What to check on FLEXIDOME IP 3000i IR camera when there are focus issues?

Question

What to check on FLEXIDOME IP 3000i IR camera when there are focus issues?

Answer

If you're experiencing focus issues with your FLEXIDOME IP 3000i IR (NDE-3512-AL) cameras, there are several steps you can follow to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

Focus issues with the FLEXIDOME IP 3000i IR (NDE-3512-AL) cameras can occur due to several causes, including improper zoom settings, installation height or lens cleanliness. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined below, you can identify and resolve the most focus-related problems.

1. Check Optical Zoom Settings

A common issue that can cause blurry or out-of-focus footage is incorrect optical zoom settings. To begin troubleshooting:

• Check the camera's optical zoom setting. If it is set to 0, the camera may not be focusing properly. Increase the optical zoom and try to refocus the camera.

2. Verify the Camera Installation Height

The camera’s installation height can significantly impact its ability to focus properly. If the camera is mounted too high, it might be out of optimal range for focusing. Ensure that the camera is installed at the correct height for its intended viewing angle. If it's mounted too high, adjust its position to improve the focus.

3. Test Focus Without the Bubble

The camera's bubble can sometimes cause focus issues due to dirt, smudges, or reflections. To check if this is the cause of the problem:

• Remove the bubble and test the camera to see if the focus issue persists.
• If the focus is better without the bubble, clean the bubble thoroughly, as dirt or smudges can distort the image.
• If the focus issue continues even without the bubble, the issue may lie elsewhere, such as with the lens or settings.

4. Clean the Lens

Sometimes, a simple cleaning can resolve focus issues. Check the lens for dust, dirt, or fingerprints, which may obstruct the image.

5. Check Focus During Day and Night

Focus issues may not always be consistent. It’s important to evaluate how the camera performs in different lighting conditions:

• Daytime Focus: Does the focus issue appear during the day, or are the images sharp and clear?
• Nighttime Focus: If the issue is only occurring at night, this could be due to the infrared (IR) lighting. Check if the night-time images are still clear or if the problem persists.

If the focus is only problematic at night, the issue might relate to the IR illumination or camera settings rather than the lens or optical zoom.

6. Compare the Lens Mounting

If you have multiple cameras of the same model, you can compare the lens mount on the affected camera with those on cameras that do not have focus issues.

• Lens Misalignment: Check if the lens is mounted correctly. If the lens mounting is off-center, it could be causing the camera to focus incorrectly. Ensure that the lens is properly aligned and centered.
• Nice to know: Quick installation guide

7. Update the Firmware

To ensure that your camera is running the latest and most stable version of its software:

• Check for firmware updates on the Bosch Download Store

If the issue persists, it may be worth reaching out to the Central Technical Support team for further assistance.