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Bind IP Cameras to Centroid (RTSP / ONVIF)

Overview​

Binding a CCTV camera to Centroid follows the same process used by standard NVR systems.

If you have previously added IP cameras to an NVR, configured RTSP streams, or used ONVIF discovery, this setup will feel immediately familiar. Centroid does not introduce a proprietary or unfamiliar camera binding method.

At this stage, Centroid is only establishing a live video connection. Analytics, counting logic, and reporting are configured later.

What This Step Does​

During camera binding, Centroid performs three basic actions:

  • Connects to the camera over the network
  • Authenticates using standard camera credentials
  • Verifies a stable live video stream

No camera settings are modified, and no analytics configuration is applied at this point.

note

Existing NVR Connections

Already using the camera with another NVR? No problem.

Centroid connects as a secondary video stream. Your existing NVR continues to work normally, and both systems run independently.

Nothing needs to be disconnected, changed, or reconfigured on the camera.

Prerequisites​

Before starting, confirm the following:

  • The camera is powered and online
  • The camera IP address is known
  • RTSP or ONVIF is enabled on the camera
  • A valid camera username and password are available

If the camera is already functioning with an NVR, these requirements are already met.

Step 1: Open Camera Configuration​

Log in to the Centroid web interface and navigate to the camera configuration section.

This area manages all video sources, including IP cameras, NVR channels, and analytics devices.

Step 2: Add a New IP Camera​

Select **Add Camera** and choose **IP Camera** as the source type.

Centroid supports both ONVIF discovery and manual RTSP configuration. Use whichever method you normally prefer.

Step 3: Enter Camera Connection Details​

Provide the camera's connection information:

  • IP address
  • Port number
  • Username
  • Password

These are the same details typically entered when adding a camera to an NVR.

Step 4: Verify Live Video Stream​

After saving the configuration, Centroid will attempt to connect to the camera and display a live preview.

If the video is visible, the camera has been successfully bound.

No further action is required at this stage.

Common Installer Questions​

Do I need to remove the camera from its existing NVR?

No. The camera can remain connected to its original NVR.

Will Centroid interfere with the camera or NVR?

No. Each system operates independently using separate streams.

Is this an analytics or AI setup step?

No. This step only establishes video connectivity.

What Happens Next​

Once the camera is successfully bound, you can proceed to:

  • Assign the camera to a site or entrance
  • Configure counting lines or regions
  • Enable analytics and reporting

Camera binding is a one-time configuration step.

Notes on Standardisation​

All Centroid configuration guides follow the same structure:

  • What the step does
  • Why it is safe and familiar
  • How to complete it
  • What happens next

This ensures consistent, predictable setup across all deployments.