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Security Made Smarter
PRO-SERIES HD
Professional HD
Security System
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
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Important Information
FCC Verification
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class
B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to 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
These devices comply with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
· These devices may not cause harmful interference
· These devices must accept any interference received, including interfer-
ence that may cause undesired operation
Important Notice: All jurisdictions have specific laws and regulations relat-
ing to the use of cameras. Before using any camera for any purpose, it is the
buyer’s responsibility to be aware of all applicable laws and regulations that
prohibit or limit the use of cameras and to comply with the applicable laws
and regulations.
FCC Regulation (for USA): Prohibition against eavesdropping
Except for the operations of law enforcement officers conducted under lawful
authority, no person shall use, either directly or indirectly, a device operated
pursuant to the provisions of this Part for the purpose of overhearing or recording the private conversations of others unless such use is authorized by
all of the parties engaging in the conversation.
Warning: Changes or modifications made to this device not approved
expressly by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
Important Safety Instructions
· Do not operate if wires and terminals are exposed
· Do not cover vents on the side of your device and allow adequate space for
ventilation
· Only use the power adapter supplied with your DVR
About this Instruction Manual
This instruction manual is written for the DVR-1590, DVR-1600 and DVR-4575
series and was accurate at the time it was completed. However, because of
our on-going efforts to constantly improve our products, additional features
and functions may have been added since that time.
Important Password Information
This DVR does not have a default password. A password is created during the Startup Wizard. If password protection has been enabled and you
have forgotten your password, your DVR’s MAC address can be used to
create a new password (see page 3 - Password Recovery).
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Password Recovery
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Forgotten your password? Please do the following:
1. Right-click the mouse on the Live View screen to display the Menu Bar
then click “Main Menu”.
2. At the password login screen click “Forgot Password”.
3. After a short moment, you will receive a password reset request email
containing your DVR’s MAC address (if it’s not in your inbox, check your junk
or spam folder).
4. Input the MAC address including the semicolons (see left example) then
click “OK”.
5. A message will appear on-screen stating that your password has been
reset. Click “OK” to continue.
6. Enter a new password (see bottom left example). The password has to
be a minimum of six characters and can contain a mixture of numbers and
letters. Use a password that you are familiar with, but is not easily known to
others.
7. Write down your password in the space provided below for safe keeping.
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8. Complete the Startup Wizard as normal (the settings that you previously
selected in the Startup Wizard will remain unchanged).
Don’t forget to write down your password: _________________________
I haven’t created an email for my DVR, what can I do? Don’t worry, we’re
here to help. Please contact Swann Helpdesk & Technical Support (phone
numbers located on page 79) for assistance.
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Contents
Important Information ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 2
Password Recovery ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 3
Live View ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 6
Live View Mode (4 & 8 channel model) ��������������������������������������������������������������� 7
Live View Icons & Controls (4 & 8 channel model) ������������������������������������������� 8
Live View Mode (16 channel model) �������������������������������������������������������������������� 9
Live View Icons & Controls (16 channel model) ���������������������������������������������� 10
Main Menu ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 11
Menu Layout ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12
Camera Configuration ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������13
Display: Live ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 14
Display: Privacy Zone ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 16
Creating a Privacy Mask ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17
Record: Mainstream (720p) �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 18
Record: Mainstream (1080p) ������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 20
Record: Mainstream (3 Megapixel) ������������������������������������������������������������������� 22
Record: Record ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 34
Record: Schedule ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 35
Capture: Capture ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 36
Capture: Schedule ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 37
Playback & Backup ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 38
Search: General ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 39
Playback Interface ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 40
Playback: Smart �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 42
Search: Events ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 44
Search: QuickShot ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 45
Playing a Slideshow �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 46
Search: QuickReview ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 47
QuickReview Playback ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 48
System Configuration ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 50
Display: Output ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 51
Network: Network ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 52
Record: Substream���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 24
Alarm: Motion ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 25
Motion Detection Setup �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 27
Motion Detection Tips ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 28
Thermal-Sensing Camera Tips ������������������������������������������������������������������������� 29
Device: PTZ ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 30
Controlling your PTZ Camera ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� 31
Creating a Preset ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 32
Recording Configuration �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������33
Network: Email ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 54
Network: Email Schedule����������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 55
Network: DDNS ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 56
Network: RTSP ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 57
System: NTP ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 58
Device: HDD ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 59
Device: S.M.A.R.T. ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 60
System: General �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 61
System: DST ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 62
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Contents
System: Users ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 63
Advanced: Maintain ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 64
Advanced: Events ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 65
Advanced: Auto Upgrade ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 66
System Status ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 67
System: Info ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 68
System: Channel Info ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 69
System: Record Info �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 70
Search: Log ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 71
Glossary ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 72
Frequently Asked Questions ������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 77
Warranty Information ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 78
Helpdesk & Technical Support �������������������������������������������������������������������������� 79
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Live View
Live View is the default display mode for
your DVR. Each camera connected will
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be displayed on-screen. You can check
the status or operation of your DVR and
cameras using the icons and Menu Bar
on the Live View screen. Right-click the
mouse to access the Menu Bar.
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Live View Mode (4 & 8 channel model)
Live View mode is the default display for your DVR. Each camera connected will be displayed (multiple view modes available). You can check the operation of
your DVR by using the status icons on the Live View screen. The date and time as well as the name for each camera is also displayed.
Status Icons
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Camera/Group
Camera Toolbar
Menu Bar
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Double-click a live
video channel to
view full screen.
Click & drag a live
video channel to
reposition it.
To access the Main Menu, right-click the mouse
on the Live View screen to display the Menu Bar
(see page 8 for more information).
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Live View Icons & Controls (4 & 8 channel model)
Menu Bar
1. Click this to open the Main Menu.
2. Lock your DVR to prevent access to the Main
Menu when “Menu Timeouts” is turned off.
3. Four camera view.
4. Nine camera view (this will display eight
cameras on the 8 channel model).
5. Six camera and eight camera view (8 channel
model only).
6. Click this to repeatedly cycle through each
video channel full screen. Each video channel
will be displayed for 5 seconds.
7. Click this to change the volume or mute the
audio (click the speaker icon to mute).
8. Click this to access the Search menu. From
here you can play previously recorded videos.
9. Click this to enter the Startup Wizard.
Click a camera to access the Camera Toolbar.
This provides access to functions such as instant playback and to change image settings.
To ensure the integrity of your recordings,
enter your password and select “Shutdown”
when powering off your DVR.
Status Icons
PIR
This icon indicates that the camera is being
recorded (either manually or by motion).
This icon indicates that your DVR is detecting motion from the camera.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 720p (1280 x 720) resolution.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 1080l (960 x 1080) resolution.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 3 megapixel (1920 x 1536) resolution.
This icon indicates that your PIR camera
has detected one or more warm objects.
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Camera/Group: When viewing a single
camera or a group of cameras, move the
mouse to the far left or right to reveal the
camera/group button. You can cycle through
each camera or group of cameras.
NO HDD
VIDEO LOSS
This icon indicates that your DVR
does not have a hard drive or it fails to
detect the drive that is installed.
This icon indicates that the channel
has lost the feed from its camera.
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Live View Mode (16 channel model)
Live View mode is the default display for your DVR. Each camera connected will be displayed (multiple view modes available). You can check the operation of
your DVR by using the status icons on the Live View screen. The date and time as well as the name for each camera is also displayed.
Status Icons
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Camera/Group
Camera Toolbar
Menu Bar
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Double-click a live
video channel to
view full screen.
Click & drag a live
video channel to
reposition it.
To access the Main Menu, right-click the mouse
on the Live View screen to display the Menu Bar
(see page 10 for more information).
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Live View Icons & Controls (16 channel model)
Menu Bar
1. Click this to open the Main Menu.
2. Manually lock your DVR to prevent access
to the Main Menu when “Menu Timeouts” is
turned off.
3. Four camera view.
4. Nine camera view.
5. Twelve camera view.
6. Sixteen camera view.
7. Select from a variety of different camera lay-
outs available.
8. Click this to repeatedly cycle through each
video channel full screen. Each video channel
will be displayed for 5 seconds.
9. Click this to change the volume or mute the
audio (click the speaker icon to mute).
10. Click this to enter playback mode.
11. Click this to enter the Startup Wizard.
The Camera Toolbar provides quick access to
video playback, manual capture, zoom, PTZ
and the ability to change image settings.
To ensure the integrity of your recordings,
enter your password and select “Shutdown”
when powering off your DVR.
Status Icons
PIR
This icon indicates that the camera is being
recorded (either manually or triggered by
motion).
This icon indicates that your DVR is detecting motion from the camera.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 720p (1280 x 720) resolution.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 1080l (960 x 1080) resolution.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution.
This icon indicates that your DVR is recording at 3 megapixel (1920 x 1536) resolution.
This icon indicates that your PIR camera
has detected one or more warm objects.
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Camera/Group: In single or four camera
view, move the mouse to the far left or right
to reveal the camera/group button. You
can cycle through each camera or group of
cameras to view.
NO HDD
VIDEO LOSS
This icon indicates that your DVR
does not have a hard drive or it fails to
detect the drive that is installed.
This icon indicates that the channel
has lost the feed from its camera.
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Main Menu
The “Main Menu” is where you control the
various actions and options that are available
on your DVR. You can also access previous-
ly recorded video for playback and to copy to
a storage device such as a USB flash drive.
To maintain system integrity, a firmware up-
grade can be performed when available and
access to the “Shutdown” menu to restart or
safely turn off your DVR.
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Menu Layout
The various functions and options
available, are categorised on the lefthand side of the Menu.
To exit or access the
previous menu, rightclick the mouse.
Clicking each category will reveal a
number of tabs or sub-categories
that can be changed from their default value.
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Save changes that have been made
or restore default settings.
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Camera Configuration
The camera configuration options are avail-
able in the “Display”, “Record”, “Alarm” and
“Device” menus that are accessible from the
Main Menu. You can change the resolution,
bitrate, OSD (on-screen display) position as
well as image settings for hue, brightness,
contrast and saturation. Your DVR has con-
trols for detecting motion, allowing you to
define specific areas to alert you to a poten-
tial threat in and around your home. You also
have the ability to create one or more zones
for privacy.
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Display: Live
The configuration options available allow you
to name each camera
relevant to where it has
been installed as well
as the ability to adjust
image settings such as
brightness and contrast.
You can also enable
covert mode to hide the
camera’s image in Live
View mode.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Channel Name: Enter a name for the camera you’ve selected. It can be up to
8 characters in length.
Show Name: Leave this enabled to display the camera name in Live View
mode, otherwise click the drop down menu to disable.
Record Title: It’s recommended to leave this enabled, as a timestamp will
be embedded on all video recordings. This allows you to easily identify when
events have occurred. You can disable this if you wish.
OSD Position: Allows you to change the position of the camera name on the
Live View screen. Click the “Setup” button then use the mouse to reposition
the camera name. Right-click the mouse then click “Save”.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Color: Click the “Setup” button to access the image adjustment tools:
Hue: This changes the color mix of the image.
Bright: This changes how light the image appears to be.
Contrast: This increases the difference between the blackest black and the
whitest white in the image.
Saturation: This alters how much color is displayed in the image.
Use the slider to adjust each setting. When finished, click the “Save” button
then click “Close” to exit.
Please note: Any changes made to the image settings available will af-
fect your recordings.
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Display: Live
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Camera SET: This setting is used to instruct your DVR on the camera type
connected. For the cameras included with your DVR, leave the default setting. However, if you are connecting cameras that you have purchased previously or upgrading from an older security system and the image is black &
white, change this to TVI or AHD, depending on your camera type. Click the
“Setup” button then select the camera type for your camera. If the image is
in color, the correct camera type has been selected.
Covert: When enabled, the camera will detect motion and trigger your DVR
to record, but you will not see an image of the camera in Live View mode.
This may be suitable if your DVR and TV are displayed in a public area (shop,
warehouse, school, etc.), but you don’t want others to see an image from the
camera.
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Show Time: By default, the date and time is displayed in Live View mode. You
can disable this if you wish.
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Display: Privacy Zone
This function can be
used to obscure all or
part of your image for
privacy (up to four privacy masks can be created per camera). You
can also use this to
minimize false triggers
when motion is detected. Areas obscured by
a mask won’t be shown
live or recorded.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Mask Area: To create a mask, click the drop down menu to enable.
Area Setup: Click the checkbox on the number of privacy masks that you
want to create. Up to four privacy masks can be created per camera.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Mask Area: Click the “Setup” button to create one or more masks (see page
17 - Creating a Privacy Mask).
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Creating a Privacy Mask
1
Click and hold here to
reposition the mask to
the desired location.
2
1. Depending on the number of masks that you want to create, each mask
will be numbered. To reposition the mask, click and hold the mask number
then move the mask to the desired location.
2. To resize the mask, click and hold the bottom right corner of the mask then
resize to the desired size. You can reposition and resize each mask to overlap
each other.
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In the example provided on the left, two masks have been created to block
out cars and pedestrians adjacent to the front yard of the house. This will
minimise false triggers and block movement that is not relevant to entry via
the front entrance.
3. When finished, right-click to exit then click “Save” to apply. Areas obscured
by a mask won’t be shown live or recorded (see below left).
To remove a mask, uncheck the relevant checkbox next to “Area Setup” then
click “Save” to apply.
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Record: Mainstream (720p)
The functions available
here allow you to change
the resolution, frame
rate and bitrate for each
camera connected. By
default the recording
resolution is automatically selected to fit in
with the capabilities of
the provided cameras.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Resolution: By default the recording resolution is automatically selected to
match the capabilities of the provided cameras. If you have an older analogue
camera connected, lower the resolution to “960 x 480” for NTSC and “960 x
576” for PAL, to match the camera’s recording capability.
FPS: The number of frames per second (fps) that your DVR will record. The
default is 25fps, however you can change this if needed. In the HomeSafe
View app, you can select “Mainstream” in Live mode to view your cameras.
Lower the frame rate if you’re having issues streaming to your mobile device
(lowering the frame rate to 15fps for example, will reduce the bandwidth required without sacrificing image quality).
Bitrate Control: CBR (Constant Bitrate) utilises a fixed bitrate and band-
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
width to record video. This means your DVR will use the same number of bits
throughout the entire recording, regardless of what is happening on-screen.
VBR (Variable Bitrate) utilises a bitrate and bandwidth that changes when
your DVR is recording. The bitrate will increase or decrease depending on
how complex the scene is.
Which method should I choose? Scene complexity can vary significantly over
several hours of recorded video, and the bitrate you select for recording will
have an effect on image quality, bandwidth consumption, and hard drive storage. A complex scene with moving action, such as traffic on a city street, or a
scene with a lot of contrasting colors, will affect image quality and bandwidth
consumption more than a less complex scene with little action or movement.
(continued on next page)
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Record: Mainstream (720p)
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
CBR: This is the default method of control that your DVR will use to record
video. If you have cameras placed in high traffic areas, CBR is the recommended control method. As the bitrate is fixed, the image quality will be
consistent throughout the entire recording. This will assist when identifying
people or objects.
VBR: If you have cameras placed in low traffic areas, VBR is the recommend-
ed control method. As the bitrate is variable, your DVR can use a lower bitrate
if there is little to no movement detected. This will result in a lower recording
size as well as a lower bandwidth requirement.
When choosing VBR, you can select the recording quality that will define the
variable bitrate used. You can select from lowest to highest.
Bitrate Mode: You have the choice of selecting a predefined or user-defined
Click for contents
bitrate. For most instances, the default selection will be suitable.
Bitrate: The amount of data that your DVR will use to record video. The higher
the bitrate, the more space each recording will consume on the hard drive.
The default bitrate is 2048Kbps. Change the bitrate if you’re having issues
streaming to your mobile device via the HomeSafe View app (when selecting
“Mainstream” in Live mode to view your cameras). Decreasing this will consume less bandwidth when streaming.
Audio: Click the checkbox if you have an audio source connected to the DVR’s
audio input(s) (for 8 channel models, this option is on camera input 1 only).
Please note: Selecting the appropriate recording settings is dependent
on camera location, lighting conditions and the level of quality required.
Some experimentation is recommended to select the best settings.
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Record: Mainstream (1080p)
The functions available
here allow you to change
the resolution, frame
rate and bitrate for each
camera connected. By
default, the recording
resolution is automatically selected to match
the native capabilities of
the provided cameras.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Resolution: By default, the recording resolution is automatically selected to
match the native capabilities of the provided cameras. If you have an older
analogue camera connected, lower the resolution to “960 x 480” for NTSC
and “960 x 576” for PAL, to match the camera’s recording capability.
FPS: The number of frames per second (fps) that your DVR will record. The
default is 15fps, however you can change this if needed. In the HomeSafe
View app, you can select “Mainstream” in Live mode to view your cameras.
Lower the frame rate if you’re having issues streaming to your mobile device
(lowering the frame rate to 10fps for example, will reduce the bandwidth required without sacrificing image quality).
Bitrate Control: CBR (Constant Bitrate) utilises a fixed bitrate and band-
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
width to record video. This means your DVR will use the same number of bits
throughout the entire recording, regardless of what is happening on-screen.
VBR (Variable Bitrate) utilises a bitrate and bandwidth that changes when
your DVR is recording. The bitrate will increase or decrease depending on
how complex the scene is.
Which method should I choose? Scene complexity can vary significantly over
several hours of recorded video, and the bitrate you select for recording will
have an effect on image quality, bandwidth consumption, and hard drive storage. A complex scene with moving action, such as traffic on a city street, or a
scene with a lot of contrasting colors, will affect image quality and bandwidth
consumption more than a less complex scene with little action or movement.
(continued on next page)
Click for contents
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Record: Mainstream (1080p)
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
CBR: This is the default method of control that your DVR will use to record
video. If you have cameras placed in high traffic areas, CBR is the recommended control method. As the bitrate is fixed, the image quality will be
consistent throughout the entire recording. This will assist when identifying
people or objects.
VBR: If you have cameras placed in low traffic areas, VBR is the recommend-
ed control method. As the bitrate is variable, your DVR can use a lower bitrate
if there is little to no movement detected. This will result in a lower recording
size as well as a lower bandwidth requirement.
When choosing VBR, you can select the recording quality that will define the
variable bitrate used. You can select from lowest to highest.
Bitrate Mode: You have the choice of selecting a predefined or user-defined
Click for contents
bitrate. For most instances, the default selection will be suitable.
Bitrate: The amount of data that your DVR will use to record video. The higher
the bitrate, the more space each recording will consume on the hard drive.
The default bitrate is 4096Kbps. Change the bitrate if you’re having issues
streaming to your mobile device via the HomeSafe View app (when selecting
“Mainstream” in Live mode to view your cameras). Decreasing this will consume less bandwidth when streaming.
Audio: Click the checkbox if you have an audio source connected to the DVR’s
audio input(s) (for 8 channel models, this option is on camera input 1 only).
Please note: Selecting the appropriate recording settings is dependent
on camera location, lighting conditions and the level of quality required.
Some experimentation is recommended to select the best settings.
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Record: Mainstream (3 Megapixel)
The functions available
here allow you to change
the resolution, frame
rate and bitrate for each
camera connected. By
default, the recording
resolution is automatically selected to match
the native capabilities of
the provided cameras.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Resolution: By default, the recording resolution is automatically selected to
match the native capabilities of the provided cameras. If you have an older
analogue camera connected, lower the resolution to “960 x 480” for NTSC
and “960 x 576” for PAL, to match the camera’s recording capability.
FPS: The number of frames per second (fps) that your DVR will record. The
default is 7fps, however you can change this if needed. In the HomeSafe View
app, you can select “Mainstream” in Live mode to view your cameras. Lower
the frame rate if you’re having issues streaming to your mobile device (lowering the frame rate to 4fps for example, will reduce the bandwidth required
without sacrificing image quality).
Bitrate Control: CBR (Constant Bitrate) utilises a fixed bitrate and band-
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
width to record video. This means your DVR will use the same number of bits
throughout the entire recording, regardless of what is happening on-screen.
VBR (Variable Bitrate) utilises a bitrate and bandwidth that changes when
your DVR is recording. The bitrate will increase or decrease depending on
how complex the scene is.
Which method should I choose? Scene complexity can vary significantly over
several hours of recorded video, and the bitrate you select for recording will
have an effect on image quality, bandwidth consumption, and hard drive storage. A complex scene with moving action, such as traffic on a city street, or a
scene with a lot of contrasting colors, will affect image quality and bandwidth
consumption more than a less complex scene with little action or movement.
(continued on next page)
Click for contents
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Record: Mainstream (3 Megapixel)
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
CBR: This is the default method of control that your DVR will use to record
video. If you have cameras placed in high traffic areas, CBR is the recommended control method. As the bitrate is fixed, the image quality will be
consistent throughout the entire recording. This will assist when identifying
people or objects.
VBR: If you have cameras placed in low traffic areas, VBR is the recommend-
ed control method. As the bitrate is variable, your DVR can use a lower bitrate
if there is little to no movement detected. This will result in a lower recording
size as well as a lower bandwidth requirement.
When choosing VBR, you can select the recording quality that will define the
variable bitrate used. You can select from lowest to highest.
Bitrate Mode: You have the choice of selecting a predefined or user-defined
Click for contents
bitrate. For most instances, the default selection will be suitable.
Bitrate: The amount of data that your DVR will use to record video. The higher
the bitrate, the more space each recording will consume on the hard drive.
The default bitrate is 4096Kbps. Change the bitrate if you’re having issues
streaming to your mobile device via the HomeSafe View app (when selecting
“Mainstream” in Live mode to view your cameras). Decreasing this will consume less bandwidth when streaming.
Audio: Click the checkbox if you have an audio source connected to the DVR’s
audio input(s) (for 8 channel models, this option is on camera input 1 only).
Please note: Selecting the appropriate recording settings is dependent
on camera location, lighting conditions and the level of quality required.
Some experimentation is recommended to select the best settings.
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Record: Substream
The functions available
here allow you to control
how video is streamed to
your mobile device using the HomeSafe View
app. You can change the
frame rate and bitrate
if you’re having issues
streaming live video
from your DVR.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Resolution: The Substream resolution is always set to 352 x 240 for NTSC
and 352 x 288 for PAL, and cannot be changed.
FPS: The number of frames per second (fps) that your DVR will process
when streaming to your mobile device via the HomeSafe View app. For most
instances, the default frame rate will be suitable. Change this to 10fps or
15fps for cameras that monitor medium to high traffic areas. This will give
you smoother motion, but just be aware this will also increase the bandwidth
required.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Bitrate Mode: You have the choice of selecting a predefined or user-defined
bitrate. For most instances, the default selection will be suitable.
Bitrate: The amount of data that your DVR will use to stream video to your
mobile device. For cameras that monitor medium to high traffic areas, increase the bitrate to add more detail to the camera’s image, but just be aware
this will also increase the bandwidth required. Increase the bitrate in small
doses until you are satisfied with the image quality.
Audio: Click the checkbox if you have an audio source connected to the DVR’s
audio input(s) (for 8 channel models, this option is on camera input 1 only).
Bitrate Control: Change this to VBR. This will result in a lower recording size
as well as a lower bandwidth requirement. You can select the recording quality that will define the variable bitrate used, from lowest to highest.
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Please note: When streaming live video, the quality is dependent on
your internet connection and the Substream settings utilised. This is
important when streaming multiple cameras at the same time.
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Alarm: Motion
When motion has been
detected by one or more
cameras, your DVR will
alert you to a potential
threat at your home.
It does this by sending
you an email alert with
an attached image from
the camera to use as a
reference (if this option
is enabled) and/or sending push notifications via
the HomeSafe View app.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Enable: If for some reason motion detection is not required, you have the
option to disable it.
Buzzer: When motion has been detected, you can enable the DVR’s buzzer to
alert you for a predetermined amount of time.
Sensitivity: This option allows you to change the sensitivity level. The higher
the number, the more sensitive your DVR will be when detecting motion. For
most instances, the default selection will be suitable, however it’s recommended to conduct a test to see if the sensitivity level is correct for the camera’s location (see page 28 - Motion Detection Tips).
Area: Click the “Setup” button to change the default motion detection area.
The entire view of the camera is enabled for motion detection, however you
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
can select certain areas if you wish (see page 27 - Motion Detection Setup).
Post Recording: This option instructs your DVR to record for a set period of
time after an event has occurred. For most instances, the default selection
will be suitable, however you can change this if you wish.
Show Message: When motion has been detected, the motion icon will appear
on-screen. Click the checkbox if you want to disable this.
Send Email: Click the checkbox to enable your DVR to send an email alert
when motion has been detected.
Full Screen: Click the checkbox if you would like to view the camera full
screen in Live View mode when motion has been detected.
(continued on next page)
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Alarm: Motion
Push: Click the checkbox to enable push notifications via the HomeSafe View
app (alarm notification has to be enabled - see “Alarm Mode” in the HomeSafe View manual for more information). This option is only available if you
have one or more thermal-sensing cameras connected to your DVR.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Record Channel: You can instruct your DVR to disable recording when motion
has been detected. Your DVR will still alert you by displaying the motion icon
on-screen and by email if this option has been enabled. Click the checkbox
to disable.
Analog Channels: This option instructs your DVR to trigger additional cam-
eras to start recording when motion has been detected. Click the checkbox
to select all cameras or click on the individual camera number that you want
to trigger for recording.
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Motion Detection Setup
To delete the default
motion detection area,
place your mouse here.
1. Place the mouse inside the cell or square surrounded by a yellow border
(as illustrated on the left). Press and hold the left mouse button, click and
drag to the bottom right-hand corner then release the mouse. This will delete the default motion detection area.
2. To create a new motion detection area, select the cell or square that you
want to start at. Press and hold the left mouse button, click and drag to select
the area that you want to create then release the mouse.
3. Multiple areas can be created. Each individual cell or square can be ena-
bled to detect motion. The same action also applies to delete an area that has
been created.
In the example provided, a motion detection area has been created for the
front yard but excludes objects such as trees as well as cars and pedestrians
adjacent to the front yard of the house. Anyone who walks along the path via
the front entrance and approaches the front door will be detected.
Movement outside of the motion detection areas will not be detected so will
not trigger recordings or event notifications.
Each individual cell or
square can be enabled
to detect motion.
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4. Right-click the mouse to exit. Adjust the sensitivity if required.
5. Click the “Save” button to save changes made.
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Motion Detection Tips
Placement of the cameras
1. Place cameras so they are facing areas where people have to walk through to approach your home
regardless of where they are headed. A good idea is to place a camera overlooking your front door
to capture an image of anyone approaching it for later reference. This is great if you have parcels
delivered to your door or if the potential burglar knocks or rings the doorbell to see if anyone is home.
2. Walk around your house and assess where intruders are most likely to approach to enter, and what
path they would take. Most burglars enter the home through a front or back door, so it’s advisable
to place the cameras near those areas so that you get the best amount of detail of anyone who
approaches.
3. When installing cameras outside, it’s important to keep your front and backyard as well-lit as
possible for ideal night vision and the ability to detect motion. It’s common for intruders to enter a
home through an unlocked garage or by using a garage door opener in an unlocked car located in
the driveway. Positioning your cameras to overlook cars in the driveway and similar locations can be
very useful.
Avoiding False Triggers
1. A tree, shrub or foliage that is blown by the wind - angle the camera so wind-blown objects are out
of the camera’s view or use the camera motion detection area settings to exclude these areas from
detection.
2. People moving along sidewalks or streets that are close to your home, aim your cameras and use
the motion detection area settings to ensure only legitimate threats are triggering events.
3. Vehicles moving in the background - angle the camera so as to avoid movement in the background
or use the motion detection area settings to stop detection of cars in the street.
4. Movement or light reflected off smooth surfaces such as glass - adjust the sensitivity level and/or
avoid pointing the camera directly at glass surfaces.
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The red cameras illustrated (see above) are your
primary locations. Place your cameras close to
the front door, back door, garage entrance and
overlooking the backyard.
The blue cameras illustrated are your secondary
locations. If your DVR includes additional cameras, place these at the front entrance inside the
home, the front of the house (this could overlook
the front garden or driveway), a side gate or if you
have multiple entrances to the backyard.
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Thermal-Sensing Camera Tips
If thermal-sensing cameras have been included with your DVR or you have purchased them
separately, the following tips will help you in getting the best results from your security system.
Your cameras have a built-in PIR (passive infrared motion detector) sensor. This means they can
sense movement of warm objects including people, cars and animals. The advantage over cameras
that don’t have a PIR sensor, is they are very resistant to false triggers from changes in the image.
→ PIR sensors work best when an intruder walks parallel or is passing across their “field of view”
as opposed to walking directly at them. For example, in a hallway or path around the house you
tend to walk parallel to the walls, not directly toward them. Position your cameras so that anyone
approaching your home will cross the camera’s view and trigger an event.
→ For a recording to occur, the PIR must sense a warm object moving in front of it and the camera’s
image sensor must detect movement in the image. If either of these triggers has not occurred,
no video will be recorded.
→ When the PIR is triggered, the PIR icon (red box) will flash on-screen. If PIR and motion are trig-
gered, the “running man” icon will be shown on-screen indicating that an event has occurred and
that a recording is happening.
When installing cameras outside, mount them
where intruders are most likely to enter (front and
back doors, garage entrance). Angle each camera
so the intruder walks parallel to the sensor.
→ The PIR can detect objects outside of the camera’s field of view, so not everything that triggers the
sensor will be visible on your camera.
→ The PIR can reliably detect movement up to 30ft/9m, movement beyond this range may or may
not be detected.
→ Be aware that sudden changes in temperature of paths, roads, etc., can cause some minor false
alerts to occur when there is also movement in the image such as trees and shadows.
→ If some false triggering is occurring, use the motion area setup to remove moving objects from
being detected, and to further refine your alerts (see page 27 - Motion Detection Setup).
→ When used indoors, keep the cameras away from heating vents, heaters and other heat sources
as they can trigger the PIR. However if there is no movement in the image, a false alert is unlikely.
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PIR sensors work best when an intruder walks
parallel or is passing across their “field of view”
as opposed to walking directly at them.
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Device: PTZ
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
If you have a compatible PTZ camera connected to your DVR, you can use the
PTZ controls to move the camera as well as the ability to zoom into an object
and to control the level of focus (if available). You can create multiple preset
positions, which can be recalled to focus the camera’s view to a different position. Cruise mode can also be used to move the camera to different preset
positions that have been created.
To configure your PTZ camera, consult the instruction manual included with
your device then match those settings here.
Please note: Each channel has a unique address assigned to it, channel
1 is 001, channel 2 is 002, etc. Most PTZ cameras have their address
or ID set to 001, therefore when connecting to a channel other than channel
1, the channel address will have to be changed to match the same address
Click for contents
used by the camera. For example, if the camera is connected to channel 3,
click the drop down menu, select “CH3” and change the address to 001. Select “CH1” and change the address to 003. Click the “Save” button to apply
settings.
For instructions on how to control your PTZ camera and creating preset positions (see page 31 - Controlling your PTZ Camera).
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Controlling your PTZ Camera
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1 2 3
4
56
To move the PTZ controls, click and hold then
reposition it.
A Swann Pro-852 PTZ camera has been used in the example provided.
This model is compatible with the 1600 and 4575 series of DVRs (the 1590
series does not have the ability to control a PTZ camera).
To control your PTZ camera, in Live View mode click on the channel the camera is connected to then click the “PTZ” button located on the camera toolbar. The channel will go full screen and the PTZ controls will be visible (as
shown on the left).
1. If you have multiple PTZ cameras connected, click this to select a different
camera.
2. Click this to start cruise mode (preset positions must be created first).
Cruise mode instructs your DVR to automatically move the camera according to the preset positions that have been created. Click again to stop cruise
mode.
3. Adjust the speed control to alter how fast or slow the camera will pan or
tilt. Move the slider to decrease or increase the speed.
4. Click this to access the Preset panel. This allows you to create multiple
preset positions and to access the camera’s on-screen display. Click again
to close.
5. This allows you to zoom into an object and to control the level of focus (de-
pending on the camera you have, the iris control may not be available).
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6. Click the directional buttons to move the camera in the direction selected
(the middle button has no function).
For instructions on how to create a preset and to access the camera’s onscreen display (see page 32 - Creating a Preset).
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Creating a Preset
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CH2
1
2
56
5 6
3
4
1. Each preset position will have a different number assigned to it. To recall
a particular position, click the dialogue box, input a number then click “GO
TO”. The camera will then move to that particular position. When creating
a preset position, you may want to make note which position is assigned to
each number.
2. Click the dialogue box to change the length of time (in seconds) the camera
will stay at a particular position, before moving to the next position.
3. Click this to go to a particular preset position.
4. Click this to create a preset.
5. Click this to save any changes made.
Creating a Preset
→ To create a preset, use the PTZ controls to move the camera to the de-
sired focal position. The zoom and focus controls can also be used. Use
the speed control to alter how fast or slow the camera will move.
→ Change the length of time the camera will stay at this position.
→ Click the “Set” button to create the preset. You will notice that the preset
position will increase each time a preset is created. The total number of
presets created will also be displayed. Up to 255 different preset positions
can be created.
→ Repeat these steps to create multiple preset positions. When finished,
click the “Save” button to save. Right-click to exit.
→ Click the “Start Cruise” button to continually cycle through each preset
created. Click again to stop.
Accessing your Camera’s On-screen Display
→ Click the preset position dialogue box (1) then click the backspace button
twice. Enter “95”, click the enter button then click the “GO TO” button.
→ To navigate the on-screen display, click the up and down directional but-
tons. The hyphen indicates which option or setting has been selected.
→ Click the right directional button to confirm selection. Click the left and
right directional buttons to change settings within sub-menus.
→ Consult the camera’s instruction manual for information about the func-
tions available in the on-screen display.
6. Click this to clear a preset.
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Recording Configuration
The recording configuration options are avail-
able in the “Record” and “Capture” menus
that are accessible from the Main Menu. From
here you can access and change the default
recording schedule (presented as a 24 hour 7
days a week grid and is color coded) for each
camera connected. You can also enable and
set a schedule for your DVR to take a snap-
shot each time an event occurs.
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Record: Record
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Record Switch: When disabled, your DVR will detect motion but it will not
record (manual record is also disabled).
Stream Mode: By default, your DVR will record both Mainstream and Sub-
stream video (known as DualStream). This is especially useful when using
Playback mode via the HomeSafe View app, as Substream video will be used.
This requires less bandwidth to stream the video from your DVR to your mobile device. Mainstream video is used for playback when using your DVR directly. If remote playback is not required, you can select Mainstream recording only.
PreRecord: Allows your DVR to record for a number of seconds before an
event occurs. It’s recommended to leave this enabled.
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Record: Schedule
By default, a Motion
schedule has been enabled for each camera
connected, however you
can change the schedule to suit your needs.
The schedule is presented as a 24-hour 7
days a week grid and is
color coded to represent
the event type.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Normal: Your DVR will constantly record for a set period of time.
Motion: Your DVR will only record when motion has been detected from one
or more cameras.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
To search for and play previous Normal and Motion recordings (see page 39
- Search: General).
Each square represents 30 minutes. Using the mouse, select the desired recording mode then click on a particular square to change or click and drag
the mouse over the squares corresponding to your desired time period. The
same action can also be applied if Normal or Motion recording is not required
(on one or more sections that have recording enabled).
In the above example, a Motion recording schedule has been created for
12:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. and a Normal recording schedule for 06:00 p.m. to
12:00 a.m. Sunday to Saturday.
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Capture: Capture
As an added feature,
you can enable and set
a schedule for your DVR
to take a snapshot each
time an event occurs.
This is particularly useful for finding motion
events quickly and can
also be used for different purposes such as
time lapse photography.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Auto Capture: When enabled, your DVR will take a snapshot each time an
event occurs.
Stream Mode: Leave the default selection. This will save each snapshot at
the camera’s native resolution.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Manual Capture: Enable this feature if you would like to manually take a
snapshot using the Manual Capture button on the camera toolbar.
As this is an added feature, a capture schedule is not enabled by default. To
enable this (see page 37 – Capture: Schedule).
Normal Interval: The length of time that must elapse before a snapshot is
taken. For example, when setting a Normal capture schedule, a snapshot
will be taken every 5 seconds using the default selection. Adjust accordingly.
Alarm Interval: When setting a Motion capture schedule, a snapshot will be
taken each time motion has been detected according to the interval selected.
Adjust accordingly.
Click for contents
36
Page 37
Capture: Schedule
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Each square represents 30 minutes. Using the mouse, select the desired
capture mode then click on a particular square to change or click and drag
the mouse over the squares corresponding to your desired time period. The
same action can also be applied if Normal or Motion capture mode is not
required (on one or more sections that have been enabled).
In the above example, a Motion capture schedule has been created for 12:00
a.m. to 06:00 p.m. and a Normal capture schedule for 06:00 p.m. to 12:00
a.m. Sunday to Saturday.
Click for contents
37
Page 38
Playback & Backup
The Search function gives you the ability to
search for and play previously recorded vid-
eos as well as snapshots that are stored on
your DVR’s hard drive. You have the choice
of playing video that matches your record-
ing schedule, manual recordings or motion
events only. The Backup function gives you
the ability to save important events (both vid-
eo and snapshots) to a USB flash drive.
Click for contents
38
Page 39
Search: General
1. Click the drop down menu to select the month that you would like to search
on.
3 4 5
7
1098
The orange triangles indicate there are recordings available on those
particular dates.
2. Click the drop down menu to select the year that you would like to search
on.
21
3. Click the drop down menu to select from one or all cameras that you would
like to search on and display for playback.
4. Click the drop down menu to select the video type that you want to search
6
on. In most circumstances “Motion” would be selected but you can leave this
on “All” if you want to search for all video types. Adjust accordingly.
5. Click the “Search” button to filter your search criteria.
6. The orange triangles indicate there are recordings on those particular
dates that match your search criteria. Click on a date that you want to select
for playback.
7. When selecting all cameras for playback, this will indicate the channels
that match your search (each channel will be highlighted in blue with an orange triangle). You can leave the default selection or you can select specific
cameras for playback (click the checkbox then select the channel required).
8. You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
enter a specific start time.
9. You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
enter a specific end time.
Click for contents
10. Click the “Play” button to start playing.
You will now see the playback interface (see page 40 - Playback Interface).
39
Page 40
Playback Interface
Calendar
Playback Mode
Camera List
Timeline
1 2
CH1 CH2
CH3 CH4
06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM
Click and hold the timeline
then drag left or right to
the desired time period (if
the video is playing, press
6
345
the stop button first).
06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM
Click to close
Play
Click on a camera to select it (a surrounding blue
square is shown).
06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM
Smart Mode
Calendar: You can select a different date without
exiting to the previous screen.
Playback Mode: You have the option of selecting
a different playback mode (a message will appear
on-screen when changing modes).
Camera List: Select from one or more cameras to
display for playback. The blue icon indicates which
cameras match your search criteria.
Click for contents
Time Period: This represents the time period that
is visible. Click on a different time period to zoom
in for precise control.
1. Click this to hide the playback interface so you
can maximise your viewing area. Right-click to restore.
2. From left to right, these are your reverse, slow
motion, play, pause, stop and fast forward con-
Video TypeTime Period
trols. Subsequent presses of the reverse, slow
motion and fast forward buttons will increase the
speed of each action.
3. Select a camera, click this button then click and
drag an area to get a close up view. Use the picture-in-picture screen to select a different area to
view. Right-click to exit.
(continued on next page)
40
Page 41
Playback Interface
Calendar
Playback Mode
Camera List
Timeline
1 2
CH1 CH2
Double-click a camera
CH4
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
to view full screen. Double-click again to return.
CH7
345
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
6
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
CH5
CH8
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
When selecting five or
more cameras for playback, each camera is
represented as a single
recording on the timeline.
CH3
CH6
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
07/03/2017 09:12:13 AM
Play
Click to close
Smart Mode
4. This button allows you to edit the video by set-
ting mark in and out points on your video which
you can then copy to a USB flash drive. When you
have selected a video to play, press this button at
the mark in point and press it again at the mark
out point. Press the button again to save (a disk
icon will be shown). For the backup type, leave
the default selection or change to AVI or MP4 for
Click for contents
wider playback compatibility on your computer
(we recommend VLC media player software, you
can download a free copy from www.videolan.org).
Insert a USB flash drive to your DVR then click
“Save”. You have the choice of formatting the flash
drive or creating a new folder if required. Click
“OK” to save then click “Close” when finished.
5. Click this button to mute or unmute the audio.
Video TypeTime Period
6. Click and hold the slider left or right to change
the volume level.
Video Type: Indicates the video type on the time-
line.
Smart Mode: This mode allows you to define a
specific area of the video which then makes it easier to find what you are searching for (see page
42 - Smart Mode).
41
Page 42
Playback: Smart
06/03/2016 09:54:50 AM
CH1
CH1 CH2
CH3 CH4
06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM
06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM
06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM06/03/2017 09:54:50 AM
Smart mode allows you to define one or more specific areas of the video
Play
which then makes it easier to find what you are searching for. For example,
you may have movement on the left-hand side of the yard, but you want to see
what is happening on the right-hand side. Define one or more areas where
required then search to play video based on those defined areas.
To commence Smart mode, select a camera that you would like to search on
(if the video is not playing, click play).
1. You can leave the default selection or you can click each dialogue box to
enter a specific start and end time.
1
2
2. Click this button to define one or more areas that you want to search for.
The camera will be shown full screen and the Smart mode controls will be
visible.
3. To move the controls, click and hold here then reposition it.
4. Click this to define a full screen detection area.
5. Click this to delete all areas created.
6. Click this to search and play video based on the areas defined.
7. Click this to return to the playback interface.
Click for contents
(continued on next page)
34567
42
Page 43
Playback: Smart
06/03/2016 09:54:50 AM
CH1
8
9
8. Click and drag to select the area that you want to define. Multiple areas
can be defined. You can also use the same action to remove sections of the
defined area or to delete it entirely.
9. When finished, click the search button to play video based on the areas
defined.
You’ll be returned back to the playback interface. Segments matching your
search criteria will be shown on the timeline in dark green (as illustrated
bottom left).
Can I use Smart mode on multiple cameras at the same time? Due
to the complexities and processing power required, you can only use
Smart mode on one camera at a time.
CH1 CH2
CH3 CH4
Click for contents
06/03/2017 10:36:02 AM
Video segments matching
your search criteria are
shown in dark green.
06/03/2017 10:36:02 AM
06/03/2017 10:36:02 AM06/03/2017 10:36:02 AM
Play
43
Page 44
Search: Events
This function can be used to search, play and copy motion events to a USB
flash drive.
Date: Click the calendar icon to select the month, year and date that you
would like to search on.
Time: You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
enter a specific start and end time.
Channel: Click the drop down menu to select from one or all cameras that
you would like to search on.
Type: Leave the default selection.
Quick Backup: Click this to copy all motion events that match your search
criteria.
Click for contents
Search: Click this to display a list of motion events that match your search
criteria (as shown above). Double-click an event to play (the event will play
full screen). Click the checkbox next to each event to select it.
Backup: Click this to copy selected motion events. For the backup type, leave
the default selection or change to AVI or MP4 for wider playback compatibility on your computer (we recommend VLC media player software, you can
download a free copy from www.videolan.org). Insert a USB flash drive to
your DVR then click “Save”. You have the choice of formatting the flash drive
or creating a new folder if required. Click “OK” to save then click “Close”
when finished.
Close: Click this to exit.
44
Page 45
Search: QuickShot
This function can be used to search, play and copy snapshots to a USB flash
drive.
Date: Click the calendar icon to select the month, year and date that you
would like to search on.
Time: You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
enter a specific start and end time.
Channel: Click the drop down menu to select from one or all cameras that
you would like to search on.
Type: You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
select the type of snapshot you would like to search on.
Quick Backup: Click this to copy all snapshots matching your search criteria.
Click for contents
Search: Click this to display a list of snapshots that match your search cri-
teria (as shown above). Double-click a snapshot to display it full screen.
You can also play a slideshow (see page 46 - Playing a Slideshow). Click the
checkbox next to each event to select it (a maximum of 5000 snapshots can
be displayed at any one time).
Backup: Click this to copy selected snapshots. Insert a USB flash drive to
your DVR then click “Save”. You have the choice of formatting the flash drive
or creating a new folder if required. Click “OK” to save then click “Close”
when finished.
Close: Click this to exit.
45
Page 46
Playing a Slideshow
08/03/2017 10:40:26 PM08/03/2017 10:40:26 PM
08/03/2017 10:40:26 PM
CH1 CH2
CH4
CH2
08/03/2017 10:40:27 PM
08/03/2017 10:40:31 PM
CH5
CH3
08/03/2017 10:40:27 PM
08/03/2017 10:40:31 PM
CH3
CH1
Play
08/03/2017 10:40:31 PM
1. Click this to play the slideshow in reverse.
2. Click this to play the slideshow.
3. Click this to stop the slideshow.
4. Click this to display the previous snapshot or
group of snapshots.
5. Click this to display the next snapshot or group
of snapshots.
Click for contents
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
6. Click this to view a single snapshot at a time.
7. Click this to view four snapshots at a time.
8. Click this to view eight snapshots at a time.
Right-click to exit.
46
Page 47
Search: QuickReview
3 4 5
QuickReview allows you to play multiple normal recordings and motion
events simultaneously from a single channel. With normal and event recordings, the video is divided evenly depending on the split-screen mode that has
been selected. For example, if the video is an hour long and you have selected
21
Split-screens x 4, each split-screen will play for 15 minutes.
1. Click the drop down menu to select the month that you would like to search
on.
6
2. Click the drop down menu to select the year that you would like to search
on.
3. Click the drop down menu to select the camera that you would like to dis-
play for playback (only one camera can be selected).
7
8
109
4. Click the drop down menu to select the video type that you want to search
on. In most circumstances “Motion” would be selected but you can leave this
on “All” if you want to search for all video types. Adjust accordingly.
5. Click the “Search” button to filter your search criteria.
6. The orange triangles indicate there are recordings on those particular
dates that match your search criteria. Click on a date that you want to select
for playback.
7. You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
enter a specific start time.
8. You can leave the default selection or you can click the dialogue box to
enter a specific end time.
9. Up to eight split-screens can be enabled for playback.
Click for contents
10. Click the “Play” button to start playing.
(continued on next page)
47
Page 48
QuickReview Playback
Split-screens
Timeline
1 2
345
CH1
CH1
18/04/2017 11:25:36 PM
18/04/2017 03:18:55 PM
6
CH1
Click on a split-screen to
select it (a surrounding
blue square is shown).
CH1
Within the split-screen
selected, you can select
a different time period on
the timeline.
18/04/2017 01:46:57 PM
Click to close
Play
18/04/2017 05:28:07 PM
Smart Mode
Split-screens: Click the drop down menu to se-
lect the preferred split-screen mode for playback.
Time Period: This represents the time period that
is visible. Click on a different time period to zoom
in for precise control.
1. Click this to hide the playback interface so you
can maximise your viewing area. Right-click to restore.
Click for contents
2. From left to right, these are your reverse, slow
motion, play, pause, stop and fast forward controls. Subsequent presses of the reverse, slow
motion and fast forward buttons will increase the
speed of each action.
3. Select a particular split-screen, click this but-
ton then click and drag an area to get a close up
view. Use the picture-in-picture screen to select a
Video TypeTime Period
different area to view. Right-click to exit.
(continued on next page)
48
Page 49
QuickReview Playback
Split-screens
Timeline
1 2
345
CH1
CH1
18/04/2017 11:25:36 PM
18/04/2017 03:18:55 PM
6
CH1
CH1
18/04/2017 01:46:57 PM
Click to close
Play
18/04/2017 05:28:07 PM
Smart Mode
4. This button allows you to edit the video by set-
ting mark in and out points on your video which
you can then copy to a USB flash drive. When you
have selected a video to play, press this button at
the mark in point and press it again at the mark
out point. Press the button again to save (a disk
icon will be shown). For the backup type, leave
the default selection or change to AVI or MP4 for
Click for contents
wider playback compatibility on your computer
(we recommend VLC media player software, you
can download a free copy from www.videolan.org).
Insert a USB flash drive to your DVR then click
“Save”. You have the choice of formatting the flash
drive or creating a new folder if required. Click
“OK” to save then click “Close” when finished.
5. Click this button to mute or unmute the audio.
Video TypeTime Period
6. Click and hold the slider left or right to change
the volume level.
Video Type: Indicates the video type on the time-
line.
Smart Mode: This mode allows you to define a
specific area of the video which then makes it easier to find what you are searching for (see page
42 - Smart Mode).
49
Page 50
System Configuration
The options available give you complete con-
trol on how your DVR is configured and how
it operates. Some of the options such as dis-
play resolution, time zone, email configura-
tion, Daylight Saving and password creation
are configured during the Startup Wizard. For
experienced network users, your DVR pro-
vides options that can be configured to suit
your particular requirements. You can also
perform a firmware upgrade when available.
Click for contents
50
Page 51
Display: Output
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Video Output: This option cannot be changed.
Seq Mode: Select how many video channels you would like to display when
your DVR is in sequence mode. You can select from one, four or six cameras
to display at a time.
Seq Dwell Time: Enter in seconds the maximum length of time you would
like to display a video channel in sequence mode before displaying the next
video channel (300 seconds is the maximum).
VGA/HDMI Resolution: Select a resolution that is suitable for your TV. 1920
x 1080 (1080p) resolution will give you the best quality. Make sure your TV
supports the resolution selected. For audio out via HDMI, select 1280 x 720
(720p) or 1920 x 1080 (1080p).
Transparency: Click and hold the slider left or right to change how transpar-
Click for contents
ent the Menu Bar and Main Menu will appear on-screen. Adjust accordingly.
Support Overscan: Is mainly used on older television sets to display the en-
tire viewable area correctly on-screen. It does this by cutting off the edges
of the picture. This is not required for modern Plasma and LCD TVs as the
image is digitally processed to display the correct aspect ratio.
51
Page 52
Network: Network
As SwannLink Peer-toPeer technology is utilised to communicate
with your network and
mobile device, configuration of the network
settings is not required.
If you have networking
expertise and require
specific settings for
your network, your DVR
does have the ability to
change them.
PPPoE: Allows your DVR to be directly connected to a DSL modem. When
selecting this option, you need to input the user name, password and DNS
settings for your internet service provider.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): Your router will automatically
assign an IP address to each device connected to your network. This is enabled by default.
Static: All devices on your network have their IP address manually defined.
Server Port: This port number is used by your DVR to send information
through. The default number will work in most situations.
HTTP Port: This port number is used to log into your DVR from a remote lo-
cation. The default number will work in most situations.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
The following five options can be changed when selecting Static:
IP Address: Each device on your network must have a unique IP address. A
typical address might be “192.168.1.24” or something similar.
Subnet Mask: This allows the flow of network traffic between hosts to be
segregated based on a network configuration. A typical address might be
“255.255.255.0” or something similar.
Gateway: This allows your DVR to connect to the internet. This is typically the
same IP address as your modem or router.
DNS (Domain Name System)1/2: Input the DNS settings for your internet
service provider.
(continued on next page)
Click for contents
52
Page 53
Network: Network
UPNP: A network protocol designed to allow network connected devices to
automatically configure the router for the purposes of remote access. This is
not required when using UID to access your DVR via the HomeSafe View app.
You can enable UPNP if required.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Click for contents
53
Page 54
Network: Email
The following email providers are recommended - Gmail gmail.com,
Outlook outlook.com
and Yahoo yahoo.com.
Select your preferred
provider then on your
computer, go to the relevant website to create an
account. When finished,
input those details here.
Email: Click “Enable” to input your email details.
Encryption: Leave this on “Auto”. This ensures your DVR will always use the
correct encryption for your email provider.
SMTP Port: Gmail input 00465. Outlook input 00587. Yahoo input 00465.
SMTP Server: Gmail input “smtp.gmail.com”. Outlook input “smtp.live.com”.
Yahoo input “smtp.mail.yahoo.com”.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Why do I need to create an email for
my DVR? So your DVR can send you
email alerts and to send you a password reset request if you have forgotten your password.
Interval: This is the length of time that must elapse after your DVR sends an
email alert before it will send another. Adjust accordingly.
Test Email: Click to verify the information is correct then click “OK”. A mes-
sage will appear if the test has been successful. Click “OK” to continue.
If the test email is not in your inbox, check your junk or spam folder.
Email not working? Please try the following:
User Name: Input the email user name for the account you created.
Password: Input the email password for the account you created. Click the
“show” checkbox if you would like to hide your password.
Sender: Input the email address for the account you created.
Recipient: Input the email address that you want to send email alerts to.
Click for contents
1. Check that your email and password are correct.
2. Located at the back of your DVR, you should see one or two flashing LEDs
(above the Ethernet port). If you don’t see this, disconnect then reconnect the
Ethernet cable or try a different port on your router.
3. Search “less secure apps” at support.swann.com.
54
Page 55
Network: Email Schedule
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Use the “Copy” function to
apply all settings to the other
cameras.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Motion: If email alerts have been enabled for motion detection, you can
change the schedule on when your DVR can send those alerts. For example, you may only want to receive motion alerts during the day but not in the
evening. A different schedule can be created for each camera.
Exception: There are three event types that your DVR will detect as an excep-
tion - no space left on the hard drive, a hard drive error and if one or more
channels has lost the feed from its camera (see page 65 - Advanced: Events).
It’s recommended to leave the default schedule in place in case there is an
exception that you need to be alerted to.
Channel: Select a camera that you would like to edit.
Each square represents 30 minutes. Using the mouse, click on a particular
square to change or click and drag the mouse over the squares correspond-
Click for contents
ing to your desired time period.
In the above example, a Motion email alert schedule has been created for
08:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m. Motion alerts outside of these times will not be
emailed.
55
Page 56
Network: DDNS
Prior to developing our
SwannLink Peer-toPeer technology, our
SwannDNS service was
used to connect to your
DVR remotely. This service is still active and we
recommend creating an
account as a means of
backup.
Go to www.swanndvr.com and click the “Registration” button. Follow the
prompts to create your account.
DDNS: Click the drop down menu to enable.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Server: SWANNDVR is automatically selected.
Domain: Enter the domain name that is hosted on your account. For exam-
ple, (username.swanndvr.net).
User: Enter the username (host name) for your account.
Password: Enter the password for your account.
Test DDNS: Click this button then click “OK” to confirm your account details.
After a short moment you will see “DDNS test is successful!”. Click “OK” to
close.
Click for contents
56
Page 57
Network: RTSP
The RTSP function can
be used to stream a
camera’s live view image
to your computer, using
video streaming software such as VLC media
player. Multiple cameras can be streamed at
the same time.
The following instructions are for the VLC media player software. You can
download a free copy from (www.videolan.org). After download, double click
the file then follow the on-screen instructions for installation.
RTSP Enable: Click the drop down menu to enable.
Verify: Leave the default selection if you would like VLC to verify your us-
ername and password for access, otherwise click the drop down menu to
disable.
RTSP Port: The default port number will work in most circumstances.
RTSP User Name: This is the user name that you enter if verification has
been enabled. You can leave the default name or you can enter a new name.
RTSP Password: Enter a new password if verification has been enabled.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
1. On your computer, load the VLC media player software. Click “Media” then
click “Open Network Stream”.
2. Enter the IP address of your DVR (on your DVR click “Network” in the Main
Menu to display the IP address) into VLC. The following is an example of what
you need to enter - (rtsp://192.168.99.160:554/ch01/0).
rtsp://192.168.99.160: This is the IP address of your DVR.
554: This is the RTSP port of your DVR.
ch01: This represents channel 1. To display channel 2 enter ch02, etc.
0: This represents Mainstream. For Substream enter 1 instead.
3. Click “Play” then enter the user name and password (if required). You will
now see a live view image from your camera.
Click for contents
57
Page 58
System: NTP
The NTP (Network Time
Protocol) function allows your DVR to automatically sync its clock
with a time server. This
gives it the ability to constantly have an accurate
time setting (your DVR
will periodically sync
time automatically).
NTP: This is enabled by default.
Server Address: The default time server will work in most circumstances. If
for some reason the DVR’s clock is not syncing, select a different time server.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Update Now: If for some reason the date and time are not correct, click this
button to update then click “OK” to continue.
Click for contents
58
Page 59
Device: HDD
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
This function gives you the option of formatting your DVR’s hard drive, and it
will be listed here for selection.
Overwrite: This instructs your DVR to overwrite the oldest video files as the
hard drive becomes full. You also have the option of disabling this or selecting
the amount of days events are kept before they are overwritten. It’s recommended to leave the default selection as this prevents your DVR from running
out of storage space.
Format HDD: Click the checkbox to select the hard drive then click this but-
ton to format. A message will appear noting that all data will be erased. Click
“OK” to continue.
Please note: From time to time, we recommend that you format the
hard drive. This ensures that your DVR maintains system integrity.
Click for contents
Connect a USB flash drive to copy events that you want to save. Remember,
formatting the hard drive erases all your recordings.
*If a new hard drive has been installed inside your DVR, you need to format
the drive before it can be used.
59
Page 60
Device: S.M.A.R.T.
This function can be
used to display technical
information on the hard
drive installed inside
your DVR. You can also
perform a test (there are
three types available) to
evaluate and detect potential drive errors.
Whole Evaluation not passed, continue to use the disk: If for some reason
the hard drive has developed a fault (such as one or more bad sectors), you
can instruct your DVR to continue saving to the drive.
Self-check Type: There are three types available:
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
When performing a test, your DVR will continue to work as normal.
In most circumstances, the information here will not be needed for general
use of your DVR, however one of our Swann Helpdesk & Technical Support
staff may ask you to access this if you call for assistance.
Conveyance: This is a very quick test that verifies the mechanical parts of the
hard drive are working.
Short: This test verifies major components of the hard drive such as read/
write heads, electronics and internal memory.
Long: This is a longer test that verifies the above as well as performing a
surface scan to reveal problematic areas (if any) and forces bad sector relocation.
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System: General
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Date: Click the calendar icon to change the date.
Time: Click the dialogue box to change the time. Click the drop down menu
to select AM or PM.
As NTP is enabled by default, the date and time should always remain accurate.
Date Format: Click the drop down menu to select the preferred date format.
Time Format: Click the drop down menu to select the preferred time format
(the playback interface will display in 24-hour time only).
Time Zone: Select a time zone relevant to your region or city.
Language: Select a language you would like the system menus to be dis-
played in. Multiple languages are available.
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Video Format: Select the correct video standard for your country. USA and
Canada are NTSC. UK, Australia and New Zealand are PAL.
Menu Timeouts: Click the drop down menu to select the time your DVR will
exit the Main Menu when idle. You can also disable this by selecting “OFF”
(password protection will be temporarily disabled).
Show Wizard: Click the checkbox if you would like to display the Startup Wiz-
ard each time you turn on or reboot your DVR.
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System: DST
The DST (Daylight Saving Time) function allows you to select the
amount of time that
Daylight Saving has increased by in your particular time zone.
DST: If Daylight Saving applies to your time zone, click the drop down menu
to enable.
Time Offset: Select the amount of time that Daylight Saving has increased by
in your time zone. This refers to the difference in minutes, between Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) and the local time.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Daylight Saving Time: You can select how Daylight Saving starts and ends:
Week: Select the month, a particular day and time when Daylight Saving
starts and ends. For example, 2 a.m. on the first Sunday of a particular month.
Date: Select the start date (click the calendar icon), end date and time when
Daylight Saving starts and ends.
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System: Users
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
To change your DVR’s password, click the “Edit” button. The password has to
be a minimum of six characters and can contain a mixture of numbers and
letters. Enter your new password again to confirm.
Additional user accounts can also be enabled:
1. Click the “Edit” button.
2. Click the drop down menu to enable.
3. Enter a user name and password.
4. Click the “Save” button, enter the admin password then click “OK” to con-
firm.
To change permissions, click the “Permission” button then select which options you would like to enable. Click the “All” button to select all options. Click
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the “Save” button then click “OK” to close.
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Advanced: Maintain
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Default User: Admin is the default user account. If multiple user accounts
have been created, click the drop down menu to disable.
Auto Reboot: It is recommended to leave this enabled, as it maintains the
operational integrity of your DVR.
Reboot: Choose an appropriate day and time to reboot your DVR.
Update: Click this button to upgrade the firmware from a USB flash drive.
Select the firmware file then “OK” to confirm. When the firmware upgrade
has completed, your DVR will reboot automatically.
Load Settings: Click this button to import a configuration file containing all
the settings that you have customised.
Load Default: Click this button to restore factory default settings.
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Save Settings: Click this button to export a configuration file containing all
the settings that you have customised.
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Advanced: Events
Whenever there is an
event or if your DVR displays abnormal behaviour, you can be alerted
to in multiple ways such
as receiving an email,
displaying a message
on-screen and activating its internal buzzer.
There are three event
types that your DVR will
detect as an exception
Event Type: Select the event type that you would like to change.
Enable: Click the checkbox if you would like to disable alerts for the event
selected.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Show Message: Click the checkbox if you like to disable the on-screen mes-
sage for the event selected.
Send Email: Click the checkbox if you would like to disable email alerts for
the event selected.
Buzzer: Click the drop down menu and select the time period for the internal
buzzer to activate for the event selected.
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Advanced: Auto Upgrade
Auto Upgrade: By default, your DVR will automatically download and install
new firmware when available. Click the drop down menu if you would like to
disable this feature.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Default” button to
revert back to default settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
Check for update from internet: By default, your DVR will automatical-
ly check and alert you if new firmware is available for download. Click the
checkbox if you would like to disable this feature.
Check now: Click this button to check if new firmware is available. If new
firmware is available, follow the on-screen instructions.
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System Status
The various status tabs give you an over-
view of the various settings and options that
have been selected for your DVR to function.
Each action that your DVR performs as well
as events detected are logged, which you can
search and view. If you call our helpdesk for
assistance, our staff may ask you to access
these tabs to assist them in solving any tech-
nical issues that you may be having.
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System: Info
Displays technical information about your DVR
as well as your device ID
and QR code. If you call
our helpdesk for assistance, our staff may ask
you to access this tab to
assist them in solving
any technical issues that
you may be having.
Device Name: Click the dialogue box to rename your DVR (if required).
MAC Address: You can use this as a recovery password if you have forgotten
your current password.
· Don’t forget to click “Save”
to apply settings.
· Click the “Close” button to
exit the Main Menu.
If you call our helpdesk for assistance, our staff may ask you to access this
tab to assist them in solving any technical issues that you may be having.
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System: Channel Info
Displays the Mainstream and Substream settings used for each camera connected.
If you call our helpdesk for assistance, our staff may ask you to access this
tab to assist them in solving any technical issues that you may be having.
· Click the “Close” button to exit the Main Menu.
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System: Record Info
Displays the recording settings for each camera connected.
If you call our helpdesk for assistance, our staff may ask you to access this
tab to assist them in solving any technical issues that you may be having.
· Click the “Close” button to exit the Main Menu.
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Search: Log
Each action that your
DVR performs as well
as events detected are
logged. These log files
can be searched, viewed
and copied to a USB
flash drive for safe keeping.
Start/End Date: Click the calendar icon to select the month, year and date
that you would like to search on.
Start/End Time: You can leave the default selection or you can click the dia-
logue box to enter a specific start and end time.
Log Type: Leave the default selection or click the drop down menu to select
a specific action that you would like to search for.
Search: Click this to display a list of log files that match your search criteria.
Double-click a file to display information about that log.
Backup: Click this to copy the log files that match your search criteria. Insert
a USB flash drive to your DVR then click “Save”. You have the choice of formatting the flash drive or creating a new folder if required. Click “OK” to save
then click “Close” when finished.
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Glossary
3D-Noise Filter: Is an enhanced form of digital noise reduction. The advance-
ment in technology enables noise to be filtered even more effectively from
the image, even in low light conditions.
50Hz: Is the mains frequency used in the UK, Australia and most European
countries.
60Hz: Is the mains frequency used in the United States, Canada and some
Latin American countries.
AGC (Automatic Gain Control): In low light conditions, the camera will auto-
matically boost the gain control so that people and objects can be seen more
clearly. The advantage of this technique is that your camera will produce images in much lower light conditions. The downside is that the amplification
will increase the video noise visible.
AHD: Is an analogue high definition closed-circuit television video surveil-
lance standard that uses coax cable to transmit HD video from security cameras to DVRs. AHD supports 720p and 1080p HD video resolutions.
Anti-flicker: As fluorescent lighting operates at the same frequency as your
mains power, this will cause luminance flicker when viewed through the
camera. Enabling the anti-flicker options available can reduce or eliminate
the flicker that is visible.
Anti-smearing: A smear effect means that a bright vertical line originating
from a bright light source appears in the image. This happens especially with
back lighting. Enabling this allows people and objects to be seen correctly
against a very bright background.
Auto DNS (Domain Name System): A service that stores domain names and
translates them into internet protocol addresses. For example, www.google.
com will have a DNS server address that is equivalent to 74.125.224.72. The
DNS server is automatically provided by your internet service provider.
Auto-focus: Will adjust the lens of your camera to focus on an object being
viewed.
Bandwidth: In computer networks, bandwidth is used as a synonym for data
transfer rate, the amount of data that can be carried from one point to another in a given time period (usually a second). Network bandwidth is usually
expressed in bits per second (bps).
Bitrate: The amount of data that your DVR or NVR will use to record video.
The higher the bitrate, the more space each recording will consume on the
hard drive. Increasing this will also consume more bandwidth when streaming. Unit of measurement is either Mbps (megabits per second) or kbps (kilobits per second).
BLC (Back Light Compensation): Improves exposure of an object that is in
front of a light source. It does this by splitting the whole image into different
regions, and then applying separate exposure levels to those regions.
Brightness: This changes how light the image appears to be. Its value is dif-
ferent in darkness to that in daylight. For example, the lights from car headlights appears to be brighter at night.
CDS: This allows the image to be set by the camera’s light sensor. A CDS sen-
sor is basically a resistor that changes its resistive value (in ohms) depending
on how much light is shining onto the sensor.
Compound Stream: Indicates that your DVR or NVR is recording video and
audio at the same time.
Contrast: This increases the difference between the blackest black and the
whitest white in the image. Without contrast you wouldn’t have an image because there wouldn’t be any differentiation between light and dark.
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Glossary
Covert: The camera will detect motion and trigger your DVR or NVR to re-
cord, but you will not see an image of the camera in Live View mode.
DDNS (Dynamic DNS): Is a service that converts IP addresses into host names
(a host name is a lot easier than trying to remember an IP address). It also
supports dynamic IP addresses, such as those assigned by a DHCP server.
This makes DDNS a good fit for home networks, which normally receives an
IP address from the ISP that will change occasionally.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): Uses an appropriate server
or router to enable dynamic assignment of an IP address to a device connected to the network.
Display Resolution: Is the number of pixels supported by your TV or VGA
monitor or the output signal of a viewing device, e.g. your DVR or NVR.
DNS Server: Is a standard technology for managing public names of web
sites and other internet domains. DNS technology allows you to type names
into your web browser which your computer will automatically find the address on the internet.
DST (Daylight Saving Time): Is the period of the year when clocks are moved
one hour ahead.
DualStream: A process where your DVR or NVR will record both Mainstream
and Substream video at the same time.
Format: Is a command that prepares a storage device such as a USB flash
drive or hard drive to hold data.
Firmware: The software that operates a discrete device (e.g. your smart-
phone). It is referred to in this way rather than software as it is integral to the
operation of the device.
ate a video feed. The unit of measurement is frames per second (fps).
Gateway: Is a node or router that routes traffic from a device on your home
network to the outside network that is providing access to the internet.
H.264+: Mass video data requires increased storage capacity. To resolve this
issue, video compression technologies are used to reduce the data while
maintaining image quality. H.264+ is an innovative encoding technology
aimed at surveillance video.
Hardware: A physical device such as your DVR or NVR.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Is a storage device located inside your DVR or NVR. It
is where all data is kept, saved and stored.
HTTP Port (Hypertext Transfer Protocol): This port is used to log into the
web browser interface of your DVR or NVR (if available) using a web client,
such as Internet Explorer.
Hue: Is somewhat synonymous to what is usually referred to as colors. By
altering the hue, you can change the color mix of the image.
IP Address: The address of a device attached to the network. Each device on
the network must use a unique address. IP addresses range from 0.0.0.0 to
255.255.255.255.
Live View: Is the default display mode for your DVR or NVR. Each camera
connected will be displayed on-screen.
MAC Address: Is a unique identifier for network hardware. Can also be used
as a super password if you have forgotten your current password.
Mainstream: Is the video stream that your DVR or NVR will display and re-
cord.
Frame Rate: The measurement of the rate that pictures are displayed to cre-
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Glossary
Mask: Is used to obscure part of your image for privacy. It can also be used
to minimise false triggers when your DVR or NVR detects motion. Any area
obscured won’t be shown live or recorded.
Menu: Is where you control the various actions and options that are available
on your DVR or NVR.
Motion Detection: Is the main method used by your DVR or NVR to detect
motion and is an essential part of your security system. It does this by comparing one frame of video with the next. A certain amount of difference between these two frames is interpreted as motion.
NAS (Network Attached Storage): A network device with one or more HDDs
that other network devices can use as if the storage was connected directly.
NIC (Network Interface Controller): The hardware component that allows a
device to connect to a network. Both wired and wireless NICs exist for these
respective purposes.
NTP (Network Time Protocol): Is used to synchronize your DVR or NVR’s
clock automatically with a network time server. Most time servers are on the
internet.
NTSC: Is the video system used in North America, Canada and some Latin
American countries. In NTSC, 30 frames are transmitted each second.
Optical Zoom: Is a true zoom feature. It allows you to zoom in (or out) on an
object to get a closer view by using the camera’s lens.
OSD (On-screen Display): Display information from the camera such as time,
date and camera name on-screen.
Overscan: Is mainly used on older television sets to display the entire view-
able area correctly on-screen. It does this by cutting off the edges of the picture. This is not required for modern Plasma and LCD TVs as the image is
digitally processed to display the correct aspect ratio.
Pack Duration: Instructs your DVR or NVR to split recordings into discrete
units. Each unit can be a maximum of 60 minutes in length. Your DVR or NVR
will play these as one continual video.
PAL: Is the video system used in the United Kingdom, Australia and most
European countries. In PAL, 25 frames are transmitted each second.
Post-record: Instructs your DVR or NVR to record for a set period of time
after an event has occurred.
PPPoE (Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet): Is the most common meth-
od that your router uses to login to your ISP to enable your internet connection. This setting also exists on the DVR or NVR, but is only for advanced
users as the configuration required is difficult to complete and requires a
modem-only device (or a modem/router set to modem-only).
Pre-record: Allows your DVR or NVR to record for a number of seconds be-
fore an event occurs.
Privacy Zone: See Mask for information.
Resolution: The measure of detail that can be seen in an image. The higher
the number, the greater the detail available.
RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol): A network protocol designed to trans-
mit video and audio information over networks and the internet in real time.
Saturation: This alters how much color is displayed in the image. The higher
the saturation, the more bright and vivid colors will appear.
Server Port: Is a logical connection place and specifically, using the internet
protocol TCP/IP, the way a client program specifies a particular server program on a computer in a network.
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Glossary
SEQ: Puts the DVR or NVR in sequence mode. This will repeatedly cycle
through each video channel for a predetermined time in Live View mode.
S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis & Reporting Technology): This is an
automatic system on modern HDDs and SSDs to detect potential drive errors
before they occur.
SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol): This is used to send an outbound
email (e.g. from you DVR or NVR to an email address).
SMTP Port: Is the port number used by a SMTP server to listen for email
send requests. This is specified by your email provider.
SMTP Server: This is the address of the server used for SMTP. Usually in the
form of a web address (e.g. smtp.gmail.com).
Software: A set of instructions that runs on a computing device.
SSID: Is the technical term for a wireless network name. When you setup a
wireless network, you give it a name to distinguish it from other networks in
your neighbourhood.
SSL (Secure Socket Layer): A secure method for connecting to servers. In
the context of the DVR or NVR, primarily used for email server connections.
Subnet Mask: Used to define which part of the IP address refers to the net-
work location.
Time Server: Is a server that reads the actual time from a reference clock
and distributes the information to its clients on the network.
Time Zone: Is a region that observes a uniform standard time for legal, com-
mercial, and social purposes. It is convenient for areas in close communication to keep the same time.
Timestamp: Is a sequence of characters or encoded information identifying
when a certain event occurred, usually giving date and time of day, sometimes accurate to a small fraction of a second.
TVI: Is a digital signal processing and transport technology for video used in
HD security cameras. TVI cameras currently support 1080p video resolution
using the same coaxial cabling techniques used by traditional analogue CCTV
cameras.
UID (Unique Identifier): Is an alphanumeric string that is associated with a
single entity within a given system. By entering your UID into the mobile app
or computer software, this allows you to communicate with your DVR or NVR
without having to remember IP addresses or port numbers.
Static: When referring to IP addresses, this is where a device’s IP address
has been manually entered. Sometimes used on older devices without UIDs
to prepare for internet access.
Static DNS: In some circumstances, your internet service provider may re-
quire you to use a static DNS instead of an auto DNS on your router.
Substream: Is the video stream that your DVR or NVR will send to remote
devices via the network or internet. Video quality is reduced to make it easier
to send.
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UPnP (Universal Plug and Play): A network protocol designed to allow net-
work connected devices to automatically configure the router for the purposes of remote access. Not required to be enabled when using UID.
VCA (Video Content Analysis): Is a new method for triggering recording and
events. This uses the image processing system of the DVR or NVR & camera
to set specific triggers for recording (such as line crossing or intrusion). This
system does use more processing power, therefore it may not be available on
all devices.
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Glossary
Video Loss: Is regarded as a potential alarm event and is considered to occur
any time your DVR or NVR doesn’t receive an active video signal from any one
of its video inputs.
Video Quality Diagnostics: Enables your DVR or NVR to alert you if the cam-
era has a blurred image, abnormal brightness or unwanted tint in the image
due to the lighting and white balance of the camera (known as Color Cast).
Video Stream: Indicates that your DVR or NVR is recording a video stream
only.
WDR (Wide Dynamic Range): Is technology to balance out images that have
a large dynamic range. An example of this situation would be if an indoor
camera were pointing towards a window or building entrance. The image
produced by the camera during the day would be extremely washed out due
to the high brightness of the incoming light.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play video(s) on my DVR that I have copied to a USB flash drive?
No, your DVR doesn’t have the option to play video(s) from a USB flash drive.
You will have to play them on your computer or mobile device.
What is the largest hard drive that I can install inside my DVR?
The largest hard drive you can install is 6TB (terabyte). We recommend that
you purchase a drive that is surveillance rated such as the Western Digital
Purple™ and Seagate Skyhawk™ range of drives.
Can I connect and record to a portable USB hard drive?
No, your DVR will only record to the internal hard drive that is installed.
Can I connect and copy videos to a portable USB hard drive?
Due to the nature of how portable USB hard drives operate, there is no guarantee that your drive, when connected to the DVR’s USB port, will work. You’ll
have to give it a try. For backup purposes, we recommend using a USB flash
drive.
How do I save video recordings that are on my DVR?
cameras connected to your DVR.
To copy video recordings to a USB flash drive, use the Search: Events function
(see page 44).
Can I use my own email address and server instead of creating a new one?
You can providing you have the settings required for the SMTP port and server. If you don’t have this, you will have to contact your internet service provider to get this information.
I’ve enabled the Push option on my DVR and in the HomeSafe View app but
I’m not receiving notifications on my mobile device.
The Push function is only available if you have one or more thermal-sensing
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Warranty Information
USA
Swann Communications USA Inc.
12636 Clark Street
Santa Fe Springs CA 90670
USA
Warranty Terms & Conditions
Swann Communications warrants this product against defects in workmanship and material for a period of one (1) year from its original purchase date. You
must present your receipt as proof of date of purchase for warranty validation. Any unit which proves defective during the stated period will be repaired without charge for parts or labour or replaced at the sole discretion of Swann. The end user is responsible for all freight charges incurred to send the product to
Swann’s repair centres. The end user is responsible for all shipping costs incurred when shipping from and to any country other than the country of origin.
The warranty does not cover any incidental, accidental or consequential damages arising from the use of or the inability to use this product. Any costs associated with the fitting or removal of this product by a tradesman or other person or any other costs associated with its use are the responsibility of the end user.
This warranty applies to the original purchaser of the product only and is not transferable to any third party. Unauthorized end user or third party modifications
to any component or evidence of misuse or abuse of your device will render all warranties void.
By law some countries do not allow limitations on certain exclusions in this warranty. Where applicable by local laws, regulations and legal rights will take
precedence.
Swann Communications
Unit 13, 331 Ingles Street
Port Melbourne Vic 3207
Australia
Australia
United Kingdom
Swann Communications LTD.
Stag Gates House 63/64 The Avenue
SO171XS
United Kingdom
For Australia: Our goods come with guarantees which cannot be excluded under Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for
a major failure and for compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the
goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to major failure.
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Helpdesk & Technical Support
Technical Support E-mail: tech@swann.com
Technical Support Website: support.swann.com
Telephone Helpdesk
USA Toll Free 1-800-627-2799
USA Parts & Warranty 1-800-627-2799
(M-F, 9am-5pm US PT)
AUSTRALIA 1800 788 210
NEW ZEALAND Toll Free 0800 479 266
UK 0808 168 9031
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