How to Solve Common Ezviz Wiring Problems
Proper wiring is the backbone of a reliable wired Ezviz security camera system. Unlike wireless cameras, wired models depend on physical cables for power and sometimes data, and a single faulty connection can bring the entire system down. Whether you're dealing with a camera that won't power on or an unstable video feed, this guide will help you troubleshoot the root cause.
Safety First: Before inspecting any wiring, always disconnect the camera from its power source. If you are working with mains voltage, turn off the corresponding circuit at your fuse box. If you are not comfortable with electrical wiring, consult a qualified electrician.
## Problem 1: The Camera Will Not Power On
This is the most common wiring issue. You've installed the camera, but there are no signs of life—no status lights, no sounds, and it's not detected by the app.
### For DC-Powered Cameras (with a power adapter):
- Check the Power Outlet: First, confirm the wall socket is working. Plug a lamp or another small appliance into it to ensure it has power.
- Inspect All Connection Points: A wired camera has multiple points of failure.
- Check that the power adapter is securely plugged into the wall socket.
- Ensure the barrel connector from the adapter is pushed firmly into the camera's power input pigtail.
- If you are using an extension cable, check the connections at both ends.
- Use the Official Power Adapter: It is critical to use the Ezviz power adapter that came with your camera. A phone charger or another adapter may have the wrong voltage (V) or amperage (A), which can either fail to power the device or permanently damage it.
- Test with a Different Adapter: If possible, try using a known-good power adapter with the same specifications to rule out a faulty adapter.
### For Power over Ethernet (PoE) Cameras:
- Check the PoE Source: Ensure your camera is connected to a PoE switch or a PoE injector that is powered on. Look for link/activity lights on the port it's connected to.
- Test the Ethernet Cable: The Ethernet cable itself could be faulty. Use a cable tester to check its integrity or, more simply, swap it with a known-good cable.
- Try a Different Port: Plug the camera into a different PoE port on your switch or NVR to rule out a single bad port.
- Verify PoE Standard: Make sure your camera's PoE standard (e.g., 802.3af, 802.3at) is compatible with your switch or injector.
## Problem 2: The Video Feed is Unstable, Flickering, or Has Lines
This issue indicates an inconsistent supply of power or a problem with the data signal.
- Check for Loose Connections: A flickering feed is a classic symptom of a loose power connection. Re-check every connection point, from the adapter to the camera.
- Cable Length and Quality: If you are using a long power extension cable or a long Ethernet cable for PoE, signal degradation can occur.
- For DC power, excessively long or thin-gauge extension cables can cause a voltage drop, starving the camera of power.
- For PoE, Ethernet cables should not exceed 100 metres (328 feet). Poor quality (e.g., Copper Clad Aluminium instead of solid copper) cables can cause issues at shorter lengths.
- Electrical Interference: Running the camera's power or Ethernet cable parallel to high-voltage AC power lines can induce interference, causing lines on the screen or flickering. Try to cross AC lines at a 90-degree angle and avoid running them in the same conduit.
## Problem 3: The Camera is Powered On but Not Connecting to the Network
This applies to PoE cameras where the camera has power (indicated by a status light) but is not appearing on your network.
- Check Network Link Lights: Look at the Ethernet port on your router or switch where the camera is connected. You should see a blinking light indicating network activity. If there's no light, it points to a bad cable or a faulty port.
- Crimping and Connectors: If you made your own Ethernet cables, double-check the RJ45 connectors. An incorrect wiring order (T568A or T568B) or a poorly crimped connector is a common point of failure.
- Confirm IP Address: Use a network scanning tool to see if the camera has obtained an IP address from your router. If it hasn't, it confirms a data connection issue, likely related to the physical cable or port.
By methodically inspecting each part of the physical connection, you can efficiently diagnose and fix the vast majority of Ezviz wiring problems.