Camera system not working or working partially
If your camera system has stopped working completely or only some cameras work, the most common cause is a damaged power supply. Read on to find out how to diagnose and resolve the problem.
Symptoms of a faulty power supply
- The recorder doesn't power on at all.
- The recorder restarts unexpectedly under load (recording, multi-camera view).
- Some cameras don't show image — others work fine (PSU can't supply enough current).
- Cameras show image but lose IR night vision (PSU drops at night when IR LEDs activate).
- Recorder works but the hard drive isn't visible.
Diagnostic procedure
- Visually inspect the PSU — bulged capacitors, burnt smell, hot housing.
- Measure with a multimeter — check that the supply outputs the rated voltage. Note: a no-load measurement may show OK even if the PSU collapses under load.
- Try a different PSU with matching specs (12V DC, sufficient current). If the system works, the original PSU is faulty.
- Try a single camera on a different feed — confirms whether the camera or the wiring is at fault.
Solution
Replace the damaged power supply with a new one matching the recorder's or camera's specifications. For older systems we also recommend preventive PSU replacement — efficiency drops with age, and an under-rated PSU can damage other components.
Recommended PATRONUM power supplies
- PATRONUM 12V DC 1000 mA — for 1 camera
- Multi-channel PSU — for 4–16 cameras (centralised power)
For technical questions contact support@patronum.eu.