

What’s the best way to reduce false motion alerts?

Motion detection is handled by the DVR. Reduce alerts by:

  • Lowering sensitivity slightly
  • Drawing a smaller motion zone that excludes trees, busy roads, and reflective surfaces
  • Aiming away from headlights and direct sunlight
  • Using person/vehicle detection if your DVR supports it (limits may apply)
How far can the night vision see?

Up to 65 ft (20 m) in ideal, total darkness. Real-world range depends on the scene (open areas vs. tight corners), nearby reflections, and available ambient light.

Can I use longer cables than what’s included?

Yes—longer BNC/power extension options may be used, but reliability depends on cable quality and total run length. For best results, use a single continuous run and do not chain multiple extensions together.


Troubleshooting

Tip: Start with the basics: confirm power, confirm video cable, then confirm DVR channel/settings.

No video / black screen / “Camera not detected”
  • Check power: Ensure the camera’s 12V DC power adapter is firmly connected and the outlet is working (try a different outlet).
  • Check BNC connection: Push and twist the BNC connector until it locks. A loose BNC is the most common cause of no video.
  • Swap test: Connect the camera to a different DVR channel using the same cable. If it works, the original channel or setting may be the issue.
  • Cable test: Try the camera with a known-good cable (or test the camera closer to the DVR). Long or damaged cables can cause signal loss.
  • Signal format mismatch: If your DVR has a “Camera Type” or “Signal Type” setting, set it to AUTO first. If AUTO fails, try switching to a specific format (for example, TVI or AHD) supported by your DVR.
Video is blurry, hazy, or out of focus
  • Remove the lens film: Confirm the protective vinyl film has been removed from the lens.
  • Clean the lens: Use a microfiber cloth; avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive materials.
  • Minimum focus distance: Objects closer than about 6.6 ft (2 m) may not appear sharp.
  • Check the DVR recording quality: Low bitrate/frame rate settings can reduce clarity, especially during motion.
Night image is washed out / bright “fog” / white glare at night
  • IR reflection: Move the camera away from walls/overhangs or re-aim so the lens is not too close to nearby surfaces.
  • Remove obstructions: Ensure no cables, spiderwebs, or objects are near the lens.
  • Clean the dome/lens area: Dirt and water spots can reflect IR light.
  • Try a slightly different angle: Small adjustments can significantly reduce IR bounce-back.
Flickering, rolling lines, or image “waves”
  • Power interference: Keep camera cabling away from high-voltage lines, transformers, and large motors.
  • Try another power outlet: Electrical noise or grounding issues can cause interference.
  • Check video format settings: If your DVR is set to PAL but your system expects NTSC (or vice versa), you may see abnormal output.
  • Replace suspect cables: Damaged coax or connectors can introduce noise.
Picture is too dark at night
  • Scene range: Night vision range varies—large open areas may appear darker at distance.
  • Reduce competing light: Bright porch lights or streetlights can cause the camera to expose for the bright area and darken the rest.
  • Reposition for better coverage: Aim toward key areas (doorway, driveway) rather than wide open space.
Motion alerts/recordings are missing
  • Confirm recording mode: Motion recording is controlled by the DVR schedule/settings.
  • Check motion zone: Make sure the active detection area includes where motion happens.
  • Adjust sensitivity: If set too low, motion may not trigger; if too high, you may get false triggers.
  • Storage full: If storage is full and overwrite is off, recordings may stop.
I can see video on the DVR but not on my phone
  • This is usually a DVR/network issue, not the camera: The DVR must be connected to your router and the internet.
  • Confirm the DVR is online: Check network status on the DVR (or indicators in the mobile app).
  • Same network for setup: When initially adding the DVR to the app, your phone and DVR typically must be on the same network.

If You’re Using an RD101/RD501 DVR

  • Camera connection basics: Connect the camera’s BNC to a DVR video input and connect the camera to power. For best results, use one continuous cable run between camera and DVR and avoid chaining extensions.
  • Signal format: In channel/live view settings, set Camera Type to AUTO first. If needed, manually select TVI or AHD based on what displays correctly.
  • Motion & AI limits: If you’re using AI detection features, some systems limit how many channels can run AI detection at the same time, and certain AI modes can’t be enabled together on the same channel.
  • “Stop recording” doesn’t stop schedules: Stopping manual recording does not disable scheduled recording—adjust the recording schedule if needed.

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