1. Introduction

WINK Camera Studio is a comprehensive, professional-grade camera management tool designed for security professionals, system integrators, and IT administrators. This software provides complete control over network IP cameras, including discovery, configuration, streaming, and diagnostics.

About WINK Camera Studio

WINK Camera Studio represents the culmination of years of experience in video surveillance and camera integration. As a completely free tool, it democratizes access to professional camera management capabilities that were previously only available in expensive enterprise solutions.

Key Features

Target Audience

• Security Integrators: Quickly configure and test multiple cameras during installation
• IT Administrators: Manage corporate surveillance infrastructure efficiently
• Security Professionals: Monitor and maintain camera systems
• System Engineers: Diagnose and troubleshoot camera connectivity issues

Document Overview

This manual provides comprehensive guidance on using WINK Camera Studio effectively. Each chapter builds upon previous concepts, taking you from basic installation through advanced features and troubleshooting.

2. Getting Started

2.1 System Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Recommended Requirements

• Intel Core i5 or better processor
• 8 GB RAM or more
• SSD storage for better performance
• Multiple network interfaces for complex deployments
• 4K display for managing multiple camera streams

Additional Software Requirements

2.2 Installation

Windows Installation

1. Download the WINK Camera Studio installer from www.wink.co/wink-camera-studio
2. Run the installer as Administrator
3. Follow the installation wizard:
   • Accept the license agreement
   • Choose installation directory (default recommended)
   • Select Start Menu folder
   • Create desktop shortcut (optional)
4. Click "Install" to begin installation
5. Launch WINK Camera Studio when installation completes

macOS Installation

1. Download the appropriate version:
   • Intel Macs: WINK-Camera-Studio-Intel.dmg
   • Apple Silicon: WINK-Camera-Studio-ARM.dmg
2. Open the DMG file
3. Drag WINK Camera Studio to Applications folder
4. First launch:
   • Right-click the app and select "Open"
   • Click "Open" in the security dialog
   • Grant camera and network permissions when prompted

Linux Installation

GUI Application (tar.gz)

# Download the GUI application
wget https://wink.co/binaries/WINKCameraStudio-1.4.1-linux-x64.zip

# Extract the archive
unzip WINKCameraStudio-1.4.1-linux-x64.zip

# Make the binary executable
chmod +x WINKCameraStudio

# Run the application
./WINKCameraStudio
    

CLI Tool (WINK Camera Probe)

# Download the CLI tool
wget https://wink.co/binaries/WINKOnvifProbe-1.4.1-linux-x64.zip

# Extract the archive
unzip WINKOnvifProbe-1.4.1-linux-x64.zip

# Make the binary executable
chmod +x WINK_OnvifProbe

# Run the CLI tool
./WINK_OnvifProbe --help
    

2.3 First Launch

Welcome Screen

When you first launch WINK Camera Studio, you'll see a welcome banner showcasing WINK Streaming services. This banner appears for the first 5 launches to introduce you to our enterprise video solutions.

Initial Interface

Figure 1: Main Interface - Discover Tab

The main window is divided into three primary sections:

1. Camera List (Left Panel): Displays all discovered and manually added cameras in a tree view
2. Tab Content (Center): Shows information and controls based on the selected tab
3. Action Buttons (Right): Quick access to common operations

First Steps

To begin using WINK Camera Studio effectively:

1. Check Network Settings: Ensure your computer is connected to the same network as your cameras
2. Disable Firewall Temporarily: For initial discovery, temporarily disable firewall to ensure cameras can be found
3. Run Discovery: Click the "Discover" button to find cameras on your network
4. Review Results: Discovered cameras appear in the left panel with basic information

3. User Interface Overview

3.1 Main Window

The WINK Camera Studio interface is designed for efficiency and clarity, providing quick access to all features while maintaining a clean, professional appearance.

Window Layout

Figure 2: Main Window Components

Menu Bar

• File: Import/export configurations, application preferences
• Edit: Camera operations, batch actions
• View: Interface customization, layout options
• Tools: Advanced utilities, diagnostics
• Help: Documentation, support, about

Status Bar

The bottom status bar provides real-time information:

• Connection status
• Number of cameras online/total
• Current operation progress
• Network interface in use

3.2 Camera List Panel

Tree View Structure

Cameras are displayed in a hierarchical tree structure showing:

📷 Camera Name (IP Address)
├── Status: Connected/Disconnected
├── Model: Manufacturer Model
├── Authentication: Method Used
└── Last Seen: Timestamp
    

Status Indicators

Context Menu Options

Right-clicking a camera provides quick access to:

• Connect: Establish connection to camera
• Stream: Open live video viewer
• Configure: Access camera settings
• Test: Run diagnostics
• Properties: View detailed information
• Remove: Delete from list

3.3 Tab Structure

WINK Camera Studio organizes functionality into logical tabs:

Discover Tab

Figure 3: Discover Tab Interface

Primary tab for finding cameras on your network:

• Automatic discovery controls
• Discovery options and settings
• Advanced discovery methods
• Discovery log and results

Connect Tab

Figure 4: Connect Tab Interface

Manage camera connections and authentication:

• Connection status display
• Authentication method selection
• Credential management
• Connection diagnostics

Live/PTZ Tab

Figure 5: Live/PTZ Tab Interface

Real-time video viewing and camera control:

• Live video display
• PTZ controls for supported cameras
• Preset management
• Snapshot and recording functions

Camera Details Tab

Figure 6: Camera Details Tab

Comprehensive camera information and configuration:

• Device information
• Network configuration
• Video settings
• Service capabilities

Diagnostics Tab

Figure 7: Diagnostics Tab

Testing and troubleshooting tools:

• Quick test functionality
• Detailed service testing
• SOAP message logging
• Network diagnostics

Status/Logs Tab

Figure 8: Status/Logs Tab

System monitoring and logging:

• Real-time operation logs
• Error tracking
• Debug information
• Export log functionality

URL Guesser Tab (v1.4)

Intelligent RTSP URL discovery for cameras:

• Manufacturer-specific pattern testing
• Support for 17 camera manufacturers
• Automatic connection validation
• Stream details (codec, resolution, framerate)

Recordings Tab (v1.4)

ONVIF Profile G recording management:

• Browse recordings stored on camera
• Search by time range
• Preview and playback
• Download recordings in native or transcoded formats

4. Camera Discovery

Camera discovery uses WS-Discovery and ONVIF-compatible services to find standards-based devices. WINK Camera Studio provides multiple discovery methods to ensure you can find all cameras on your network, regardless of their configuration or network topology.

4.1 Automatic Discovery

Standard WS-Discovery

The primary discovery method uses the WS-Discovery protocol:

1. Click "Discover" Button: Initiates the discovery process
2. Multicast Probe: Sends discovery packets to 239.255.255.250:3702
3. Camera Response: standards-compliant cameras respond with their information
4. Results Display: Found cameras appear in the camera list

Discovery Process Log

[10:23:45] Starting WS-Discovery on interface 192.168.1.50
[10:23:45] Sending multicast probe to 239.255.255.250:3702
[10:23:46] Received response from 192.168.1.100
[10:23:46] Camera identified: AXIS P3245-LV
[10:23:46] Received response from 192.168.1.101
[10:23:46] Camera identified: Bosch FLEXIDOME IP 7000
[10:23:50] Discovery timeout reached
[10:23:50] Discovery complete: Found 2 cameras
    

Discovery Options

4.2 Manual Discovery Methods

Understanding Camera Discovery

Click the "Understanding Camera Discovery" button to access comprehensive discovery documentation:

Figure 9: Camera Discovery Help Window

This help system covers:

• Protocol Details: How WS-Discovery works at the network level
• Common Issues: Why cameras might not be discovered
• Network Requirements: Firewall and routing considerations
• Manufacturer Quirks: Specific requirements for different brands

Extensive Scan

The Extensive Scan performs a comprehensive search of your network:

How Extensive Scan Works

1. IP Range Detection: Automatically determines your subnet
2. Sequential Scanning: Tests every IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1-254)
3. Multi-Port Testing: Checks common ONVIF ports:
   • Port 80 (Default HTTP)
   • Port 8000 (Hikvision default)
   • Port 8080 (Alternative HTTP)
   • Port 8888 (Common alternative)
   • Port 8889 (Some manufacturers)
   • Port 8999 (Legacy devices)
4. Progress Display: Shows current IP being tested

Manual Prefix Scan

For targeted discovery of specific network ranges:

Figure 10: Manual Prefix Scan Dialog

Using Manual Prefix Scan

1. Click "Manual Prefix Scan"
2. Enter Network Ranges:

   192.168.1.0/24
   10.0.0.0/24
   172.16.50.0/24
               

3. Configure Options:
   • Port selection
   • Timeout per host
   • Parallel connections
4. Start Scan: Monitor progress in real-time

Manual Camera Addition

For cameras that cannot be discovered automatically:

1. Click "Add Camera" Button
2. Enter Camera Information:

   Field	Description	Example
   Name	Friendly name for identification	Front Door Camera
   IP Address	Camera's network address	192.168.1.200
   Port	camera service port	8080
   Username	Administrator username	admin
   Password	Administrator password	********

3. Test Connection: Verify camera is accessible
4. Save: Add to camera list

4.3 Understanding Camera Discovery

Network Requirements

For successful discovery, ensure:

• Same Subnet: Cameras and PC on same network segment
• Multicast Enabled: Network allows multicast traffic
• Firewall Rules: UDP port 3702 open for discovery
• ONVIF Enabled: Cameras have camera service activated

Common Discovery Issues

Cameras Not Appearing

• Different Subnet: Use Manual Prefix Scan for other ranges
• VLAN Isolation: Ensure routing between VLANs
• Firewall Blocking: Check both Windows and network firewalls
• ONVIF Disabled: Enable in camera web interface

Partial Discovery

• Authentication Required: Some cameras need login for full info
• Limited ONVIF Support: Camera may support subset of features
• Firmware Issues: Update camera firmware

5. Connecting to Cameras

5.1 Authentication Methods

WINK Camera Studio supports authentication methods used by devices implementing ONVIF specifications, automatically detecting and using the appropriate method for each camera.

Supported Authentication Types

Authentication Process

WINK Camera Studio uses an intelligent authentication system:

1. Initial Probe: Test connection without authentication
2. Method Detection: Analyze response to determine required authentication
3. Sequential Testing: Try methods in order of security preference
4. Success Caching: Remember successful method for future connections

Authentication Sequence

Connection attempt to 192.168.1.100:80
├── Try SOAP 1.2 + WSSE ──────► Success ✓
├── Try SOAP 1.2 + Digest ────► (Skipped)
├── Try SOAP 1.2 + Basic ─────► (Skipped)
├── Try SOAP 1.1 + WSSE ──────► (Skipped)
└── Connection established with SOAP 1.2 + WSSE
    

5.2 Connection Process

Figure 11: Connection Interface

Establishing a Connection

1. Select Camera: Click on camera in the list
2. Enter Credentials:
   • Username: Camera administrator account
   • Password: Administrator password
   • Save Credentials: Optional, encrypted storage
3. Click Connect: Initiates connection process
4. Monitor Progress: Watch status in log window

Connection Status Indicators

Post-Connection Actions

Once connected, WINK Camera Studio automatically:

• Retrieves device information
• Queries available services
• Fetches camera capabilities
• Gets streaming profiles
• Checks PTZ support

5.3 Troubleshooting Connections

Common Connection Problems

Authentication Failures

Problem: "Authentication Failed" error

Solutions:

1. Verify username and password are correct
2. Check if camera requires ONVIF-specific user:
   • Access camera web interface
   • Navigate to User Management
   • Create ONVIF user with appropriate permissions
3. Try default credentials:
   • admin/admin
   • admin/(blank)
   • root/pass
   • Check manufacturer defaults

Connection Timeouts

Problem: "Connection Timeout" error

Solutions:

1. Verify network connectivity:

   ping 192.168.1.100

2. Check correct ONVIF port:
   • Try common ports: 80, 8000, 8080, 8888
   • Check camera documentation
   • Use port scanner to find open ports
3. Increase timeout setting:
   • Settings → Connection → Timeout
   • Increase to 30 seconds for slow networks

Service Not Found

Problem: "No ONVIF Services Found"

Solutions:

1. Ensure ONVIF is enabled:
   • Access camera web interface
   • Find ONVIF/Web Services settings
   • Enable camera service
   • Restart camera if required
2. Update camera firmware:
   • Check manufacturer website
   • Download latest firmware
   • Follow update procedure
3. Try legacy connection mode:
   • Settings → Advanced → Legacy Mode
   • Enables compatibility with older ONVIF versions

Using Diagnostics Tab

The Diagnostics tab provides detailed connection troubleshooting:

Figure 12: Connection Diagnostics

Diagnostic Tests

• Network Test: Ping and port accessibility
• ONVIF Probe: Service endpoint discovery
• Authentication Test: Try all auth methods
• Capability Query: Retrieve supported features
• SOAP Logging: View raw XML messages

6. Live Video Streaming

6.1 Setting Up Streams

WINK Camera Studio provides integrated video streaming capabilities for maximum compatibility and performance.

Starting a Live Stream

1. Connect to Camera: Ensure camera shows connected status
2. Select Live/PTZ Tab: Switch to streaming interface
3. Choose Profile:
   • Main Stream: High quality, full resolution
   • Sub Stream: Lower bandwidth, reduced resolution
   • Mobile Stream: Optimized for remote viewing
4. Click Play: Initiates video stream

Figure 13: Live Video Streaming with PTZ Controls

Stream Configuration Options

Multi-Stream Viewing

View multiple cameras simultaneously:

1. Open first camera stream
2. Right-click another camera
3. Select "Open in New Window"
4. Arrange windows as needed
5. Use Window → Tile to organize

6.2 PTZ Controls

PTZ Interface Overview

For cameras with Pan/Tilt/Zoom capabilities, comprehensive controls are provided:

           [↑]
        [↖] [⬆] [↗]
     [←] [◼] [→]     [+] Zoom In
        [↙] [⬇] [↘]     [-] Zoom Out
           [↓]
        

PTZ Features

Movement Speed Control

• Slider: Adjust pan/tilt speed (1-100%)
• Fine Control: Hold Shift for slower movement
• Continuous: Hold button for continuous motion

Preset Positions

1. Go to Preset: Click numbered button (1-9)
2. Set Preset:
   • Position camera as desired
   • Right-click preset number
   • Select "Set Current Position"
3. Clear Preset: Right-click → Clear
4. Rename Preset: Right-click → Rename

Advanced PTZ Functions

• Tours: Automated movement between presets
  • Create custom tour sequences
  • Set dwell time per position
  • Configure transition speed
• Patterns: Record manual movements
  • Start recording
  • Move camera manually
  • Stop and save pattern
  • Replay on demand
• Auto-Tracking: Follow moving objects (if supported)
• Privacy Masks: Block sensitive areas

6.3 Snapshots and Recording

Taking Snapshots

Capture still images from the video stream:

1. Method 1: Click camera icon in video window
2. Method 2: Right-click video → Take Snapshot
3. Method 3: Press 'S' key when video window focused

Snapshot Settings

• Format: JPEG, PNG, BMP
• Quality: 70-100% for JPEG
• Location: Configure save directory
• Naming: Automatic with timestamp or custom

Video Recording

Record live video streams for later review:

Starting Recording

1. Ensure stream is active
2. Click record button (red circle)
3. Recording indicator appears
4. Click stop button to end

Recording Options

7. Camera Configuration

WINK Camera Studio provides comprehensive camera configuration capabilities, allowing you to modify settings without accessing each camera's web interface.

7.1 Network Settings

Figure 14: Camera Configuration Interface

IP Configuration

Static IP Configuration

1. Select camera from list
2. Navigate to Camera Details tab
3. Click "Network Configuration"
4. Select "Static IP"
5. Enter network details:
   • IP Address: Unique address in your subnet
   • Subnet Mask: Typically 255.255.255.0
   • Gateway: Your router's IP address
   • Primary DNS: DNS server address
   • Secondary DNS: Backup DNS (optional)
6. Click "Apply Changes"
7. Camera will reboot with new settings

DHCP Configuration

1. Select "DHCP" option
2. Enable "DHCP Client"
3. Optionally set hostname
4. Apply changes
5. Note new IP from DHCP server

Port Configuration

7.2 Video Settings

Video Profiles

Most cameras support multiple video profiles for different use cases:

Encoding Settings

Codec Selection

• H.264: Universal compatibility, moderate compression
• H.265/HEVC: Better compression, requires more processing
• MJPEG: Low latency, high bandwidth

Bitrate Control

• CBR (Constant): Fixed bitrate, predictable bandwidth
• VBR (Variable): Better quality, variable bandwidth
• Target Bitrate: Set based on network capacity

GOP Settings

• I-Frame Interval: Typically 1-2 seconds
• Shorter GOP: Better for PTZ, more bandwidth
• Longer GOP: Better compression, seek delays

7.3 Image Settings

Basic Image Adjustments

Advanced Image Features

Wide Dynamic Range (WDR)

• Balances bright and dark areas
• Essential for entrances, windows
• May reduce frame rate
• Levels typically 1-3 or percentage

Day/Night Settings

• Auto: Camera decides based on light
• Day: Force color mode
• Night: Force B&W with IR
• Schedule: Time-based switching

Noise Reduction

• 2D NR: Spatial noise reduction
• 3D NR: Temporal noise reduction
• Higher values = smoother image, possible blur
• Balance with lighting conditions

7.4 Date & Time Configuration

Time Synchronization Options

Manual Time Setting

1. Select "Manual" time mode
2. Enter date and time
3. Select timezone
4. Enable/disable daylight saving
5. Apply settings

NTP Configuration

1. Enable "NTP Sync"
2. Configure NTP servers:
   • Primary: pool.ntp.org
   • Secondary: time.google.com
   • Custom: Your local NTP server
3. Set sync interval (typically 1-24 hours)
4. Apply and verify sync status

Sync with PC Time

1. Click "Sync with PC"
2. Confirm timezone matches
3. Apply immediately
4. Useful for initial setup

8. Diagnostics & Testing

Comprehensive diagnostics ensure your cameras are functioning correctly and help troubleshoot issues quickly.

8.1 Quick Test

The Quick Test provides a rapid health check of camera functionality:

Running Quick Test

1. Select camera(s) from list
2. Click "Test" button
3. View results in diagnostics window

Quick Test Results

=== Quick Test Results: Office Camera (192.168.1.100) ===
✓ Network Connectivity     : OK (Response time: 12ms)
✓ ONVIF Service           : Available (Version 2.6)
✓ Authentication          : WSSE authentication successful
✓ Device Information      : Retrieved successfully
✓ Media Service           : Available (3 profiles)
✓ PTZ Service            : Available (Continuous + Presets)
✓ Event Service          : Available
✓ Stream URL             : rtsp://192.168.1.100:554/stream1
⚠ Analytics Service      : Not supported
✓ Recording Service      : Available

Overall Status: PASS (9/10 tests passed)
Test Duration: 2.3 seconds
    

Understanding Test Results

8.2 Detailed Diagnostics

Figure 15: Detailed Diagnostics Interface

Network Diagnostics

Ping Test

Pinging 192.168.1.100...
Reply from 192.168.1.100: bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=64
Reply from 192.168.1.100: bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=64
Reply from 192.168.1.100: bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=64
Reply from 192.168.1.100: bytes=32 time=1ms TTL=64

Ping statistics for 192.168.1.100:
    Packets: Sent = 4, Received = 4, Lost = 0 (0% loss)
    Average time = 1ms
    

Port Scan

Port Scan Results for 192.168.1.100:
Port 80    : Open (HTTP/ONVIF)
Port 443   : Closed
Port 554   : Open (RTSP)
Port 8000  : Closed
Port 8080  : Closed
    

ONVIF Service Testing

Service Discovery

Tests each camera service endpoint:

• Device Service: Core functionality
• Media Service: Streaming configuration
• PTZ Service: Pan/Tilt/Zoom control
• Events Service: Motion, alarms
• Analytics Service: Video analytics
• Recording Service: Edge recording

Capability Testing

Detailed capability enumeration:

=== Device Capabilities ===
Network:
  ✓ IPFilter
  ✓ ZeroConfiguration
  ✓ IPVersion6
  ✗ DynDNS
  ✓ Dot11Configuration

System:
  ✓ DiscoveryResolve
  ✓ DiscoveryBye
  ✓ RemoteDiscovery
  ✓ SystemBackup
  ✓ FirmwareUpgrade
    

SOAP Message Logging

View raw ONVIF communication:

Request Example

<soap:Envelope xmlns:soap="http://www.w3.org/2003/05/soap-envelope">
  <soap:Header>
    <wsse:Security>
      <wsse:UsernameToken>
        <wsse:Username>admin</wsse:Username>
        <wsse:Password Type="...#PasswordDigest">...</wsse:Password>
        <wsse:Nonce>...</wsse:Nonce>
        <wsu:Created>2025-01-15T10:30:00Z</wsu:Created>
      </wsse:UsernameToken>
    </wsse:Security>
  </soap:Header>
  <soap:Body>
    <tds:GetDeviceInformation/>
  </soap:Body>
</soap:Envelope>

8.3 Batch Testing

Test multiple cameras simultaneously for efficiency:

Performing Batch Tests

1. Select multiple cameras (Ctrl+Click)
2. Click "Batch Test"
3. Choose test types:
   • Basic connectivity
   • Authentication
   • Stream availability
   • PTZ functionality
4. Click "Start Batch Test"

Batch Test Results

Exporting Test Results

Save test results for documentation:

• CSV Export: Spreadsheet analysis
• PDF Report: Professional documentation
• JSON Export: Integration with other tools
• Email Report: Send to stakeholders

9. Advanced Features

9.1 Batch Operations

Batch operations enable efficient management of multiple cameras simultaneously, essential for large deployments.

Batch Configuration

Selecting Cameras for Batch Operations

• Individual Selection: Ctrl+Click each camera
• Range Selection: Click first, Shift+Click last
• Select All: Ctrl+A
• Filter Selection: Use search to filter, then select

Available Batch Operations

Batch Firmware Updates

1. Preparation:
   • Download firmware from manufacturer
   • Verify firmware compatibility
   • Backup current settings
2. Select Cameras:
   • Group by model/manufacturer
   • Verify same firmware version
3. Update Process:
   • Tools → Firmware Update
   • Select firmware file
   • Review compatibility report
   • Start update process
4. Monitor Progress:
   • Track individual camera status
   • Handle failures gracefully
   • Verify cameras come back online

9.2 User Management

Understanding Camera Users

Most cameras support multiple user levels:

Managing Users

Adding Users

1. Select camera
2. Navigate to Camera Details → Users
3. Click "Add User"
4. Configure user:

   Username: john.doe
   Password: ********
   User Level: Operator
   Permissions:
     ✓ View Live Video
     ✓ PTZ Control
     ✗ Modify Settings
     ✗ User Management
     ✓ Snapshot
     ✓ Audio
               

5. Save user configuration

Security Best Practices

9.3 Event Monitoring

ONVIF Events Overview

Monitor real-time events from cameras supporting ONVIF events:

• Motion Detection: Movement in defined areas
• Tamper Detection: Camera obstruction or movement
• Audio Detection: Sound threshold exceeded
• Storage Events: Recording status, disk full
• System Events: Reboot, configuration changes

Setting Up Event Monitoring

1. Open Event Monitor: Tools → Event Monitor
2. Select Cameras: Choose cameras to monitor
3. Configure Events:
   • Select event types
   • Set notification preferences
   • Configure logging options
4. Start Monitoring: Begin real-time monitoring

Event Display

=== Event Monitor ===
[10:45:23] Front Door - Motion Detection Started
           Area: Region1
           Confidence: High

[10:45:28] Parking Lot - Vehicle Detected
           Type: Car
           Direction: Entering

[10:45:45] Front Door - Motion Detection Ended
           Duration: 22 seconds

[10:46:12] Warehouse - Tamper Alert
           Type: Camera Moved
           Severity: High

[10:46:30] Reception - Audio Event
           Level: 85dB
           Duration: 3 seconds
    

Event Actions

Configure automatic responses to events:

• Email Notification: Send alert emails
• Snapshot Capture: Save image on event
• Recording Trigger: Start recording
• PTZ Action: Move to preset position
• External Integration: Webhook notifications

10. URL Guesser

Version 1.4 introduces the URL Guesser feature, an intelligent tool that discovers RTSP stream URLs by trying manufacturer-specific patterns. This is invaluable when cameras don't respond to standard ONVIF queries or when you need to quickly find stream URLs without authentication.

10.1 Overview

The URL Guesser works by testing known RTSP URL patterns for different camera manufacturers. Each manufacturer typically uses specific URL structures for their video streams, and WINK Camera Studio maintains a comprehensive database of these patterns.

How URL Guesser Works

1. Manufacturer Detection: Attempts to identify the camera manufacturer from device responses
2. Pattern Testing: Tests manufacturer-specific RTSP URL patterns
3. Connection Validation: Verifies each URL by attempting an RTSP connection
4. Results Display: Shows all working RTSP URLs with stream details

10.2 Supported Manufacturers

The URL Guesser supports 17 camera manufacturers with known RTSP URL patterns:

10.3 Using the URL Guesser

Accessing the URL Guesser Tab

1. Select a camera from the list (or enter IP address manually)
2. Click the "URL Guesser" tab
3. Enter credentials if required (some cameras require authentication for RTSP)
4. Click "Start Guessing"

URL Guesser Interface

=== URL Guesser Results for 192.168.1.100 ===
Testing manufacturer patterns...

[✓] Hikvision Pattern 1:
    rtsp://192.168.1.100:554/Streaming/Channels/101
    Codec: H.264  Resolution: 1920x1080  FPS: 30

[✓] Hikvision Pattern 2:
    rtsp://192.168.1.100:554/Streaming/Channels/102
    Codec: H.264  Resolution: 640x480  FPS: 15

[✗] Dahua Pattern: Connection refused
[✗] Axis Pattern: 404 Not Found
...

Found 2 working RTSP URLs
    

Configuration Options

11. Recordings (Profile G)

WINK Camera Studio 1.4 adds comprehensive ONVIF Profile G support, enabling users to browse, search, and download recordings stored directly on IP cameras. This is particularly valuable for cameras with SD card storage or integrated NAS connections.

11.1 Overview

What is Profile G?

ONVIF Profile G defines how to access recorded video stored on network video devices. It includes three key services:

Authentication Chain

Different camera manufacturers implement Profile G authentication differently. WINK Camera Studio uses an intelligent authentication chain that automatically tries multiple methods:

1. WS-Security (WSSE) with SOAP 1.2
2. WS-Security (WSSE) with SOAP 1.1
3. Digest Authentication
4. Basic Authentication
5. Manufacturer-Specific Variations (Axis, Bosch, etc.)

11.2 Browsing Recordings

Accessing the Recordings Tab

1. Connect to a camera with Profile G support
2. Click the "Recordings" tab
3. WINK Camera Studio automatically queries available recordings

Recordings Interface

=== Recordings Browser ===
Camera: Front Door (192.168.1.100)
Storage: SD Card (32GB - 28GB used)

Recording Jobs:
├── Continuous Recording (Active)
│   Start: 2026-01-01 00:00:00
│   Tracks: Video (H.264), Audio (AAC)
│
└── Motion Recording (Active)
    Trigger: Motion Detection
    Tracks: Video (H.264)

Available Recordings:
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Date          Duration    Size      Tracks          │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ 2026-02-01    24:00:00    4.2 GB    Video + Audio   │
│ 2026-01-31    24:00:00    4.1 GB    Video + Audio   │
│ 2026-01-30    24:00:00    4.3 GB    Video + Audio   │
│ 2026-01-29    18:32:15    3.2 GB    Video + Audio   │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    

Searching Recordings

Time Range Search

1. Click "Search Recordings"
2. Select start date/time
3. Select end date/time
4. Click "Search"

Search Results

Search Results: 2026-01-15 08:00 to 2026-01-15 18:00

Found 3 recording segments:
┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ Time Range                  Duration    Codec    Audio   │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ 08:00:00 - 12:00:00        4h 0m       H.264    Yes     │
│ 12:05:00 - 14:30:00        2h 25m      H.264    Yes     │
│ 14:45:00 - 18:00:00        3h 15m      H.264    Yes     │
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    

11.3 Downloading Recordings

Playback and Preview

1. Select a recording segment
2. Click "Play" to preview in the built-in player
3. Use the timeline to navigate within the recording

Downloading Recordings

1. Select recording segment(s) to download
2. Click "Download"
3. Choose save location
4. Select format:
   • Native: Original format (fastest, no re-encoding)
   • MP4: Re-mux to MP4 container
   • MKV: Re-mux to MKV container
5. Monitor download progress

Batch Download

Download multiple recording segments at once:

1. Use Ctrl+Click to select multiple segments
2. Or select a date range
3. Click "Download Selected"
4. Files are saved with timestamp naming

Camera Compatibility

12. Command-Line Tool (WINK Camera Probe)

WINK Camera Probe (executable: WINK_OnvifProbe) is a standalone command-line tool for camera discovery, RTSP probing, URL guessing, and recording downloads. Available as a separate download, it's ideal for scripted workflows, automation, and headless systems.

12.1 Overview

Installation

Download the standalone WINK Camera Probe package for your platform:

• Windows: WINKOnvifProbe-1.4.1-win-x64.zip
• macOS Intel: WINKOnvifProbe-1.4.1-osx-x64.zip
• macOS Apple Silicon: WINKOnvifProbe-1.4.1-osx-arm64.zip
• Linux: WINKOnvifProbe-1.4.1-linux-x64.zip

Extract the archive and run directly - no installation required:

# Windows
WINK_OnvifProbe.exe --help

# Linux/macOS
./WINK_OnvifProbe --help
    

Global Scripting Options

All commands support the following options for scripted workflows:

Scripting Examples

# JSON output to console
WINK_OnvifProbe discover --format json

# Save probe results to file
WINK_OnvifProbe probe -h 192.168.1.100 -u admin -p pass -o camera.json

# Quiet mode for shell scripts
if WINK_OnvifProbe probe -h 192.168.1.100 -u admin -p pass -q; then
    echo "Camera online"
fi
    

Exit Codes

12.2 Available Commands

discover - Find Cameras on Network

WINK_OnvifProbe discover [options]

Options:
  --timeout <seconds>    Discovery timeout (default: 5)
  --interface <name>     Network interface to use
  --json                  Output as JSON

Example:
  WINK_OnvifProbe discover --timeout 10
    

scan - Scan IP Range for Cameras

WINK_OnvifProbe scan <ip-range> [options]

Options:
  --ports <list>         Ports to scan (default: 80,8000,8080)
  --timeout <seconds>    Timeout per host (default: 2)
  --threads <count>      Parallel threads (default: 10)
  --json                  Output as JSON

Example:
  WINK_OnvifProbe scan 192.168.1.0/24 --ports 80,8000,8080
    

probe - Get Camera Information

WINK_OnvifProbe probe <url> [options]

Options:
  -u, --user <username>  Username for authentication
  -p, --pass <password>  Password for authentication
  --json                  Output as JSON

Example:
  WINK_OnvifProbe probe http://192.168.1.100 -u admin -p password
    

test - Quick Camera Health Check

WINK_OnvifProbe test <url> [options]

Options:
  -u, --user <username>  Username for authentication
  -p, --pass <password>  Password for authentication
  --full                  Run comprehensive tests
  --json                  Output as JSON

Example:
  WINK_OnvifProbe test http://192.168.1.100 -u admin -p pass --full
    

guess - Discover RTSP URLs

WINK_OnvifProbe guess -h <host> [options]

Options:
  -h, --host <ip>        Camera IP address (required)
  -u, --username <user>  RTSP username
  -p, --password <pass>  RTSP password
  -m, --manufacturer     Manufacturer hint: Hikvision, Dahua, Amcrest,
                         Axis, Reolink, etc. (default: Auto-detect)
  --rtsp-port <port>     RTSP port (default: 554)
  --tcp-first            Try TCP transport first (default: true)
  --ffprobe              Use ffprobe for testing (more accurate)
  --stop-first           Stop after first working URL
  --all                  Try all manufacturer patterns

Supported Manufacturers:
  Hikvision, Dahua, Amcrest, Axis, Reolink, Uniview, Bosch,
  Hanwha/Samsung, Vivotek, Foscam, Geovision, ACTi, Panasonic,
  Sony, Mobotix, Generic

Examples:
  # Auto-detect manufacturer
  WINK_OnvifProbe guess -h 192.168.1.100 -u admin -p password

  # Specify manufacturer for faster results
  WINK_OnvifProbe guess -h 192.168.1.100 -m Hikvision -u admin -p pass

  # Use ffprobe for more accurate testing
  WINK_OnvifProbe guess -h 192.168.1.100 -u admin -p pass --ffprobe
    

recordings - List Camera Recordings

WINK_OnvifProbe recordings <url> [options]

Options:
  -u, --user <username>  Username for authentication
  -p, --pass <password>  Password for authentication
  --start <datetime>     Start time (ISO 8601)
  --end <datetime>       End time (ISO 8601)
  --json                  Output as JSON

Example:
  WINK_OnvifProbe recordings http://192.168.1.100 -u admin -p pass \
    --start 2026-01-01T00:00:00 --end 2026-01-02T00:00:00
    

download - Download Recordings

WINK_OnvifProbe download <url> [options]

Options:
  -u, --user <username>  Username for authentication
  -p, --pass <password>  Password for authentication
  --start <datetime>     Start time (ISO 8601)
  --end <datetime>       End time (ISO 8601)
  --output <path>        Output directory or filename
  --format <type>        Output format: native, mp4, mkv

Example:
  WINK_OnvifProbe download http://192.168.1.100 -u admin -p pass \
    --start 2026-01-15T08:00:00 --end 2026-01-15T12:00:00 \
    --output ./recordings/ --format mp4
    

12.3 Scripting Examples

Batch Camera Discovery and Testing

#!/bin/bash
# Discover cameras and test each one

WINK_OnvifProbe discover --json | jq -r '.cameras[].address' | while read addr; do
    echo "Testing $addr..."
    WINK_OnvifProbe test "http://$addr" -u admin -p password --json
done
    

Automated Recording Backup

#!/bin/bash
# Daily backup of camera recordings

CAMERAS="192.168.1.100 192.168.1.101 192.168.1.102"
BACKUP_DIR="/backup/cameras/$(date +%Y-%m-%d)"
YESTERDAY=$(date -d "yesterday" +%Y-%m-%dT00:00:00)
TODAY=$(date +%Y-%m-%dT00:00:00)

mkdir -p "$BACKUP_DIR"

for cam in $CAMERAS; do
    echo "Backing up recordings from $cam..."
    WINK_OnvifProbe download "http://$cam" -u admin -p password \
        --start "$YESTERDAY" --end "$TODAY" \
        --output "$BACKUP_DIR/$cam/" --format native
done
    

Network Audit Script

#!/bin/bash
# Audit all cameras on network

echo "Camera Network Audit - $(date)"
echo "================================"

# Scan for cameras
WINK_OnvifProbe scan 192.168.1.0/24 --json > /tmp/cameras.json

# Process results
jq -r '.cameras[] | "\(.ip):\(.port)"' /tmp/cameras.json | while read addr; do
    echo ""
    echo "Camera: $addr"
    echo "---"
    WINK_OnvifProbe probe "http://$addr" -u admin -p password 2>/dev/null | \
        grep -E "(Manufacturer|Model|Firmware|Serial)"
done
    

RTSP URL Discovery for VMS Integration

#!/bin/bash
# Generate RTSP URLs for VMS import

echo "ip,rtsp_main,rtsp_sub" > cameras.csv

for ip in $(cat camera_ips.txt); do
    result=$(WINK_OnvifProbe guess "$ip" -u admin -p password --json)
    main=$(echo "$result" | jq -r '.urls[0].url // empty')
    sub=$(echo "$result" | jq -r '.urls[1].url // empty')
    echo "$ip,$main,$sub" >> cameras.csv
done
    

13. Troubleshooting Guide

This comprehensive troubleshooting guide helps resolve common issues quickly.

Connection Issues

Problem: "Connection Timeout"

Symptoms:

• Camera doesn't respond to connection attempts
• Timeout error after 10-30 seconds
• Camera appears in discovery but won't connect

Solutions:

1. Verify Network Connectivity:

   ping 192.168.1.100

   If no response, check:
   • Camera power and network cable
   • Network switch/router status
   • VLAN configuration
2. Check Firewall Settings:
   • Windows Firewall exceptions
   • Third-party antivirus/firewall
   • Network firewall rules
3. Verify ONVIF Port:
   • Try common ports: 80, 8000, 8080, 8888
   • Check camera documentation
   • Use port scanner to find open ports

Problem: "Authentication Failed"

Symptoms:

• Error message about invalid credentials
• Connection fails despite correct password
• Works in web browser but not ONVIF

Solutions:

1. Verify Credentials:
   • Check for typos in username/password
   • Ensure caps lock is off
   • Try copy/paste from password manager
2. Create ONVIF User:
   • Access camera web interface
   • Navigate to User Management
   • Create dedicated ONVIF user
   • Assign appropriate permissions
3. Check Authentication Method:
   • Some cameras require specific auth types
   • Try forcing different methods in settings
   • Enable legacy authentication if available

Discovery Issues

Problem: "No Cameras Found"

Solutions:

1. Network Configuration:
   • Ensure PC and cameras on same subnet
   • Check for network isolation settings
   • Verify multicast is enabled
2. Firewall Issues:
   • Temporarily disable all firewalls
   • Allow UDP port 3702
   • Permit multicast traffic
3. Try Alternative Methods:
   • Use Extensive Scan
   • Manual Prefix Scan
   • Add cameras manually

Streaming Issues

Problem: "Cannot Display Video Stream"

Solutions:

1. Verify Stream URL:
   • Check RTSP port (usually 554)
   • Try different stream profiles
2. Network Issues:
   • Check bandwidth availability
   • Test with lower resolution stream
   • Switch from UDP to TCP transport

Platform-Specific Issues

Windows Issues

macOS Issues

Linux Issues

14. Appendix

14.1 Keyboard Shortcuts

Global Shortcuts

Camera List Navigation

Video Window Shortcuts

PTZ Control Shortcuts

14.2 Common Camera Service Ports

Standard Ports by Manufacturer

Service Ports

14.3 Supported Features Matrix

ONVIF Profile Support