Night Owl XHD Series User manual

www.NightOwlSP.com
USER MANUAL
XHD 5MP SERIES
4/8 CHANNEL

2XHD Series User’s Manual
Thank you for choosing Night Owl Security Products!
By purchasing a Night Owl product, you receive a one (1) year warranty covering
manufacturing defects in material and workmanship. Make the most of your
warranty by completing the registration form online. In addition to warranty
and technical support benefits, you will have access to our multitude of free
instructional “How to Videos”. You can also view our instructional videos by
clicking the “How to Videos” tab within your product’s page on our website.
Night Owl’s XHD Series Camera Compatibility:
Night Owl’s XHD Series DVRs are compatible with most analog cameras (400-
900TVL), Night Owl’s Analog HD (AHD) and HD Analog (HDA) cameras. If the
camera’s video quality either day or night is degraded, you may need to change
the cable run from the camera to the DVR. This system is designed to work with
24 AWG UL Approved cabling or better.
Please see the warranty section of this manual for exclusions and additional details.
Not all features and capabilities are shared across all models so you may see
features which are not applicable. In addition you may see screen images that
do not exactly match those on your display. This manual was accurate at the time
it was completed. Due to our ongoing effort to constantly improve our products,
functions may have been added or changed.
Register at www.NightOwlSP.com!
Scan the QR code below to access our Quick Setup Guide that can
assist you in configuring your Night Owl Security system.
Night Owl highly recommends installing the most
current firmware version available for your system.
Verify your firmware version on the Info screen of
the System menu tab.
Quick Setup Guide

3Table of Contents
TABLE
OF CONTENTS

4XHD Series User’s Manual
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: FCC WARNINGS.................................7
CHAPTER 2: SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
CHAPTER 3: SPECIFICATIONS ...............................11
3.1 System Requirements ............................12
3.2 Package Contents...............................12
3.2.1 DVR Diagram ...........................12
3.2.2 Camera Diagram .........................14
3.2.3 Mouse Diagram ..........................14
CHAPTER 4: CAMERA INSTALLATION .........................15
4.1 Video/Audio ...................................16
4.2 Power .....................................16
4.2.1 Standard Camera Power ......................16
4.3 Mounting the Cameras ...........................17
CHAPTER 5: DVR INSTALLATION .............................19
5.1 Connecting to a TV (via HDMI)......................20
5.2 Power .....................................21
CHAPTER 6: GETTING STARTED .............................22
6.1 Startup Wizard .................................23
6.1.1 Camera Test ............................24
6.1.2 Network Check ..........................24
6.1.3 Firmware Check .........................26
6.1.4 Password Creation ........................27
6.1.5 Date and Time Setup ......................28
6.1.6 Night Owl X ............................29
6.1.7 Password Verification ......................30
6.1.8 Camera/Channel Settings...................30

5Table of Contents
6.1.9 Camera Positioning .......................31
6.1.10 Channel Configuration .....................31
6.1.11 Default View ............................32
6.1.12 Helpful Links ...........................33
6.1.13 Wizard Complete .........................34
6.2 Night Owl X Mobile App ..........................34
6.3 Displays and Icons ..............................35
6.3.1 Login Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
6.3.2 Live View (All Channels)....................36
6.3.3 Menu Screen ...........................37
CHAPTER 7: MENUS AND SETTINGS ..........................38
7.1 General Menu .................................40
7.1.1 Display................................40
7.1.2 Network ...............................41
7.2 Cameras Menu .................................42
7.2.1 Settings ...............................42
7.2.2 Encode................................43
7.2.3 Motion ................................44
7.2.4 Alarm Status............................45
7.2.5 Setting Detection Area .....................46
7.3 Record Menu ..................................47
7.3.1 Schedule ..............................47
7.3.2 Playback ..............................48
7.3.3 Exporting Recordings......................50
7.4 Device Menu ..................................52
7.4.1 HDD .................................52
7.4.2 PTZ ..................................52

6XHD Series User’s Manual
7.5 System Menu..................................54
7.5.1 General ...............................54
7.5.2 Users .................................55
7.5.3 Info ..................................56
7.5.4 Log ..................................56
7.6 Advanced Menu ................................57
7.6.1 Maintain...............................57
7.6.2 Events ................................58
7.6.3 Auto Upgrade ...........................59
CHAPTER 8 GLOSSARY ...................................60
CHAPTER 9: WARRANTY ...................................62
CHAPTER 10: TROUBLESHOOTING ............................65
CHAPTER 11: USER INFORMATION ............................68
CUSTOMER SUPPORT .....................Back Cover
Night Owl’s DVRs are manufactured for quality and ease of use.
As such, our DVRs contain menus designed for advanced user’s
that should not be adjusted without having enhanced knowledge
regarding the menu. In most cases the default settings allow for
optimal functionality. The menus that should maintain the default
settings are indicated with this icon.
ADVANCED
DISCLAIMER: The exact components of your system, images and quantities may
vary depending on your model number. While these may vary, this Manual will
address the setup and initial configuration of your DVR and cameras.

7Chapter 1: FCC Warnings
CHAPTER 1
FCC WARNINGS

8XHD Series User’s Manual
Chapter 1: FCC Warnings
FCC
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
FCC Compliance Statement
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against frequency
interference in residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed or used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communication. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in television reception, which
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on. The user is encouraged
to try and correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION
The Federal Communications Commission warns the user that changes or
modifications to the unit not expressly approved by the part responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

9Chapter 2: Safety Instructions
CHAPTER 2
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS

10 XHD Series User’s Manual
Use the provided power adapter.
Do not use this product with a power
source that applies more than the
specified voltage.
Never insert metal into the DVR case
or its openings. Inserting metal into the
DVR case may cause electric shock.
Do not operate in wet or dusty areas.
Avoid placing the DVR in areas such
as a damp basement or dusty attic.
Do not expose the DVR to rain or use
near water. If the DVR accidentally
gets wet, unplug it and contact
technical support immediately.
Keep product surfaces clean and dry.
To clean the outside case of the DVR,
use a lightly dampened cloth. Do not
use cleaning solutions or solvents.
Do not install near any heat sources.
Do not install the DVR near any heat
sources such as stoves, heat registers,
radiators or electronics (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.
Unplug the DVR when moving it.
Make sure that the DVR is unplugged
before you move it. When moving this
device, be sure to handle it with care.
Make sure there is good air circulation
around the DVR.
This DVR uses an internal hard drive,
which generates heat during operation
for video storage. Do not block vents
on the DVR, as these vents reduce
the generated heat while the system
is running. Place this product in well-
ventilated area.
Do not attempt to remove the top
cover. If you observe any abnormal
operation, unplug the DVR immediately
and contact technical support. Do not
attempt to open the DVR to diagnose
the cause of the problem.
Handle the DVR carefully.
If you drop the DVR on any hard
surface, it may damage the device.
If the DVR doesn’t work properly
due to physical damage, contact an
authorized dealer for repair.
It is recommended to use your DVR
with an uninterruptible power supply
(UPS). Connecting your DVR and
cameras to a UPS allows continuous
operation even during power outages.
The run-time duration will depend on
the rating of the UPS used.
Chapter 2: Safety Instructions
You may be subjected to severe electrical shock
if you remove the cover of the DVR.

11Chapter 3: Specifications
CHAPTER 3
SPECIFICATIONS

12 XHD Series User’s Manual
Chapter 3: Specifications
3.1 System Requirements
Please be sure that your PC/MAC®complies with the following specifications:
• PC Operating System: Windows®7, Windows®8/8.1 and Windows®10
• PC Browser: IE®8 and above, Edge®, Google Chrome™ and Firefox®
• MAC Operating System: MAC OS X®10.7 and above
• MAC Browser: Safari®7.1 and above
Please be sure that your mobile device complies with the following specifications:
• Android™: 4.0 and above
• iOS®: 7.1 and above
3.2 Package Contents
• 1 x XHD DVR
• Indoor/Outdoor Cameras*
• Bundles of Camera Cable*
• Mounting Hardware and Screws*
• HDMI Cable
• 1 x RJ-45 Cable (Ethernet)
3.2.1 DVR Diagram
FRONT VIEW
Cameras, additional cables, power adapters and
splitters only included in certain security kits. Check
the product packaging for detailed kit contents.
• 1 x USB Mouse
• 1 x Support Material Packet
• Camera Power Adapter(s)*
• 1 x DC 12V DVR Power Adapter
• Camera Power Splitters*
• 3 x Night Owl Security Stickers
Model #
QR Code
Once you have downloaded Night Owl X and connected your
DVR to your router, you can network your DVR by scanning
the QR code which is located on the top of the DVR.

13Chapter 3: Specifications
REAR VIEW
Images used are for reference only. Your product may vary slightly.
An 8 channel model is displayed above.
1. Video Inputs – video inputs allow for the connection of BNC cameras.
2. Audio Output – audio output allows for the connection of an amplified speaker.
3. Audio Inputs – audio inputs allow for the connection of audio enabled cameras
by connecting the white RCA plug to one of the audio inputs. After making
the audio input connection, be sure to enable the audio function in the DVR’s
menu interface.
4. HDMI Output – HDMI output allows for the video connection. If the TV/Monitor
has an HDMI input, connect the HDMI cable from the HDMI output port on
the DVR to the HDMI input port on your TV/Monitor.
5. VGA Output – VGA output allows for the video connection. If the TV/Monitor
has a VGA input, connect the VGA cable from the VGA output port on the DVR
to the VGA input port on your TV/Monitor. (VGA Cable not included)
6. RJ-45 (Ethernet) Port – RJ-45 port will be used to connect the DVR to
your router/modem via the included Ethernet cable. Keep in mind, you can
quickly network your DVR to begin viewing your cameras remotely right from
your mobile device by completing the DVR’s Startup Wizard once you have
connected the DVR to your router and powered on the DVR.
7. USB Ports – USB ports allow for the connections of a USB mouse and/or a
USB flash drive. You will connect the included USB mouse to assist you in
navigating the DVRs menu interface. You will connect a USB flash drive to
download video files from the DVR and save them to your USB flash drive.
8. RS-485 (PTZ) Port – RS-485 port allows for the connection of a Pan-
Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) camera. Some PTZ cameras utilize Up the Cable (UTC)
technology and will not require the RS-485 port to function.
9. Power Input – power input to connect the included 12V DC power supply.
LAN / USB RS485
POWER
12 V
HDMI
Output
AUDIO INAUDIO OUTVIDEO IN HDMI
Video Inputs Audio
Inputs USB PortsRS-485
(PTZ)
Port
Power
RJ-45
(Ethernet)
Port
VGA
Output
Audio
Output
VGA

14 XHD Series User’s Manual
3.2.2 Camera Diagram
CAMERA
NOTE: Connect all cameras locally before final placement to ensure that all
components function properly.
3.2.3 Mouse Diagram
MOUSE
Live Viewing:
Double-click the left button on any camera view in split-screen mode to bring it
to full screen display.
Double-click again to return to split-screen mode.
Right-click to show the control bar at the bottom of the screen.
Right-clicking again will hide the control bar.
In Setup:
Left-click to make a selection.
Right-click to cancel setup or return to previous screen.
To Enter Values:
Move the cursor to a blank field and click the mouse. A virtual keyboard will
appear which supports numbers, letters and symbols. The Shift function will
access symbols in addition to upper case letters.
Infrared PIR Sensor
IR Cut Filter
HD Resolution
Base
Video/Power Cables

15Chapter 4: Camera Installation
CHAPTER 4
CAMERA
INSTALLATION

16 XHD Series User’s Manual
Chapter 4: Camera Installation
4.1 Video/Audio
NOTE: Connect all cameras locally before final placement to ensure that all
components function properly.
1. Locate an included 60 foot Video/Power cable.
2. Connect a camera to one end of the cable by matching the BNC connectors
(yellow) and DC power connectors (red).
3. Audio enabled cameras will have an additional (white) RCA connection which
will transmit the audio signal and will connect to the audio in port on the back
of your DVR.
4. Plug BNC connectors on the other end of the cable into a Video Input port
on the back panel of the DVR.
5. Repeat for each camera, noting the channel number each camera is
plugged into.
4.2 Power
4.2.1 Standard Camera Power
1. Locate an included power splitter.
2. Connect the power splitter to the remaining DC power connectors (red) of
the cables.
3. Plug the power splitter into the labeled camera power supply, then plug the
camera power supply into an available wall outlet or UPS. Keep in mind,
Night Owl always recommends utilizing a surge protector to minimize the risk
of damage caused to your DVR in the event of a power surge.

17Chapter 4: Camera Installation
Cameras, additional cables, power adapters and
splitters only included in certain security kits. Check
the product packaging for detailed kit contents.
Make sure all cameras are working prior to mounting by
connecting them as described in the section above. Once all
cameras are confirmed to be fully operational, you can run
the cables and mount the cameras at their final locations.
4.3 Mounting the Cameras
Camera distance from DVR.
The further the camera is from the DVR
or monitor, the higher the chances
of signal degradation. The camera’s
power supply should be located
as near to the camera as possible
when the distance exceeds 200 ft.
as the power level will drop over
extended distances resulting in video degradation.
Do not place near high voltage wires or other sources of electrical interference.
Electrical interference will degrade the quality of the signal.
Place camera out of reach to avoid vandalism.
Avoid direct exposure to weather. Do not place the camera where rain or snow will
hit the lens directly nor should the camera be placed so that the sun or bright
light shines directly into the lens. Your camera is weatherproof, but it will not work
when submerged in water. Ensure that all power and video connections are not
directly exposed to water and are protected from the elements.
Mounting surface. The mounting surface must hold at least four times the
camera’s total weight.
1. Locate a camera and choose a location where you would like to mount
the camera.
Connect all cameras locally before final placement
to ensure that all components function properly.

18 XHD Series User’s Manual
2. Indicate screw positions by marking three holes on the surface where you plan
to mount the camera, using the holes in the camera base as a guide.
3. Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the included screw anchors, drill into the
mounting surface using the guide marks you placed in the previous step.
4. Insert the screw anchors.
5. Line up the camera base holes with the screw anchors. Holding the base in
place, insert screws and tighten until secure.
6. Once the base is screwed in place, make sure that the camera is securely
mounted by placing gentle pressure on the mount.
7. Adjust the camera housing to point in the direction of the area you would like
to monitor.
Don’t feel like installing the
system yourself? Let InstallerNet™
do the work for you! Contact us at
1-800-806-5513 or visit us at
www.NightOwlSP.com.

19Chapter 5: DVR Installation
CHAPTER 5
DVR INSTALLATION

20 XHD Series User’s Manual
Chapter 5: DVR Installation
5.1 Connecting to a TV (via HDMI)
1. Locate the included HDMI cable.
2. Plug one end of the cable into the HDMI port on the back of the DVR.
3. Connect the other end of the cable to an available HDMI input on your TV
or monitor.
4. Select the appropriate video input channel on your TV or monitor to view
the DVR.