Frequently Asked Questions | HawkVisionPro – Sheffield's Authorised Annke Distributor

Welcome to the HawkVisionPro FAQ page. We're a Sheffield-based, authorised Annke distributor, and we're here to answer the questions our customers ask most often. If you can't find what you're looking for below, drop us a message on WhatsApp at 07438509687 and we'll get back to you personally.

Do you sell CCTV cameras in Sheffield, and do you offer free local delivery?

Yes, we're proudly based right here in Sheffield. We stock a full range of Annke security cameras, NVRs, DVRs, and accessories, and we offer free local delivery to customers in Sheffield and the surrounding areas. If you're further afield in the UK, we can still get products to you; just get in touch for delivery details.

Do you sell genuine Annke CCTV cameras, NVRs, and DVRs?

Every single product we sell is sourced directly from Annke with no middlemen or third-party warehouses involved. As an authorised Annke distributor, we can guarantee that everything you buy from HawkVisionPro is 100% genuine, backed by a 2-year warranty and full after-sales support. Integrity comes before profit for us, so you can shop with complete peace of mind.

What is the difference between an NVR and a DVR?

An NVR (Network Video Recorder) works with IP cameras connected over Ethernet or PoE cabling, where a single cable carries both power and data. A DVR (Digital Video Recorder) works with analogue cameras connected via coaxial BNC cable, with separate power supplies required. For new installations, PoE NVR systems are generally the better choice because they support higher resolutions (up to 4K), AI smart detection, and simpler cabling. DVR systems are still a solid option if you're upgrading an existing coax setup and want to keep your current wiring.

What does PoE mean in CCTV systems, and are PoE cameras better than WiFi cameras?

PoE stands for Power over Ethernet. It means a single network cable delivers both electrical power and video data to the camera, so there's no need for a separate power adapter at each camera location. Compared to WiFi cameras, PoE cameras offer a more reliable, interference-free connection with consistent video quality, which matters especially for 4K recording or when cameras are positioned far from the router. WiFi cameras can be convenient for quick, single-camera setups, but for a full home or business surveillance system, PoE is the more dependable choice.

Can I view my CCTV cameras on my phone, and is the Annke Vision app free to use?

Absolutely. Annke cameras and recorders support the Annke Vision app, which is available free of charge on both iOS and Android. The app gives you live streaming, recorded playback, motion detection push alerts, and P2P cloud access from your smartphone or PC. There are no monthly subscription fees for core remote viewing features.

How do I connect an Annke NVR or DVR to my phone?

First, connect your NVR or DVR to your home or business router using an Ethernet cable. Then download the Annke Vision app, create an account, and scan the QR code displayed in your recorder's settings menu. The app uses P2P technology, so once paired, you'll have remote access from anywhere with an internet connection. If you need a hand with setup, message us on WhatsApp and we'll walk you through it step by step.

Can I share CCTV access with another person?

Yes. The Annke Vision app allows you to share device access with family members, business partners, or colleagues. The account holder can grant viewing permissions to additional users through the app's sharing function, so multiple people can monitor the same cameras without needing to log into the same account. This is particularly useful for businesses where several staff members need to keep an eye on premises.

What size hard drive do I need for my CCTV system, and can cameras record audio?

The right hard drive size depends on the number of cameras, recording resolution, and how many days of footage you want to store. Annke systems use H.265+ compression, which significantly reduces file sizes compared to older H.264 encoding, so your storage goes further. As a rough guide, a 2TB drive will typically cover a 4-camera 4K system for around 7 to 10 days of continuous recording. For longer retention, 4TB or larger drives are available in our accessories range. Many Annke cameras also support built-in microphone audio recording, and individual cameras can accommodate up to 512GB onboard SD card storage for flexible backup options.

Are outdoor CCTV cameras waterproof, and can fibre optic cable be used for CCTV systems?

Annke's outdoor IP cameras carry an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, meaning they're fully sealed against rain, snow, and dust. They're built to handle the full range of UK weather conditions year-round, including Sheffield's famously unpredictable skies. Regarding fibre optic cable: while standard PoE systems use Ethernet (Cat5e/Cat6) cabling, fibre optic can be used for longer cable runs (typically over 100 metres) with the help of media converters. This is more common in larger commercial installations. If you're unsure whether fibre is right for your project, get in touch and we'll advise you.

Can HawkVisionPro help me choose the right CCTV product?

That's exactly what we're here for. Whether you're fitting cameras at home, securing business premises, or you're a professional installer sourcing equipment for a client, we'll help you pick the right system for your needs and budget. We stock the full Annke ecosystem, from PoE IP cameras and analogue cameras to NVRs, DVRs, and all the accessories you'll need. Reach out on WhatsApp at 07438509687 and we'll give you honest, straightforward advice with no pressure to upsell.