| Frequently Asked Questions |
(I) TROUBLESHOOTING QUESTIONS |
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| Q: |
I purchased a camera kit that came with just one (or two) cameras.
Can I connect an additional camera? |
| A: |
Depending on your receiver type, you can connect up to four (4) cameras to one receiver. However, we recommend that users only connect up to three cameras to one receiver due to the increased possibility of interference. The receiver has buttons that will allow you to view all 3 (or 4) cameras individually. You can order additional cameras at: http://www.astakshop.com, under the Camera/Receiver Parts section. All cameras in that section are compatible with your receiver. The number on the camera is also the channel number. *Please be sure to fill out the comments box when you order, in order to inform us of the channel number(s) of your existing camera(s).* We need to know your existing camera's channel numbers so that we can send additional cameras with different channel numbers in order to avoid interference. Thank you for buying the Astak camera! |
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| Q: |
I'm experiencing interference problems. How do I solve this? |
| A: |
There are several things you can try.
a) If you have a 2.4GHz cordless phone or wireless internet router, then those devices maybe causing the interference. Try to change the channels of those devices. On a wireless router, you can change the channel from the router's setup. For the cordless phone, if you cannot change channels then try to turn off the power from the phone base, and then turn on the camera and receiver to see it still has interference. Then try to turn on the base phone again. Some phones will automatically change to a different channel if there is conflict with another device.
b) In the rare case of serious interference, try the following. Place the camera where there is the fewest number of obstructions between the camera and receiver. Obstructions include ceramic tiles, concrete, microwaves, and even stacks of newspapers, as well as Blue tooth-enabled devices such as laptops and PDAs.
c) Try making adjustments to the locations of the camera and receiver. Finding the best position is a matter of trial-and-error. Moving the location of the camera and/or receiver in any direction by only a few inches will often improve the reception. Try moving your camera around and changing the antenna angle. Also, try placing the receiver higher than the camera. Avoid a location near your microwave oven. |
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| Q: |
The image looks foggy. What's going on? |
| A: |
The problem is caused by water droplets that condensed from the air, usually at night, onto cool surfaces. When the temperature drops, dew drops accumulate on the face of the camera, just like a car parked outside in the winter. To solve this problem, try putting the camera under an awning or the eaves of your home. If that does not work, you might consider buying an outdoor camera casing with heater and blower (available for purchase elsewhere), but they usually cost around $75 + S&H. |
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| Q: |
I connected the camera to my TV, but I'm seeing a "snow" effect on my screen. Or I'm seeing a blue/black screen on my TV. How do I solve this TV connection problem? |
| A: |
If you get a blue/black screen, it means you didn't select the correct TV mode. Please use the TV/Video (AV) button on your TV remote control to select the correct display mode on your TV. If you get a snowing effect it means the receiver didn't get a signal from the camera. Please try the following steps. Make sure that you're using a 12-Volt adaptor for the receiver. Then make sure that you're using a 8-Volt adaptor for the camera (for now, don't use a battery). Look to see which channel number is printed on the camera (it should be either 1, 2, 3, or 4). Then select the same exact channel number on your receiver. Then use the A/V cable (yellow for video, red for audio) to connect to your TV, and then use your TV remote's TV/Video button to select video1 or video2 (this depends on your TV set). If this still does not work, please feel free to contact one of our customer service representatives. |
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| Q: |
Why am I getting a white screen? |
| A: |
This is a common situation known as Whitewash or Washout, which occurs when a strong light (sunlight or other light source) shines directly into the lens and sensor, and overpowers the video signal and Electronic Iris. This does not harm the camera and the picture will return to normal if the light source is moved out of that position. Please remember to NOT point your camera directly into any light source. |
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| Q: |
Can I record the event I see on my TV? |
| A: |
Yes, you can. You need a normal VCR if it is a manual recording. However, if you need to record for a long time while you are away from home or the office, you will need a special VCR such as time-lapse VCR or DVR (Digital Video Recorder). A time-lapse VCR allows you to record the camera picture from 6 hours up to 960 hours (40 days) using a standard video tape. |
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| Q: |
How do I connect my new camera to a VCR? |
| A: |
We highly recommend that you connect the camera to your TV first in order to make sure that the camera is working, before you connect to your VCR. You need a VCR or DVR to record the images your see on your TV. Once you have confirmed that you can see an image on your TV screen, try the following steps. First connect the A/V cable from the receiver to A/V input on your VCR. Then connect from A/V output on your VCR to your TV's A/V input. After you have made all the connections, you will need to refer to your VCR user's manual to make a recording. In most cases, you will need to select line 1 or line 2 on your VCR to make a recording. Try changing to channel 2 in your VCR, and then pushing channel "-" in the remote that will get line 1. When you can see the image on your TV, then you can push the record button to record. |
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| Q: |
Can I hook up ASTAK cameras to my computer? |
| A: |
If the computer is equipped with a Frame Grabber Board or TV/Video Board with A/V input, or a Video Card or TV Card with RCA connectors, then the ASTAK Camera will work directly with your computer. There are other ways to connect ASTAK Cameras to your computer, but you will need to consult with your computer specialist. |
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| Q: |
Can I use ASTAK weather-proof cameras outdoors? |
| A: |
Yes, the Astak weather-proof cameras are designed for outdoor use. Ideally, however, the cameras will perform optimally if placed under fixtures (for example, an overhang or awning). |
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| Q: |
I'm experiencing problems with water getting into the camera. |
| A: |
Although our cameras are weatherproof, we don't recommend directly exposing them in the rain. For best results, please put the camera under some kind of cover. If the glass gets wet or foggy, you can open the cover to clean it or send it back to us. We will replace it. |
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| Q: |
What is the maximum distance I can have between the camera and the receiver? |
| A: |
The maximum distance you can have between the camera and receiver is 300 feet. |
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| Q: |
If your cameras are wireless, why do they still need to be attached to an external power source? |
| A: |
ALL wireless cameras need to have some type of power source. Wireless refers to the fact that no wires are needed to connect the camera to the receiver. For some models there is a built-in rechargeable battery, but it only runs for 5-6 hours on battery power. It is easy to hook up an extension cord from any outdoor outlet to supply power to the camera. If there is not an outlet nearby, you can buy a screw-in outlet from your local hardware store for your porch or patio light. The charger is then plugged into the extension cord and make sure to always use electrical tape (available from most hardware stores) to keep water from getting into the connection. That should be all you need to do. Only the receiver needs to be kept indoors. |
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| Q: |
Are ASTAK wireless cameras easy to install? |
| A: |
Yes, the Astak Security Video Camera easily connects to any TV or VCR. Just connect the camera to an AC adapter (included), and connect the wireless receiver to your TV or VCR and use your TV remote control to view the camera picture. It's that simple! |
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| (II) FAQ FOR ASTAK SECURITY PRODUCTS |
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| Q: |
What is CMOS? |
| A: |
CMOS: Short for complementary metal oxide semiconductor. CMOS semiconductors use both NMOS (negative polarity) and PMOS (positive polarity) circuits. Since only one of the circuit types is on at any given time, CMOS chips require less power than chips using just one type of transistor. This makes them particularly attractive for use in battery-powered devices, such as ASTAK CM-811T and CM-812T wireless cameras. CMOS image sensor integrates all camera functions in a small, single chip package enabling manufacturers to design high-performance, reliable and cost-effective solutions. |
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| Q: |
What is CCD? |
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CCD: Short for charge-coupled device, an instrument whose semiconductors are connected so that the output of one serves as the input of the next. Digital cameras and high-end security cameras all use CCD sensors. Due to the high cost of CCD sensors, The prices of CCD cameras are usually higher than CMOS cameras. |
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| Q: |
What are LEDS? |
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LEDS are Light Emitting Diodes. LEDS provide Night Vision for ASTAK Security Cameras. |
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| Q: |
What is DVR? |
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DVR: Short for Digital Video Recorder. |
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| Q: |
What is a security video system? |
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A security video system is a group of devices, such as several security cameras and a DVR visual deterrent against crime. It allows you to monitor a specific location in your office or home. With the Astak Security Camera System you can watch a live video feed from your TV and record it to your VCR. |
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| (III) FAQ FOR 2.4G WIRELESS CAMERAS |
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| Q: |
What is the bandwidth of 2.4Ghz and why does it have only four channels? |
| A: |
The bandwidth of 2.4Ghz is from 2.400 GHz to 2.4835 GHz and they cover four channels: CH 1: 2.434 GHz, CH 2: 2.453 GHz, CH 3: 2.473 GHz and CH 4: 2.481 GHz. |
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| Q: |
What is the transmission range of ASTAK wireless cameras? |
| A: |
Astak wireless cameras allow you to transmit audio and video signals, from one room to another via wireless transmission. The Astak wireless camera provides up to 300 ft (100 meters) of wireless transmission (in open space). |
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| Q: |
What does 'open space' mean? |
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The term 'open space' means that there are no obstructions, which may interfere with the transmission of the audio/video signal. Obstructions include items such as walls, buildings and certain electronic devices. |
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| Q: |
What is the transmission range through walls? |
| A: |
As with all wireless products, the range of the camera system is reduced when transmitting through walls. Typically, the transmission range is about 100 ft in a standard house. |
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