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Add generic IP camera

Overview

BRNKL supports video feeds from most IP cameras that use the RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol). Many IP cameras can be added to BRNKL as long as they provide a stable RTSP stream.

BRNKL only supports video streams encoded in the H.264 format. H.265 is not supported.

Not all cameras or encoders follow H.264 standards, therefore, we cannot guarantee that the camera or encoder will work with BRNKL unless it’s listed as a supported Make and Model in our help pages.

Install camera

  1. Mount the camera according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  2. Connect the camera to the vessel's IP network. Some wireless cameras may be compatible, but hardwired ethernet is recommended for reliability.

  3. Ensure the camera is powered on during configuration

Prepare camera

Find camera IP address

  • Log in to your router’s admin page and check the list of connected devices, or

  • Use an IP scanning tool (e.g., LAN Scanner, Advanced IP Scanner) to find the device on your network.

Log in to the camera

  1. Enter the camera’s IP address into a web browser.

  2. Use the manufacturer’s default username and password (refer to the camera’s manual).

  3. Change the default password if prompted.

Configure stream settings

  1. Navigate to the camera’s video/stream settings in its web interface.

  2. Enable or confirm RTSP streaming is active.

  3. Recommended configuration:

    • Stream protocol: RTSP

    • Encoding: H.264

    • Frame Rate: 15 FPS

    • Max Bitrate: 2.4 Mbps (2400 kbps)

Search for the RTSP URL for the camera (this usually requires a Google search or can be found in the camera’s user manual). It usually follows a standard like:

rtsp://<username>:<password>@<camera_ip>:554/stream1

Assign a static IP address

  1. In the camera’s web interface, go to Network > Network Setting.

  2. Set IP Type to Static.

Add camera to BRNKL Device Manager

  1. Open BRNKL Device Manager → Settings > Cameras.

  2. Click + Add Camera.

  3. Select + RTSP.

  4. Enter the following details:

    • RTSP URL: (use the format from your camera’s documentation)

  5. Enter a descriptive name for the camera (e.g., Engine Room, Cockpit).

  6. Click Add.

Troubleshooting

  • Camera not streaming video?

    • Verify the camera and BRNKL are on the same network/subnet.

    • Double-check the RTSP URL format.

    • Verify video feed using VLC Media Player and view live feed using the “Open Network” tool in VLC Media Player.

  • Video not streaming smoothly?

    • Reduce the bitrate in the camera settings.

    • Use wired Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi if possible.