Amcrest XVR/H5 User manual

Digital Video Recorder
User Manual
Version 1.0.0
Revised October 12th, 2018

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Contents
Contents........................................................................................................................................................2
Welcome .......................................................................................................................................................6
1. Features and Specification........................................................................................................................7
1.1 Overview .................................................................................................................................................7
1.2 Features...................................................................................................................................................8
2. Overview and Controls..............................................................................................................................9
2.1 Front Panel..............................................................................................................................................9
2.2 Rear Panel ...............................................................................................................................................9
2.3 DVR Connection Example......................................................................................................................10
2.4 Mouse Control.......................................................................................................................................11
3. Connection and Installation....................................................................................................................12
3.1 Check Hardware....................................................................................................................................12
3.2 Hard Drive Installation ..........................................................................................................................12
3.3 Connection Port Information................................................................................................................13
3.3.1 Power Supply Connection..................................................................................................................13
3.3.2 Video Input/Output Connections.......................................................................................................13
3.3.3 Audio Input/Output Connections ......................................................................................................14
3.3.4. USB Port ............................................................................................................................................14
3.4 DVR Assembly Guide.............................................................................................................................14
3.4.1. Using an Amcrest 4-in-1 Camera.......................................................................................................17
3.5 Factory Reset Procedures .....................................................................................................................19
4. Overview of Navigation and Controls.....................................................................................................19
4.1 Startup and Shut down .........................................................................................................................19
4.1.1 Startup................................................................................................................................................19
4.1.2 Shut down ..........................................................................................................................................20
4.2. DVR Initialization..................................................................................................................................20
4.2.1 Default Account Usernames and Passwords .....................................................................................21
4.2.2. Unlock Pattern ..................................................................................................................................21
4.2.3. Password Protection .........................................................................................................................22
4.3 DVR Setup..............................................................................................................................................22
4.3.1. General..............................................................................................................................................22

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4.3.2. Date&Time ........................................................................................................................................23
4.3.3. Network.............................................................................................................................................24
4.3.4. P2P ....................................................................................................................................................25
4.3.4. Encode...............................................................................................................................................25
4.3.5. Snapshot............................................................................................................................................26
4.3.6. Basic ..................................................................................................................................................27
4.3.7. Record ...............................................................................................................................................28
4.4. Live View ..............................................................................................................................................29
4.4.1. Live View Screen ...............................................................................................................................29
4.4.1. Live View Control Bar........................................................................................................................30
4.4.2. Instant Playback ................................................................................................................................31
4.4.3. Digital Zoom ......................................................................................................................................32
4.4.4. Real-time Backup ..............................................................................................................................32
4.4.5. Mute..................................................................................................................................................32
4.4.6. Bidirectional Talk...............................................................................................................................33
4.4.7. Remote DVRs.....................................................................................................................................33
4.5 Navigation Bar.......................................................................................................................................33
4.6 Shortcut Menu ......................................................................................................................................34
4.7. Main Menu...........................................................................................................................................35
4.8. Function Tiles .......................................................................................................................................36
4.8.1. Video .................................................................................................................................................36
4.8.2. Alarm.................................................................................................................................................46
4.8.3. Video Loss .........................................................................................................................................52
4.8.4. Tampering .........................................................................................................................................53
4.8.5. Diagnosis ...........................................................................................................................................56
4.8.6. Abnormality.......................................................................................................................................59
4.10. Backup................................................................................................................................................62
4.10.1. Configuring Backup Settings ...........................................................................................................62
4.11. Display................................................................................................................................................63
4.11.1. Configuring Display Settings............................................................................................................63
4.11.2. View.................................................................................................................................................64
4.11.3. View Cycle .......................................................................................................................................65
4.11.4. Zero-Channel...................................................................................................................................68

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4.12. Audio ..................................................................................................................................................69
4.12.1. Schedule..........................................................................................................................................69
4.12.2. File Manager ...................................................................................................................................70
6. Management...........................................................................................................................................72
6.1. Camera .................................................................................................................................................72
6.1.1. Image.................................................................................................................................................72
6.1.2. Encode...............................................................................................................................................73
6.1.3. Overlay ..............................................................................................................................................76
6.1.4. PTZ.....................................................................................................................................................78
6.1.5. Calling PTZ Functions.........................................................................................................................83
6.1.6. Using AUX Button..............................................................................................................................84
6.1.7. Calling the OSD Menu .......................................................................................................................85
6.1.8. Channel Type.....................................................................................................................................86
6.1.10. Coaxial Upgrade ..............................................................................................................................86
6.2. Network................................................................................................................................................87
6.2.1. TCP/IP................................................................................................................................................87
6.2.2. Connection........................................................................................................................................89
6.2.3. PPPoE ................................................................................................................................................90
6.2.4. DDNS .................................................................................................................................................90
6.2.5. Email..................................................................................................................................................91
6.2.6. UPnP..................................................................................................................................................93
6.2.7. Multicast ...........................................................................................................................................95
6.2.8. Register .............................................................................................................................................96
6.2.9. P2P ....................................................................................................................................................97
6.3. Storage ...............................................................................................................................................100
6.3.1. Basic ................................................................................................................................................100
6.3.2. Schedule..........................................................................................................................................101
6.3.3. HDD Manager..................................................................................................................................107
6.3.4. HDD Detect......................................................................................................................................108
6.3.5. HDD Estimate ..................................................................................................................................110
6.3.6. FTP...................................................................................................................................................112
6.4. System................................................................................................................................................113
6.4.1. General............................................................................................................................................113

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6.4.1.2. Holiday .........................................................................................................................................114
6.4.2. Security............................................................................................................................................115
6.4.3. System Maintain .............................................................................................................................117
6.4.4. IMP/EXP...........................................................................................................................................118
6.4.5. Default.............................................................................................................................................118
6.4.6. Upgrade...........................................................................................................................................119
6.5. Account ..............................................................................................................................................120
6.5.1. User .................................................................................................................................................121
6.5.2. Group ..............................................................................................................................................123
6.5.3. ONVIF User......................................................................................................................................125
6.6. Info .....................................................................................................................................................126
6.6.1. Version ............................................................................................................................................126
6.6.2. Log...................................................................................................................................................127
6.6.3. Event ...............................................................................................................................................128
6.6.4. Network...........................................................................................................................................129
7. Web Operation......................................................................................................................................135
7.1 Local Web Access ................................................................................................................................135
7.2 Remote Web Access............................................................................................................................137
7.2.1 UPnP/DDNS Remote Access Setup ..................................................................................................137
7.2.2 Port Forwarding Remote Access Setup............................................................................................139
7.3 Web Access Interface..........................................................................................................................140
7.3.1. Resetting the Password...................................................................................................................140
7.3.2. Main Menu......................................................................................................................................142
8. FAQs/Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................................143
FCC Statement...........................................................................................................................................148
IC Warning Statement...............................................................................................................................148
Appendix A: Toxic or Hazardous Materials or Elements...........................................................................149

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Welcome
Thank you for purchasing an Amcrest DVR!
This user manual is designed to be a reference tool for the installation and operation of your DVR system.
Here you can find information about the DVR’s features and functions, as well as information to aid in
troubleshooting.
Many of the setup and installation sections below have corresponding videos on
YouTube
To access the setup videos, please go to http://amcrest.com/videos
NOTE: This user manual is applicable to all 4, 8 and 16 channel Amcerst XVR/H5 model DVRs.
Important Security Warning
To keep your Amcrest camera secure and prevent unauthorized access, please make
sure to follow the steps below:
•Always make sure that your camera has the latest firmware as listed on
www.amcrest.com/firmware
•Never use the default password for your camera. Always ensure that your
password is at least 8-10 characters long and contains a combination of lowercase characters, uppercase
characters as well as numbers.
For access to the quick start guide and other support information, go to http://amcrest.com/support
To contact Amcrest support, please do one of the following:
Visit http://amcrest.com/contacts and use the email form.
Call Amcrest Support using one of the following numbers:
Toll Free: [phone]
International Callers (Outside of US): [phone]
USA: 888-212-7538
Canada: 437-888-0177
UK: 203-769-2757
Email Amcrest Customer Support sup[email protected]
Important Safeguards and Warnings
1．Electrical Safety
All installation and operation should conform to your local electrical safety codes.

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The product must be grounded to reduce the risk of electric shock.
We assume no liability or responsibility for any fires or electrical shock caused by improper handling or installation.
2．Transportation Security
Heavy stress, violent vibrations, and excess moisture should not occur during transportation, storage, and
installation of the DVR.
3．Installation
Handle the DVR with care. Keep the DVR right side up.
Do not apply power to the DVR before completing installation.
Do not place objects on top of the DVR.
4．Repair Professionals
All the examination and repair work should be done by qualified service engineers.
We are not liable for any problems caused by unauthorized modifications or user-attempted repair.
5．Environment
The DVR should be installed and kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, flammable materials, explosive
substances, etc.
This product should be transported, stored, and used only in the specified environments as stated above.
6. Accessories
Be sure to use only the accessories recommended by manufacturer.
Before installation, please open the package and check to ensure that all the components are present.
Contact the retailer that you purchased from, or Amcrest directly if anything is broken or missing in the package.
1. Features and Specification
1.1 Overview
The Amcrest is an excellent digital surveillance product designed for the security field. The DVR uses a Linux based
OS to maintain reliable operation. It’s easy to use and can be set up in a relatively small amount of time. It has
various functions such as recording, playback, and monitoring functionality and it synchronizes audio and video by
default.
This DVR adopts a high-quality design to achieve high levels of reliability and security. It can be configured to work
locally, as well as on a network. With the provided professional surveillance software (PSS) tool, as well as many
built-in tools on the DVR’s OS, this DVR can also help monitor and track network usage by the DVR itself.
By using industry standard cables and the latest technology, the DVR can be used with a variety of different
cameras (Analog, , or IP, etc) and can work with most standard security system cable setups. This product can be
used in a variety of locations such as banks, residential neighborhoods or homes, factories, warehouses,
transportation (trucking), and more.

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1.2 Features
The Amcrest has the following features:
•Real-time Monitoring
The has an analog output port, VGA port, and an HDMI port. You can use a variety of monitors to display the DVR’s
interface, and the DVR can support VGA and HDMI output at the same time.
•Storage Functionality
The DVR can record multiple video and audio streams to the built-in hard drive to allow for playback of any
recorded media.
•Compression Format
By utilizing advanced compression, the DVR can support multiple channels of audio and video, decoding audio and
video from each channel to maintain video and audio synchronization.
•Backup Function
The DVR supports backup of recorded media and settings via the USB port. A variety of DVRs can be used for
backup purposes, such as a flash drive, and internal HDDs.
•Advanced Playback Function
This DVR supports independent real-time recording for each channel and can support search, fast forwarded
playback, recorded searches, and downloading of videos and screenshots. The DVR can also playback in slow
motion, backwards, and frame by frame as needed. When recording, the DVR shows a date/time overlay to ensure
accurate viewing of events when they occurred. Lastly, the DVR can support video enlargement of certain zones
within a stream.
•Network Operation
The DVR has built-in tools to allow for remote network real-time monitoring, remote recording of searches, and
remote PTZ control.
•Alarm Activation Function
On the back of the DVR there are ports for installation and connection of alarm outputs to enable alarm or light
activation based on activity within the video stream. The alarm input and output circuits are protected to ensure
DVR safety.
•Advanced Network Protocol Support
The DVR is UPnP compatible, and includes functionality for use with PPPoE, and DDNS protocols to allow remote
and local connection with a large variety of network hardware.
Note: There may be slight differences in functionality due to the existence of different product series.

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2. Overview and Controls
This section provides information about the physical design and controls for the DVR. Please refer to the diagrams
below to become acquainted with the DVR and its physical features.
2.1 Front Panel
Port Name
Function
1
HDD
Glows blue when HDD status is abnormal.
2
NET
Glows blue when network status is abnormal.
3
POWER
Glows blue when the power is connected properly.
4
USB Port
Connects to external DVRs such as a mouse or USB storage DVR
2.2 Rear Panel
This is for example purposes only, the diagram represents a 4 Channel system, however, is applicable to all units
provided in the description.
Note: The 4-channel system rear panel is as shown below.
Please refer to the following table for detailed information:
Port Name
Function
1
Video input port
Connects to analog camera to input video signal.
2
Audio input port
Receives audio signal output from an RCA microphone DVR.
3
Audio output port
Outputs audio signal to an external RCA speaker.

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Port Name
Function
4
HDMI port
High definition audio and video signal output port. The port outputs an
uncompressed high-definition feed as well as multi-channel audio data to a
connected HDMI compatible display.
5
Network port
Connects to Ethernet port.
6
RS485
communication port
Connects to control DVRs such as, speed dome PTZ cameras. The RS485_A
port will be connected by a cable (A) and RS485_B (B) cable.
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USB port
Connects to an external DVR such as, a mouse, keyboard, or external USB
storage DVR.
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VGA port
Outputs analog video data to a connected display with a compatible VGA
port.
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Power input port
Inputs DC 12V power.
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Ground terminal.
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Power cable fastener
Use a clamp to secure the power cable on the DVR to avoid signal error.
2.3 DVR Connection Example
The below diagram provides an example of the variety of DVRs the DVR can interface or connect with.

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2.4 Mouse Control
The following table details the different uses for a computer mouse regarding the DVR’s controls.
Left click
mouse
System pops up password input dialogue box if you have not logged in. In real-time
monitor mode, you can go to the main menu.
When you have selected one menu item, left click mouse to view menu content.
Implement the control operation.
Modify checkbox or motion detection status.
Click combo box to pop up drop down list
In the input box, you can select input methods. Left click the corresponding button on the
panel and you can input numeral/English character (small/capitalized). Here, ← stands for
backspace button. ＿stands for the space button.
In English input mode: _ stands for input a backspace icon and ← stands for deleting the
previous character.
Double left
click mouse
Implement special control operation such as double click one item in the file list to
playback the video.
In multiple-window mode, double left click one channel to view in full-window.
Double left click current video again to go back to previous multiple-window mode.
Right click
mouse
In real-time monitor mode, pops up shortcut menu: one-window, four-window, nine
window and sixteen-window, Pan/Tilt/Zoom, color setting, search, record, alarm input,
alarm output, main menu.
Among which Pan/Tilt/Zoom and color setting applies for current selected channel. If you
are in multiple-window mode, system automatically switches to the corresponding
channel.
Exit current menu without saving the modification.
Press middle
button
In numeral input box: Increase or decrease numeral value.
Switch the items in the check box.
Page up or page down
Move mouse
Select current control or move control
Drag mouse
Select motion detection zone
Select privacy mask zone.

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3. Connection and Installation
3.1 Check Hardware
When you receive the DVR system in the packaging, unpack it, and check all sides of the DVR to see if there is any
physical damage. The protective materials used for the packaging of the DVR can protect most accidental damage
during transportation, but to ensure that your equipment is operating as expected, it is recommended to inspect
the product before proceeding further.
On the DVR unit, check specifically that the label on the bottom of the DVR is not damaged. The serial number of
the unit is usually needed to provide support.
Please check that all required items for your DVR are present and accounted for. To check what is included with
your purchase, go to http://amcrest.com/-security-camera-systems.html/ and find the product you purchased,
then scroll down and click the “What’s Included” tab. If any item is missing, please contact us as soon as possible
so we can send you the missing component.
3.2 Hard Drive Installation
You can refer to the Appendix for recommended HDD brands and models. Please use an HDD of 7200rpm or
higher. Please follow the instructions below to install a hard disk drive (HDD).
All the figures listed below are for reference only. Slight differences may be found on the front or rear panel.
1. Loosen the screws of the upper cover
and side panel.
2. Attach four screws in the
HDD (Turn three times).
3. Place the HDD in accordance with
the four holes on the bottom.
4. Connect the HDD power and data
cable to the motherboard of the unit.
5. Secure the HDD to the unit
by tightening the four screws.
6. Place the upper cover back on the
unit and secure it to the unit.

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Note:
•An HDD is NOT included with the DVR by default.
•To connect the HDD, connect the HDD data cable and the power cable before attaching the HDD in the DVR.
•To remove the front cover, push the clip first, and then slide the cover off.
3.3 Connection Port Information
3.3.1 Power Supply Connection
Please check to make sure the input voltage is correct, and the power button is in the off position when connecting
the power supply.
We recommend you use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to guarantee steady operation of the DVR, as well
as to elongate the life span of the DVR and other peripheral equipment such as attached cameras and other
accessories.
3.3.2 Video Input/Output Connections
Video Input Connection Information
The video input interface is BNC.
The input video format includes: PAL/NTSC BNC (1.0VBP- P, B75Ω)
The video signal should comply with your national standards.
The input video signal should have high SNR, low distortion; low interference, natural color and suitable brightness.
To guarantee the stability and reliability of the camera signal, the camera should be installed in a cool, dry place
away from direct sunlight, flammable materials, explosive substances, etc.
The camera and the DVR should have the same grounding to ensure the normal operation of the camera.
Guarantee stability and reliability of the transmission line
Please use high quality, well shielded BNC cable. Please select suitable BNC model according to the transmission
distance.
If the distance is too long, you should use twisted pair cable. You can add video compensation DVRs or use optical
fiber to ensure video quality.
You should keep the video signal away from the strong electromagnetic interference, especially power lines.
Keep connection lugs closely contacted.
The signal line and shielded wire should be fixed firmly and in well connection. Avoid dry joint, lap welding, and
oxidation.

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Video Output Connection Information
Video output includes a BNC (PAL/NTSC1.0VP-P，75Ω）output, a VGA output, and a HDMI output. The system
supports BNC, VGA and HDMI output at the same time.
When you are using pc monitor, please pay attention to the following points:
•To defer aging, do not allow the pc monitor to run for a long time.
•Regular demagnetization will keep your DVR in proper working condition.
•Keep it away from strong electromagnetic interference DVRs.
Using a TV as video output DVR is not a reliable substitution method. When using a TV as a video output DVR, it is
advised to turn off the TV from time to time to ensure its longevity. The use of a low-quality TV may result in the
damage of the DVR.
3.3.3 Audio Input/Output Connections
Audio Input Connection Information
The DVR audio input ports uses a BNC type connection.
Due to high impedance of audio input, please use an active sound microphone to get the best audio quality.
Audio transmission is like video transmission. Try to avoid interference, look out for dry joints, loose contacts, and
keep the audio DVRs and cables away from power lines.
Audio Output Connection Information
The audio output signal parameter is usually over 200mv 1KΩ (BNC or RCA).
It can directly connect to a low impedance earphone, active speaker, or amplifier-drive audio output DVR.
If the speaker and the microphone cannot be separated spatially, it may create a feedback loop. In this case you
can adopt the following measures:
•Use a better directional microphone.
•Reduce the volume of the speaker.
•Using more sound-absorbing materials in the surrounding area can reduce voice echo and improve the acoustic
environment.
Adjust the layout of the audio output cables to reduce the occurrence of a feedback loop.
3.3.4. USB Port
On the DVR there is a standard USB port. For information on which DVRs are supported by this USB port, please
see Appendix F.
3.4 DVR Assembly Guide
Before setting up the DVR, you will need the following items.

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The items are not included:
● A computer monitor or TV with either an HDMI or VGA input
● A power strip with room for 4 large power plugs
It is recommended to connect all components of the system as shown below before mounting any of the cameras.
This is to ensure all components are working before any physical installation takes place. If any components are
not functioning, please contact Amcrest Support at support@amcrest or by giving us a call at 888-212-7538.
Setting up the cable connections
The following instructions will show you how to set up the cables for the DVR, cameras, as well as a monitor or TV
screen.
To set up the DVR’s cable connections, there are 6 major steps:
1. Connect a monitor or TV screen to your DVR. For purposes of this guide, we will use a VGA connection. Take a
VGA cable, and connect one end to the VGA port on your monitor/screen and the other end to the VGA port on
the back panel of your DVR.
2. Connect the included USB mouse to the front of the DVR.

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3. Connect an Ethernet cable to your router.
4. Then, connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the DVR.
5. Secure the coaxial extension cable to the camera’s video cable port. Then, connect a power adapter to the
camera’s power adapter port and plug the power adapter into a wall socket or power source.
6. Secure the coaxial cable port from the camera to any of the video (coaxial) ports on the back of the DVR.

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7. Connect the power adapter into the back of the DVR, and then plug in the DVR power adapter into an electrical
socket to turn on the unit.
3.4.1. Using an Amcrest 4-in-1 Camera
Quadbrid or 4-in-1 technology, allows for a flexible means of providing HD-CVI, HD-TVI, AHD, and Analog formatted
video to your DVR. The signal is transmitted uncompressed, which eliminates latency and allows for real-time,
highly reliable video security without loss or delay. The cameras connect point-to-point directly to the DVR (BNC)
which provides a highly secure, closed network, as well as a painless and non-complex plug-and-play setup
process. The toggle switch for your 4-in-1 camera is represented in the image below:
Most Amcrest DVRs will require you to set the camera to HD-CVI or Analog (960H) settings and may not be
compatible with HD-TVI or AHD. Ensure your 4-in-1 camera's toggle switch is set to the proper setting as indicated
in the diagram below.

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Note: If the proper mode configuration is not set, you will not be able to view your camera on your DVR. Please
make sure you have the proper settings on your camera before you begin setting up or installing.
To install your Amcrest 4-in-1 camera, please follow the steps provided below:
Note: Make sure you have the proper mode configuration on your camera before running or connecting any
cables. Refer to the Figure 1-1 for more details on how to set mode configurations for your specific DVR.
Step 1: Connect a BNC (coaxial) cable to the video out connection of your camera.
Step 2: Connect the male end of the DC power connector of the BNC (coaxial) cable to the female end of the
power connector of the camera.
Step 3: Connect the BNC (coaxial) cable to a video out channel on the back of your DVR.
Step 4: Connect the male end of the DC power connector of the power adapter to the female end of the power
connector of the BNC (coaxial) cable. Plug in the power adapter to apply power to the camera.
For more information on the installation process described, refer to the image below for more details.

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3.5 Factory Reset Procedures
Newer Amcrest model DVRs, such as the XVR or S5 models, will have a different factory reset process than its
previous counterparts.
To begin the process, you will need to remove the DVR cover. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the four
screws on the back and sides of the DVR. Once the screws have been removed, lift the lid to expose the DVR's
motherboard.
On the motherboard you will notice a small black button. This is the factory reset switch for your DVR:
To factory reset the DVR, unplug the DVR from power. Once power is removed from the unit, press and hold the
factory reset switch for 4 - 5 seconds. Continue holding the reset switch and plug the DVR's power supply back into
the unit, you will hear a beep.
Continue holding the reset switch and allow the DVR to initialize for 20 - 30 seconds and then release the switch.
The DVR will be set to default and will show the DVR initialization screen. For more information on the DVR
initialization screen, refer to section 4.2 DVR Initialization.
4. Overview of Navigation and Controls
4.1 Startup and Shut down
4.1.1 Startup
Before initial startup, please make sure:

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•The rated input voltage matches the output voltage at your location. Please make sure the power wire
connection is secure before pressing the power on-off button.
•Always use a stable current. If necessary, an Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) is a good way to ensure
power stability.
Please follow the steps listed below to boot up the DVR:
•Plug an Ethernet cable into your router/modem.
•Connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet Port of the DVR.
•Plug the power adapter into a wall outlet.
•Connect the power cable to the DVR.
4.1.2 Shut down
•Click the logout button located on the main menu and select Shut Down.
•Do not unplug the power cable or click the power on-off button to shut down the DVR directly when DVR is
running (especially when it is recording.)
4.2. DVR Initialization
In this screen you will be able to enable DVR initialization features. These are basic features related to the system,
such as password setups, recovery settings, etc.