Blue Iris IP Security Cameras Complete Guide

Blue Iris Security Camera Knowledge Base

1. What Is a Blue Iris IP Camera

Blue Iris is a popular video surveillance software that is designed to help users capture, record, and manage security camera footage from multiple cameras. The software is developed by Perspective Software and is widely used for home security, business surveillance, and other applications where video monitoring is necessary.

2. Blue Iris Supported Camera List & Compatibility

One of the key features of Blue Iris is its compatibility with a wide range of camera models. The software supports over 3,000 different camera models, including those from major brands such as ZOSI, Amcrest, Axis, Hikvision, and Dahua. This makes it easy for users to integrate their existing cameras into the Blue Iris system and start monitoring their premises right away.

But wait. Blue Iris engineers did have tested the IP cameras to see whether they are compliant with their software. But they might not test if every function of a camera can be used in Blue Iris. So you are gonna need to check the Blue Iris camera compatibility features below.

3. Blue Iris IP Camera Compatibility: What Features You’ll Get

Another important feature of Blue Iris is its robust set of functionalities. The software provides users with a range of tools to help them manage their cameras and footage. These include motion detection, which can be set up to trigger recording and alerts when movement is detected in a specified area, as well as remote access, which allows users to view their camera feeds from anywhere in the world using a web browser or mobile app.

In addition, Blue Iris offers users the ability to customize their recording settings to suit their needs. Users can choose to record continuously or only when motion is detected, and can also set up schedules for when recordings should start and stop. The software also provides users with the ability to configure alerts to be sent via email, SMS, or push notification when motion is detected or other events occur.

Due to software limitations and differences in security camera manufacturers, certain camera functions may not be available when using Blue Iris. To ensure compatibility, it’s important to check the detailed Blue Iris camera compatibility for your specific security camera brand.

However, ZOSI Blue Iris compatible cameras (excluding battery security cameras) are a prime example of seamless compatibility. ZOSI has rigorously tested the compatibility of their cameras with Blue Iris and can confidently state that their security cameras can communicate with Blue Iris in almost every way.

This means that you can access advanced features such as live streaming, motion detection, video recording, audio recording (for cameras with audio), PT control (for pan tilt security cameras), zoom in/out, auto focus, preset (for Blue Iris PTZ cycle cameras), and email alerts.

While you can enjoy these advanced features, it’s important to keep in mind the associated costs.

4. Blue Iris License & Tech Support Fees: How Much You Need to Pay

While Blue Iris is a powerful tool for video surveillance, it does come at a cost. The software is not free and requires a one-time payment to use. However, the pricing is reasonable and users can purchase a single license for use on up to 64 cameras.

Blue Iris Support Plan Details & Prices

Note: The information in the chart above is quoted from Blue Iris official website.

Taking into account the expenses associated with utilizing the Blue Iris network camera software, opting for the manufacturer’s customized software for your security camera would be a more favorable option. With the customized software, you can enjoy the benefit of free usage and technical assistance without any additional charges, while also eliminating any compatibility concerns.

On the other hand, using Blue Iris software may result in CPU issues, which we will elaborate on in Part 4. This factor makes it even more critical to choose the customized client and app instead of Blue Iris IP security camera software.

Therefore, you can select video cameras that are compatible with both Blue Iris app/client and the customized software to ensure a seamless experience.

Compatible Blue Iris Security Camera Recommendations

Pick 1. C296 Blue Iris PTZ IP Security Camera

Consider the C296 Blue Iris PTZ IP Security Camera if you’re in search of a reliable and versatile camera that works seamlessly with Blue Iris software.

C296 - Pan Tilt IP Security Cameras

• 4K Ultra HD/5MP Super HD
• Starlight Color Night Vision
• Pan & Tilt
• PoE/WiFi Connection
• Light & Siren Alarm
• Upgraded AI-Powered Detection
• 2-Way Audio

Shop PoE IPC-296

Shop Wifi 1NC-296

Based on an Amazon reviewer: Blue Iris will run an auto-config with no issues once I gave the IP address/port (I use custom ports on all cameras).

For around $50, this camera is an excellent value for all-around property security, offering 5MP Super HD resolution. If you need the best rotating and moving security camera to pair with Blue Iris for retail or wide-range property security, you might want to try a PoE PTZ security camera instead.

Pick 2. ZOSI C190 Wireless Outdoor Security Camera

Additionally, the ZOSI C190 Wireless Outdoor Security Camera is a great choice if you’re looking for a wireless monitor that’s compatible with Blue Iris. This indoor security camera works seamlessly with the software, and it’s fully compatible with Blue Iris.

Smart 3MP Super HD WiFi Security Camera - C190

• 2.4/5 GHz WiFi
• Light & Siren Alarm
• Color Night Vision
• AI Human Detection
• 2-Way Audio

Shop for C190 Pro

It’s important to note that the above-mentioned cameras only work with Blue Iris and ZOSI NVRs for continuous recording and cannot be used with other NVR/DVR brands.

Blue Iris IP Camera Setup: Step-by-Step Guide

With this detailed guide, you can make your Blue Iris network IP camera configuration or installation like a breeze.

Here we’ll take ZOSI Blue Iris compatible cameras (except the battery security cameras) as an example to show you the step-by-step guide on adding cameras to Blue Iris.

Add ZOSI cameras to Blue Iris.

1) Download and launch Blue Iris on your PC or Mac.

2) Click “+” button at the top right of the Blue Iris software, or right click and select Add new camera to add ZOSI camera to Blue Iris.

3) Input the camera name and choose Network IP as the connection type. Check Enable audio and Enable motion detector in the Options menu. Click OK to continue.

4) Please enter the correct User Name and Password. Click Find/inspect… button to search the camera in LAN.

In the current inferface, you are gonna need to do several setup steps:

• Select the Make as ZOSI.
• Change the Discovery/.. ort into 80 or 8080.
• Click OK to finish adding the camera to Blue Iris.

If you use ZOSI PTZ security cameras, such as C296, you may not be able to use the full PTZ functionality in Blue Iris.

Don’t forget to set Network IP.

Blue Iris IP Cameras Troubleshooting & Hottest FAQs

Blue Iris is a popular IP camera software for Windows that allows users to view, record, and manage multiple IP cameras. Here are some troubleshooting tips and FAQs to help you get the most out of your Blue Iris setup:

1. “No signal” error message: This can occur if the camera is not properly connected to the network or if there is a problem with the camera itself. Check the camera’s network settings and ensure it is connected to the same network as your computer running Blue Iris. You can also try restarting the camera or resetting its settings to default.
2. Poor image quality: If you’re experiencing low-quality images or video, try adjusting the camera’s resolution or bit rate settings. You may also want to check the camera’s focus and lighting conditions.
3. Camera disconnecting frequently: If your camera keeps disconnecting, check the network connection and ensure that the camera is receiving power. You may also want to update the camera’s firmware to the latest version.
4. Blue Iris crashing or freezing: If Blue Iris is crashing or freezing, check that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the software. You can also try updating your graphics card drivers or adjusting the software’s settings to reduce CPU usage.
5. Can Blue Iris be used with non-IP cameras?: Blue Iris is designed for use with IP cameras, but it can also work with some analog cameras if you have a video encoder that can convert the analog signal to an IP signal.
6. How many cameras can Blue Iris support?: Blue Iris can support up to 64 cameras.
7. Can I access Blue Iris remotely?: Yes, Blue Iris supports remote access via a web browser or mobile app.
8. Can Blue Iris record audio?: Yes, Blue Iris can record audio if your camera supports it.
9. What video formats does Blue Iris support?: Blue Iris supports H.264, MPEG4, and MJPEG video formats.
10. How can I optimize Blue Iris performance?: To optimize Blue Iris performance, you can adjust camera settings to reduce bandwidth usage, limit the number of active cameras, and adjust the software’s CPU usage settings.

Conclusion