As the demand for flexible and eco-friendly surveillance solutions grows, solar-powered cameras have become an increasingly popular choice for remote and off-grid environments. To streamline video management and remote monitoring, HIKVISION now supports integrating solar cameras into its NVR system via the OTAP protocol, starting from firmware version 4.63.
In this guide, we'll explore how to easily connect your solar camera to a HIKVISION NVR using OTAP, and highlight key benefits like live preview, video playback, and power management—perfect for integrators and system installers looking to optimize deployments in energy-conscious scenarios.
✅ What Is OTAP and Why It Matters?
OTAP (Open Things Access Protocol) is a communication method that allows solar cameras to connect to NVRs through wireless or 4G networks. With this, cameras can transmit live video, upload recordings, and even report power consumption levels—all without relying on wired connections.
This is ideal for deployments in areas like:
-
Construction sites
-
Farms or remote perimeters
-
Temporary installations
-
Parking lots and public events
🔧 Step-by-Step: How to Add a Solar Camera to HIKVISION NVR
1. Camera-Side Configuration
Start by accessing the solar camera's web interface and configuring OTAP settings:
-
Navigate to: Configuration → Network → Advanced Settings → Platform Access
-
Set Access Mode to OTAP, input the NVR’s IP address and OTAP port (default: 7800)
-
Define the Device ID and a secure authentication key
-
Enable the function and save your changes
-
Once connected, the camera status will show as Online
📌 Tip: If the camera is on a 4G network, use the WAN IP of the NVR and ensure proper port forwarding.
Also, ensure a recording schedule is configured on the camera, so footage is available for later uploading.
2. NVR-Side Setup
-
Access the NVR via its web interface
-
Go to: Configuration → Network → Advanced Configuration → OTAP Service
-
Enable OTAP Network Camera Service, enter the port (default: 7800) and the same verification key used on the camera
You can enable Auto Add, so compatible solar cameras are automatically recognized. Otherwise, add them manually through:
-
Quick Add: The NVR scans for available solar cameras
-
Manual Add: Choose OTAP protocol and input the camera’s Device ID
Once added, the system displays the camera’s live video and battery power level.
📹 Playback & Video Management Features
-
Live View: Accessible through the top menu. The system streams for 5 minutes per session to control data usage—ideal for 4G setups.
-
Recording & Playback: Configure schedules on both the NVR and the camera. Enable ANR (Automatic Network Replenishment) for efficient video uploading cycles.
-
Power Mode Management: Choose from three low-power modes under Configuration → Low Power Consumption to balance energy savings and connectivity. Note: Some modes disable wired access; SIM card support is essential.
⚙️ Practical Benefits for Installers & System Integrators
-
Remote Setup Without Wires: Perfect for solar and mobile setups.
-
Easy Playback Access: Smart scheduling and OTAP support make it easy to retrieve and manage footage.
-
Battery Monitoring: Helps predict maintenance cycles and prevents power loss.
-
Flexible Deployment: Especially beneficial in locations with limited infrastructure.
🏁 Conclusion
Integrating a HIKVISION solar camera into an NVR via OTAP opens the door to smarter, greener surveillance solutions. Whether you're managing a remote project site or deploying eco-conscious security systems, this setup ensures seamless video access, power efficiency, and reliability.
Installers and users can refer to the user manual provided with the device for detailed interface steps and model-specific settings. With OTAP, bringing smart solar surveillance online has never been easier.