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The CA501 Series is a 4K (8MP) 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
- Before You Start
- Quick Install Checklist
- FAQ
- Troubleshooting
- If You’re Using an RD101 / RD501 DVR
Quick Specs
- Video: 4K (3840 × 2160) analog HD over coax (BNC)
- Frame rate: Up to 15 fps (depends on DVR)
- Supported formats: TVI / AHD / CVI / CVBS
- Lens: Fixed 2.8mm (F1.6)
- Field of View: 109° (H) / 57° (V) / 131° (D)
- Night vision: IR up to 98 ft / 30 m (total darkness; scene dependent)
- Weather rating: IP66 (not intended for submersion; sheltered installation recommended)
- Operating range: -22°F to 131°F (-30°C to 55°C), ≤90% RH
- Power: 12V DC, up to 4W (IR on)
Before You Start
- Confirm compatibility: CA501 requires a DVR that supports 4K analog cameras. Check your model on the Compatibility page.
- Connections: Uses BNC for video and 12V DC for power. (Video and power are separate.)
- Test before mounting: Always connect the camera to the DVR first to confirm video and resolution.
- Cable quality matters: 4K analog video is more sensitive to cable quality and length. Use a single, high-quality continuous run when possible.
Quick Install Checklist
- Mounting height: 8–10 ft (2.5–3 m) with a slight downward angle.
- Avoid IR glare: Keep walls, soffits, and gutters out of the camera’s immediate field of view.
- Outdoor installs: Install in a sheltered area to reduce water and debris exposure.
- Final step: Remove the protective film from the lens after aiming.
FAQ
Does the CA501 work without a DVR?
No. CA501 is an analog wired camera and requires a compatible DVR with BNC inputs to view or record video.
Can I connect the CA501 directly to Wi-Fi, a router, or an NVR?
No. CA501 is not an IP or PoE camera. Remote viewing is handled by the DVR, which must be connected to the internet.
What resolution will I see and record?
The camera supports 4K (8MP). Actual recording resolution and frame rate depend on your DVR model, channel settings, and system limits.
Does the CA501 record audio?
No. CA501 is a video-only camera. Audio requires a compatible DVR input and a supported microphone solution (model dependent).
How far can night vision see?
Up to 98 ft (30 m) in ideal darkness. Range varies based on environment, reflections, and available ambient light.
Can I use longer cables?
Yes, but for 4K cameras, cable quality is critical. Avoid chaining extensions and use a single continuous run when possible.
Troubleshooting
Tip: Always check power, BNC connection, then DVR channel settings.
No video / black screen
- Confirm the camera is powered (12V DC).
- Ensure the BNC connector is fully twisted and locked.
- Try a different DVR channel or a short test cable.
- Set the DVR camera type to AUTO, then try TVI or AHD if needed.
Video is blurry or soft
- Remove protective lens film.
- Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth.
- Confirm DVR recording resolution is set to 4K.
- Check cable quality and length.
White glare or haze at night
- Reposition camera away from nearby surfaces.
- Remove nearby obstructions (spiderwebs, cables).
- Clean the lens and dome area.
Motion recordings missing
- Motion detection is controlled by the DVR and app.
- Confirm motion zones and sensitivity are set.
- Verify recording schedules are enabled.
Video works locally but not on my phone
- This indicates a DVR network issue, not a camera issue.
- Confirm the DVR is connected to your router and online.
- Ensure phone and DVR were on the same network during app setup.
If You’re Using an RD101 / RD501 DVR
- Confirm the DVR channel supports 4K analog input.
- Set camera type to AUTO before manual selection.
- 4K channels may have lower max FPS than 1080p channels.
- AI detection limits and recording behavior are controlled by the DVR.