Q-See QT SERIES User manual

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Conventional and SDI DVRs
User Manual
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16 Channel QT5716
Analog & SDI DVRs

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© 2010-2014 Q-See. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is
prohibited. All rights reserved. This manual and software and hardware described herein, in
whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable
form without prior written approval.
Trademarks: All brand names and products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective owners.
Q-See is a registered trademark of DPS, Inc.
Disclaimer: The information in this document is subject to change without notice. The
manufacturer makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, of any kind
with respect to completeness of its contents.
Manufacturer shall not be liable for any damages whatsoever from misuse of this product.
Thank You for Choosing a Q-See Product!
All of our products are backed by a conditional service warranty covering all hardware for 12
months from the date of purchase. Additionally, our products also come with a free exchange
policy that covers all manufacturing defects for one month from the date of purchase.
Permanent upgrading service is provided for the software and is available at www.Q-See.com.
Be certain to make the most of your warranty by completing the registration form online. In
addition to warranty and technical support benefits, you’ll receive notifications of product
updates along with free downloadable firmware updates for your DVR. Register today at
www.Q-See.com!
Please see the back of this manual for exclusions.

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This manual is written for the QT family of Conventional and SDI DVRs. Not all features and
capabilities are shared across all models so you may see features described which are not
applicable or available on your machine. 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. However, because of our ongoing
effort to constantly improve our products, features and functions may have been added
or changed since that time and on-screen displays may change. We encourage you to
visit our website at www.Q-See.com to check for the latest firmware updates and product
announcements.
Throughout the manual we have highlighted warnings and other important information that will
assist you in operating your new system in a safe and trouble-free manner. Please take the
time to read and follow all instructions and pay attention to alerts as shown below:
About this Manual
NOTE! Text in blue boxes with the Information icon offer additional guidance
and explanations about how to make the most out of your system.
IMPORTANT! Red boxes with this icon indicate warnings. To prevent
possible injury or damage to the product, read all warnings before use.
Rev. 4.6 10/10/14
AN IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT CONVENTIONAL AND
SDI SYSTEMS
Depending upon the model, your DVR is equipped to work with conventional analog cameras
or digital high definition SDI (Serial Digital Interface) cameras. Both cameras use similar
cables and connectors, (see Section 2.5 for connection instructions) but they are not
interchangeable as they are two completely different - and incompatible - technologies. If you
are adding cameras beyond those that came packaged with your DVR, be sure to check that
they are compatible with your system.
Aside from this, the operation of the DVR is identical regardless of the technology. The primary
difference is in resolution. While recent breakthroughs in analog video technology have allowed
conventional cameras to be able to deliver resolutions up to 1000 TVL (Television Lines) as of
this writing, Q-See’s SDI cameras record in 720p and1080p high definition which offers the
advantage of a higher pixel count and no loss of clarity due to having to convert the video
signal between digital and analog formats. Similarly, the conventional DVRs can only record
files up to the D1 (704x480 pixels) or 960H formats (960x480 pixels) while the SDI systems will
record in formats up to 1080p (1920x1080 pixels).

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An Important Note about conventional and SDI Systems 3
1. INTRODUCTION 7
For Your Safety 7
Features 8
2. CONNECTIONS AND CONTROLS 10
2.1 Mouse 10
2.2 Remote Control 11
2.3 Video Display 15
Connecting a Video Display 15
‘Missing’ Menu 17
Multiple Monitors and Spot Out 17
2.4 Cameras 18
Connecting Cameras 18
Camera Placement 19
Additional Considerations 20
960H Cameras 21
3. BASIC FUNCTIONS 22
3.1 Power On/Off 22
Power On and Login 22
Power Off 22
3.2 The Control Bar 23
3.3 Live Viewing and Recording 26
Switching Video Output 26
Live Viewing 26
Recording 26
3.4 Quick Playback 27
4. MAIN MENU SETUP 30
4.1 Basic Configuration 30
Menu Navigation 30
Setup 30
4.2 Live Configuration 33
4.3 Record Configuration 35
4.4 Schedule Configuration 38
4.5 Network Configuration 39
4.6 User Management 43
User accounts and Passwords 43
Time Search 45
Event Search 46
File Management 46
Image 47
TABLE OF CONTENTS

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5. BACKUP 48
Formatting a USB Drive in FAT32 48
Backing Up a File 48
Playing Back a Video File on a Computer 49
Important Considerations 49
6. DVR MANAGEMENT 50
6.1 Information 50
Event Information 51
Log Information 51
Network Information 51
Online User Information 52
6.2 Manual Alarm 53
6.3 Disk Management 53
6.4 Firmware Upgrade 54
6.5 Logoff 55
6.6 Shut Down 55
7. PAN/TILT/ZOOM CAMERAS 56
7.1 Connecting a PTZ Camera 56
7.2 Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) Configuration 57
8. ALARMS 60
8.1 Alarm Input 60
8.2 Alarm Output 62
8.3 Alarm Configuration 63
Sensor 63
Motion 64
Video Loss 65
Other Alarm 65
Alarm Out 66
9. HARD DISK DRIVE 67
9.1 Installation/Removal 67
9.2 Calculating the Recording Capacity of a Hard Drive 69
APPENDIX 70
A.1 Troubleshooting 70
A.2 Specifications 73
A.3 Rack Mounting 86
Q-SEE PRODUCT WARRANTY 87
Questions or Comments? Contact Us 88

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FOR YOUR SAFETY
To prevent damage to your Q-See product or injury to yourself or to others, read and
understand the following safety precautions in their entirety before installing or using this
equipment. Keep these safety instructions where all those who use the product will read them.
nCheck the unit and any accessories included in the package immediately after opening. If
items are missing or damaged, repackage and return to the point of purchase.
nUse the proper power source. Only use the power adapter supplied with your system. Do
not use this product with a power source that applies more than the specified voltage (100-
240V AC).
nNever insert anything metallic into the DVR. Inserting anything into the DVR or its case can
be a source of dangerous electric shock.
nDo not operate in dusty areas. Avoid placing the DVR in places that are dusty.
nDo not expose this product to rain or use near water. If this product accidentally gets wet,
unplug it and contact Q-See immediately.
nKeep product surfaces clean and dry. To clean the outside case of the DVR, gently wipe
using a lightly dampened cloth (only use water, do not use solvents).
nDo not operate this DVR without the cover securely in place. Do not attempt to do any
repairs to the DVR yourself. If there are unusual sounds or smells coming from the DVR,
unplug it immediately and contact Q-See technical support. Under no circumstances
should the cover be removed while the device is connected to a power source. You should
only remove the cover to install/replace the hard disk drive (See Chapter 9) or replace the
standard 3v lithium cell battery on the motherboard. These are the only user serviceable
parts. You may need to replace the battery if the internal clock resets itself after a power
outage
nHandle the DVR carefully. If you accidentally drop your DVR on any hard surface, it may
cause a malfunction. If the DVR doesn’t work properly due to physical damage, contact an
authorized dealer for repair or exchange.
nMake sure there is proper air circulation around the unit. This DVR system uses a hard drive
for video storage which generates heat during operation. Do not block air holes located on
the bottom, top, sides and back of the DVR as they are designed to keep the system cool
while running. Install or place this product in an area where there is ample air circulation.
nProvide proper ventilation. This DVR has a built-in fan that properly ventilates the system.
Do not cover or impede this fan.
INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1
WARNING! ELECTRIC SHOCK RISK!

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FEATURES
This DVR uses high-performance video processing chips and an embedded Linux operating
system for quality image recording and ease of use. It utilizes numerous advanced
technologies including the industry-standard H.264 compression to deliver high-quality,
smooth videos and dual stream capability for remote viewing. A SATA hard-drive interface
offers upgradability and two video ouputs allows for the choice of viewing on a VGA monitor or
a standard TV. In addition, some models include an HDMI video port for HD viewing.
Local control of the system utilizes a mouse and graphical user interface (GUI) as well as a
remote control. Users can also remotely monitor and control their system using a web browser
or select mobile device.
This DVR uses cutting-edge technology without compromising stability and reliability making it
ideal for home use as well as in warehouse, factory, retail and other similar environments.
COMPRESSION FORMAT
Standard H.264 compression with low bit rate and high image quality
LIVE SURVEILLANCE
Supports VGA and RCA output. Some models also support HDMI
Supports channel security by hiding live display
Displays the local record state and basic information
Supports full control with USB mouse
Supports digital zoom on live and playback view
RECORDING MEDIA
Supports SATA hard disk drives up to 3TB each for longer recording times.
BACKUP
Supports backing up to USB 2.0 devices
Some models support eSATA external hard drives
Supports saving recorded files with AVI format to a remote computer through
internet
RECORDING & PLAYBACK
Record modes: Manual, Schedule, Motion detection and Sensor alarm recording
Supports recycle after HDD is full
Resolution, frame rate and picture quality are adjustable
128MB for every video file packaging
Up to 16 audio channels available depending on model
Two record search modes: time search and event search
Supports multi-screen simultaneous playback
Supports deleting and locking the recorded files one by one
Supports remote playback in Network Client through LAN or internet
Analog models support recording in CIF, D1 resolutions.
SDI models support recording in 720P and 1080P HD resolutions.

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ALARM
1-4 channel alarm output and up to 16-channel (depending on model ) alarm input
available
Supports scheduling for motion detection and sensor alarm
Supports pre-recording and post recording
Supports linked channels recording once motion or alarm is triggered on
designated channel
Supports linked PTZ preset, and auto cruise
PTZ CONTROL
Supports multiple PTZ protocols (PelcoP, PelcoD, LILIN, MINKING, NEON, STAR,
VIDO, DSCP, VISCA, and RANGE)
Supports 128 PTZ presets and 8 auto cruise tracks
Supports remote PTZ control through internet
SECURITY
Customize user rights: log search, system setup, two way audio, file management,
disk management, remote login, live view, manual record, playback, PTZ control
and remote live view
Supports 1 administrator and 15 users.
Supports event log recording and checking, events unlimited
NETWORK
Supports TCP/IP, DHCP, PPPoE, DDNS
Supports Internet Explorer and Safari browsers to do remote viewing
Supports a maximum of 10 user connections simultaneously
Supports dual stream. Network stream is adjustable independently to fit the
network bandwidth and environment.
Supports picture snap and color adjustment in remote live view
Supports remote time and event search, and channel playback with picture snap
Supports remote PTZ control with preset and auto cruise
Supports remote full menu setup, changing all the DVR parameters remotely
Supports mobile surveillance by smart phones, Win Mobile Pro, Win 7 Mobile,
Symbian, and iPhones, iPads, Android, and Blackberry on 3G networks
Supports CMS to manage multiple devices over the internet
Administrator can limit user access to specific cameras
Administrator can disconnect online users
NOTE! Depending on your point of purchase, your DVR may have the hard
disk drive already installed. If your drive was packaged separately or if you
wish to upgrade to up to a larger hard drive, please see Chapter 9 at the
back of this manual which covers installing the drive.

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You may view this DVR using a standard 19” (or larger) VGA monitor or a television. The
former is connected using the VGA port on the back panel while the television utilizes the
BNC “Video Out” port on the back. Your DVR is configured to use the VGA port as the main
display. To use a TV, you will need to press and hold the STOP/ESC, EXIT or VGA/TV button
(depending on model) for approximately 10 seconds until you hear a beep indicating that the
video mode has been switched. A display connected to the other port will not show the menu.
CONNECTIONS AND CONTROLS CHAPTER 2
2.1 MOUSE
The mouse is the default tool for navigating through the menus. Specific instructions for its use
within a function appear in the appropriate sections of the manual, but a basic overview is below:
In Live View:
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 Input Values:
Move the cursor to a blank field and click. A virtual keyboard will appear which supports
numbers, letters and symbols. The Shift function will access symbols in addition to upper case
letters.
Certain values, such as time settings, can be changed using the mouse wheel.
In addition to the buttons on the front of the DVR, your system can be controlled through the
USB mouse and the remote control. We have found that the majority of our customers prefer
to operate their DVRs using the USB mouse because of its ease of use and flexibility and our
manual is set up with this in mind.
PICTURE 2-1
PICTURE 2-2

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PICTURE 2-3
1 2 3
4
5
10
11
6
7
8
9
12
13
14
15
Item Button Function
1 POWER
Soft power down switch. Use this
before unplugging the DVR
2 INFO
Get information about the DVR such
as HDD space and firmware version
3 REC Begin recording
4 Numbers
Input numbers in fields or select
camera
5 Multi-Screen Choose multi-screen display mode
6 MENU
Opens MENU window
7 SEARCH
Enter SEARCH mode
8 Directional
Move cursor in set up or control PTZ
camera
9 ENTER Confirm choice or settings
10 SET +/-
Increase or decrease value in
SETUP mode
11 Playback
Controls playback functions, includ-
ing stop, single-frame, fast forward,
etc.
12 AUDIO Enable audio input in live mode
13 SEQ
Returns to auto dwell display
sequence
14 BACKUP
Enters BACKUP menu
15 PTZ
Controls
Controls PTZ camera including
zoom, focus, iris and speed
2.2 REMOTE CONTROL
The remote control allows you to perform most of the
day-to-day functions from a convenient distance. It
functions as a typical remote control with additional
buttons allowing you to navigate through menus and
control functions. We recommend that you configure
your DVR using the mouse controls, reserving the
remote control for operations such as live viewing, file
search and playback.
There are three models. All use two AAA-sized
batteries. If the remote’s performance degrades,
check the batteries as well as that the IR receiver
window on the DVR is unobstructed.
NOTE! The remote that shipped with your DVR will be compatible with that
model. It may not be compatible with other models of DVRs, even those from the
same series. Your remote may contain buttons for features not available on your
DVR.

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REC
1 2 3
4 5 6
7 8 9
Multi Next SEQ
-/-- 0 Fn1
SPOTAudio
ExitMenu
ENTER
IRIS+
P.T.Z.
IRIS-
Focus
+
_Zoom
+
_
Preset Cruise Wiper Light
Track Clear Fn 2 INFO
Snap Search
Cut Backup
Zoom PIP
1 2
3
4
7
11
13
21
17
18
22
9
5
8
10
14
15
16
20
19
23
6
12
24
25
26
27
28
29
PICTURE 2-4

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Item Button Function
1 POWER
Soft power down switch. Use this before un-
plugging the DVR
2 REC Begin recording
3 Numbers Input numbers in fields or select camera
4 Fn1 Not functional at this time
5Multi-
Screen
Choose multi-screen display mode
6 Next Switch to next live view group
7 SEQ Switch to sequential channel display
8 Audio Enables Audio in Live View Mode
9 Spot Change video display mode
10 Enter Confirms choice
11 Directional
Controls
Move cursor
Control PTZ direction in PTZ mode
12 Menu Open Main menu
13 Exit Exits menu or interface
14 PTZ
Controls
Controls PTZ camera including zoom, focus, iris
and speed
15 Preset Opens PTZ preset settings
16 Cruise Opens PTZ cruise settings
17 Light Turns on PTZ cameras light
18 Wiper Turns on PTZ camera wiper
19 Track Opens PTZ track settings
20 Clear Returns to previous menu/ interface
21 Info Opens DVR Info menu
22 Fn2 Not functional at this time
23 Playback
Controls
Play/Pause, Stop, Fast Forward, Rewind, Single
Frame Forward/Backward
24 Search Opens up video search window
25 Snap
Takes still image snapshot of active live view
window
26 Backup Opens Backup menu
27 Cut
Select start/end points to create a shorter video
segment from a video being played back.
28 PiP Picture-in-Picture mode
29 Zoom Activates digital zoom
Press the PTZ button to enter the PTZ control panel. Choose a channel and then press the
PTZ button to close the panel. Wiper and light functions only function if PTZ camera is so
equipped.

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PICTURE 2-5
REC
Exit MENU
PIP ZOOM
Search
INFO
ENTER
Next SEQMulti
1
10 1211 13
2 4
6
8
5
7
9
3# Button Function
1 Menu
Open Main menu
2 REC Begin recording
3 Search
Opens up video search
window
4 Exit Exits menu or interface
5
Direc-
tional
Controls
Move cursor
Control PTZ direction in
PTZ mode
6 Enter Confirms choice
7 PiP Picture-in-Picture mode
8 Zoom Activates digital zoom
9
Play-
back
Controls
Play/Pause, Stop,
Fast Forward, Rewind,
Single Frame Forward/
Backward
10 Multi-
Screen
Choose multi-screen
display mode
11 Next
Switch to next live view
group
12 Info Opens DVR Info menu
13 SEQ
Switch to sequential
channel display

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2.3 VIDEO DISPLAY
QT-Series DVRs can use a television or a 19” or larger monitor as a main video display. Certain
models also provide the option of using a high definition display, such as an HDTV. A video
display is not needed for day to day use of your DVR if you are only monitoring it remotely
via a mobile device or using a computer, but one is needed for initial setup. It should also be
noted that, at present, it is not possible to change settings on the DVR itself using the QT
View mobile remote viewing apps and certain settings cannot be changed using the remote
monitoring software on the computer.
CONNECTING A VIDEO DISPLAY
Instructions on connecting a desired video display are included in the Quick Start Poster that
came with your system but are included here for your convenience.
VGA Monitor
Using a standard VGA monitor - the type used with most computers - with your DVR is the
preferred method and the DVR is configured with this in mind. Due to resolution restrictions,
you must use a monitor that has at least a 19” diagonal display. This information is typically
found on the back of the monitor if you are uncertain.
STEP 1. Plug a VGA cable into the port marked “VGA” on the back of the DVR.
STEP 2. Plug the other end of the VGA cable into the similar port on the back of the monitor.
STEP 3. Plug the monitor’s power cable into the surge protector.
High Definition Television
Some QT-Series DVRs include an HDMI video out port allowing you to use a high definition
television or other display that has an HDMI video input.
STEP 1. Plug an HDMI cable into the “HDMI” port on the back of the DVR.
STEP 2. Plug the other end into the “HDMI” port on the television.
STEP 3. Plug the television’s power cable into a surge protector.
PICTURE 2-6
PICTURE 2-7

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PICTURE 2-9
Changing Display Resolution
You can adjust the DVR to optimize its output
to best match the capabilities of your monitor
or HD display through the following steps:
STEP 1. Open the Basic window in the
Setup window which is located in the
Main Menu.
STEP 2. Click on the System tab.
STEP 3. Use the Video Output pull-down to
select your desired resolution.
STEP 4. Click on Apply to save your settings
and then click Exit.
STEP 5. Your system will restart. You will
have to re-log in afterwards.
STEP 1. Connect a BNC-to-RCA cable to the “Video Out” port on the back of the DVR.
STEP 2. Plug the RCA end into the “Video In” port on the television.
STEP 3. Plug the television’s power cable into a surge protector.
STEP 4. Press and hold the STOP, STOP/ESC, EXIT, n/ESC or
VGA/TV (depending on model)
button on the front of the DVR for 10 seconds or until you hear a beep to indicate that the video
mode has been changed.
Television
A third option for a video display is any television with an RCA video input. The DVR’s Video
Out port uses a BNC (British Naval Connector) type for coaxial cable. Depending on model,
your DVR may include a BNC-to-RCA cable or adapter. The latter converts the BNC jack to
an RCA port allowing you to connect the DVR to the television using a readily available RCA
cable. If you use a television as your video display, you will need to switch the DVR to use that
as a primary output by following Step 4, below:
PICTURE 2-8
SystemSystem Date & TimeDate & Time DSTDST
BASICBASIC
DefaultDefault ApplyApply ExitExit
EDVR
0
NTSC
10
HDMI
English
5
EDVR
0
NTSC
10
HDMI
English
5
Device Name
Device ID
Video Format
Password Check
Show System Time
Max Online Users
Video Output
Language
Logout After [Minutes]
Startup Wizard
No Image When Logout
Device Name
Device ID
Video Format
Password Check
Show System Time
Max Online Users
Video Output
Language
Logout After [Minutes]
Startup Wizard
No Image When Logout

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‘MISSING’ MENU
If you are able to see your camera’s video feeds, but you are unable to see your mouse cursor
or menu, the most likely cause is that your video mode has been changed. In this case, you
need to follow Step 4, above and you should see the cursor and/or menu after the beep.
MULTIPLE MONITORS AND SPOT OUT
Some DVRs include a Spot Out BNC port on their back panel. This allows you to connect a
second video display that will show selected channels in sequence, but will not display the
menu and therefore cannot be used to control the DVR. This is covered in Section 4.2 Live
Configuration. Some users will want to take advantage of the unused video display outputs
(ie; using the BNC Video Out port when the VGA port is being used for the main display. This
“extra” display will mirror whatever is shown on the primary display but it will not show the
menu or cursor. It is not possible to divide channels across two displays.
Loop Out
Some of our larger DVRs, such as the QT518 and QT536 include one or more ports marked
Loop Out. These ports work with the included dongle(s) that split the video signal allowing the
user to connect one monitor per channel. In this case, the menu will not be displayed on any
of these additional monitors.

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2.4 CAMERAS
CONNECTING CAMERAS
Your DVR uses BNC connectors and ports to ensure quick and secure connections for your
cameras’ video cables. While both conventional analog and digital SDI (Serial Digital Interface)
high definition cameras use this interface, they cannot be connected to a port intended for
the other type because of incompatible signals. It is therefore important to ensure that you are
attempting to connect to the proper port.
123
Some camera bundles may contain more than one camera power supply and splitter. Repeat
the steps above as necessary to connect all of your cameras. For bundles containing multiple
types of cameras, make sure to connect to the proper power supply as mixing and matching
may either cause damage or insufficient power to your cameras.
You may now mount your cameras.
STEP 4. Repeat for each camera included with your package to ensure proper
connection and function.
STEP 5. Connect the single end of the power splitter to the power adapter.
STEP 6. Plug the power adapter into a surge protector. You should now see a live video
feed from each of your cameras.
PICTURE 2-10
PICTURE 2-11
4 5 6
REPEAT
RÉPÉTEZ
STEP 1. Connect the BNC and power leads on the camera to the matching connectors
on the power and video cable.
NOTE: The male power end fits into the matching power lead on the camera.
STEP 2. Connect the BNC connector on the other end of the cable to any of the Video In
ports on the back of the DVR.
STEP 3. Plug one of the power leads on the power splitter (if your camera kit includes one)
into the power lead on the power and video cable. If you are connecting only a single
camera, connect the power lead to the power adapter and skip to Step 6, below.

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CAMERA PLACEMENT
When installing your camera, it is important to select a proper site not only for field of view, but for
other considerations as well:
Distance from viewing/recording device. The further the camera is from the DVR
or monitor, the higher the chances of signal degradation. Typical 75Ω Video Cable provides
acceptable signal at distances up to 200’ (60m). At greater distances, UL-Listed shielded RG59
should be used. The camera’s power supply should be located as near to the camera as possible
when the distance exceeds 200’ as the power level will drop over extended distances resulting in
a decrease in video quality.
SDI Cameras require the use of shielded cable regardless of the distance.
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 damage.
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.
Indoor cameras should not be used outdoors. Even if they are in a sheltered location,
they can still suffer damage due to humidity, dust and other environmental factors. Each camera
has an Ingress Protection (IP) rating which defines how protected the internal workings of the
camera are from solid objects - such as fingers or bugs - dust and moisture. In an IP rating, there
are two numbers that follow the letters “IP.” The first represents the protection from solids while
the second represents the housing’s protection from moisture. A camera should have a minimum
rating of IP65 for trouble-free use outdoors.
Mounting surface. The mounting surface must be sturdy and able to hold at least five times
the camera’s total weight.
Legal Considerations. Always check state and local laws before installing cameras. (2011
NEC 820.44)
Do not place camera behind a window. If there is a light source behind the camera,
it can cause a reflection in the window that will obscure events on the other side of the glass.
Likewise, the camera’s infrared LEDs will reflect off the glass and shine into the lens, thus
degrading the image.
Light levels should be approximately
the same between camera and target
area. A camera in a brightly-lit area looking
into a shaded area, or vice versa, may produce
inadequate results.
The above are guidelines and the optimal
location for your camera will depend on your
unique circumstances. As a general rule, the
locations highlighted in Green in the picture to
the right indicate the best locations to mount
your camera. Both locations are sheltered from
rain or snow and offer good sight lines to allow
your camera to monitor a wide area.
PICTURE 2-12

20
Because your camera is weatherproof, it requires less protection than weather-resistant cameras
and it can be placed in more exposed locations if needed. Keep in mind that most Q-See
cameras are designed to operate between 14°F to 122°F (-10°C to 50°) with a relative humidity of
up to 95%) and consider wind chill and other environmental factors when selecting your location.
Specialty cameras are also available from Q-See which are able to operate in more extreme
environments.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Most users prefer to operate their systems with the DVRs recording only when motion is
detected. This provides the most efficient use of the hard drive’s capacity, plus making it easier
for a recording to be located. However, if the a camera’s location has a lot of “environmental”
motion, such as a fan, wind, or the like, you will receive a lot of “false alarms.” Usually, these
events can be avoided by simply adjusting the placement of the camera. Other situations may
require some fine-tuning of your settings. Chapter 8 Alarms, covers these settings in detail,
but some easily avoidable situations are presented below:
TV/Computer Screens. If the camera can see a video screen, it will trigger a motion alarm
any time the screen changes, whether there is a video or simply a screen saver. The screen can
be masked out as described in Section 4.2. You can also reduce the level of motion sensitivity
in specific areas of the screen by following the instructions in Section 8.3.
Fans/Machinery. Motion is motion and if machinery within the camera’s field of view starts
automatically, it will cause an alert. Similarly, if the camera is mounted on a wall with machinery on
the other side that causes it to vibrate, that can also cause it to detect motion. Moving machinery
within the camera’s field of view may be masked off as mentioned above, or motion detection may
be turned off for that channel. If there is another camera that covers access to the area where the
machinery is located, you can set it so that the first camera will only be recording when triggered
by a motion event detected by this second camera. See “Triggers” in described in Section 8.3.
Bugs. An occasional insect flying through the field of view is usually not enough to trigger an
alert. However, some flying insects are attracted to infrared light and will swarm the camera.
This is usually a temporary situation that occurs at only a certain time of the year. Lighting the
area with yellow “bug light” of sufficient brightness can keep the camera operating in daylight
mode and keep the infrared LEDs turned off. A second solution is to set the channel to record all
the time, and turn motion detection off at night until “bug season” is over. Reducing the motion
sensitivity (Section 8.3) can also reduce alerts as can using another camera to trigger recording
as described above.
Additionally, keep your cameras clear of spider webs as the movement of the webs due to wind
or critters in the web will cause an alert. The reflection of the infrared off the webs and back into
the camera will also reduce the night vision range.
Snow/Rain. As with bugs, this is usually a seaonal event and may require motion detection to be
temporarily disabled to avoid false alarms. However, positioning the camera further under shelter,
such as closer to the wall and away from the edge of the eaves, can make the rain or snow too
small for the camera to notice. Adjusting motion sensitivity may also help in some situations.