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Use USB for Recovery

This page explains how to use the OV20i's micro-USB port for emergency access and recovery when standard network connectivity fails or troubleshooting is needed.

When to Use USB Recovery​

USB recovery access should be used when:

  • Network Connection Issues: Cannot access camera via standard Ethernet IP address
  • IP Conflicts: Camera IP conflicts with other network devices
  • Unknown IP Address: Camera IP has changed and is unknown
  • Emergency Access: Need immediate access regardless of network configuration
  • Troubleshooting: Network settings need to be reconfigured

Physical Connection Setup​

Step 1: Expose the Micro-USB Port​

Remove the rubber side flap on the OV20i to expose the auxiliary connections.

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Step 2: Connect the Cable​

Connect a micro USB cable from the camera to the computer you will use to connect to the OV20i.

Connection Requirements:

  • Micro-USB cable (standard USB-A to micro-USB)
  • Computer with USB port and web browser
  • Camera must be powered on

Accessing the Camera Interface​

Step 3: Connect via Browser​

Open your browser and enter the IP address 192.168.55.1 to connect to the OV20i software.

Key Benefits:

  • Fixed IP Address: This IP address never changes
  • No Configuration Required: Does not require configuration of your network adapter
  • Immediate Access: Works regardless of network settings

Emergency Access Advantages​

Why USB Recovery is Reliable:

  • Independent of Network: Works even with network issues
  • No IP Conflicts: Uses dedicated IP range (192.168.55.x)
  • Always Available: Micro-USB port is always accessible
  • Instant Connection: No need to modify computer network settings
  • Troubleshooting Ready: Perfect for diagnosing network problems

Common Recovery Scenarios​

Scenario 1: IP Conflict Resolution​

When camera IP conflicts with router or other devices:

  1. Connect via micro-USB (192.168.55.1)
  2. Navigate to Settings > System
  3. Click Edit to change network settings
  4. Configure unique static IP address
  5. Save and restart camera

Scenario 2: Unknown IP Address​

When camera's current IP is unknown:

  1. Use micro-USB access (192.168.55.1)
  2. Check current network settings in Settings > System
  3. Note current IP or reconfigure as needed
  4. Test new settings after restart

Scenario 3: Network Adapter Mismatch​

When computer and camera are on different subnets:

  1. Connect via micro-USB (192.168.55.1)
  2. Access camera without changing computer network settings
  3. Reconfigure camera network settings to match your network
  4. Switch back to standard Ethernet connection

⚠️ Important Considerations​

note

Mac Users: If you're connecting using Google Chrome on a Mac, you may get an error - "This site can't be reached" (ERR_ADDRESS_UNREACHABLE). You'll need to go to MAC OS System Settings > Privacy and Security. Then scroll to find Local Network. Make sure it is enabled for Google Chrome.

Power Requirements:

  • Camera must be powered on for USB recovery to work
  • USB connection is for data only - camera requires separate power supply

Transitioning Back to Network​

After resolving issues via USB recovery:

  1. Configure Network Settings: Use USB access to set proper IP/subnet
  2. Save and Restart: Apply changes and restart camera
  3. Test Network Connection: Verify new network settings work
  4. Document Settings: Record new IP for future reference
  5. Disconnect USB: Remove micro-USB cable once network access confirmed

🔗 See Also​