Night Owl C80XFR Series User manual

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C80XFR SERIES
www.NightOwlSP.com
USER’S MANUAL
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SUPPORT
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SUPPORT
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Night Owl’s C80XFR Series DVRs are compatible with most analog cameras (400-900TVL), Night Owl’s
Analog HD (AHD) and HD Analog (HDA) cameras, including:
• CM-C20XL-BU
• CM-C50XL-BU
• CM-C80XL-BU (Preferred)
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. In addition to warranty and technical support benefits, you have access to our
vast library 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 C80XFR Series Camera Compatibility:
Connect one end of the included Ethernet cable into the LAN port on the back of your DVR. Connect the other
end into your Modem/Router to establish an Internet connection.
Next, connect the DVR to your TV/Monitor using the provided HDMI cable. If your TV/Monitor does not have an
HDMI port, you may use a VGA cable (not provided).
Using the provided DVR power adapter, power on the DVR.
Once the DVR is powered on, the Startup Wizard will begin. Follow the steps within the Startup Wizard to
upgrade your system’s firmware.
Before setting up your system, you MUST update your DVR’s firmware. Please follow these steps:
NOTE: Your DVR must be connected to the Internet in order to upgrade the firmware.
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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 CL2 UL Rated 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. Additionally,
you may see screen images that do not exactly match those on your TV/Monitor/Smart Device.
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.
NOTE: Not all features will work with all compatible cameras. Must use preferred cameras to access all features.

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TABLE
OF CONTENTS

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: FCC Warnings..............................................8
Chapter 2: SafetyInstructions.........................................10
Chapter 3: Specifications ............................................12
3.1 SystemRequirements..................................12
3.2 PackageContents.....................................12
3.2.1 DVRDiagram ....................................13
3.2.2 CameraDiagram..................................14
3.2.3 Mouse Diagram ...................................14
Chapter 4: Camera Installation.........................................16
4.1 Video/Audio .........................................16
4.2 Power .............................................17
4.2.1 Standard Camera Power .............................17
4.3 Mounting the Cameras..................................18
Chapter 5: DVR Installation ...........................................21
5.1 Connecting to a TV (via HDMI) ............................21
5.2 Power .............................................22
Chapter 6: Getting Started............................................24
6.1 StartupWizard.......................................24
6.1.1 CameraTest .....................................25
6.1.2 Network Test .....................................25
6.1.3 Firmware Check...................................27
6.1.4 Password Creation .................................28
6.1.5 Date and Time Setup ...............................29
6.1.6 NightOwlConnectApp .............................30
6.1.6 (a) UsingNightOwlConnect........................31
6.1.6 (b) AppOverview ................................34
6.1.7 Password Verification ...............................35
6.1.8 Camera/Channel Settings ............................35
6.1.9 CameraPositioning................................36
6.1.10 ChannelConfiguration.............................36
6.1.11 Default Channel(s) On Screen........................38
6.1.12 HelpfulLinksandSupport..........................39
6.1.13 StartupWizardComplete...........................39
6.2 DisplaysandIcons ....................................40
6.2.1 Login Screen.....................................40
6.2.2 Live View (All Channels) .............................41
6.2.3 Right-Click Menu..................................42
6.2.3 (a) SpotlightMenu...............................43
6.2.3 (b) Facial Detection Menu ..........................44

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6.2.4 Menu Screen.....................................45
Chapter 7: MenusandSettings ........................................47
7.1 General Menu ........................................48
7.1.1 Display .........................................48
7.1.2 Network........................................49
7.1.3 DDNS..........................................50
7.1.4 GoogleHome ....................................51
7.2 CamerasMenu.......................................52
7.2.1 Settings........................................52
7.2.1 (a) Advanced...................................53
7.2.1 (b) Setting Detection Area ..........................55
7.2.2 Advanced.......................................56
7.2.3 Adjustments.....................................57
7.2.4 FamiliarFace ....................................58
7.2.4 (a) Familiar Face Upload - Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
7.2.4 (b) Familiar Face Upload - USB ......................60
7.2.4 (c) Familiar Face Upload - HDD ......................61
7.3 RecordMenu ........................................62
7.3.1 Schedule .......................................62
7.3.2 Playback........................................63
7.3.2 (a) VideoPlayback ...............................63
7.3.2 (b) Right-Click Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
7.3.2 (c) Playback Modes - Facial Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
7.3.3 Export Recordings .................................67
7.4 DeviceMenu ........................................70
7.4.1 HDD...........................................70
7.4.2 PTZ...........................................71
7.4.2 (a) Using Control Method RS485 .....................71
7.4.2 (b) Using Control Method UTC (Up-The-Coax) ............72
7.5 SystemMenu........................................73
7.5.1 General ........................................73
7.5.1 (a) DST.......................................74
7.5.1 (b) NTP .......................................75
7.5.2 Users ..........................................76
7.5.2 (a) ModifyUser .................................77
7.5.3 Info...........................................78
7.5.4 Log ...........................................79
7.6 AdvancedMenu ......................................80
7.6.1 Maintain........................................80
7.6.2 Events .........................................81
7.6.3 Alarm Status .....................................83
7.6.4 AutoUpgrade....................................85

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Night Owl’s DVRs are manufactured for quality and ease of use. As such, our DVRs contain menus
designed for advanced users 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
Chapter 8: Glossary.................................................87
Chapter 9: Warranty ................................................89
Chapter 10: Troubleshooting ..........................................92
Chapter 11: UserInformation .........................................95
Customer Support............................................Back Cover

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CHAPTER 1
FCC WARNINGS

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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.
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.
CAUTION!

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CHAPTER 2
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS

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Chapter 2: Safety Instructions
You may be subjected to severe electrical shock if you remove the cover of the DVR.
CAUTION!
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.

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CHAPTER 3
SPECIFICATIONS

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Chapter 3: Specications
3.1 System Requirements
Please be sure that your PC/MAC®complies with the following specifications:
Please be sure that your mobile device complies with the following specifications:
4.2 Package Contents
THIS MANUAL WAS ACCURATE AT THE TIME IT WAS COMPLETED. DUE TO OUR ONGOING EFFORT TO
CONSTANTLY IMPROVE OUR PRODUCTS, SPECIFICATIONS MAY HAVE BEEN ADDED OR CHANGED.
• PC Operating System: Windows®10 and above
• MAC Operating System: MAC OS X®10.9 and above
• Android™: 4.2 and above
• iOS®: 9 and above
NOTE: For best results, use the included Night Owl accessories. Third party accessories may not work properly.
NOTE: Monitor is required
for initial setup.
USB
Mouse (x1)
6 ft. HDMI
(x1)
6 ft. Ethernet
(x1)
Power Splitter(s)
(1 per 4 cameras)
Monitor Router
Items Not Included
RESET LAN1 LAN2 LAN3 LAN4 WAN
Mounting
Hardware
Safety
Stickers
60 ft. Video/Power Cables
(1 cable per camera)
DVR Power
Adapter (x1)
Camera Power
Adapter(s)
(1 per 4 cameras)
Camera(s)DVR
3.2 Package Contents
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.

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QR Code
Once you have downloaded Night Owl Connect 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.
FRONT VIEW
REAR VIEW
Video Inputs – Allows for the connection of BNC wired cameras. Wireless cameras connect to the
DVR’s built-in Wi-Fi.
Audio Output – Allows for the connection of an amplified speaker using an RCA connector.
USB Ports – Allows 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.
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.
RJ-45 (Ethernet) Port – Used to connect the DVR to your router/modem via the included Ethernet cable.
Audio Inputs – Allows 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. (VGA Cable not included)
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. VGA Port not available on all models.)
RS-485 (PTZ) Port – Allows for the connection of a Pan-Tilt- Zoom (PTZ) camera.
Power Input – Used to connect the included 12V DC power supply.
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3.2.1 DVR Diagram
Images used are for reference only. Your product may vary slightly depending on your model number.
NOTE: Preferred method.
NOTE: Some PTZ cameras utilize Up-the-Coax (UTC) technology and will not require the RS-485 port to function.

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Built-In Spotlight
Wide Viewing Angle 85º
4K Resolution
Night Vision up to 100 ft.
3-Axis Mounting Bracket
(Vandal-Proof Wire
Camera Protection)
Video/Power Cables
CAMERA
4.2.3 Mouse Diagram
MOUSE
Scroll WheelLeft / Select Button
Right / Menu Button
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 Right-Click Menu at the
bottom of the screen. Right-clicking again hides the Right-Click Menu.
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 appears and supports numbers,
letters and symbols. The Shift function accesses symbols in addition to upper case letters.
Connect all cameras locally before final placement to ensure that all components function properly.
3.2.2 Camera Diagram
3.2.3 Mouse Diagram

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CHAPTER 4
CAMERA
INSTALLATION

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Camera
Chapter 4: Camera Installation
Connect a camera to one end of the cable by matching the BNC connectors (yellow) and DC power
connectors (red).
Locate an included 60 foot Video/Power cable.
Audio enabled cameras (not included) have an additional (white) RCA connection which transmits the
audio signal and connects to the Audio Input port on the back of the DVR.
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Repeat for all cameras, noting the channel number associated with each camera.
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Plug BNC connectors on the other end of the cable into a Video Input port on the back panel of
the DVR.
4.1 Video/Audio
Connect all cameras locally before final placement to ensure that all components function properly.

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4.2 Power
Locate an included power splitter.
Connect the power splitter to the remaining DC power connectors (red) of the cables.
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.
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Plug into surge protector
Cameras Camera
Power Adapter
Power Splitter
Power
Splitter
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.
4.2.1 Standard Camera Power

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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
from the DVR exceeds 160 ft., the power level drops, resulting in video degradation.
Do NOT place near high voltage wires or other sources of electrical interference.
Electrical interference degrades the quality of the signal.
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.
Place camera out of reach to avoid vandalism.
Connect all cameras locally before final placement
to ensure that all components function properly.

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Locate a camera and choose a location where you would like to mount the camera.
Insert the screw anchors.
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.
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.
Line up the camera base holes with the screw anchors. Holding the base in place, insert screws and
tighten until secure.
Once the base is screwed in place, make sure that the camera is securely mounted by placing gentle
pressure on the mount.
Adjust the camera housing to point in the direction of the area you would like to monitor.
Follow these instructions to correctly install your cameras.

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CHAPTER 5
DVR
INSTALLATION