Pink or Purple Tint on Uniview Camera Footage
A pink or purple tint on your Uniview camera's video often signals a hardware or software issue. This guide provides actionable steps to resolve the problem, from quick fixes to advanced diagnostics. If the tint persists, it may indicate a stuck IR cut filter, sensor degradation, or incorrect video encoding settings.
Quick Fixes to Try First
These steps address the most common causes of colour distortion in under 30 seconds:
- Power cycle your camera: Unplug the power cable for 10 seconds, then reconnect. This can resolve temporary software glitches.
- Restart the EZView app: Close the app completely and reopen it. A corrupted app cache may cause incorrect video rendering.
- Check LED status: A solid or flashing LED may indicate a hardware fault. Refer to your model's manual for LED meaning.
- Verify power cable/battery: Ensure the power cable is securely connected or the battery is fully charged (minimum 20% in the app).
- Check app login: Log out of the EZView app and log back in. A misconfigured account may cause display issues.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Check Your Camera's Video Encoding Settings
Uniview cameras use H.265 by default on 4MP and above models. If you're using third-party VMS or playback software and see a tint, switch to H.264 in the web interface under Setup > Video & Audio > Video. This ensures compatibility with external systems.
Adjust Dual-Stream Configuration
If viewing via the EZView app, ensure Substream settings are optimised for remote viewing. Increase the Substream bitrate in Setup > Video & Audio > Stream Settings. Avoid changing the Mainstream bitrate, as this affects local recording quality.
Verify Image Format Settings
Navigate to Setup > Video & Audio > Video and select an Image Format that matches your camera's sensor. This automatically adjusts the resolution. Avoid manually changing the Resolution dropdown, as it may conflict with the sensor's capabilities.
Ensure Firmware is Up to Date
Outdated firmware can cause colour distortion or sensor misbehaviour. In the EZView app, go to Device Health > Firmware Update and follow the prompts. For models like the IPC3614SB-ADF28KM-I0, ensure the firmware is compatible with your hardware.
Reset the Camera (Model-Specific)
If the tint persists, perform a factory reset:
- IPC3614SB-ADF28KM-I0: Remove the camera from its mount, locate the reset button on the body, and press it for 15 seconds until the LED changes.
- IPC2224SE-DF40K-WL-I0: Press and hold the reset button on the camera body for 15 seconds.
- IPC6858SR-X22: Remove the lower dome cover to access the reset button on the motherboard. After resetting, reconfigure the camera and ensure the firmware is updated.
Advanced Diagnostics and Support
Export Device Diagnostics
In the EZView app, go to Device Diagnostics > Export Logs. This generates a file that Uniview support can use to identify hardware or software issues. Save the file and send it to their support team via the official website.
Contact Uniview Support
If the tint remains after all steps, contact Uniview support at www.uniview.com/Support/. Provide details about the camera model, firmware version, and steps taken. They may request the diagnostic logs exported earlier.
Hardware Fault Diagnosis
Persistent tinting may indicate a hardware fault, such as a stuck IR cut filter or damaged sensor. If the camera is under warranty, contact Uniview for a replacement. For out-of-warranty models, consider professional repair services.
Understanding the Root Cause
A pink or purple tint often stems from a stuck IR cut filter, which fails to switch between day and night modes. This can occur due to sensor degradation, firmware bugs, or incorrect video encoding settings. In the UK, solid brick construction or foil-backed insulation may also interfere with camera performance, though this is less common for wired models.
Managed Alternative for Persistent Issues
If you find yourself repeatedly troubleshooting your Uniview camera, a managed solution like scOS may offer greater reliability. scOS eliminates the need for constant resets and ensures consistent video quality with no Wi-Fi dependency. Its local processing avoids compression artifacts, and continuous recording is guaranteed with no storage limits. For UK users. scOS operates entirely under UK jurisdiction, offering peace of mind for security-critical applications.
Prevention and Long-Term Care
To avoid future tinting issues, follow these best practices:
- Regular firmware updates: Ensure your camera's firmware is always up to date.
- Check power supply: For wired models, verify the transformer voltage is between 16-24V AC.
- Monitor battery health: Replace batteries every 3-5 years to avoid degradation.
- Use high-endurance microSD cards: If using local storage, choose cards rated for surveillance (e.g. Samsung PRO Endurance).
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Prolonged exposure to heat or cold may damage sensors or IR filters.
When to Replace Your Camera
Uniview cameras typically last 5-8 years for wired models and 3-5 years for battery-powered models. Signs of replacement include:
- Persistent tinting after all troubleshooting steps
- Failed firmware updates or inability to reset
- Physical damage to the camera housing or lens
- Exceeding the warranty period with no repair options
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, UK consumers have up to 6 years (5 years in Scotland) to claim faulty goods. If your camera is under warranty, contact Uniview directly for repairs or replacements.