Dahua Camera Showing a Black Screen or 'No Video'? Here's the Fix
Seeing a 'No Video' or 'Video Loss' error on your Dahua security monitor is a common problem that can usually be fixed with some simple troubleshooting. This guide will help you identify the cause and get your camera's picture back online, whether you have an IP camera or an HDCVI coaxial camera.
## Step 1: Is the Camera Receiving Power?
A camera can't send a video signal if it isn't turned on. This is the first and most important thing to check.
- Check the Infrared (IR) Lights: The easiest way to check for power is to look at the camera at night or in a dark room. You should see a faint red glow from the small IR LEDs surrounding the lens. If you see no red lights, the camera is not getting power.
- Inspect the Power Supply: Check the power adapter plugged into the wall or the Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch the camera is connected to. Ensure it's plugged in and the status lights are on.
- Try a Different Power Source: If possible, try powering the camera with a different power adapter or by plugging it into a different PoE port on your switch or NVR.
## Step 2: Check the Video Cable
The connection between the camera and the recorder (NVR or DVR/XVR) is the next most likely point of failure.
### For Dahua IP Cameras (Network Cable)
- Check RJ45 Connectors: Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely clicked into place at both the camera's end and the NVR/switch's end. The link lights on the NVR/switch port should be blinking.
- Test the Cable: A faulty network cable is a very common culprit. The delicate copper wires inside can break, or the connector can be poorly crimped. The best way to test this is to use a brand new, pre-made Ethernet patch cable to connect the camera directly to the NVR. If a picture appears, you know the original cable is the problem.
### For Dahua HDCVI Cameras (Coaxial Cable)
- Check BNC Connectors: These connectors twist and lock into place. Make sure they are securely fastened at both the camera and the DVR/XVR. A loose BNC connector will result in video loss.
- Inspect the Cable: Look for any signs of damage, sharp bends, or cuts along the length of the coaxial cable.
## Step 3: Software and Configuration Issues
If you're confident the camera has power and the cable is good, the issue might be in the settings.
### For IP Cameras
- IP Address Conflict: If two devices on your network have the same IP address, it can cause one or both to go offline. Use Dahua's 'ConfigTool' software on a computer to scan your network and ensure the camera has a unique IP address.
- Incorrect Password: If you have recently changed the password on your NVR, you may need to update it for the camera as well. In the NVR's camera registration menu, find the camera, edit it, and re-enter the correct password.
### For HDCVI Cameras
- Incorrect Video Standard (Signal Type): Dahua XVRs (recorders for coaxial cameras) can support multiple technologies (CVI, TVI, AHD, CVBS). If the channel is set to the wrong type, you'll get a black screen.
- Log in to your XVR.
- Go to the main menu, then Camera.
- Find the channel with the black screen.
- Look for a setting called 'Channel Type' or 'Signal Type'.
- Cycle through the options (CVI, TVI, AHD, etc.) and apply the changes. One of them should match your camera and bring the picture back.
By following these three steps—checking power, cables, and configuration—you can solve the vast majority of 'No Video' issues with Dahua security cameras.