I’m reaching out to seek your expertise and assistance in integrating a CCTV camera into Home Assistant. The camera in question is a Xega XGS-X50, which I’ve been trying to incorporate into my home automation setup for enhanced security and monitoring capabilities.
Camera and App Details:
The camera uses an app developed by Maxwell Wang for live streaming, recorded playback, and PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) controls. This app, along with others created by the same developer, can be found on the Google Play Store at the following link: Maxwell Wang’s Apps on Google Play. The apps listed under this developer’s name share a similar appearance and functionality, indicating a common platform or framework might be used for these types of devices.
Technical Challenges:
- Network Scans: An Nmap scan of the device consistently shows no open ports, suggesting the device is not listening on any standard ports. However, this contradicts with the observed behavior when the camera is accessed through its app.
- Wireshark Analysis: Packet sniffing with Wireshark during an app-initiated connection reveals activity on Port 80. Here is a snippet of a Wireshark packet capture when my phone connects to the camera:
0000 14 f5 f9 6e 65 cc 74 56 3c 35 f4 8f 08 00 45 00 …ne.tV<5…E.
0010 00 34 90 f1 40 00 80 06 00 00 c0 a8 01 d2 c0 a8 .4…@…
0020 01 7f df 9b 00 50 d1 c6 ce c7 00 00 00 00 80 02 …P…
0030 fa f0 84 c8 00 00 02 04 05 b4 01 03 03 08 01 01 …
0040 04 02
- HTTP Requests: Attempts to interact with the device via HTTP requests have been unsuccessful, which is perplexing given the Wireshark data.
Efforts to Identify Chipset:
I’ve also explored identifying the camera’s chipset, hoping to potentially load custom firmware. Unfortunately, this has led nowhere.
Request for Assistance:
Given these challenges, I’m reaching out for help on several fronts:
- Understanding the Discrepancy: Insights into why Nmap might not detect open ports while Wireshark captures show Port 80 activity.
- Network Analysis Tools/Techniques: Recommendations for tools or methods that might provide further insight into the camera’s network behavior.
- Firmware and Chipset Information: Any information on identifying the chipset or using custom firmware for such devices.
- Integration Experiences: Advice or experiences from anyone who has integrated a similar device into Home Assistant.
Conclusion
I’m aware this might be a complex challenge, possibly more hassle than it’s worth. However, I’m keen on exploring what’s possible and integrating this camera into my Home Assistant setup. I appreciate any guidance, insights, or suggestions the community can offer.