How to Add IP Cameras to the BG-COMMANDER-G2

This guide walks you through adding and configuring IP cameras on the BG-COMMANDER-G2. Follow each step carefully to ensure proper network communication, camera discovery, and control.

If you experience any issues after completing this guide, please contact support@bzbgear.com.

Step 1: Power and Network Connection

Ensure the BG-COMMANDER-G2 is powered on and connected to your network.

You have two options:

• PoE (Power over Ethernet): Connect the controller to a PoE-capable network switch to supply both power and network connectivity.
• Power Adapter + Network Cable: Use the included power supply and connect the controller to your network switch via Ethernet.

Confirm that the unit has fully booted before proceeding.

Step 2: Configure Network Settings

1. Enter the Setup menu.
2. Tap the network icon (Saturn-shaped icon) to access network settings.
3. Choose one of the following:
   • DHCP: Automatically assigns an IP address.
   • Static IP: Manually configure network settings.

Static IP Configuration Tips

• IP Address: Must match your network’s IP scheme.
• Default Gateway: Typically the first three octets of your network, ending in .1
  (Example: 192.168.1.1)
• Subnet Mask: Commonly 255.255.255.0

After entering the correct values, save the settings and wait for the controller to finish initializing before continuing.

Step 3: Add Cameras to the Controller

1. Ensure all cameras are:
   • Powered on
   • Connected to the same network switch as the controller
   • On the same IP range as the BG-COMMANDER-G2
2. On the controller screen, tap Add or Camera.
3. Tap the magnifying glass icon to search for cameras.
4. Select ONVIF as the discovery protocol.
5. Once cameras are found, add them to the controller.

Channel Assignment

• Camera channels default to Channel 8 to prevent accidental overwrites.
• Change each camera to its correct channel number after adding.

Protocol Notes

• You may change the control protocol if required.
• Important: Changing the control protocol may remove the RTSP stream URL.
  • After changing protocols, edit the camera channel and re-enter the RTSP URL if necessary.

Step 4: Test Camera Preview and Control

1. Tap Preview to confirm video and control functionality.
2. Verify that:
   • Live video is visible
   • PTZ and camera controls respond correctly

If Preview Is Not Displayed

• Check for any error messages on the controller screen.
• Adjust camera video encoding settings, such as:
  • Lower resolution
  • Lower frame rate
  • Lower bitrate
• Verify the RTSP stream URL:
  • Test it on a PC or laptop using VLC or OBS Studio
• Confirm network connectivity:
  • Ping the controller and cameras from a PC
  • Access each device’s web GUI
• Power cycle the system if a handshake or initialization issue is suspected.

If Camera Control Is Not Working

• Confirm the control protocol and port number are correct and supported.
• Test network communication by accessing and controlling the camera from a PC or laptop on the same network.

FAQs

What is the default IP address of the BG-COMMANDER-G2?

• 192.168.5.180

What are the default Web GUI login credentials?

• Username: admin
• Password: (no password)

What control protocol is used by default during auto search?

• ONVIF or NDI

How do I exit Preview mode?

• Press the Setup/Menu button on the controller, or

Tap the Home button on the screen