Key takeaways
- Retrofitting existing cameras with ButterflyMX is straightforward with step-by-step instructions for seamless integration.
- Verifying ONVIF compatibility is essential to ensure existing cameras work with the ButterflyMX system.
- The ButterflyMX Security Camera Gateway allows you to connect up to 10 IP cameras to the ButterflyMX OS.
Important note: You must be certified to install the ButterflyMX Security Camera solution. If you’re not certified, you risk voiding our two-year hardware warranty. Join our free Dealer Program to get certified. Once you’ve joined, you’ll be eligible to receive discounted hardware pricing and installation referrals.
Are you already a ButterflyMX-certified dealer? Read on to learn how to install our Security Camera solution with compatible third-party cameras.
Follow this step-by-step guide:
- Confirm ONVIF compatibility
- Connect the Cameras to the Camera Gateway
- Establish a network connection
- Connect the cameras to the ButterflyMX OS
1. Confirm ONVIF compatibility
First, you must determine if your existing security cameras are open network video interface forum (ONVIF) compatible.
To do this, you have a few options:
- Send us a security camera
- Request a ButterflyMX Camera Gateway
- Use an ONVIF device manager
- Verify with the camera’s manufacturer
Send us a security camera
If all of your client’s cameras are from the same manufacturer, you can provide the make, model, and purchase date to our support team, or simply ship a security camera to us. Once received, we will test it for compatibility in our facilities.
Request a ButterflyMX Camera Gateway
We can provide you with a ButterflyMX Camera Gateway for testing. Simply connect your security cameras and the Camera Gateway to the same network and the ButterflyMX OS will verify the compatibility of your security cameras. Then, contact ButterflyMX once the gateway has been connected to the client’s site so it can be provisioned.
Use ONVIF Device Manager (ODM)
Download and install the ONVIF Device Manager (ODM) on your Windows device. This tool allows you to view and manage the settings of ONVIF security cameras on your network. If needed, ButterflyMX can guide you through installing and using ODM to scan for compatible security cameras. Keep in mind that ONVIF support may need to be enabled in the camera’s network settings for this option.
Verify with the camera manufacturer
Contact the manufacturer of your client’s security camera with the details of the model and firmware version.
Join ButterflyMX’s industry-leading dealer program:
2. Connect the cameras to the Camera Gateway
Next, connect your client’s third-party cameras to the ButterflyMX Camera Gateway. With a Camera Gateway, you can seamlessly connect up to 10 IP security cameras to the ButterflyMX Access Control System, enabling your clients to view live video and access video clips associated with door activity.
3. Establish a network connection
Use an Ethernet cable to connect the Security Camera Gateway to a PoE switch. Ensure the switch operates on the same local area network (LAN) subnet as the ButterflyMX Security Cameras. This step is crucial for the devices to communicate effectively over the same network.
4. Connect the cameras to the ButterflyMX OS
Finally, when integrating a third-party camera with the ButterflyMX Camera Gateway and OS, additional configuration is required through the camera’s settings webpage. Before provisioning, ensure the camera is set to use H.264 compression, a frame rate of 15 fps, and a resolution of HD 1080P at 2000 kbps for both live streams and video recordings. These settings optimize performance and compatibility with the ButterflyMX system.
Additionally, third-party IP cameras must be discoverable on the same network as the ButterflyMX Camera Gateway. During provisioning, provide each camera’s username and password to ButterflyMX Support to complete the integration process smoothly. Following these steps ensures reliable connectivity and high-quality video integration.
For more information on installing ButterflyMX products, visit our installer resources page.
