Hikvision NVR 5.0 Professional Installation Guide

Hardware Installation

Software Configuration

Additional Resources

Important Note: The provided steps serve as a general guideline. Specific configurations might differ based on your NVR model. Always refer to the official user manual for detailed instructions and advanced functionalities.

Setting up a Hikvision NVR (Network Video Recorder) involves several steps, including hardware setup, network configuration, and camera configuration. Here’s a detailed guide to help you set up your Hikvision NVR 5.0:

1. Hardware Setup

Step 1: Unbox and Connect Components

Step 2: Connect the NVR to a Monitor

Step 3: Connect the NVR to the Network

Step 4: Connect Cameras to the NVR

Step 5: Power Up the NVR

2. Initial Configuration

Step 1: Boot Up and Log In

Step 2: Set Date and Time

Step 3: Network Settings

3. Adding Cameras

Step 1: Detect and Add Cameras

Step 2: Configure Camera Settings

4. Recording Settings

Step 1: Set Up Recording Schedule

Step 2: Configure Storage Settings

5. Remote Access Setup

Step 1: Enable Hik-Connect

Step 2: Port Forwarding (if necessary)

Step 3: Mobile App Setup

6. Final Steps

Step 1: Test the System

Step 2: Backup Settings

Troubleshooting Tips

This guide should help you set up your Hikvision NVR 5.0 system. For more detailed instructions, refer to the user manual or the Hikvision support website.

.

Safety cautions

Product overview

DVR

Camera

Power Cable Splitter

BNC Cable

Xmeye Dvr System Instructıons For Use

Read Also : Camius devices troubleshooting

Hard Drive Installation

IMPORTANTTo record videos and play the historical videos, the installation of the Hard Disk Drive is a must.
Otherwise,you can only watch the live video.
This DVR system works with a 3.5” SATA Hard Drive.The Hard Drive should be formatted after it’s installed.×Dismiss this alert.

System Connections

IMPORTANTDo not fix the AHD camera before you can view the image on the monitor and confirm the ideal position to install it.×Dismiss this alert.

1.Plug a power adapter into the DVR and the socket to power on the DVR.

2. Connect a monitor to the HD Output or VGA Output on the DVR with an HDMI cable or VGA cable (not included).

3. Connect the Ethernet Cable with the DVR and your router.

4. Connect the AHD camera with the BNC Cable.

5. Connect the Yellow Video Connector to the BNC Video Input on the DVR, and connect the Red Power Connector to the Male Connector of the Power Cable Splitter.

6. Connect the Female Connector of the Power Cable Splitter with another power adapter. Then plug the power adapter into the socket to power on the camera.

Operate dvr system with a monitor

Startup Wizard

After connecting the DVR and cameras to power, wait for 2-3 minutes. A Startup Wizard will start to guide you via a series of pop-up windows.

Connect the USB mouse to the DVR, then click Next until you see the window of Time-Language Configuration.

1.Select the time zone, date format, time format, language, and set the time for your DVR system.

2. The default password is empty, please reset it for your DVR following the tip.
The new password should be more than 6 digits and use the combination of numbers and letters to ensure your system’s security.

3. Select safety questions and enter the answers for resetting the password if necessary.
You can also enter your email address for getting the verification code to reset the password.

4. Check if the network connection status is normal. If not, you can configure it by clicking Network.

5. Scan the QR code to get the Serial Number of your DVR system and download the App named XMEye into your mobile device.

6. Before fixing the cameras, you can log in to XMEye App to check the live view to confirm the ideal position.

7. Detection based on human shape is enabled by default.
The DVR system will send alerts to your mobile device when there is human shape detected by the cameras.
Please refer to the section of Motion Detect the detailed setting.

IMPORTANTClick Next and OK to exit the wizard. You can right click on the screen, then go to Main Menu > Startup Wizard to bring it up again.
If the wizard is no longer needed, just check the box before Don’t Display the Wizard again on the first interface of the Startup Wizard.×Dismiss this alert.

Live Video

You will see the live videos from the AHD cameras in split-screen mode (9 screens by default) after exiting the wizard.

※ Move the mouse cursor to the live video of any channel, some icons may be displayed according to the setting.

Notes:

1.The icons of and are displayed by default, while for icon , and , please right click andgo to Main Menu > Alarm (see on page 15) to enable them.

2. If you want to loop to display the live videos from some certain channels in full-screen mode, please go to Main Menu > System > Tour to enable this function.

3. For viewing the live video from one channel in full-screen mode, please move the mouse cursor to the desired channel, then double click. To exit full-screen mode, double click again.

Hard Drive Formatting

When you receive the system, the system has a pre installed hard disk, which does not need to be formatted,but if you have to replace another hard disk, it needs to be formatted at first ,then it can be used normally Install the Hard Drive first, then right click and go to Main Menu >Advanced > Storage to check if the type is Read/Write or the status is Normal.

If not, please click Format Storage to start formatting your Hard Disk Drive.

Video Recording

Right click on the screen, then go to Main Menu > Record > Record Conf. to set the record mode and record plan.
This DVR is set to record videos 24 hours a day by default.

Channel:

Select the channel to set the record mode and plan. You can select a single channel or all channels.

Redundancy:

Installing 2 pieces of Hard Disk Drive is required when enabling this function, and HM245 doesn’t support it.

Length:

Set the maximum video length of each recording from 1 minute to 120 minutes. It’s 60 minutes by default.

PreRec:

The camera will start recording a video around 5s before it detects the motion or human shape.

You can reset the time from 1s to 30s, but the accuracy of the pre-recording time may be affected by the bitrate.

Mode:

Set the recording mode and the options are Schedule, Manual and Stop.

Record Plan:

Set the recording schedules.

Notes:

The oldest video will be overwritten by the latest one by default when the Hard Disk Drive runs out

of space.

Video Playback

Right click on the screen, then go to Main Menu > Record > Playback to play the video recorded.

You will see the different playback modes in the pop-up window of Play Mode.

Explanation of playback modes

1.Common Playback

Select the channel(up to 4 channels at the same time), a period and a date on Blue background to

play all types of videos recorded.

1. Area for Video Playing
2. Playback Buttons
3. Timeline
4. Channel
5. Filters
6. Filtered Videos List
7. R: Standard Videos
8. M: Videos recorded when the camera detects motion or human shape.
9. Detailed Info. of the Selected Video
10. Search
11. Show/Hide Filtered Videos List
12.Timeline by Hour/Minute

TipFilters will not be available after you left click on the timeline, but you can exit this mode and re-enter to select the filter.×Dismiss this alert.

Option 1 :

Left click on the Green/Red (Green for standard videos recorded, and Red for the videos recorded whenthe camera detected motion or human shape) part of the timeline of each channel to play the historical videos.

Option 2 :

Left click on the live video of one channel, show the filtered video list, then double click on the selected video to play it.

Description of Playback Buttons

Left click on the live video of any channel, then start using the buttons to control the video playback.

Tips:

① You can click the icon to cut a video, then click to back up to the external storage.

② Previous Frame and Next Frame work only when pausing the video.

③ The speed of Fast Reverse and Fast Forward will be displayed on the right end of Playback Buttons.

2. Sync Playback

This function aims to put the videos from different channels at the same time to compare.

Select 2 channels at least ( up to 4 channels), a period and a date on Blue background to play the historical videos simultaneously at the selected time on the same timeline.

3. Dayparting

This function aims to put the videos from the same channel but at different time to compare.

Select a channel, number of split screens, and a period to play the videos recorded from this channel on different timelines.

NotesYou need to press and hold the left mouse and move on the bar of Period to select time period.×Dismiss this alert.

4. Smart Express

Select one channel or all channels, then select the speed of Fast Playback, the system will play all the videos recorded with the speed you selected.

5. Smart Search

Select one channel and a time period, then check the box before Detect and select a date on Blue background to play the videos recorded when the camera detected the motion or human shape.

※Double click the thumbnail to play the related videos.

6. Face Search

Select one channel, a time period and a date on Blue background to play the videos recorded when the camera detected faces.

Video Backup

Step 1:

Insert the USB disk into the USB port of the DVR system. Right click on the screen, then go to Main Menu >Record > Backup to start.

Step 2:

Select your USB disk, then click Backup to bring up a pop-up window.

Step 3:

Select Channel, Start Time and End Time, then click Add to display all the filtered videos.

Step 4:

Check the box to select the video files and Backup format, then click Start to back up the videos.

Tips:

① The format of the USB Drive should be FAT 32.

② An alternative solution to back up the videos is listed below.

• Go to the interface of video playback and click to show the filtered video list.

• Check the box to select the videos.

• Click to start backing up. The next steps are the same as the first solution mentioned above.

Snapshot Setup

The system will capture the snapshots 24 hours a day when the camera detects motion or human shape.

Go to Main Menu > system> SnapShot Conf. to reset the time interval of capturing a snapshot, and set up the schedules when the camera will capture a snapshot as well.

Alarm

IMPORTANT:

The alarms of Motion Detect and Human Detect are enabled by default. If you need to record videos whenthe camera detects the face or gets blocked as well, please enable Face Detection and Video Blind.

Please go to Main Menu > Alarm to set the alarm you need.

Motion Detect

The camera will start to record videos when it detects motion.

Channel:

Select the channel you’d like to enable motion detection.

Enable:

Check the box to enable motion detection.

Sensitivity:

If you select higher sensitivity, the camera will be more easily to be triggered to start recording videos. It’s advised to select Middle to balance the accuracy and effectiveness of the alarm, thus reducing the false alarms.

Region:

Click Set, then press and hold the left mouse to drag and select the area for detecting. The pink area indicates the selected area.

Period:

Set up to 4 time periods for each day to send the alerts when the camera detects motion.

MD Interval:

Set the time interval of two alerts. It aims to decrease the frequency of the alerts caused by the same moving object.

Record Channel:

The selected channel(s) will start recording when the current channel detects motion.

Tour:

The display will loop to display the live video from the selected channel(s) in full-screen mode when the current channel detects motion. You can go to Main Menu > System > Tour to set the time interval to show the live video in full-screen mode.

Snapshot:

The selected channel(s) will capture a picture when the current channel detects motion.

PTZ Activation:

The cameras don’t support this function.

PostRec:

The camera will remain to record the video around 10s after the motion or human shape detection ends. You can reset the time from 10s to 300s.

Show Message:

After enabling this function, the display will pop up a window to show the Alarm Status for all kinds of alarms when the cameras detect motion, human shape, or more.

Send Email:

Before enabling this function, please go to Main Menu > System > NetService, then double click on EMAIL option to set up your email address to receive the alerts.

Write Log:

The logs of the alerts will be written into the system once you enable this function. You can go to Main Menu > Info > Log to check the detailed log information.

FTP upload:

The system will send the videos recorded or snapshots captured to the FTP server you set when the camera detects motion. Please go to Main Menu > System > NetService, then double click on FTP option to set up your FTP server.

Mobile reported:

The system will send alerts to your mobile device when the camera detects motion. Please install the App and add the DVR to the App following the section of OPERATE DVR SYSTEM ON MOBILE DEVICE on page 18.

Up-to-Coaxial Control

Right click on the main menu and select XVI control to start setting up your camera.

※If the live video from the camera is mirrored or flipped, you can check the box before Mirroring or Overturn to fix it.

※If you set something wrong, please click Restore to get back to default settings.

.

NotesFor the setting of alarms like Video Blind, Video Loss, Human Detect and Face detection, please refer to the settings of Motion Detect. If prompting Video Loss, the DVR will not record videos, but only to send alarms.

TROUBLESHOOTING

The DVR System Boots Up Abnormally Or Reboots Automatically.

If the issue persists, please contact Support for more help.

.

How Should I Do If I Forget My Password?

• Please click Forgot Password when logging into the DVR system.

• The system will ask you the security questions you set in the Startup Wizard, please enter the right answer to reset your password.

• If you forget the answers, click Forget Answers to enter the interface of Verification Code.

• Launch XMEye App,tap > FIND PWD on an Android device or tap Forgot your device password?(on the interface of Add Device) > FIND PWD on an iOS device to scan the QR code on the left side to get a verification code, then enter it into the box on the interface of Verification Code to reset your password. However, if you set an email to get the verification code in Startup Wizard, the App will send the code to that email. You need to get it from email, then enter it on the interface of Verification Code.

.

How Long Can A Hard Disk Drive Record For This DVR System?

There are 4 AHD cameras connecting to this DVR system by default. These cameras are with the resolution of 1080P and variable bitrate which depends on the surveillance scenes. If the bitrate is around 2Mb/s, the corresponding size of the video file will be around 21G per day.

As a result, a Hard Disk Drive with the capacity of 1T may record around 12 days.

.

How Can I Connect An Extra Camera With The DVR System In Addition To The 4 Cameras In The Package?

DVR system supports up to 8 cameras to be connected. Please contact Hiseeu to get the same type of cameras and the corresponding cables.

If you just have a camera in hand, please follow the steps below:

For the camera with the format of TVI/CVI/SVI/CVBS, right click on the screen, select XVI&AHD to set the Signal of the channel to Auto or the corresponding format of your camera, then connect the camera with the DVR system.

For an IP camera, please go to Main Menu > System > Digital > ChannelType to check the box of the fourth line, then go back to the main screen and move the cursor to the channel you’d like

to connect the camera.

Click in the center of the screen to start adding the camera.

.

The Image From The Camera Is Upside Down.

Right click on the main screen and click XVI Control, then check the box before Mirroring or Overturn to flip the image.

.

What Should I Do If It Runs Out Of The Space On Your Hard Disk Drive?

The DVR system is set to loop recording by default, which means the latest videos will overwrite the old videos automatically when it runs out of the space on the Hard Disk Drive.
You can back up the important videos, then delete the videos or format the Hard Disk Drive.

.

Why Does The Hard Disk Drive Stop Saving Videos?

.

The App On My Mobile Device Cannot Receive Snapshots When The Camera Detects Motion, Human Or The Camera Gets Blocked, Etc.?

The App can receive the snapshots by default and you can check from Alarm Push/Alarm of the App.

.

Why Does The App Remind Me Of “Maximum Video Link”?

For remote viewing, such as from App or PC Client, you can only simultaneously access the live videos from 6 channels at most. Please close the unnecessary channel.

.

Why Doesn’t The PC Client Watch The Live Videos?

.

Why Doesn’t The PC Client Watch The Live Videos?

.

What Should I Do If I Got Too Many Push Notifications From App?

This DVR system can support to send you alerts when the camera detects motion, human, face, video feed loss,or the camera gets blocked. You can go to Main Menu > Alarm to disable certain kinds of alarms to reduce alerts.What’s more, you can lower the Sensitivity, set the Region and Period to reduce alerts.

.

How Can I Modify The Time Stamp And Channel Name Displayed On The Screen When Playing The Videos Recorded?

You can go to Main Menu > System > Display to select the channel you’d like to set, then enable Time Display and Channel Title, then click Set. You can even drag them to your desired position on the screen.

.

Is the fan noise on my DVR NVR recorder normal?

Q- Is the fan noise on my recorder normal?

A- Digital or network Vide Recorder’s fan is comparable to one in a mini PC, and the sound coming out of the vent that you may hear is a sign of a DVR that’s working well.

The working fan indicates that the trapped heat is being dissipated, and the DVR can record 24/7 on the hard drive, and without this cooling mechanism, the DVR and hard drive’s life span will be shortened.

How to add IP Camera to Camius DVR (Advanced Security XVR)

Camius Trivault DVR recorders are designed to support analog security cameras via coaxial wiring and IP cameras over the Network. To add an IP camera to Camius DVR, you’d need to add PoE cameras to your local Network. Then, connect a regular network or PoE switch to the LAN port of the Camius DVR. Based on the example of a Camius 16-channel DVR, the connecting diagram illustrates this process. This system allows users to quickly and seamlessly integrate analog and IP cameras, providing greater flexibility in security camera selection.

If you are not using a PoE (power-over-ethernet) switch or a PoE injector, you can power the IP camera by connecting a UL-listed 12VDC-2AMP power supply to the DC plug on the camera and an ethernet cable between the IP camera and the router or switch on your local network.

Camius TRIVAULT4K2168R Connection Diagram

Camius TRIVAULT4K184R, TRIVAULT4K184R2 Connection Diagram

Navigate to the DVR’s Menu >> System >> General >> Mode >> Set to XVR and Apply.

Wait 1 to 2 minutes for the surveillance DVR to reboot in a hybrid XVR mode. This switch will reset the Configuration and Password.

There are a few ways to add IP cameras to the DVR, and we will describe them below.

Adding IP Cameras in the Start Wizard

While in the Start Wizard, navigate to the Network>> Date/Time >> IP Cameras.

Click the Search button to add compatible IP cameras on your local Network. Next, select the IP camera(s) you want to add, and then click the arrow icon to add them to the DVR, followed by the Next button.

Select the suitable Protocol from the dropdown (Private is for Camius IP cameras), enter the IP camera(s) credentials (User Name and Password), and click Add. Green status indicates a successful connection; grey status could show a password or network error.

Adding an IP camera while in the DVR’s Setup Menu

If you add IP cameras to DVR’s menu, navigate to Channel >> IP Channels.

Select the IP camera you wish to add, click the ‘Add‘ tab or use a plus button.

The ‘Add IP camera‘ window will pop up with IP camera details.

How to add IP Camera to Camius DVR (Advanced Security XVR) 21

Once the IP camera is added to the DVR, it will appear under the IP channel list. The green state means the camera has been added successfully. A grey color state means the IP camera needs attention, and when you click on the state icon, it will indicate if the error is caused by a wrong IP camera username/password or if it has a network issue.

To avoid network issues, make sure that your camera, DVR, and router are on the same IP address segment, e.g.

How to add IP Camera to Camius DVR (Advanced Security XVR) 22

Using the Camius XVR system, users can quickly and seamlessly integrate analog and IP cameras, providing greater flexibility in security camera selection. In addition, Camius Hybrid 8-Channel DVR recorders support up to 12 and 16-channel DVRs and up to 24 HD cameras, making a scalable solution for residential and commercial surveillance needs.

It is important to note that the cameras’ quality will significantly impact the system’s overall performance and effectiveness. Of course, high-quality cameras will provide better images, enabling more effective monitoring and surveillance, but also, Camius IP cameras offer intelligent motion, sound, and AI detection. Other manufacturers’ IP cameras are usually limited to basic video motion detection.

How to install a hard drive in a Camius DVR or NVR?

Installing a hard drive in a DVR (digital video recorder) or an NVR (network video recorder) (DVR NVR for short) is a relatively straightforward process. Still, it is essential to follow the steps carefully to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the equipment. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a hard drive in your surveillance DVR or NVR recorder.

Camius network and hybrid digital video recorders accept 3.5″ and 2.5″ SSD internal hard drive disks. While 8 channel DVR and NVR recorders accept a single hard drive up to 10 TB in capacity, 16-channel DVR and NVR recording, along with 32-channel NVR will support a 14TB hard drive on each SATA port. 

Visit this link to see the tested and recommended hard drives, CLICK HERE

1 – Gather Tools and Equipment

You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, the hard drive you want to install, and any necessary screws (when you order a DVR or NVR from Camius without a pre-installed hard drive, the product box will include a set of screws for the hard drive disk installation).

2 – IMPORTANT: Make sure your DVR / NVR is unplugged and powered off

3 – Removing the Top Cover or the Video Recorder

Remove any screws from the Recorder’s top cover (chassis) using a Philips head screwdriver. Carefully remove the top chassis and set it aside (picture 1)

Picture 1 – 8 channel DVR

4 – Insert the Hard Drive

Place the hard drive into the hard drive bay, ensuring the drive is oriented correctly and appropriately seated.

5 – Connect the SATA Data and Power Cables

Connect the Data and Power cables to the two hard disk drives and place the hard disk drives on the video recorder’s case. The Data cable connects the hard drive to the DVR NVR’s motherboard. Locate the SATA port on the DVR’s motherboard and connect one end of the SATA cable to it. Then, connect the other end of the cable to the hard drive. The SATA Power cable provides power to the hard drive. Locate the SATA Power cable and connect one end to the hard drive and another to the Power Supply (pictures 2 and 3)

Picture 2 – Power and Data Cables on the Hard Drive

Picture 3 – Power and Data Cables on the DVR or NVR recorder’s board

Read Also : LaView NVR setup and user guide

6 – Secure the hard drive with srews

Carefully flip the video recorder case and secure the hard disk drives to the recorder with the four (4) screws if it is one SATA HDD (pictures 4 and 5) and eight (8) screws for the 2 SATA HDDs (picture 6)

Picture 4 – DVR with one internal SATA bay

Picture 5 – DVR with one internal SATA bay

Picture 6 – NVR with two internal SATA bays

7 – Return the DVR NVR top cover

Place the top cover on the DVR NVR and secure it with the screws (picture 7)

Picture 7 – DVR with one internal SATA bay

8 – Power on the DVR NVR

Power on the DVR NVR and allow it to boot up completely. If the hard drive was installed correctly and is in working condition, it should be recognized by the DVR and ready for use. Remember to format the hard drive (here is the guide on how to format the hard drive). Ensure that you use the power supply with the Camius video recorder.

IMPORTANT: Some users may find an issue when the hard drive is not recognized or not showing on the DVR. One of the primary reasons could be a wrong or defective recorder’s power supply.

That’s it! Your DVR NVR should now have a new hard drive installed, allowing it to store more video footage. Follow these steps carefully and seek additional assistance if you encounter any difficulties.

How to adjust my DVR NVR monitor resolution?

Camius video surveillance DVR NVR camera recorders have HDMI and VGA video output to live video feed on your monitor.

VGA output supports a max resolution of 1080p, while the HDMI video output 4K video resolution. So if the monitor you use with the Camius DVR or NVR recorder is capable of 4K and the camera, you can view live videos in 4K.

TRIVAULT4K2168R

How to adjust my DVR NVR monitor resolution? 19

IPVAULT1128PR

Two ways to adjust the DVR NVR monitor resolution

You can adjust the DVR NVR monitor resolution in the Wizard Setup mode or by navigating to Setup >> System >> General >> Output Configuration.

While in ‘Wizard Setup’ mode, choose an output resolution that matches your monitor. The DVR should adjust the output resolution automatically to match the best resolution of your monitor at the system startup. 

Please note that some legacy monitors could fail to communicate their acceptable resolution. In this case, please manually plug the video surveillance DVR into a newer monitor and change the resolution to the lowest setting, then save and plug the older monitor back to see if it’s supported.

After completing the Start Wizard, you can further adjust the Display Output Resolution using the following Menu Path: Setup – System – General – Output Configuration.

Select the output resolution suitable for your TV/Monitor. 1080P(1920 x 1080) will suit most monitors. If your DVR supports 4K output resolution, you can select either 2K (2560 x 1440) or 4K (3840 x 2160) to take advantage of the higher resolution that your 4K TV provides.

You can also adjust the size & position of the display screen to match your monitor/TV by using the ‘Scale and Offset’ feature; click the tab ‘Setup,’ which allows you to:

Click once or long-press the left button of your mouse on the arrow to adjust the size and position, or you can scroll the supplied USB mouse’s wheel to adjust. Click the right button of your mouse to exit, and click Apply to save your modifications.

How to reset the DVR and NVR video recorder to default factory settings

To reset DVR or NVR to default settings, navigate to the left bottom of the screen to the main menu. Select Setup >> System >> Maintenance >> Load Default

Here you can select the setting you wish to set to default. If you do not wish to reset the password, do not check the System boxes. Please note Load Default settings do not format your hard drive.

You’d need to enter the system password in the Authentication pop-up window (picture 1), which will lead to restarting your recorder (picture 2).

Picture 1

Picture 2

Navigate to Setup >> System >> Maintenance >> Reset Settings (Picture 3), where you can not select settings to reset so that it will reset your system completely, including the login credentials. You can choose ‘Format HDD‘ if you wish to format your hard drive, leading to erasing any recorded footage.

Picture 3

How to change your DVR and NVR password and add a user

You can update the ‘admin’ password by clicking the ‘User Edit’ button. You will need the admin’s current password to authenticate the new password.

Camius NVR and DVR recorder have an advanced user management feature to add multiple users to the system and control their permissions. System administration (admin) can add users, edit their permissions and delete them.

Navigate to the Main Menu in the bottom left corner, select System >> Multi-User (picture 1)

Picture 1

How to add a user to Camius NVR or DVR recorder 15

Click on the Edit icon in the User Edit column and select ‘Enable‘ in the User Enable tab. You can change the User Name or keep it as ‘user1‘. Create the new user password, confirm it, and click on the ‘Save‘ tab (pictures 2 and 3)

Picture 2

Picture 3

Then click the gear icon in the last Permission column to open the User Permission dialogue. Select (tick checkbox) the permissions you wish to grant to the new user. Click Save (picture 4)

Picture 4

How to troubleshoot if my DVR is not powering on?

If you’re having trouble with your DVR not powering on, here are some recommended troubleshooting steps:

Step 1 – Check the LEDs on the front panel, a steady green LED (PWR) means your DVR is powered on normally, and a blinking red LED (HDD) means ongoing recording on the hard drive. 

8 channel DVR

16 channel DVR

.

Step 2 – Check the sounds coming out of your recorder. A faint fan sound and a faint hard drive sound are normal, and a click sound when you plug in the DC connector and turn on the switch is typical.

Step 3 – If you have the green LED on but no output on the monitor, follow these steps:

Step 4 – Check the power outlet and the power supply unit of the DVR. If the power supply doesn’t have any LED indicator or the LED light is very faint and not bright green, and there is no fan sound coming from the DVR, the power supply may need replacement. If your DVR has running hardware warranty, please contact us. If the DVR is covered with warranty, you can order a new power supply on Camius site.

Why can’t I access my Camius IP cameras, DVR, and NVR on my Camius View app? 

If you can not access your Camius IP cameras, DVR (digital video recorder), or NVR (network video recorder) on the Camius View smartphone app, please check the below:

1 – Check if you are using the latest version of the Camius View app

On the App’s ‘Devices‘ page, make sure your recorder is added using P2P (ID) instead of IP (IP Address), and if in doubt, delete it and add it again. 

In the Media Port, make sure to enter the right port number:

2 – Make sure you’re connected to a reliable network on your phone 

3 – Check if your Camius IP camera or recorder is connected correctly to the LAN (Local network).

4 – Check for the IP address conflict

5 – Reset the Network settings of your Camius device

Navigate to Setup >> System >> Maintenance >> Load Default >> check the Network box and Apply

Camius Trivault DVR (local interface via HDMI)

Web browser view

6 – Check the Camius device network status 

Navigate to Setup >> System >> Information and check the Network Status if it shows ‘Connect success’.

If the above steps don’t help, submit a support request and include the device model number and the current ’Firmware/Software Version,’ which can be found using the Camius Device Config Tool

HDMI interface: DVR / NVR information is available under Setup >> System >> Information

Web browser view: information is available under Remote Setting >> System >> Information (web browser view)

7 – Wrong Password 

Before you add the Camius security device to the app, make sure to set a password  following the below setup guides:

We got you if you lost your IP camera or DVR NVR recorders password. Follow the below links on how to reset your device password:

You can not set a password on your Camius device using the Camius View app. 

Can I install an SSD hard drive instead of a regular one on my Camius DVR and NVR? 

The answer is ‘Yes.’

Camius recorders are compatible with 3.5″ and 2.5″ SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) and SSD hard drives (Sold-State Drive). 

Can I install an SSD hard drive instead of a regular one on my Camius DVR and NVR?  3

How to disable menu logout on the DVR and NVR?

Certain Camius device users prefer to remain logged into the menu of their DVR or NVR without re-entering their login credentials unless necessary. To achieve this, you can follow the steps outlined in this guide.

Move the mouse cursor to the bottom left, and click the main menu button: Setup >> System >> General >> Menu Timeouts >> Off >> Apply.

Optionally, you can set a different time for menu log-out as well. This guide applies to Camius NVR and DVR recorders.

It’s important to note that the web browsers will log you out of the session after some time (even if you set the number of sessions), as this function is implemented by the web browsers to enhance security.

To assist you in managing your login details more conveniently, consider using a password manager such as LastPass or similar services with browser extensions available. These services can help you securely store your login information (such as IP address, username, and password) and provide easy access even after your browser session expires.

You can also use VMS software on your desktop to add the DVR using a P2P ID and access the DVR’s ‘Remote Setting’ within the VMS; follow this guide on how to add the DVR to the software.

How to add IP cameras on a network that are not connected directly to the NVR’s PoE ports?

For the PoE-enabled NVR, connect Camius IP cameras via the internal NVR’s PoE ports and/or external LAN (WAN) port using the below-described model 2 or 3:
.

Camius PoE NVR is optimized for Camius PoE cameras making the whole setup process plug-and-play; the NVR assign a unique IP address to each Camius PoE camera and adds them automatically.

NOTE: Connecting multiple cameras via a switch or router to the PoE port is not recommended. One PoE port supports one IP camera.

The below steps are based on the NVR’s local interface via HDMI video output. Navigate the mouse to the screen’s left bottom corner and click on Setup, followed by Channel >> IP Channels.

In the below menu, you configure the connection of wired IP cameras.

Click Search to search for IP cameras from a local network, click Add to add an individual IP camera, and click Add All to add all IP cameras.

Below we will describe a few ways to add IP cameras from a local network using an external LAN (WAN) port.

IP channels menu description:

Select the suitable Protocol from the dropdown (Private is for Camius IP cameras), enter the IP camera(s) credentials (User Name and Password), and click Add. Green status indicates a successful connection; grey status could show a password or network error.

Green color State means the camera is added to the NVR

Grey color state icon means the IP camera failed to connect to the NVR. Click the gray icon to show the failure reason:

Option 1 – Adding IP Cameras to the NVR within the LAN (local area network )

If you want to connect to an IP camera from LAN (Local Area Network), please make sure your NVR is well-connected to the LAN and the IP camera you want to add is in the same network segment as your NVR.

If you want to add all channels manually, click the dropdown arrow next to Switch Mode and select “Manual.” 

If you want to add an individual channel manually, click the Edit Pencil-shaped icon in the Channel list, and then click the drop-down arrow next to Switch Mode to select “Manual” and click OK to save.

Option 2 – Adding an individual IP camera in the LAN (Local Network area)

STEP 1- Click the Search button; all available cameras in the LAN will be displayed, 

Optionally you click the Add plus-shaped green icon  in the IP channels list to add a camera to an individual channel. Click the Search button to show all available cameras in the LAN.

STEP 2 – Select the camera you want to add and then click Add button. Next, insert the user name and password of the camera and click Add button.

STEP 3 – You will see the added camera in the IP channels list

Option 3 – Add Multiple IP Cameras within the LAN

STEP 1- Click the Search button to display all available cameras in the LAN click Add All button, and the NVR will search & add all available cameras in the LAN.

STEP 2 – Select the cameras from the search result and click “Add.” You would need to input the username and password of the cameras. Please ensure all the cameras you want to add use the same username and password. Otherwise, the cameras with different user names and passwords cannot connect.

STEP 3 – The added cameras will show up in the channel list.

Option 4 – Add IP Cameras from another NVR in the same LAN (Local Area Network)

The NVR allows adding IP cameras from other Camius NVRs in the local network.

STEP 1 – Click the Search button to display all available devices in the LAN. There is an Edit icon (blue plus)  if the device is an NVR.

STEP 2 – Click the Edit icon (blue plus) and select the camera channels one by one or check the box to select all cameras. Click the icon X to go back to the Search list.

STEP 3 – Select the NVR in the search list and click the Add button.

STEP 4 – Input the Username and Password of the NVR and then click Add button

STEP 5 – The added cameras will be displayed in the channel list

Option 5 – Add IP Cameras from the Internet

If your NVR is connected to the Internet, you can add cameras with a WAN (Wide Area Network) IP address.

STEP 1 – Click Add button on the search page.

STEP 2 – Input the IP address or Domain name, Alias (name of the IP camera), Port, Protocol (choose the protocol of the IP camera from the dropdown menu: Private, Onvif or RTSP), User Name & Password of the IP camera.Tap the Add button to add the camera.

To avoid network issues, make sure that your camera, NVR, and router are on the same IP address segment, e.g.

.

How to configure Camius NVR using a web browser?

To quickly find the Camius DVR (digital video recorder) or NVR (network video recorder) IP address, visit camius.com/support to download and install the Camius Device Config Tool.

Web browser access

Click on the Camius NVR or DVR’s local IP or type it into your browser’s address bar. The latest Camius surveillance security camera recorders work with multiple web browsers, including Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Edge, and Safari, and include the following models:

Use your admin username and DVR or NVR password to log in. Your recorder’s Configuration is under Remote Settings.

You can check the ‘Web Compatibility Mode‘ in the Camius NVR/DVR and even IP camera settings (this can be done from the Camius recorder’s local user interface (Via HDMI/VGA) and in the web browser viewer.

The below picture is based on the IPVAULT1128PR’s web browser view

Accessing web client through VMS software

For certain Camius DVRs, NVRs, and IP camera models, we recommend installing the VMS Software on your Windows or Mac computer to access the device’s remote settings since the VMS software has a built-in web client using the P2P ID. Here is the link to the guide on how to add the device to the VMS software. This applies to Camius IPVAULT2320P16N, SCOUT20PTZ, GUARDMA

.

.

Features

Control live TV

A DVR makes a temporary recording of whatever you’re watching. This means that if you’re temporarily distracted from your program, even if it’s live, you can rewind the part you missed and fast forward up to the live programming. Also, you can pause a live program and restart it when you are ready to start watching it again.

While watching your show you can press record on your remote control, and the program will be recorded from the moment you started watching it, as long as you haven’t changed channels since then. Once you pause or rewind you can fast forward until you have caught up to live TV.

Recording shows

With just one touch of your remote control you can record current programs or schedule recordings for future programs. All you need to do is select what you want from the program guide and press record – no tapes or extra equipment required.

I want to record the program I am watching.

While watching your program, press the “Record” button on your remote control.

I want to schedule a recording of a program that is on later.

On the remote control press the “Guide” button
Highlight the program you want to record
Press the “Record” button

I want to record two programs at the same time.

No problem. With Eastlink’s DVR you can easily record two programs at the same time, or you can record one program while watching another one at the same time.

While watching a show:
Press “Record” on the remote to record the program you are watching.
Press “Swap” and find the second program you want to record.
Highlight the second program you want to record and press “Record”.

From the Guide:
Highlight a program you want to record from any listings screen.
Press “Record” to set up the first recording.
Highlight the second program.
Press “Record” to set up the second recording.

I want to record a series

Record and save up to 8 episodes of a series when using the series recording function.

Highlight the TV series you want to record and press “Info” to view the overlay screen. Select the Set up a Series Recording icon and specify your preferences from the following options:

Record:
Only new episodes
New and repeats
All with duplicates

Save no more than:
All
1 episode
2 episodes
Up to 7 episodes

Save until:
Space is needed
I delete

I want my recording to start early.

To access advanced setup features like adding minutes to the start and end times or specifying which channels to record, select View all settings under Create a Series Recording.

Record programs on:
This channel only
All channels

Start recording:
On time
1 minute early
2 minutes early
3 minutes early
Up to 15 minutes early

Stop recording:
On time
1 minute later
5 minutes later
10 minutes later
Up to 2 hours later

Your Series Recordings will appear in your My Recordings list with the show title as its label. To access your My Recordings list press the “Menu” button on your remote, then select the “DVR” option.

Multiple recordings of the same show will have the same label and will be listed beginning with the most recent recordings first as default.

To change your view, use the left and right arrow buttons on your remote to View by Date, View by Channel or View by Title.

Eastlink DVR Setup Guide

Read More : KBVISION XVR Firmware

Can I quickly swap between two programs?

The SWAP feature lets you switch back and forth between two live channels while giving you full control of both.
While you are watching a program, press the SWAP button on your remote.
Now you can select a second program by changing channels or using the iGuide.
Press SWAP again to switch back and forth between the two programs.

Note: The SWAP button is the key to maintaining control over two programs. If you change channels without using the SWAP button, you will lose the ability to record, pause, rewind and fast forward the program you were watching.

How can I get more storage space for my DVR?

Do you record endless numbers of programs? Are you finding it difficult to manage all of your recordings? Deciding what to keep and what to erase is always a difficult decision – but now you don’t have to decide.

DVR Expander functionality gives you all the added storage you need. Simply buy an external hard drive and hook it up to your Eastlink DVR. Best of all, this functionality is available to you at no additional monthly charge.

In order to function properly, the external hard drive must have the following specifications:
Must be an “eSATA” hard drive – it cannot be firewire, or USB 2.0
Minimum 16 MB buffer and 7200 RPM
It must have an “eSATA” cable, not firewire, or USB 2.0

Please note: Eastlink does not sell external hard drives. You can purchase an eSATA drive at many popular electronics retailers.

Installation:
OK – I’ve got my external hard drive. How do I set it up?
Turn off your DVR.
Use the eSATA cable that came with your external hard drive to plug into the eSATA port on the back of your Eastlink DVR – a flat opening labeled eSATA. On most receivers, it is under the HDMI port.
Once the hard drive is plugged into the DVR, turn on the receiver.
Using your remote control, follow the prompt from the iGuide to format the external hard drive.

What is Whole Home DVR?

Whole Home DVR allows you to access your recorded shows from any other receivers in your home. The DVR can record two programs simultaneously, play a third recorded show, while up to three secondary receivers play other recordings at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my recordings from cutting off the end of sports events?

Make sure that you fully record the entire sporting event by extending the length of the recording past the scheduled end time. This will ensure overtime or late games are fully recorded.

To set your DVR to record an extended period of time after the program’s scheduled end time:
Select the program from the iGuide
Select the record button (button with a red circle) on the TV screen
Select Modify recording options for this program
Set End time to up to 2 hours late
Select Record with these options

What is the recording capacity of the DVR?

Series Recordings: Up to 7 episodes will be saved when using the Series Recordings function.
Digital TV Shows: 90 hours
High Definition TV Shows: Up to 12-20 hours. This is not exact because the type of HD programming you record can impact the storage requirements. For example, sports programming or action films will take up more storage than a talk show.

Where can I purchase an eSATA hard drive?

You can purchase an eSATA hard drive at most electronics retailers.

Which digital receivers support DVR (Storage) Expander technology?

DVR Expander is available with the following DVR models: DCX 3400, DCT 6412, and DCT 6416.

Are USB 2.0 or Firewire hard drives compatible?

At this point eSATA hard drives are the only ones that work with Eastlink DVRs.

Can I watch programs that are on my eSATA drive from any TV?

Once the external hard drive is formatted, it is only compatible with that DVR. If the hard drive is connected to a different DVR, it will re-format itself for that DVR. Re-formatting erases any programs stored on the drive.

If you are subscribed to Eastlink Whole Home DVR, and have an external hard drive attached, any secondary receivers in your home linked to the DVR can view the programs stored on the hard drive.

How much content can a 1 TB hard drive hold?

A 1 TB hard drive can hold approximately 200 hours of HD 1080i video content.

With an eSATA drive, how do my programs get stored?

Your programs will be stored on your eSATA external hard drive. Once the hard drive is full, programs will then start being stored on your Eastlink DVR.

If my DVR is off, will my scheduled recordings still happen?

The DVR will turn itself on at the time of the scheduled recording as long as the power cord is plugged in and there is access to electricity.

Whole Home DVR Features & FAQs

Watch recordings, pause, rewind, and fast forward from any TV in your home.

What is Whole Home DVR?

The Whole Home DVR environment lets you play your DVR recordings on multiple set-top digital receivers in your home. The DVR functions as a host server – known as the “Media Hub” – for up to seven, additional non-DVRs – known as “Media Terminals.”

Recordings saved to the Hub’s hard drive, including recordings in progress, can be played back from any or all Terminals in your home.

DVR Listings

All digital receivers on the Whole Home network will be able to display the My Recordings list with the same layout and functionality as seen on the DVR.
.

Recording in Use” Indicator

While viewing the Recordings List on the DVR, recordings that are currently being viewed from any of the receivers in the home will be marked with an “eye” icon, reminding the user that those programs cannot be deleted until they are no longer being viewed. The “eye” icon will also be seen if checking the Program Info for any recording that is currently being watched.

Reduced Information for DVR Recordings

Although digital receivers are capable of displaying Program Information screens for recordings in the same manner as the DVR, the Program Info screens will have fewer action icons than the DVR – omitting the buttons for “Modify Settings” (the ! icon) and “Delete This Program” (the X icon).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to upgrade my Digital TV equipment to be Whole Home DVR-ready?

During your Whole Home DVR installation, the installer will swap out your current receiver equipment with our latest DVR and HD-ready receiver technology; the DCX 3400M DVR & DCX 700M HD-ready receiver(s). You may also swap your current equipment for the DCX 3400M & DCX 700M at one of our retail kiosks for free prior to your installation.

How many recordings can I watch at the same time?

Four recorded programs can be viewed simultaneously (3 in HD, 1 in SD or 4 in SD), one of which must be viewed on the TV connected to your DVR

Why was I unable to delete a recording from my DVR?

If a recording is being viewed on a networked receiver, you will not be able to delete the recording on the DVR until the recording is no longer in use. If a recording is being viewed on another receiver, it will be indicated by an “eye” icon on the recording information screen.

Why did the recording I tried to play not play from the beginning?

If the recording was previously viewed on the primary DVR, it will resume from the point at which the playback stopped. You can play the recording from the beginning by selecting the ‘Restart from the Beginning’ icon on the Program Information screen.

Why do I see different menu options on my networked receivers than on my DVR?

Pressing the “List” button on your remote will display the DVR Main Menu on the primary DVR, allowing access to all DVR functions. Pressing the “List” button only displays the list of DVR recordings on the networked receivers; networked receivers are not DVRs.

Why does the guide on my receivers not show my future recordings?

Scheduled recording information can only be obtained from the primary DVR.

Can you have more than 1 DVR when you subscribe to Whole Home DVR service?

Yes, but only 1 DVR will be connected to the receivers in the Whole Home network. Any additional DVRs function on their own, without the ability to share their recordings.

Can I have more than one Whole Home network in my home?

No, this is not yet possible.

If I remove the Whole Home DVR service, but keep my Digital TV service, will I be able to keep my current equipment?

Yes, you will keep the same equipment.

If I’ve had the Whole Home DVR service in the past and want to re-add it, does an installer still need to come to my home to install?

If the answer to any of the following questions is yes, then we will need to have an installer visit your home in order to re-install Whole Home service:
1. Have you changed addresses since the last time you had Whole Home DVR?
2. Have you moved/relocated any of the TV equipment in your home since the Whole Home service was removed?
3. Have you had new services installed in your home since the Whole Home service was removed?

If the answer to all of the above questions is no, however, we can reactivate the Whole Service in your home without needing to send out an installer.

Can I add an additional receiver to my Whole Home network on my own (from Pick-Up at Retail, or Self-Install Mail-Out)?

No. Due to the network cabling and filters required for the Whole Home network, a professional install is required to add additional receivers.

Why do I need a professional install for Whole Home DVR?

In addition to making sure that the DVR and digital receivers are installed in the correct order and networking configuration, special filters are required to be installed in your home to prevent the Whole Home signal from interfering with other services such as phone and internet.

iGuide Troubleshooting

Troubleshoot your picture, sound and Whole Home DVR concerns with our guide below.

Picture Troubleshooting

My TV says “No Signal” or only displays a blue screen or snow.

There is a large black box covering my picture.

I am getting an error message, such as “One Moment Please”, or my picture is pixelated.

Sound Troubleshooting

I have a picture but no sound.

Make sure the volume on your TV is not muted or too low.

Make sure the volume on your digital receiver is not muted or too low.

If your digital receiver is connected to your home theatre system, ensure that it is set to the appropriate input and the volume is not muted or too low.

Unplug the power cord of your digital receiver and plug it back in, turn the receiver on and check the sound again.

Need further assistance? Please contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

The sound does not match what is showing on the channel and/or is in a different language.

Locate the Audio Settings of your TV. (Usually through the TV Menu or Setup)
Change the Audio Setting to either Stereo or Mono
Change the SAP (Secondary Audio Programming) setting to Disabled or Off
Consult your TV owner manual for more information

Need further assistance? Please contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

How do I turn off/on Closed Captioning?

Both your TV and the Eastlink digital receiver have Closed Caption settings.

First, check the Closed Caption setting of your TV Menu/Settings. Consult your TV owner’s manual for more information.

For the digital receiver, to enable/disable closed captioning on High Definition channels:
Turn off your digital receiver, but leave your television on.
Within two to three seconds, of turning the digital receiver off, press the Menu button on your remote control. The Menu screen (white with black text) should appear on your TV screen. If the Menu screen does not come up on your TV within a few seconds, repeat steps 1 and 2.
Press the down arrow button on your remote control until you get to Closed Caption
Press the right or left arrow button on the remote control to change Closed Caption to Enabled.
Press the Power button to exit the menu
Press the Power button again to turn the digital receiver back on

Need further assistance? Please contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

Whole Home DVR Troubleshooting

When I try to play a recording, it says “Recording Not Available”.

The first thing you should do is check to see if the recording has been deleted from the DVR.
If you can see it in the list of recordings on the DVR, try playing it again.
If it still does not play, turn off your digital receiver and unplug the power cord for 10-15 seconds. Then plug it back in and turn it on. Wait 2 or 3 minutes for it to reconnect to the Whole Home network and then try playing the recording again.
At this point, if the error message still shows up, contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

When I try to delete a recording, it says “Cannot be Deleted”.

This usually occurs when you try to delete something that is currently being watched. Check the other receivers in your home to see if any of them are viewing the recording. Once the recording is no longer being viewed, you should be able to delete it from the DVR.

If the problem persists, contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

I’m getting the error message “Service is Unavailable”.

This message occurs when the receiver has lost its connection to your Whole Home Network. These interruptions are rare and usually brief. Pressing exit to close the error and trying again is usually all you need to do.

If the problem persists, contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

At the end of a recording, I get the message “Unable to Process Request”. What should I do?

This is harmless and can be ignored. Simply press Exit on your remote control to close the message and proceed with your viewing as normal.

When I try to play a recording from one of my receivers (not the DVR), the recordings list is empty.

Exit out of the Recordings List screen and go back in again. Sometimes this is all it takes to restore the full list.

If that doesn’t work, go to your DVR and check the Recordings List on it. Is it empty on the DVR as well? If so, the good news is that DVR’s cannot erase their own hard drive. The bad news is that someone in your home has deleted all the recordings recently.

However, if the Recordings List is full on the DVR, you should turn off all your other receivers and unplug their power cables for 10-15 seconds. Then plug them back in again, turn them on, and wait 2 to 3 minutes for each one to re-establish its connection to the Whole Home network. Then try to access the Recordings List again.

If it still shows empty, contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

The sound on my recordings is muffled/muted.

This can be corrected by exiting out of the recording and playing it again.

My receiver locked up while watching a recording.

This occurs when the receiver loses its network connection to the DVR mid-playback of a recording. Within a few moments, the receiver should change to the last channel you were watching before you began the recording.

If it does not, unplug the power cord from the back of the receiver for 10-15 seconds and then plug it back in again. Wait 2 to 3 minutes for the receiver to re-establish its connection to the Whole Home network and then resume your viewing as normal.

If the receiver is still locked up or frozen after this, please contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

The DVR button is missing from the menu on one or more of my networked receivers.

Turn off the receiver and then unplug the power cord from the back of it for 10-15 seconds and then plug it back in again. Wait 2 to 3 minutes for the receiver to re-establish its connection to the Whole Home network and then check your menu.

If the DVR button is still missing, please contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

My HD recordings won’t play on my standard definition TV.

If it still does not play, unplug the power cord from the back of the receiver for 10-15 seconds and then plug it back in again. Wait 2 to 3 minutes for the receiver to re-establish its connection to the Whole Home network and then try playing the recording again.

My recording has scrambled/pixellated picture, is missing audio, or is missing video during playback.

Check the channel that the program was recorded from. Is the problem occurring on the channel as well?

If yes, please contact us by calling 1-888-345-1111 or click the online chat button for instant help.

If the problem is only occurring on your recording, exit out of the recording and try playing it again. This will often resolve the problem.

If this does not solve the problem, unplug the power cord from the back of the receiver for 10-15 seconds and then plug it back in again. Wait 2 to 3 minutes for the receiver to re-establish its connection to the Whole Home network and then try playing the recording again.

How to Install Your iGuide DVR

Follow our step-by-step instructions to install your Digital Video Recorder. Online chat is available for instant help.

Before You Begin

Installing Your DVR

1. Locate the cable going from the cable wall outlet to your TV (or other device). This is called the coaxial (or coax) cable. Disconnect it from your TV (or other device)

.

2. Take the coax cable that you disconnected from your TV (or other device) and connect it to the [CABLE-IN] port on the DVR

.

3a. Connect one end of the HDMI cable (provided in your installation kit) to the HDMI port on the back of the DVR. Take the other end of the HDMI cable and connect it to the [HDMI 1] port on the back of your TV OR

.

3b. Connect your video & audio cables to the relevant ports on the back of the DVR and your TV

.

4. Attach the power cord to the back of the DVR. Plug the other end of the power cord into the electrical outlet. Turn it and your TV on. The DVR will display the number 0

5.  Put the provided batteries in the Eastlink remote control (the remote is automatically programmed to work with your DVR). Then follow the instructions on the back of the remote to program it for your TV

6a. If you connected the DVR to your TV with an HDMI cable: On the remote control, press TV and then “Video Source” to cycle through the different video inputs of your TV until you see “HDMI 1” displayed on screen. You will not see picture or sound yet OR

6b. If you connected the DVR to your TV with video & audio cables:  On the remote control, press TV and then “Video Source” to cycle through the different video inputs of your TV until you see the input displayed on screen that corresponds to the type of video cable you’ve used. You will not see picture or sound yet.

7. To activate your DVR, please call 1-866-238-2390. Remember to have your EastLink account number and the serial number of the DVR handy.

.

.

.

Click from the list below to navigate to that section of this guide for more information.

 .

IMPORTANT:  For more detailed information specific to your model or if you do not see your issue listed below, please see your product’s manual on your Series support page.

To access your manual:

1. Visit Support.NightOwlSP.com and enter your Series into the Search bar.

NOTE: Your product Series can be located on the support sticker on your recorder.

2. From your product’s support page, scroll down and click on “Manual.”

Troubleshooting:

 .

NOTE: If you are still experiencing an issue after troubleshooting, please click on Contact Us from your product’s support page to reach our Technical Support Team via Live Chat or Phone.

 .

NightOwl DVR NVR Troubleshooting

Read More : Night Owl DVR / NVR Troubleshooting

 .

1. Recorder Not Powering On

If your recorder is not powering on, please try the steps below before contacting technical support.

• 

• 

2. Video Loss

If your recorder is powered on, but you cannot see one or more connected cameras on your TV/Monitor or Smart Device, try the steps below.

 .

Cannot See the Recorder on Your TV/Monitor
If you cannot see any cameras or the recorder menu on your TV/monitor, please:

Have Video Loss Only at Night
If you are experiencing video loss, flickering lines or fuzzy images on one or more cameras at night, this may be the result of a faulty camera power supply. Try connecting the camera to a different power supply at night to see if the camera image is corrected.

Have a Camera with a Purple/Pink Tint?
If you are experiencing a purple/pink tint with a camera, it is possible that your camera is defective and needs to be replaced. However, please check the following first:

Video Loss On One or More Cameras

NOTE: Our wired NVR’s use Ethernet cabling and are powered by the NVR. Our Wi-Fi IP cameras each come with their own power adapter and wirelessly transmit video to the Wi-Fi NVR. You may need to re-pair the camera to your Wi-Fi NVR (refer to your product manual for more information).

 .

3. Network Connection Issues

If you are having an issue connecting your recorder to the Internet, please follow the troubleshooting measures below. The use of other network devices between the main unit and your Internet Router is not suggested.

 .

 .

4. Motion Detection Issues

If your recorder is having problems detecting motion, it is most likely a configuration issue. Some recorders have the option to disable motion detection for specific channels. Additionally, the motion detection sensitivity and motion detection area can affect your recorder’s motion detection performance.

NOTE: By default, most recorders are set to motion detection with high sensitivity.

To troubleshoot:

 .

5. Playback Issues 

NOTE: Recordings are saved on the Hard Disk Drive (HDD) of your recorder, so the first thing you must check is if the HDD is working properly.

If you are having an issue accessing your recordings or with playback, please check the following:

 .

6. Export Video Issues

If you are having an issue exporting a recording, please check the following:

 .

 .

7. Recorder Making Noise

NOTE: There are many reasons why your recorder may be making a noise. Beeps are usually related to a firmware misconfiguration, while other noises may be the result of the HDD or fan failing. Please check the following:

 .

 .

8. Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

First of all, you will need to ensure your recorder has an HDD. Check your system specifications to see if your recorder has a pre-installed HDD. Some models are sold with no HDD installed and customers must install their own. To troubleshoot, see below:

IMPORTANT: From the HDD menu, check to see if the overwrite option is on “Auto” (default option). When set to auto, the HDD will continue recording once it becomes full by recording over older recordings, to make way for new recordings. If this option is set to OFF, the recorder will stop recording when the HDD is full.

 .

 .

9. Factory Reset

NOTE: If your product uses the Night Owl Protect App, remove the product from the application first before proceeding. Failure to do so will make your device unusable.

To reset your recorder to the Factory Default settings, follow the next steps:

NOTE: Your recorder’s menus and options may look different. If that is the case and you need additional help, please refer to your product’s manual on our support site for precise steps.

a.Go to the recorder Main Menu. (you may need to log in after this step)

b.Click on “Advanced” on the top left corner of the Main Menu.

c.Click on “Maintain”

d.On this screen locate the “Load Default”tab and click on it.

e.On the next screen select the options you want to restore to Factory Default and then click “OK.” Your recorder will now reboot and be restored to default for the selected settings.

 .

 .

10. Contacting Technical Support

If you isolate the issue while performing the included troubleshooting measures, or if you cannot find out what is wrong, you may need to contact our technical support team. You have the option of choosing from Live Chat or Phone Support. To make initial contact:

Apps and Software

All Night Owl products include free remote viewing! All you need to do is connect your device to the Internet and download the compatible app or CMS. This ensures our customers have 24/7 access to their security, no matter where they travel, all from the convenience of their Smart Device or computer.

Our mobile apps can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play Store to your smartphone or tablet. Our CMS software for PCs and Macs is available below. Please click on the app / CMS that your Night Owl product uses to get started!

 .

 .

 .

.

Basic Setup & Adding Cameras (NVR) Amcrest NVR Troubleshooting

There are 2 types of NVR:

• PoE (Power over Ethernet)
• Non-PoE (this model has no Ethernet ports on the back panel)

Note: If needed, a PoE camera can be setup on a Non-PoE NVR. Please note, since the Non-PoE NVR will not have PoE ports available, the PoE camera will have to be set up on the same network segment as the NVR using a PoE switch or injector. For more information on how to set up a PoE camera, click here.

Power over Ethernet models is used when cameras, that also have the PoE specification, need to be powered by being directly plugged into the NVR’s PoE ports and do not require a separate power adapter to work.

A non-PoE model has no ports for cameras to connect to on the back panel but can add cameras with the built-in scan function that finds cameras connected to the same network. A PoE model can also use this scan feature, but additionally has PoE ports to power its cameras. The scan feature allows for compatible IP cameras to be added from the network whether they are PoE or WiFi.

For the purposes of this guide, the setup procedure will be divided between both the PoE and non-PoE NVR types. Each of these sections will have both a hardware setup and software setup portion.

For more information about what is included with your NVR, click here

Load More :

1. How To Upgrade HDCVI firmware for Amcrest XVR
2. How to Install Amcrest View Pro – Guide
3. Amcrest All Downloads Mobile PC Software

PoE NVR

Hardware Setup

1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the back of your NVR. It will go into the Ethernet port in between the HDMI port and the PoE ports. Make sure the NVR is powered on.
2. Connect an Ethernet cable from one of the PoE ports on your NVR to your camera. This will confirm that it is powered on.
3. Connect a VGA or HDMI cable from the back panel of your NVR to a monitor or TV. Make sure that the monitor or TV is set to the correct input (e.g. VGA, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
4. Connect the included mouse to a USB port on the front or back of your NVR.

Note: The network LEDs will start to blink on the back of the NVR when you properly connect the Ethernet cable from there to the router. Any PoE ports on the NVR do not have these LEDs. The same applies to the network LEDs that will begin to blink on the back of most cameras once they’re connected to an NVR’s PoE port.

Software Setup

     1. Please make sure NVR is turned on and then log into your NVR with your NVR’s login credentials. 

     2. Access the NVR’s main menu and go to, Camera in the Management section. In this menu click on the device Search option to search for your device on the network. 

     3. Click the Device Search button, and you can view the searched IP addresses at the top pane of the interface. Double click an IP address or check one IP address and then click the Add button to add the current device to the bottom pane of the interface. The system supports batch adding.

     4. Click the Manual Add button to add a device directly. Here you can set TCP/UPD/auto connection mode. The default setup is TCP.

Note: The manual add function is for Foscam, Dahua, Panasonic, Sony, Dynacolor, Samsung, AXIS, Arecont, ONVIF, and Custom. When the type is custom, you can input the URL address, user name, and password to connect to the network camera without selecting the network camera manufacturer. Please contact your network camera manufacturer for the URL address.

Non-PoE NVR

Hardware Setup

1. Connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the back of your NVR. It will go into the Ethernet port in between the HDMI port and the PoE ports. Make sure the NVR is powered on.
2. Connect a camera to your switch or another router port on the same network as the NVR and make sure it is powered on. The camera must be on the same network for the NVR to connect to it. 
3. Connect a VGA or HDMI cable from the back panel of your NVR to a monitor or TV. Make sure that the monitor or TV is set to the correct input (e.g. VGA, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
4. Connect the included mouse to a USB port on the front or back of your NVR.

Note: The network LEDs will start to blink on the back of the NVR when you properly connect the Ethernet cable from there to the router. Any PoE ports on the NVR do not have these LEDs. The same applies to the network LEDs that will begin to blink on the back of most cameras once they’re connected to an NVR’s PoE port.

Software Setup

     1. Please make sure NVR is turned on and then log into your NVR with your NVR’s login credentials. 

     2. Access the NVR’s main menu and go to, Setting->Camera. In this menu click on the Device Search option to search for your device on the network. 

     3. Click the Device Search button, and you can view the searched IP addresses at the top pane of the interface. Double click an IP address or check one IP address and then click the Add button to add the current device to the bottom pane of the interface. The system supports batch adding.

     4. Click the Manual Add button to add a device directly. Here you can set TCP/UPD/auto connection mode. The default setup is TCP.

Note: The manual add function is for Foscam, Dahua, Panasonic, Sony, Dynacolor, Samsung, AXIS, Arecont, ONVIF, and Custom. When the type is custom, you can input the URL address, user name, and password to connect to the network camera without selecting the network camera manufacturer. Please contact your network camera manufacturer for the URL address.

How to Download a Recording from an NVR or DVR

The device will need a hard drive installed to view recorded events. The recordings can be downloaded using the Amcrest View Pro app if you would like to download the recording to a mobile device, the Amcrest Surveillance Pro software, or using a web browser like Internet Explorer.

Please note, some web browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, etc. may not be applicable in this process as it requires the use of a plugin if accessing from a browser.

Download a Recording Using Amcrest View Pro

For more information on how to download events using the Amcrest View Pro app, please refer to the information provided below.

Step 1: Open the Amcerst View Pro app and access your camera.

Step 2: Tap on the main menu icon (  ).

Step 3: Tap on Playback.

Step 4: Tap on the ( + ) icon.

Step 5: Select a channel that you would like to view and allow the recordings to load in the interface. Tap on the record type option to select a record type (All, Regular, Alarm, Motion, Smart) and tap Start Playback.

 

Note: Scroll through the playback timeline to select a specific time or event if needed.

Step 6: While the event is playing, use the manual record icon (  ) or the manual photo (snapshot) icon (  ) to retain the event to your app. If you are manually recording an event, tap the manual record icon again to stop the recording.

Note: All manually retained events will be saved into the My Saved Files folder located in the main menu of the app.

Step 6: Tap on the main menu icon (  ) again and tap on My Saved Files.

Step 8: Tap and hold the selected file located in the folder that you want to download.

Note: All manually recorded video events will be stored in the video folder (). If you took a manual snapshot, click on the snapshot icon (  ) to access the snapshot menu. If you would like to select all recordings, tap on the select all icon (  ).

Step 9: Tap on the download icon (  ) to download the file to your mobile device.

All any permissions requested to download the file. The file will then begin downloading to the photo/ gallery on your mobile device.

Download a Recording Using the Amcrest Surveillance Pro 

Recordings in the playback menu can be downloaded (exported) using the Amcrest Surveillance Pro software. To download the free software click here.

For more information on how to add a device into Amcrest Surveillance Pro click here

Step 1: Open the Amcrest Surveillance Pro software and click on Playback.

Step 2: Select your device from the device menu and click on the Time option to display the calendar

Note: If a recording is present the date will have a blue dot. Enter the start and end times of the recording and click Search.

The Event menu will display all events located on the microSD card for your selected device from the date range entered.

Step 4: Choose a recording from the records menu. Please note, if you do not want to trim the recording, click on the export icon  to begin downloading.

Trimming a Recording

If you would like to trim the recording before downloading it, click on the scissor icon (  ). You will notice a start and end duration displayed for the selected recording on the time bar. The first red bar will be the start time and the second red bar will be the end time of the event. Use your mouse to drag the red bars and modify them to a specified start and end time.

Click on the scissor icon again to begin exporting the file.

Step 5: Click on Browse to choose a destination folder for your recording, then click on the Export Format dropdown menu and select MP4. Click OK.

Note: Since the default format is ASF it is highly recommended to choose either AVI or MP4 to view your recording.

The recording will begin to download.

Once the recording has finished downloading, click on the Downloaded tab. In the Downloaded tab, click on the Folder icon to access the recording.

The recording can be played on the default media player of your computer.

Download a Recording Using a Web Browser

The Playback or Search menu allows you to view recorded data retained in the system. This includes recording types such as regular, motion detection, (MD), Alarm, etc.

Step 1: Open Internet Explorer, and access the web user interface (web UI) for your device. For more information on how to access the web UI, click here.

Step 2: Click on Playback or Search.

Step 3: In this menu, you will notice a calendar, if events are available for this day a small dot will be visible underneath the day. Select the date from the calendar and click on the File List option.

Step 4: Select a recording from the file list. Note the start and end times of the recording and click on the scissor icon.

Step 5: Enter the start and end time of the recording into the video clip (scissor icon) interface and click the Save icon.

Choose a path that you would like the recording to download to and click OK. The recording will download to your computer using the specified path.

How to Filter AI Recordings in the Playback Menu (AI NVR)

Standalone AI cameras may not be able to differentiate between AI record types. To filter and display these recordings it is highly recommended to use an Amcrest AI NVR that supports this function.

Amcrest AI NVRs utilize four record types in the playback menu, “Regular” (green) which supports 24/7 continuous recordings, “Alarm” (red) which displays external alarm events (if applicable), “Motion” (yellow) which displays motion detection events, and IVS (blue) which displays AI events detected by the system. Please note, if you are using face detection, the IVS record type maybe indicated in the playback menu with a “F” next to the IVS record event.

Note: To view AI recordings it is highly recommended to use the Smart Search option located in the AI menu. For more information on using the smart search menu, click here.

To filter between different recording types in the playback menu, use the record type selection banner at the bottom of the interface.

The device will be set to display all recording types in the file list. To display only AI recordings in the file list, deselect the All checkbox and enable the IVS checkbox only. Click on the File List icon to display the record types.

For more information on how to download the recordings, click here.

How to Use the Smart Search Menu (AI NVR)

The Smart Search menu allows the user to view and access AI events from a centralized location. For more information, please refer to the information provided below.

Viewing Face Detection Events

All face detection data retained by the system can be accessed via the Face Detection option located in the Smart Search menu. Enter a start and end date and time for the event and list any attributes of the event such as Gender, Age, Expressions, etc. that you would like to view in the Smart Search interface and click Search.

A display of all face detection data will be displayed along with facial attributes. Click on the event you would like to view, and a clip of the event will be displayed in the built-in player. Click on the play icon to view the event.

Viewing Face Recognition Events
All face recognition data retained by the system can be accessed via the Face Recognition option located in the Smart Search menu. A search by attributes or a search by picture can be performed. Searching by attributes will load all face recognition data found in the system whereas searching by a picture will filter and display only the faces chosen by the user.
To search by attributes, enter a start and end time of the event in the interface and then click Search.

The interface will display all face recognition data. To view the event, click on the event you would like to view then click the play button in the interface.
To view specific face recognition data by image, click on the Search by Picture tab located in the Face Recognition interface.
If searchable images are already uploaded into a face library click on Face Library and select an image from the interface, then click OK to begin a search. If you would like to add images locally click Local Upload and follow the on-screen prompts to upload images. A USB flash drive with applicable images (in jpeg format) can be used to upload images to the DVR if using the local interface. Once an image has been loaded, enter a start and end time of the event, and click Search.

Viewing IVS Events
Any IVS data retained on the system can be viewed using the IVS Smart Search interface or via the playback menu if an IVS schedule is set in the system.
To view IVS data using the IVS smart search interface, click on the IVS option located in the Smart Search menu. Enter a start and end time of the event and click Search.

A layout of all IVS events captured by the device will be displayed. To view the event, select the event from the interface and click the play button.

How to Access an Amcrest NVR in a Web Browser Using Internet Explorer Mode on Microsoft Edge

Internet Explorer Mode (IE Mode) is a functionality built inside the Microsoft Edge browser that will allow your device to function inside a traditional IE infrastructure. IE Mode is available in both Windows 10 and Windows 11 OS and is useful for devices or features that do not currently support javascript in other web browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, etc. For more information on how to view your device using IE mode inside Edge, please refer to the information provided below.

Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and enter edge://settings/defaultbrowser into the browser

Step 2: In the Default Browser menu, click on the “Allow sites to be reloaded in Internet Explorer mode” dropdown menu and select Allow then click Restart to restart the browser.

Step 3: Locate the IP address for your camera (Amcrest IP Config tool, etc). Once you have the IP address for your camera, navigate back to the Default Browser settings menu and in the Internet Explorer mode pages section, click Add.

Step 4: Enter the IP address for your device into the Add a page prompt and click Add. The IP address you entered will be displayed in the Internet Explorer mode pages section.

Step 5: Exit out of Edge and open the browser. Enter the IP address you entered into the browser to load the device’s interface. You can now access the web user interface for your device using internet explorer mode, if any plugins are required please allow all plugins to view and access all camera functions.

How to Export and View Recordings From a NVR/DVR

This quick article will show you how to export and view any recorded events or videos located on your device.  This process will require the use of a USB flash drive. We recommend a flash drive with a minimum of 8GB to efficiently complete the process. For more information on how to export and view recordings, please refer to the information provided below.

Step 1: Log into the local GUI of your device.

Step 2: Click Playback.

Step 3: Insert a flash drive into a USB port on your device. 

Right click on the interface to exit the prompt.

Step 4: Click on the File List icon.

Step 5: Select which recording you would like to export from the file list and click the Save icon.

Step 6: Ensure the correct files are selected and click Backup.

Step 7: Select or create a folder in which the recording will be exported and click Start.

Step 8: Allow the recording or recordings to export and click Save.

Step 9: Remove the flash drive from the device and insert it into your computer to locate the .dav file. If you are having trouble playing back the .dav you can use the Amcrest Smart Player to play the file or you can use a third party video converting software to convert the file to a proper format.

Exporting a Recording Using a Web Browser. 

If you would like to export a recording in a web browser, access the web user interface (web UI) of the device using Internet Explorer or IE mode in Microsoft Edge. This process requires the use of a plugin in the web browser so a compatible browser is required for this process.

Step 1: Open the web UI and log into the interface using the username and password for your device. Allow all permissions to access the interface. Click on Playback.

Step 2: Click on the File List icon.

Step 3: Select the recording from the file list and notate the start and end times. Click on the trim icon.

Step 4: Enter the start and end time into the interface and click the Save icon.

Step 5: Choose a destination for the recording and allow the recording to be exported to the file destination.

1. The Google Home function is only available in the countries where Google Home is supported.
2. To use your Reolink cameras with Google Home, you need to have the following devices and apps set up: Reolink camera; A Chromecast device, a TV with Chromecast, or a media player with Chromecast; The Google Home and Google Assistance app on your mobile device.
3. If the current camera firmware is not compatible with Google Home, please go to Download Center upgrading to the latest firmware.
4. Make sure you’ve connected the Chromecast to the monitor via HDMI cable.

You can refer to the video below to add the camera with your google home.

Or refer to the steps below to add the camera with your google home.

Step 1. Launch the Reolink App and log in your cloud account, and then you will find the Smart Home option.

Step 2. Enable the device you want to add to Google Home in the Smart Home page.

Step 3. Launch the Google Home, sign in your account and then Get Started to create a home.

Step 4. Name your home and click Next to build a connection between the Chromecast and the Google Home.

Step 5. After the Chromecast found, please check the code shown on your TV and click Yes to continue.

Step 6. Connect the Wi-Fi network you would like to use with your Chromecast, then you can customize a room name, which will be added to your room list.

Step 7. Now click the   button to enter the account page, and then tap Settings > Assistant > Home Control.

Step 8. Click the   button, search Reolink in the search bar and assign the room for the camera you enabled in the cloud account via Reolink App.

Step 9. Done! Now you’ve added the Reolink camera to the Google Home successfully.

Step 10. To test your camera, please launch the Google Assistance and say “Hey Google, show [name of room where the camera is placed] on [name of Chromecast device].”

What Devices Do I Need in Order to Make the Camera Work with Google Home

To integrate your Reolink cameras with Google Home, you need to have the following devices and apps set up: Reolink camera, a Chromecast device (a TV with Chromecast or a media player with Chromecast), Reolink App, the Google Home app and Google Assistance app on your mobile device.     

Load More : How to Connect Non-POE or Wireless IP Camera to POE NVR via the Onvif Protocol?

Here is a diagram that will help you learn each option on the PoE NVR.

Now, please refer to the following steps to set up your NVR.

Step 1. Connect the NVR to a Monitor or TV via the VGA or HDMI cable.

Step 2. Connect the camera’s RJ45 network socket to any POE Camera port on the NVR using the Ethernet cables provided.

Step 3. Connect an Ethernet cable from the LAN port of the NVR to LAN port of your router.

Step 4. Connect the mouse to the USB port.

Step 5. Connect the Power Adapter. Please use the supplied power adapter. For POE NVR device, it is 48 volts.

Step 6. And then you will see the below splash screen. System booting up might take a few seconds.

Step 7. Follow the Setup Wizard to set your NVR, click Next to continue and at the last step, click Finish to save all the settings.

Wizard Setup

1. Set up language, Resolution, Time Zone, Date Format, Time Format, System time
2. Create your password, Enable/disable screen Auto-lock.
3. Set up password security question.
4. Set up device name. HDD Management (Init)
5. Network Configuration (DHCP by default)
6. Email Configuration (Gmail is suggested to use the sender one)

Type 1 system stuck in the upgrade interface

Please disconnect the Ethernet cable to the router, and default the system.

After rebooting the system and it works well, you need to set a new password and don’t use the default one.
Here is the link for password change in case you need:

The system’s default password is blank(nothing). We suggest you change the system’s default password when you hook up the system for the first time to protect your privacy.

Load More : Tutorial of General IP Security System

Below are instructions on how to change the password.

How to Change System’s Password?

1. Use the system’s user name admin and default password blank to log in system.

2. Right-click mouse and select the Main Menu:

3. Go to Advanced:

4. Go to Account:

4. select admin and click Modify Pwd:

5. Input the new password and confirm it. Since the old password is the default password which is blank, leave the old password box blank.

Click OK to save.

When you finished the step, you can plug the internet cable back.
One more tip, If you can close the DMZ and UPNP feature in your router, this problem will never happen.

Type 2 system stuck in the booting logo

Here are some methods for troubleshooting:
a). Please unplug the Ethernet cable from the system, then restart the system without Ethernet cable to have a try.
b). If still not working, Please remove the hard drive from the system, then power on the system separately to have a try.
c). If still not working, please use another power supply (with the same voltage) for the system to have a try. While the system comes back, kindly please change the password for your system, it seems the hack attract your device, please make the password a little complex. don’t easy as empty

Part 2

there is no signal on the monitor

1. Do you notice if the system gets power? if it gets power, the LED in front of the DVR will be lit up.
2. Did you hear a beep when the system powers on? It is very important.
3. Are you using the HDMI port on DVR to connect DVR to a monitor or TV? if yes, could you please try VGA port on DVR?
4. Make sure your TV is in the right mode, HDMI mode for HDMI cable, VGA mode for VGA cable, not any other mode. You can monitor the remote control to switch it.
5. Please remove the hard drive from the system, then power on the system separately to have a try.
6. Can you kindly change another power supply to have a try? you can use the cameras instead.
7. Please submit a request in the below link: