How to configure Dahua NVR (WEB 3.0)?

Configuring Dahua Network Video Recorder (NVR) using Version 3.0 Interface as an example: Step-by-Step Guide

Network video recorders (NVRs) from Dahua CCTV systems are in demand due to their reliability, flexibility in configuration and wide functionality. Setting up an NVR may seem like a daunting task, but with the help of this guide, you'll be able to do it yourself.

Step 1: Connect the devices

1. Connect the cameras. Use network cables to connect the IP cameras to the NVR. If your NVR has PoE ports, the cameras will be powered directly from the recorder, making it easy to connect.

2. Connect your monitor and mouse. Connect your monitor to the NVR using an HDMI or VGA cable. Also connect a USB mouse to control the settings or use the WEB to configure the NVR by following the step below:

3. Connect the NVR to the network. Use a network cable to connect the NVR to your router or switch. In Dahua's ConfigTool software, find your NVR and if necessary change the IP address and initialize the device.

Step 2: Initial Setup

1. After turning on the NVR you will see the setup wizard on the connected monitor or by accessing the NVR through the web interface by ip address (factory value 192.168.1.108), which will help you to set basic parameters such as language, date and time.

2. Password setting. It is important to set a complex password for @admin user and protect your video surveillance system. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a password.

Step 3: Network Setup (via monitor)

1. Access the settings menu. Use the mouse to access the settings menu through the main screen.

2. Network Configuration. Go to the network settings section and make sure that the NVR has been assigned an IP address. For remote access to the cameras, it is recommended to use a static IP address or configure DDNS.

Step 4: Add Cameras

1. Automatic Camera Detection. Most Dahua NVR models support auto-discovery of connected IP cameras, this feature works best when the cameras are from the same manufacturer as the recorder, i.e. Dahua.

2. Manual addition of cameras. If auto-discovery does not work, you can add cameras manually by entering their IP addresses in the corresponding section of the menu.

Step 5: Configure the recording

1. Selecting the recording mode. In the recording settings menu, you can select permanent recording or motion recording, as well as smart recording (using analytics events).

2. Configuring the recording schedule. Customize the schedule for each camera by specifying what time to record. If the cameras are of the same type, the camera settings can be copied to subsequent cameras.

Step 6: Configure the camera's resolution, bitrate, compression, and number of frames

1. Set the image resolutions. If the connected camera has factory settings, most likely the system will select the maximum camera resolution, but it is better to check each camera manually to get the best image from each camera.

2. Configure the compression (codec) of the image. Modern cameras support h.265 and h.265+ compression, which will be several times more efficient and take up several times less space on your hard disk without loss of quality. DIR.LV recommends using h.265 codec, which has shown the most stable performance.

3. customize the number of frames per second. CCTV cameras support different frame rates. The system will choose the maximum value, but this is not always a good thing. For normal high-quality and smooth video viewing, 12 frames per second is enough, but the system may choose 25, which will take up twice as much space on the hard disk, but will not give a noticeable advantage. Use the maximum value only if you are recording fast moving objects!

4. Adjust the bitrate of the camera. There are two types of bitrate in IP cameras: CBR (Constant bitrate) - constant bitrate and VBR (variable bitrate) - variable bitrate. In the case of CBR we allocate a certain number of kilobytes per second for this camera, the allocated rate should be sufficient for the camera taking into account the resolution and the number of frames in order for the image from the camera was smooth and high quality. We get a hint what value is suitable for our camera just below (Reference Bit Rate). In the case of VBR, the system itself selects the bitrate rate of the camera depending on the exposure and the amount of motion at a particular moment. This system was created to save space on your hard disk. Check carefully how recording and analytics functions work when using VBR! DIR.LV recommends using CBR, as it has shown to be more stable than VBR!

Step 7: Setting up live view and playback

1. Live View. From the main screen, you can select which cameras to display on your monitor or computer screen.

2. Playback Recordings. In the playback menu, you can view camera recordings by using date and time filters to search for specific events, as well as filtering recordings by analytics events (if supported by our hardware and if configured).

Step 8: Configuring events and alarms

1. Event Configuration. In the event configuration menu, you can configure different types of events, such as motion detection or line crossing. Here you can also set the actions that the system will perform when an event is triggered, such as sending an email notification or app push notification.

2. Configuring detection areas. To reduce false alarms, it is recommended to customize motion detection areas by selecting specific areas within the camera's field of view that will be actively monitored.

Step 9: Remote Access

1. P2P or DDNS configuration. To access the NVR from outside your local network, you can use Dahua's P2P service or set up DDNS. P2P is the easier option to set up, requiring only scanning a QR code through the Dahua mobile app.

2. Using the mobile app. Download and install the Dahua mobile app (such as DMSS for iOS and Android) to access your NVR, view live video, and play back recordings on your mobile device.

3. Using computer software. Download and install SmartPSS program for Windows and MAC. Register in the program and then add your NVR from the "Devices" menu. The method of adding can be via P2P (just enter your serial number) or via IP address, specify username and password. After adding the device, a green icon (Online) should appear next to our device.

Step 10: Software update

1. Check for updates. Regularly check for software updates for your NVR to ensure the best performance and security for your system.

2. Update process. Follow the instructions on the official Dahua website or device interface to download and install software updates.

Step 11: Backup and Restore

1. Regular backups. Back up your settings and video recording data to prevent losing important information in case of hardware failures or other unforeseen circumstances.

2. Data Restore. Use the restore function to return to previous settings and data if necessary.

Setting up an NVR from Dahua requires patience and attention to detail. By following this step-by-step guide, you will be able to maximize the efficiency of your video surveillance system, ensuring its reliable and stable operation.