HIKVISION PTZ Mini Dome Security Camera Setup & Review

See this camera on Amazon: amzn.to/31f3NDq
💻💻💻💻💻 Blue Iris (Security Camera Video Management Software): hometechdiy.com...
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In this video I will be unboxing and reviewing this hikvision Mini PTZ Camera model DS-2DE3304W-DE. This camera is sold for about $150US and well worth the money. It’s a 3mp camera featuring a 4X optical zoom. That gives you a range of 2.8mm-12mm). In other words, takes you from a 105 degree point of view to 33.5.
I share my likes, such as the heavy quality of the cam and its low operating temperature. I also talk about my dislikes such as the uninsulated wires and how the camera will not fit properly onto a standard junction box. I then download SADP and activate the camera before testing it outside with a long time-lapse.

[@Vitamin-Q]

After watching your video a few time I decided to upgrade 1 of my analog cameras to this Mini PTZ. It is absolutely worth it and easy to do. I have a Hikvison TruboHD Tribrid DVR and Netgear GS116pp 183w POE. I'll be adding another in the future. Thanks for the review and setup guide!

[@Carnivorefitness2024]

What camera did you buy link?

[@HomeTechDIY]

Is this the camera you purchased: amzn.to/36TWvTY

[@Vitamin-Q]

@@HomeTechDIY yes that's it.. mine is still working great. Hikvision DS-2DE3304W-DE .

[@Angelus1981]

Hi and thanks for the video. Is there an iPhone app which allows access and control of the camera?

[@venicemaps]

You described wall mounting this camera but never showed how that might be done. My concern with wall mounting a PTZ model is how to pan and tilt the view without having the controls in the wrong axis.

[@HomeTechDIY]

You are correct. A 2-axis PTZ when wall mounted would not give you proper horizonal panning. You would only have vertical and image rotation.

[@skunkeyebandit]

What terrible video, could have turned the camera the right way

[@HomeTechDIY]

Thanks for the comment. Are you referring to the upside down cat that is in the frame when showing the default setting out of the box (when the camera is face-up so the dome cover doesn't get scratched)?

[@skunkeyebandit]

@@HomeTechDIY yes

[@Neubs-xv8tw]

It was between this and another 4mp turret camera. Lets just say I've been officially convinced.

[@Carnivorefitness2024]

Great videos! How can I use a poe camera like this with my dvr that uses coax bnc to the cameras, an adapter? My dvr will also take 2 ip cameras, not sure how to hook them up either, new dvr, still learning it, but it seems most ptz cams are Ethernet not bnc nowadays.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Thanks! Yes, most seem to be IP cameras. If you DVR accepts 2 IP cameras, that might work. If you DVR is on your network, you might be able to add the camera to a different part of your network and configure the DVR to see it. I did something similar here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIDSdKpjnr-Zg7c

[@naimkamish329]

Hi I need some help as cant seem to get sound on this camera. I have a Hikvision 16 Channel DVR. Thanks

[@thecut7690]

Thanks I’m thinking of upgrading after seeing your video

[@archangel6415]

Hi, I'd love to install 3-4 came I can access to my phone and possible also to a spare monitor. I'm an absolute beginner with survey lance but competent with my hands. Can wire a house etc. I just can't seem to decide and figure out what to buy and then the best options to wire up and have a link to the cams while on hols. I have a router, smart phone etc but not the know how. Watched many videos on this but still find the array of bits and bobs a maze. A system and know how is what I'm looking for. If you had the time to lay it all out I'd be so grateful. Every blessing. Peter

[@pj2418]

Arch Angel: I don't sell video cams, systems or any of these things but I have been installing and personally using video surveillance for 25 years. In the end I find that "Blue Iris" software on a dedicated Windows PC is the best and most economical solution to all of this. Blue Iris is amazing and incredibly versatile! If you don't know about it check it out.

[@mickcarson8504]

Is that a 4K 30fps?

[@jlficken]

Do you have a link to the IR illuminator that you show in the video? You convinced me to buy this camera :-)

[@HomeTechDIY]

No, not yet, I'm still putting together the products for a comprehensive review on IR illuminators. I hope to get outside soon to do this video, as long as there is no snow on the ground to interfere with my experiment.

[@mikeonmicshow]

I'm also looking forward to your video on IR illuminators. I just ordered this camera as well.

[@muhammadumaranwar8461]

Hi I was wondering if you can zoom into the video after playback ( when reviewing your footage) to focus a specific area on a PTZ or/and Motorized Varifocal camera. What is the difference between a PTZ and Motorized Varifocal camera other than the Pan and Tilt function? Thanks.

[@HomeTechDIY]

No, there is only digital zoom when playing back footage. The only real difference is that there is no Pan or Tilt. Sometime the varifocal have long focusing times too.

[@juancarlosarellanoortega6995]

The camera record in 360º?

[@pj2418]

I was under the impression that this could be used outdoors but when I view the specs (on Ebay & Amazon) they state that it is for "Indoor Only". I thought that it's IP67 rating meant outdoor use. Would it still be safe enough under the eaves of a house to avoid direct rainfall upon the camera?

[@HomeTechDIY]

Agreed, that is weird. I have been using one under an eave for a while, while it doesn't get wet, there are no issues. I also have one installed on my fence and it is not sheltered from the weather at all. It too has been perfect and seen lots of rain, freezing rain and snow.

[@christophere6937]

Hi - Great tutorial videos! I have successfully added two Hikvision WiFi Cube Cameras to my QNAP's QVR Pro setup using this same method. I have the Hikvision Mini PTZ featured here set up and I can access its direct IP page and configure, etc. QNAP's QVR Pro won't see it in the list to import it as the others. I have searched QNAP and Hikvision forums and no real answers. Thought I'd see if you have any suggestions. Thanks again for the great reviews / tutorials.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Thanks and I'm happy to hear that you are enjoying the videos. The only NAS experience I have is with a d-link 2-drive NAS and I found that once I hit 6 cameras I ran into a bottle neck. It was 7 years ago now. Not sure if it was a network or read/write issue. I now use a dedicated PC running BlueIris and a Hikvision NVR.

[@rockyalwayswins1495]

Hi I've linked this camera to my dvr via poe switch via the network. Can u tell me why on the hik connect app i can't use the ptz mode says fail. I was thinking maybe it's to do with the activation of the camera via sadp software as wouldn't let me select hik connect settings ? Any info on this please.

[@artur4945]

Do you know of any camera that the IR LEDs do not emit any light (940nm) and that the camera is not visible in the dark?

[@tanquishabay]

Recently, my boss installed this cam in our office. Now I wonder if the cam also records sound and voices? Does it?

[@HomeTechDIY]

No, it does not record sound

[@delusiongrandeur1344]

I don't understand how to get from the mini dome to the modem and where do the other things plug into a dvr? or a lvr?

[@HomeTechDIY]

The modem plus into the LAN port on the NVR and the mini dome plugs into any one of the group of camera or channel ports. Are you using a mobile app to try and see the cameras?

[@delusiongrandeur1344]

@@HomeTechDIY I would like to be able to see the footage on a TV screen with the NVR or DVR but I would also like to be able to access the footage via my laptop. I'm going away for a three months so I'm trying to prepare for that but I don't know how much data that means on a DVR or NVR. The info would be helpful. Thanks!!

[@HomeTechDIY]

There is an HDMI port on the NVR to see the live feed and footage on a TV. To access the NVR using a laptop, I think the PC app is called iVMS. I used it a few years ago and it was difficult to setup. There is also an iPhone app, and also difficult to get working. I am no longer using my NVR, but rather a dedicated PC to record my cameras. Maybe research, Hikvision Remove Viewing of NVR for more information. To see how much data you use on the NVR hard drive, look up Storage Capacity Calculator. Here is an example: www.westerndigital.com/tools/surveillance-capacity-calculator Hope this helps!

[@delusiongrandeur1344]

@@HomeTechDIY Thanks for your prompt response. Is there a way to contact you direct? I researched the 6MP Vandal Dome PoE IP Camera. I'd ideally like to use a DVR but be able to access the footage from afar. I feel like I'm repeating myself because I am so confused.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Sorry, I don't offer one on one services at this time. I don't have anything additional to add on remote access of the Hikvision NVR. I think one of their remote options is called Hik-Connect. I tried to set it up last year and couldn't figure it out.

[@VeeFL]

Hikvision just discontinued this model earlier this month. I really hope they release an updated model with DarkFighter or ColorVu! As a matter of fact, a true PTZ or fisheye camera with ColorVu would be a game changer!

[@azizhaniem]

Great videos Brother.

[@treys9123]

Love all of your videos, thanks for sharing your experiences and opinions!!

[@stevehays6403]

Can also download ivms-4500 app to phone and do simple setup that way. Has sadp in app and can find ip cameras with different ip then network and can enable dhcp or change static to your network config.

[@ProphetArabian]

Can CCTV PTZ to be camera Live Stream?

[@maine1842]

What NVR do you recommend?

[@karlgorski6883]

How many meters can it view in the dark?

[@reaganpenner7371]

Hi, thanks for putting together these great reviews! I was wondering if you were aware that the Amazon link that you have provided for this particular camera appears to be the grey market version. If you look online at official Hikvision US retailers this camera is retailing for $522 USD. Any thoughts?

[@analiensaturn]

Cable isnt long enough to go through a uk cavity wall

[@didyouseethat3915]

Thanks for the Review, I like Hikvision but have a hard time finding a supplier with decent stock in Canada? Any recommendations for authorized distributors that have lots of product with price listed. Thanks.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Wonderful question!! Hikvision's lack of accessibility to their products is unfortunately a huge downfall. It's pretty much impossible to find their products from an official dealer. I would recommend using B&H in the US, but dealing with the exchange, duty and they return shipping if required, is all a pain. I took my chances with grey market products from Amazon and AliExpress. There is no technical support or warranty, but at least the products are a decent price and there is quite a lot of help in the online community. There are also wanna-be dealers, like www.aartech.ca/. They are not official but do sell the products and they list the prices. I reached out to them a couple times and their support wasn't the greatest. Hope this helps.

[@frhwebmaster]

NOTE: OSX iVMS software for Mac users that are using Hikvision cam -- Does the same as SADP

[@stevehays6403]

Is that 850 wavelength on ir illuminator?

[@a64738]

Got as far as activated using the SADP then after that nothin no matter what browser I try, it just times out...

[@HomeTechDIY]

Sounds like a port issue. What is the HTTP port?

[@bigbadwolf8645]

Will cat v work on these

[@HomeTechDIY]

Yes

[@chiefcee]

Does it mean it can't get power through the ethernet cable unless you plug with 12v pin?

[@HomeTechDIY]

No, you can use PoE or the 12v input to supply the camera with power.

[@YusriSalleh]

Hi , can u set motion detection/intrusion detection during patrol with ptz camera

[@QuaabQueb]

Ever use HDCVI/TVI cameras ?

[@stefanpatrickiuhasz9444]

Hi what nvr can I use or is better switch Poe (for this camera)

[@GG-ef2ig]

Do you have any more vids on this camera? Thinking about buying this and I’m interested in the comparison videos to the non-IR hikvision domes?

[@HomeTechDIY]

I have this video on the limits: kzbin.info/www/bejne/apiyqahoj62Ka7M Setting up presets: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q33Yn2qGm5Z5g9E I don't have any comparisons of other non-IR cameras however, the image quality of this camera is fantastic! The only possible concern is that the subject might be blown out at night if it doesn't fill the entire frame. I use this camera on the edge of my property facing my house. At night, my outdoor house lights will appear very bright to the camera and the camera will blow out the house while the yard and sky remain dark. When I zoom in on the house and the house fills the frame, the camera adjusts to the lights so I can see the details of the building.

[@J273]

Hiya, Can you tell me please does this camera support auto PTZ motion tracking? Ive checked the manual but cant see anything. Some articals ive read state it does other not. Many thanks

[@HomeTechDIY]

No, from what I can see, it does not support tracking. You can set up patrols to move the camera around automatically, but I haven't seen motion tracking yet.... still learning though

[@joseoliver9253]

Great video. Thx. Question : can we switch the camera on a "program mode" to automatize zoom in / zoom out in different positions ?. If not, how can we address this challenge ? thx for reply

[@HomeTechDIY]

Yes, check out where I do just that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q33Yn2qGm5Z5g9E&lc

[@bmc5180]

Have you ever tried to connect a microphone to a camera like the Hikvision PTZ in your video? I know it is capable of accepting a microphone, but I'm curious if it works well.

[@HomeTechDIY]

No, but it's on my list.

[@Kevin99Wong]

plz test maximum zoom with optical & digital

[@subhojitdas4999]

Nice new update version

[@Technical_support781]

Thanks it's helpfull

[@pierrecharbonneau522]

Where are you finding these cameras for $150.00 US. I can't find anything under $400.00 Canadian.

[@HomeTechDIY]

On AliExpress and Ebay from the gray market (non-North American versions).

[@boblane209]

Try Newegg.ca, on sale for CAN$220, www.newegg.ca/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&DEPA=0&Order=BESTMATCH&Description=DS-2DE3304W-DE&N=-1&isNodeId=1

[@johnbrady2528]

www.newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIACC263B6959 $238 inc HST and freight.

[@cctvcamerewalabarnalapunja2814]

Great

[@BICKFORD54000]

Can this ptz camera be mounted outside under a roof please ? thanks :)

[@HomeTechDIY]

Yes, absolutely!

[@clarkss12]

Awesome video, thank you.

[@phatfel]

i am having problems with motion recording. i set up motion recording just like my other cameras but the cameras will not record. i can see the notifications of motion in IVMS but it won't record to my NAS. could you perhaps do a quick video of your PTZ and motion/record settings? or maybe you have any pointers as to why it is not recording. by the way the status of the NAS drive is normal so i don't think it is nas related. thanks!

[@phatfel]

never mind i got it work...

[@YusriSalleh]

Hi felix. So u can set motion detection with this ptz? Or intrusion detection?

[@maha-tb1xs]

nice video

[@maha-tb1xs]

nice video

[@opichocal]

Which ir illuminator did you get? Are the ones sold on eBay worth it?

[@HomeTechDIY]

I bought 4 generic illuminators on eBay and I am in the process of testing them. I should have that video up in a couple of weeks and hopefully that will answer your question.

[@opichocal]

newfiebort cool those look like the same thing I was going to order. Thx!

[@bschonec]

Can you give us a link to where you purchased the camera? I'm concerned about firmware on the grey market and I trust your judgement when buying cameras.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Here is where I bought mine on AliExpress. I haven't updated it however (but it doesn't need an update): s.click.aliexpress.com/e/yZ7UNNZ Here is the camera on Amazon (looks like it can be upgraded if needed): amzn.to/2qZtVMj See my Blog for more links: newfiebort.com/hikvision-mini-ptz-unboxing-setup-install-and-review-2/

[@bschonec]

Thank you. I've been following your channel for weeks and now I'm ready to make a purchase. I was trying to buy from authorized dealers here in the U.S. but none will sell directly to the consumer.

[@drunio1504]

Allie Express seller XinRay has serious issues with late deliveries and malfunctioning camera to a NL buyer. I use SV3C 4 mp Bullet cam, ir, Poe, p2p, Onvif, only $60 on Amazon, factory direct seller, warranty. No issues, excellent vids, specs same as Foscam. Has superb picture quality!

[@bschonec]

I purchased my NVR directly from an authorized dealer and then bought a few cameras from Amazon. I've not tried to update the firmware as I don't want to eat the cash if I brick the cameras. I'm not worried about someone hacking into my cameras because I've turned off UPnP and I use a VPN to connect to my home network first and then use the Hikvision application. So far, I've had zero issues.

[@philready3251]

Hi, Great stuff, thanks. Have you done any on monitoring and recording options for these cameras? To DVR, NAS, Cloud, other?

[@HomeTechDIY]

Thanks! I have only recorded footage to a PC via BlueIris and the Hikvision NVR. So far, so good!

[@philready5334]

I could not see that on KZbin, do you have the link?

[@HomeTechDIY]

In this PTZ video, I show the footage from BlueIris. I haven't gone into details on setting it up, but there are samples of footage. In my NVR videos, I show how to set up recording: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mV7Jf6qBYteinas I hope that helps.

[@kashyapsb]

Helpful video

[@jlficken]

Have you had any issues with frost/condensation forming inside the dome on your camera? It dropped from about 8F to -12F last night and both of my cameras had some frost/condensation form overnight. Once the temp hit about 5F this morning it disappeared but it has me concerned. They are from different years of production so I would think another camera would probably do the same thing wouldn't it? ETA: The other 4 dome cameras (fixed 2132 Hikvision cameras) that I have had no issues last night. One was installed in the summer and the others were installed this fall.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Hey! No, I haven't had this issue before with big temperature drops. We have very low humidity here in the prairies, so that could be working in my favor. Is there a Silica Gel bag inside the dome on that model?

[@jlficken]

Thanks for the info! We have anywhere from single digit to 95% humidity so it varies widely as well. Can I take the dome off of this model to check it? I thought I saw in your video where you said it was sealed so I guess I thought that meant I wasn't able to take the dome off like I can with the 2132 cameras. I don't see any desiccant just looking in it thru the dome. ETA: Looking at this manual (www.hikvision.com//uploadfile/image/510581_InstallationManualofNetworkMiniPTZCameraV5.3.10.pdf) it appears that if this is considered the 3-inch Mini PTZ then you take out the 3 screws on the bottom that attach the camera to the mounting plate to take off the dome correct?

[@jlficken]

I took the dome off (there are 3 torx screws under the mounting plate that you can remove and it just comes off) of the camera that is in the house. The dome does in fact come off I found out and there wasn't any desiccant in there. I am going to guess the ones outside are the same so I ordered some .5 gram packs and will put a couple in each camera. I am hoping that opening them in the house after letting them acclimate will allow them to not have any more issues. Hikvision support said that if they frost at anything more than -22F they are defective but given the lack of desiccant I want to try that first as just like a house window will frost given the right conditions I think any dome will too given how they are "sealed" but not really purged or anything.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Glad to hear you were able to take the cover off. I'm a little concerned about the seal and if air may be leaking in. Agreed on giving desiccant a try. Please let me know how it goes. :)

[@jlficken]

I wondered about the seal too but it appears to be a good quality seal and it is sealing down from what I can feel while tightening the screws. There isn't much room to put desiccant in it so I put a tiny packet (.5 grams) between the ring that holds the dome in and the side of the housing and put a piece of tape to hold it which seems to work as it doesn't hinder the movement of the camera. I am honestly thinking that there was just a bit too much humidity inside the dome from the factory when it was sealed so when it hit -8F last night the condensation formed. I plan on swapping the cameras out next time it is at least 15F outside and will see what happens when the temp drops again. I hate when we hit the negatives :-) I will post an update when I find out if it works. They are really awesome cameras though for the money and don't regret getting them. I am actually happy that I found out they can be taken apart.

[@colewood8288]

I like the new intro and channel icon.

[@HomeTechDIY]

Thanks for noticing! I spent most of the weekend in Photoshop and learning After Effects. :)

[@colewood8288]

Do you use the CC package or CS package? Because I've found CC to be better

[@HomeTechDIY]

I'm using the CC package and it's awesome!! Just wish I had more time to dedicate to being creative.

[@rickw7374]

Hi. So I I have an HIKVISION 7608 8 CHANNEL NVR kit that came with 6 basic cameras purchased through ADI. It works great with HIK-CONNECT, via PC and at the NVR console. I have added two of these cameras and all works well via the same access methods, including PTZ control. However I cannot get the PTZ control icon to appear on HIK-CONNECT to control via my mobile device. I spent almost three hours on the phone with HIKVISION tech support (mostly holding) explaining that I am installer and end user for this install. They were completely useless. Do you have any idea what I need to do to make PTZ accessible via mobile device through HIK-CONNECT? Thanks in advance. Great videos by the way!

[@samsinatoni4622]

I'm thinking about mounting a ptz camera inside my car. On the back window ledge.