Here's a step-by-step guide to view live CCTV footage using a network tester and ONVIF:
*Steps to View IP Camera Live Stream:*
1. *Connect CCTV Tester to Same Network*
Ensure both your CCTV tester (like a PTZ tester or IP scanner) and the IP camera are connected to the same local network (via switch/router or directly).
2. *Perform Auto IPC Search*
Open the CCTV tester tool and run an *"Auto IP Search"* or **"IPC Scan"**.
The tool will list all available IP cameras on the network with their IP addresses.
3. *Find Camera Credentials*
Note the camera's *IP address, username, and password* (default credentials are often admin/admin or admin/123456).
If credentials are unknown, check the camera manual or reset the camera.
4. *Use ONVIF App to Get RTSP Link*
Open an *ONVIF-compatible app* (e.g., ONVIF Device Manager, TinyCam, or iSpy).
Enter the camera’s IP, username, and password.
The app will detect the camera and display available **RTSP streaming links**.
5. *Copy RTSP Link & Play in VLC*
The RTSP link typically looks like:
```
rtsp://username:[email protected]:554/streaming/channels/101
```
(Replace IP, username, password, and path as per camera model.)
Open *VLC Media Player* → Click *Media* → *Open Network Stream* → Paste the RTSP link → **Play**.
6. *View Live Feed*
If credentials and RTSP link are correct, VLC will display the live video from the IP camera.
*Troubleshooting Tips:*
🔹 *No cameras found?* Check if the tester is on the same subnet as the camera.
🔹 *Login failed?* Reset the camera or check default credentials.
🔹 *No video in VLC?* Verify RTSP port (usually 554) and firewall settings.
🔹 *ONVIF not working?* Ensure the camera supports ONVIF (most modern IP cameras do).
Would you like help with a specific CCTV tester model or camera brand (Hikvision, Dahua, etc.)? Let me know! 🚀