Camera setup
Ajax Camera and NVR ONVIF Setup for OmniNVR
Integrate current Ajax video devices or Ajax NVR streams with OmniNVR using ONVIF authorization and the RTSP links supplied by Ajax.
Compatibility is model- and firmware-specific. OmniNVR and TardisLabs are not affiliated with or endorsed by Ajax.
Check compatibility before you start
Update the Ajax app and video device firmware first. Ajax lists ONVIF support for NVR firmware 2.289 or later and requires current app versions for configuration. In the device's Service settings, enable Connection via ONVIF and create at least one ONVIF user with an appropriate role.
An Ajax NVR can also ingest third-party ONVIF or RTSP cameras. That direction is different from exporting Ajax camera or NVR video to OmniNVR, so choose the endpoint that owns the stream you want.
Add the camera or NVR channel
Ajax displays Mainstream and Substream links in the ONVIF connection settings. Copy those exact links and replace any credential placeholders as directed, then store the credentials in OmniNVR. Do not invent a path from the port numbers alone.
Use the substream for continuous coverage and the mainstream for event detail. Test access while both devices are on the same LAN before considering routed access.
Choose recording roles
Use the lower-bitrate sub stream for continuous history when it has enough detail, and reserve the main stream for focused live view or event clips. This reduces storage and decode load without giving up high-quality evidence around important moments.
Before scaling up, record one camera for at least fifteen minutes, play it from the timeline, disconnect the network briefly, and restart OmniNVR. A working live preview alone does not prove that timestamps, recovery, and storage are reliable.
Troubleshooting checklist
- No ONVIF menu: confirm the NVR/camera and app meet Ajax's minimum firmware versions.
- Port 554 fails: default Ajax RTSP is documented as 8554 when default settings are selected.
- Credentials rejected: use the ONVIF user created in Service settings.
- URL changes: recopy the generated link after changing network or integration settings.
Frequently asked questions
Does every Ajax camera work with OmniNVR?
No. The camera or recorder must expose a compatible RTSP, RTSPS, ONVIF, or HLS stream, and support varies by model, firmware, codec, power mode, and network topology.
Should I connect to the camera or the brand NVR?
Connect directly when the camera is reachable and you want independent streams. Connect to the NVR when cameras are isolated behind its PoE network or the recorder is the only endpoint that exposes each channel.
Can I expose the RTSP port to the internet?
Do not forward camera RTSP ports for long-term remote access. Keep cameras local and use a trusted VPN when remote viewing is required.
Sources and further reading
Build your NVR on the Apple devices you already own.
Monitor, record, review, and retain RTSP and ONVIF camera video locally.