AirCast

Camera Setup Guide

Essential configuration steps for connecting cameras to your AirCast system.

Prerequisites

  • IP camera with RTSP support: Most modern IP cameras support RTSP streaming. Check your camera's documentation to confirm RTSP compatibility.
  • Network cable (Cat5e or Cat6 recommended): A reliable ethernet connection ensures stable video streaming.
  • Access to camera's web interface: You'll need administrator credentials for your camera's configuration panel.
  • Raspberry Pi with ethernet connection: A Raspberry Pi 4 or newer is recommended for optimal performance.
  • Active internet connection: Required for initial setup and remote access capabilities.

Step 1: Configure RTSP Address

Locate your camera's IP address in the documentation (example: 192.168.1.1). The RTSP address format will be: rtsp://192.168.1.1:554. You can initially connect your IP camera directly to your computer to find the correct RTSP address.

Finding Your Camera's IP Address

  1. Connect your IP camera directly to your computer using an ethernet cable
  2. Use your camera manufacturer's IP discovery tool, or
  3. Check your router's DHCP client list
  4. Once found, we recommend setting a static IP address for reliability
Example of rtsp address in SIYI camera documentation

Example RTSP address format in camera documentation

Step 2: Access Device Dashboard

Access the AirCast dashboard through your web browser and locate your device in the device list. Each device shows its current status, connected cameras, and configuration options.

Device selection in dashboard

Select your device from the dashboard to access camera configuration

Pro Tips

  • Ensure your device shows "Online" status before proceeding
  • Check the device's firmware is up to date
  • Make note of the device's local IP address for future reference

Step 3: Add Camera Configuration

Now that you've accessed the device dashboard, you can add and configure your camera. Follow these steps carefully to ensure proper setup.

  1. Access Camera Setup: Click the three dots menu on the right side of the device card to access camera setup optionsAdd new camera menu
  2. Configure Camera Settings:
    • Name: Choose a descriptive name that helps identify the camera (e.g., "Front Door Camera", "Warehouse Cam 1")
    • RTSP URL: Enter the RTSP address from Step 1, following the format rtsp://ip-address:port
    • Network Interface: Select "eth0" for wired connection
    Fill camera details
  3. Save Configuration: Click "Save changes" to store your camera settings
  4. Enable Camera: Activate the camera by checking the checkboxEnable camera

Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions

Camera Not Connecting

  • Verify the RTSP URL is correct and the camera is powered on
  • Ensure the camera and Raspberry Pi are on the same network
  • Check if the camera's firmware is up to date
  • Confirm the network ports are not blocked by a firewall

Video Feed Issues

  • Try refreshing the page if the video feed doesn't appear immediately
  • Check network bandwidth and reduce video quality if necessary
  • Ensure the Raspberry Pi isn't overheating

Setup Complete

When successfully configured, your camera feed should appear in the dashboard as shown below:

Camera connected and streaming

A properly configured camera showing live video feed