Vicon VN-301TV4 User manual

Vicon Part No. 8009-8159-04-00 Section 1 Rev 607
XX159-04-00
VN-301TV4
Single-Channel Digital Video Encoder
Vicon Industries Inc. does not warrant that the functions contained in this equipment will meet your
requirements or that the operation will be entirely error free or perform precisely as described in the
documentation. This system has not been designed to be used in life-critical situations and must not be
used for this purpose.
Copyright © 2007 Vicon Industries Inc. All rights reserved.
Product specifications subject to change without notice.
ViconNet and its logo are trademarks of Vicon Industries Inc.
Kollector Elite and Kollector Pro and their logos are trademarks of Vicon Industries Inc.
Vicon and its logo are registered trademarks of Vicon Industries Inc.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corp.
VICON INDUSTRIES INC., 89 ARKAY DRIVE, HAUPPAUGE, NEW YORK 11788
TEL: 631-952-CCTV (2288) FAX: 631-951-CCTV (2288) TOLL FREE: 800-645-9116
24-Hour Technical Support: 800-34-VICON (800-348-4266)
UK: [phone] WEB: www.vicon-cctv.com

XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server Important Notice •i
Important Notice
This manual is delivered subject to the following conditions and restrictions:
This manual contains proprietary information belonging to Vicon. Such information is supplied solely for the
purpose of assisting explicitly and properly authorized users of the ViconNet system.
No part of its contents may be used for any other purpose, disclosed to any person or firm or reproduced by
any means, electronic or mechanical, without the express prior written permission of Vicon.
The text and graphics are for the purpose of illustration and reference only. The specifications on which they
are based are subject to change without notice.
The software described in this manual is furnished under a license. The software may be used or copied only
in accordance with the terms of that agreement.
Information in this manual is subject to change without notice. Corporate and individual names and data used
in examples herein are fictitious unless otherwise noted.
Copyright ©2007 Vicon. All rights reserved.
ViconNet is a trademark of Vicon Industries Inc.
Other company and brand products and service names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
To ensure that the VN-301TV4 is protected during a power surge or failure and that no important data is lost,
it should be connected to an uninterruptible power source (UPS) before use.
To connect the UPS:
•Locate the VN-301TV4’s power cord near the 24 VAC power supply. Connect the 24 VAC power
supply to the UPS power receptacle.
•Connect the UPS power cord to the wall outlet.
•Power on the UPS and ensure that it is working properly.
NOTE: Refer to your UPS device’s User Manual for detailed information.

ii •About This Manual XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server
About This Manual
This VN-301TV4 Installation and Operation Manual is comprised of the following chapters:
Chapter 1, Introduction,introduces the VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server.
Chapter 2, Quick Installation, is for experienced installers, and provides an illustration of how the VN-
301TV4 should be connected to its various peripherals.
Chapter 3, Installation, is a step-by-step instruction on how to install the VN-301TV4.
Chapter 4, Operation, describes how to power on, boot and power off the VN-301TV4.
Chapter 5, Troubleshooting, provides information on what to do in the unlikely event of a VN-301TV4
malfunction.
Chapter 6, Maintenance, provides information on maintaining the VN-301TV4.
Chapter 7, Shipping Instructions, describes the procedure to be followed when sending a VN-301TV4 back
to Vicon.
Chapter 8, Coaxial Cable Recommendations, provides technical information for the recommended coaxial
cable types.
Chapter 9, Twisted-Pair Cable Recommendations, provides technical information for the recommended
twisted-pair cable types.
Chapter 10, Network Cable Recommendations, provides technical information for the recommended LAN
cable types.
Chapter 11, Technical Information, provides the electrical, mechanical and environmental specifications for
the VN-301TV4.

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Table of Contents
IMPORTANT NOTICE ...........................................................................................................I
ABOUT THIS MANUAL........................................................................................................II
TABLE OF CONTENTS.......................................................................................................III
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................................1
How to Use This Manual................................................................................................................................1
Accessory Kit..................................................................................................................................................1
Unpacking and Inspection.............................................................................................................................2
CHAPTER 2 – QUICK INSTALLATION...............................................................................3
CHAPTER 3 - INSTALLATION ............................................................................................4
About This Chapter........................................................................................................................................4
Unpacking the Server.....................................................................................................................................4
Required Items for Installation......................................................................................................................4
Unit Components............................................................................................................................................5
Panel Connectors and Indicators..................................................................................................................5
Mounting .........................................................................................................................................................6
Desktop.........................................................................................................................................................6
Rack..............................................................................................................................................................6
Installing the VN-301TV4 ...............................................................................................................................6
Step 1: Connecting the Cabling....................................................................................................................6
Step 2: Connecting the Power Supply..........................................................................................................9
CHAPTER 4 - OPERATION ...............................................................................................10
About This Chapter......................................................................................................................................10
Powering-On the Server...............................................................................................................................10
Powering-Off the Server ..............................................................................................................................10
Configuring the Server.................................................................................................................................11
CHAPTER 5 - TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................................19

iv •Table of Contents XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server
CHAPTER 6 - MAINTENANCE ..........................................................................................19
CHAPTER 7 – SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS.......................................................................20
CHAPTER 8 – COAXIAL CABLE RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................21
Materials........................................................................................................................................................21
Cable Types ..................................................................................................................................................21
CHAPTER 9 – TWISTED-PAIR CABLE RECOMMENDATIONS ......................................22
Materials........................................................................................................................................................22
Cable Types ..................................................................................................................................................22
CHAPTER 10 – NETWORK CABLE RECOMMENDATIONS............................................23
CHAPTER 11 – TECHNICAL INFORMATION...................................................................24

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Chapter 1 - Introduction
The information in this manual covers the installation and operation of the VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital
Video Encoder. This system should only be installed by a qualified technician using common hand tools and
approved materials in accordance with national, state and local wiring codes.
The VN-301TV4 is an intelligent and rugged Digital Video Encoder. It is a state-of-the-art embedded server in
an attractive aluminum case. It is sold in a prepackaged configuration ready for analog camera connection. It
will provide a video (frame per second) rate of 30 fps. It is fully compatible with the ViconNet software
(version 4) application. For software information, refer to the ViconNet Software manual, XX113-0X (where X
is a revision number between 0 and 9). The VN-301TV4 can be networked with all models of Kollector NVRs
and DVRs, and ViconNet Workstations to create a complete system.
The VN-301TV4 complies with CE and meets requirements for an FCC Class A computing device.
Vicon strongly recommends the use of line conditioners, voltage regulators and uninterruptible power supply
(UPS) systems in the electrical power service.
NOTE: Read all instructions before beginning the installation.
How to Use This Manual
This manual was designed to provide the best overall instructions for the installation and operation of the VN-
301TV4 Single Channel Digital Video Server. The graphics and terminology used in this manual have been
carefully selected to enable a clear and distinct understanding of the VN-301TV4 and its configuration. This
manual has been formatted to present distinct methods of installation for all levels of experience installers.
Accessory Kit
The provided accessory kit contains necessary items needed to install and wire the server during installation
as follows:
Table 1-1: Accessory Kit
Part Description Quantity
Software CD ViconNet Version 4 Software 1
Installation and Operation Manual Provides instructions on installation, configuration and operation 1
Sensor Resistor Used for connection of a sensor to the VN-301TV4 1
Mounting Plate Provides permanent mounting for the VN-301TV4 1

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Unpacking and Inspection
All Vicon equipment is tested and inspected before leaving the factory. It is the carrier’s responsibility to
provide suitable delivery.
Inspect the cartons upon delivery and, if damage is present, make detailed notes on the carrier’s bill. Then,
obtain the carrier agent’s signature and file a damage claim as soon as possible.
Open the cartons and inspect the equipment for damage. Save the cartons and packing material. If damage is
present, contact the carrier and file a damage claim immediately. If the equipment must be returned for repair,
follow the instructions in Chapter 7, Shipping Instructions.

XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server Chapter 2 – Quick Installation •3
Chapter 2 – Quick Installation
Figure 2-1: VN-301TV4 Quick Installation
1. Unpack the Encoder, and accessories, from its box. Verify that hand tools and a suitable Netswitch/
Kollector/ ViconNet NVR are available for connection.
2. Perform physical installation to a desktop or rack using the optional mounting plate, if required.
3. Make all connections to camera, LAN, PTZ, Sensor, Microphone and power.
4. Power on the Encoder. Run the provided Setup CD to install the correct IP address, using the
provided MAC address. (See your System Administrator for assistance in IP addressing).
5. Run the ViconNet application and verify that the server’s video is available.

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Chapter 3 - Installation
For first-time installers, these steps provide the most thorough and accurate instructions.
About This Chapter
This chapter details the complete installation of the VN-301TV4 Single Channel Digital Video Encoder. The
following sections provide information as follows:
Unpacking the Server defines how to remove the unit and accessories from the box.
Required Items for Installation defines items needed for installation.
Unit Components defines all connections on the front panel and their use.
Mounting defines all methods of securing the server for permanent use.
Installing the VN-301TV4 describes how to install all necessary peripheral devices directly to the server.
Unpacking the Server
Carefully open the carton. Remove the Accessory Kit and the server from the box and place them on a large,
flat working surface. Open the Accessory Kit and verify the contents against the list in Table 1-1.
Required Items for Installation
To properly install the server there must be simple hand tools available such as a screwdriver, wrenches,
pliers and wire cutters/strippers. To setup the server for operation there must be a PC computer running the
ViconNet software (version 4) or a Kollector recorder networked to the server.

XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server Chapter 3 - Installation •5
Unit Components
This section describes the VN-301TV4 panel.
Panel Connectors and Indicators
The following picture shows the VN-301TV4 panel. Each panel component is described below.
Figure 3-1: Panel Layout
The VN-301TV4’s panel contains the following components:
PTZ Port: A 4-position terminal block used to connect simplex RS-422/485 communications.
Network Port: A standard RJ-45 connector used to connect to a 100Base-T LAN/WAN. A green LED
indicates network connectivity and a yellow LED indicates data activity.
Power Port: A 2-position terminal block used to connect power (24 VAC).
Video (Camera) Input: Standard BNC-F connector used for analog camera video input.
Power Indicator: Displays the unit’s power status (red LED illuminated indicates power ON condition).
Alarm/Audio Port: A 4-position terminal block used to connect a NO/NC sensor and a microphone.

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Mounting
There are two types of mounting recommended for the encoder as shown below.
Desktop
The VN-301TV4 can be mounted to a clean and dry desk or tabletop. It can rest on the flat surface or
fastened using the provided mounting plate. In addition, there must be an area of no less than 3 in. (76 mm)
left around the exterior to provide suitable airflow for cooling. Do not place items on the cover.
Rack
The VN-301TV4 can be mounted in a standard 19-inch (483 mm) wide vertical rack shelf. The shelf is not
provided. The server can be rested on the shelf or fastened using the provided mounting plate.
Installing the VN-301TV4
After the encoder is mounted permanently, follow the steps in this section to install the server unit hardware.
Step 1: Connecting the Cabling
Step 2: Connecting the Power Supply
IMPORTANT NOTES:
The connection of external hardware may require simple hand tools.
WARNING: Disable the AC power to prevent installer injury and damage to the unit.
Before beginning the hardware installation, ensure that the following environmental conditions have been met:
•The surface on which the VN-301TV4 is to be placed must be level, clean and dry.
•The room or area temperature is climate controlled for human occupancy.
Step 1: Connecting the Cabling
This procedure describes the required cabling that must be installed in order to use the encoder.
To connect the cabling:
Perform the following connections (refer to Figure 3-1):
1. Insert one side of a standard LAN cable to the Network Port’s RJ-45 connector. Insert the other RJ-45
connector into the LAN side of the network (hub, switch, wall jack, etc.). Verify that a PC computer or
ViconNet workstation is available for software configuration.
2. Locate the camera video input cable near the server. Insert the BNC-M plug into the encoder’s BNC-F
Video (Camera) Input port.

XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server Chapter 3 - Installation •7
To connect a PTZ camera control to the VN-301TV4:
There are two types of installation configurations, daisy-chain or star, depending on the needs of the system.
A daisy-chain loops signals from one unit to the next. There can be a maximum of up to 5000 ft (1524 m) from
the server to the last dome/PTZ in the chain. A star configuration provides multiple communication paths. By
fanning out communications, system reliability increases; a failure on one leg of a star has no affect on the
other units. A star configuration requires the use of a Distribution Line Control, such as Vicon’s V1400X-IDL.
Both types of configurations can be used within a system.
3. Using a twisted-pair cable as defined in the section Twisted-Pair Cable Recommendations, prepare a
4-conductor twisted-pair type cable by stripping the ends back for use.
4. Connect the PTZ wires to the RS-485/422 Terminal Block (TX+ and TX-), refer to Figure 3-2. Ensure that
you connect the wires to the correct polarity. Connect these to the SurveyorVFT dome COMM TB3
terminal block COMM IN+ and COMM IN-, respectively.
Figure 3-2: PTZ Camera Control
5. Install the other end of this cable into the dome camera or receiver it will communicate with.
To connect an alarm sensor to the VN-301TV4:
6. Locate the sensor cable near the server. These two wires will be connected to the SENSOR and
GROUND terminal block connections (refer to Figure 3-4).
7. Connect one sensor wire to the SENSOR connection on the terminal block.
8. Connect the other sensor wire to the GROUND connection.
9. Connect the other end of this cable to the appropriate sensor output (N.O. or N.C. dry contact).
10. When using a sensor, a resistor should be connected as follows (refer to Figure 3-3):
a. Normally Open Sensor: The resistor should be connected to the SENSOR and GROUND screws.
b. Normally Closed Sensor: The resistor should be soldered between the SENSOR screw and the
incoming sensor wire.

8 •Chapter 3 - Installation XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server
Figure 3-3: Alarm Sensor Resistor Installation
NOTE: Users may select N.O and N.C according to the sensor type being installed.
To connect a Microphone to the VN-301TV4:
11. Locate the microphone audio cable near the encoder.
12. Connect the microphone wire to the microphone connection on the terminal block.
13. Connect the microphone ground wire to the GROUND connection.
14. Connect the other end of this cable to the appropriate microphone.
NOTE: The Microphone should be a 0 dbm output, 32 KHz bandwidth, 600 ohm impedance and 2 V RMS
(1 V p-p) output dynamic type.
NOTE: Speaker (SPK) will be operational in future versions.
Figure 3-4: Sensor/Microphone

XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server Chapter 3 - Installation •9
Step 2: Connecting the Power Supply
To ensure that the VN-301TV4 is protected during a power surge or failure and that no data is lost, it should
be connected to an uninterruptible power source (UPS) before use.
To connect the UPS:
1. Place the VN-301TV4 near the 24 VAC power supply. Connect the 24 VAC power supply to the UPS
power receptacle.
2. Connect the UPS power cord to the wall outlet.
3. Power on the UPS and ensure that it is working properly.
NOTE: Refer to your UPS device’s User Manual for details on proper connection.

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Chapter 4 - Operation
About This Chapter
This chapter details power on, power off and configuration of the VN-301TV4 server. For full programming
and operation information, refer to the ViconNet Software manual, XX113-0X (where X is a revision number
between 0 and 9). The following sections provide information as follows:
Powering-On the Server guides the user through proper power on and boot procedures.
Powering-Off the Server guides the user through proper shut down procedures.
Configuring the Server guides the user through network, PTZ and alarm/audio setup.
Powering-On the Encoder
To power on the encoder:
1. Verify that the server is set up as detailed in Chapter 3, Installation.
2. Connect the 24 VAC power supply to the VN-301TV4. The Power Indicator will illuminate solid red to
indicate the encoder is ON.
Powering-Off the Encoder
To power off the server:
With the encoder operational, disconnect the 24 VAC power supply. The power indicator will cease to
illuminate, indicating a power OFF condition.

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Configuring the ViconNet (IP/LAN) Version
The VN-301TV4 is shipped with one CD that contains the ViconNet version 4 software needed to setup your
IP system, including the application setup, the firmware and setup software (VNSetup). Be sure the ViconNet
Workstation meets the minimum requirements, is running the ViconNet application (version 4) (VNSetup) and
has the proper PTZ camera driver. The VNSetup is found on the included CD under software, IP Camera
Setup. Refer to appropriate ViconNet documentation.
Network Considerations
The VN-301TV4 can be connected to any ViconNet network (Version 4 software). Kollector Elite Recorders
and ViconNet Workstations can be used for live viewing and recording of network-streamed video. A network
can be as simple as a single VN-301TV4 connected to a ViconNet Workstation or can be complex with the
addition of several networks interconnected via WAN.
When adding a VN-301TV4 to the ViconNet network, the following items must be considered:
•The number of cameras on a switch with respect to switch capabilities and system bandwidth mapping.
•Bandwidth limitations on ports connected to workstations (using 100 or 1000 Mbps).
•Workstation capabilities such as processing speed, disk write speed and display card strength.
•Storage size and location types including local Workstation recording, attached SCSI RAID and
integrated NAS/SAN devices.
The default parameters on the IP encoder are:
IP address: [10.10.10.1].
Nucleus IP address: [1.1.1.1].
On first startup, the encoder will attempt to establish connection to the Nucleus with the default address
(1.1.1.1). Connecting it to an active Nucleus is done through the VNSetup utility.
Note: When connecting to ViconNet application version 4, the number of concurrent users viewing video
from the same device cannot exceed 10 users.
Groups and Users Restrictions
ViconNet allows creating Multiple Groups and Users in order to limit the rights to different levels. For more
information on how to create Users and Groups, refer to the latest revision of ViconNet manual XX113.
Although the ViconNet software does not limit the number of Groups and Users that can be created, the VN-
301TV4 Video Server has Users and Groups limitations. For ViconNet version 4, the video encoder can
support the first 20 Groups (including Administrators and Guests) and the first 100 Users.

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XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server Chapter 4 - Operation •13
Configuring the Network Settings
Note: Before starting, make sure that VNSetup is installed on the configuring PC\workstation. Installation is
done using the CD included.
There are two ways to change the IP server network settings:
•Activating the IP encoder for the first time: via VNSetup application.
•Connecting the IP encoder to an active Nucleus: via ViconNet application (connection to same Nucleus
as the encoder is necessary).
Note: In order to install firmware, the PC and camera must be on the same IP network.
Using the VNSetup Utility
VNSetup consists of several TABs. Each TAB provides different functionalities.
Note: Once the IP Camera Setup is run the first time, a shortcut is placed on the desktop for future use.
1. Make sure the MAC address and password of the encoder is available. Use MAC Address log
provided.
2. Verify that the encoder is physically connected to the configuring workstation via the network.
Setup TAB
Note: Since the Setup configuration affects the entire installation process, it MUST be configured first.
In the Setup TAB, 3 fields are defined. The Upgrade files field indicates the installation upgrade directory. The
Log files field allows the user the ability to put a copy of log files in a predefined directory. Password
management selects a directory to save all password files. (By default, the setup files will be installed to
C:\VUG.) In Password file status, the number of passwords stored is displayed. Load a list of passwords is
intended for very large sites only. Connect Technical Support to use this feature.
Setu
p

14 •Chapter 4 - Operation XX159-04-00 Rev 607 VN-301TV4 Single-Channel Digital Video Server
Select TAB
The Select TAB allows the user to select the relevant IP Unit in order to change its settings or to upgrade its
version.
1. From the Unit selection list, select the relevant IP product. In case of multiple sites, it is advised to use
the filter under the Unit Type field. Click on any column tab to sort names by that definition in ascending
or descending order.
2. Once the desired unit has been selected, notice the icon, indicating a password protected unit. In
order to change the selected unit’s settings on the local PC that is running the VNSetup, a unique
password must be entered. The screen will display how many units there are and how many of those
are password protected (locked). A remote unit, as in systems using network routers and VLANS
(virtual LANs), will not display in the Unit selection list. If you want to select a remote unit, manually
enter the IP address in the IP address of remote unit field and click Find remote unit. The remote unit is
added to the list.
Note: This is correct for BIOS from version 1.0.10.86 and later (ViconNet version 3 and higher).
3. Password authentication
There are two authentication options. You can either authenticate a specific unit, by entering its
password, or use a Nucleus authentication, allowing you access to all units in the network.
3.1. Unit authentication - On the Unit password field, enter the unit password and press the Add
password button. Once approved, notice that the icon has disappeared and the user may
proceed to next phase. The password will be saved on this unit.
Note: The unit password is supplied on the sticker with the MAC address in the camera package.
3.2. Nucleus authentication - On the Nucleus admin login field, enter a valid Nucleus IP address
and password and press the Login button. Once approved, notice that the icon has
disappeared from all the units currently connected to the selected Nucleus and the user may
proceed to next phase.
4. Press the Select button on the lower section of the screen.
Note: You MUST click the Select button to add the unit to the list; verify that it is added to the list.
5. The selected unit appears on the Selected unit section on the top of the screen and settings can be
changed.