Night Owl HDA SERIES User manual

www.NightOwlSP.com
USERS MANUAL
HDA SERIES
8 CHANNEL

2HDA Series Users 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 HDA Series Camera Compatibility:
Night Owl’s HD Analog DVRs are compatible with most analog cameras (400-
900TVL) and Night Owl’s 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 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!
http://nightowlsp.com/dvr-qsg http://nightowlsp.com/startup-wizard-qsg
Scan or click the QR codes below to access our instructional videos that
can assist you in configuring your Night Owl Security system.
http://nightowlsp.com/mobile-app-qsg
STARTUP
WIZARD
MOBILE APP
SETUP
DVR
CONNECTIVITY

3Table of Contents
TABLE
OF CONTENTS

4HDA Series Users 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 and Remote Diagrams .................15
CHAPTER 4: CAMERA INSTALLATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.1 Video/Audio ..................................18
4.2 Power ......................................19
4.3 Mounting the Cameras ..........................20
CHAPTER 5: DVR INSTALLATION ................................23
5.1 Connecting to a TV .............................24
5.2 Power.......................................25
CHAPTER 6: GETTING STARTED ................................27
6.1 Startup Wizard ................................28
6.2 Night Owl HD Mobile App ........................29
6.3 Displays and Icons .............................29
6.3.1 Login Screen ............................29
6.3.2 Live View (All Channels).....................30
6.3.3 Live View (Single Channel)...................31
6.3.4 Menu Screen ............................32
CHAPTER 7: MENUS AND SETTINGS .............................33
7.1 General Menu .................................35

5Table of Contents
7.1.1 Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
a. Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
b. Privacy Zone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
7.1.2 Capture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
a. Capture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
b. Capture Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
7.1.3 Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
a. Main . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
b. Substream. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
c. Email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
d. Email Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
e. DDNS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
7.1.4 Alarm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
a. Motion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
7.2 Cameras Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
7.2.1 Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
7.3 Record Menu (Playback) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
7.3.1 General (Playback) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
7.3.2 Events and Pictures (Playback & Backup Files) . . . . .44
7.3.3 Settings (Record) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
a. Basic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
b. Record Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
c. Mainstream. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
7.4 Device Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
7.4.1 HDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
7.4.2 PTZ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
7.5 System Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
7.5.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
a. Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
b. DST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
c. NTP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
7.5.2 Users. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
7.5.3 Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
a. Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
b. Channel Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
c. Record Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

6HDA Series Users Manual
For your reference, we have created an instructional video that
explains the menu structure and functionality of your Night Owl
recorder in detail. Click on the icon at any time to view Night
Owl’s instructional videos at www.youtube.com/user/NightOwlSP
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.
SUPPORT
VIDEOS
ADVANCED
7.5.4 Log. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
7.6 Advanced Menu .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
7.6.1 Maintain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
7.6.2 Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
7.6.3 Auto Upgrade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
CHAPTER 8: REMOTE ACCESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56
8.1 System Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
8.2 Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
8.3 Network Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .....58
8.3.1 Windows® Operating System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
8.3.2 Mac® Operating System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
8.3.3 Port Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
8.3.4 DDNS Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
8.3.5 Adding the DDNS to Your DVR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
CHAPTER 9: GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
CHAPTER 10: WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
CHAPTER 11: TROUBLESHOOTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
CHAPTER 12: CUSTOMER SUPPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
CHAPTER 13: USER INFORMATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

7Chapter 1: FCC Warnings
CHAPTER 1
FCC WARNINGS
SUPPORT VIDEOS

8HDA Series Users Manual
Chapter 1: FCC Warnings
FCC
This equipment has been tested and found to comply within limits for Class B
digital devices pursuant to Part 15 of Federal Communication Commission (FCC)
rules.
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 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
CAUTION
The Federal Communications Commission warns the user that changes or
modifications to the unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

9Chapter 2: Safety Instructions
CHAPTER 2
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
SUPPORT VIDEOS

10 HDA Series Users 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 disperse
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, 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.
You may be subjected to severe electrical shock
if you remove the cover of the DVR.
Chapter 2: Safety Instructions

11Chapter 3: Specifications
CHAPTER 3
SPECIFICATIONS
SUPPORT VIDEOS

12 HDA Series Users 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, Google Chrome and FireFox
• MAC Operating System: MAC OS X®10.7
• MAC Browser: Safari®7.1 and above
Please be sure that your mobile device complies with the following specifications:
• Android: 5.0 and above
• iOS: 7.1 and above
3.2 Package Contents
• 1 x HDA DVR
• Indoor/Outdoor Cameras*
• Bundles of Camera Cable*
• Mounting Hardware and Screws*
• HDMI Cable
• 1 x RJ-45 Cable (Ethernet)
• 1 x USB Mouse
3.2.1 DVR Diagram
FRONT VIEW
* Cameras, additional cables, power adapters, mounting
hardware and splitters only included in certain security
kits. Check the product packaging for detailed kit contents.
Model #
QR Code
• 1 x Remote Control (Includes Batteries)
• 1 x Software CD
• 1 x Support Material Packet
• 1 x Camera Power Adapter*
• 1 x DC 12V/2A DVR Power Adapter
• Camera Power Splitters*
• 3 x Night Owl Security Stickers
Once you have downloaded Night Owl HD 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.
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.
Additionally, please ensure the audio input port number directly corresponds to the
channel port number. For example, audio input port 1 provides audio to channel port
1.
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. Additionally, please ensure the audio
input port number directly corresponds to the channel port number. For example,
audio input port 1 provides audio to channel port 1.
5. VGA Output – VGA output also allows for video connection. While HDMI provides a
higher quality video, you may connect a VGA cable from the VGA output port on the
DVR to the VGA input port on your TV / Monitor if your TV / Monitor does not have an
HDMI port.
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
camera.
9. Power Input – power input to connect the included 12V DC power supply.

14 HDA Series Users Manual
3.2.2 Camera Diagram
CAMERA
NOTE: To ensure all the cameras are functioning properly, please test each one
before installing them. To test: attach the camera side of a BNC cable to each
camera while the DVR side is connected to the DVR and camera power adapter.

15Chapter 3: Specifications
3.2.3 Mouse and Remote 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.

16 HDA Series Users Manual
REMOTE

17Chapter 4: Camera Installation
CHAPTER 4
CAMERA
INSTALLATION
SUPPORT VIDEOS

18 HDA Series Users Manual
Chapter 4: Camera Installation
4.1 Video/Audio
NOTE: To ensure all the cameras are functioning properly, please test each one
before installing them. To test: attach the camera side of a BNC cable to each
camera while the DVR side is connected to the DVR and camera power adapter.
1. Locate an included 60 ft. camera 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 an audio input 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.

19Chapter 4: Camera Installation
4.2 Power
1. Locate the 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.
* 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 to their final locations.

20 HDA Series Users Manual
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. Additionally, do not place the camera where the sun or bright
lights will shine 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.
2. Mark the screw positions by using a pencil or pen.
Connect all cameras locally before final placement to
ensure that all components function properly.