21  Using the Main Menu

    To open the main menu:
  • From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
    Graphic
    OR
  • From the Live View display, hover the mouse near the bottom of the screen, then click icon on the Navigation Bar.
    Graphic

21.1  Main Menu Overview

Graphic
  1. Playback: Search for and play back recordings, or search for person and/or vehicle detection events. For full details, see 10 Playback .
  2. Events: Configure smart motion detection settings, then use smart search to filter through detection events. For full details, see 21.2 Events Menu .
  3. Backup: Export recordings and snapshots to a USB flash drive (not included). For full details, see 11 Backup .
  4. Display: Configure display, resolution, and viewing sequence settings. For full details, see 21.3 Display Menu .
  5. Camera: Open the menu to manage IP cameras connected to the network, set recording parameters, and assign custom names for your cameras. For full details, see 21.4 Camera Menu .
  6. Network: Configure and manage network settings, including email. For full details, see 21.5 Network Menu .
  7. System: Configure general system settings, including date & time, holidays, and security. For full details, see 21.6 System Menu .
  8. Storage: Set the recording schedule and manage the hard disk drive. For full details, see 21.7 Storage Menu .
  9. Account: Manager users Graphic , user groups, and permissions. For full details, see 20 Managing Passwords and User Accounts .
  10. Information: View system information, backing up or upgrading the system, and more. For full details, see 21.8 Information Menu .
  11. Shutdown: Logout, manual reboot, or shutdown. For full details, see 21.10 Shutdown .

21.2  Events Menu

The Events Menu allows you to set the smart plan feature, configure event settings including local alarm and video loss, as well as search and filter through recorded videos.

21.2.1  Configuring Smart Plan

To use a smart feature on your camera, it must be enabled in the Smart Plan settings from your system. Select the smart plan feature for each camera.
    To configure your smart plan settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Event Settings tab from the side panel, then the Smart Plan tab from the drop-down.
    Graphic
  3. Select the camera you would like to enable a smart plan feature on.
  4. Select the icon for a smart feature that you want to enable:
    • icon Face Detection
    • icon Heat Map
    • icon Smart Motion Plus
    • icon People Counting
    • icon Package and Envelope Detection

21.2.2  Configuring Video Loss Settings

Configure video loss settings and how the system reacts to a video loss event. Video loss means that video from one or more cameras was interrupted or disabled. It could be caused by a number of factors, such as a loose or damaged connection, loss of power to a camera, or a blocked camera lens.
    To configure video loss settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Event Settings tab from the side panel, then the Motion tab from the drop-down. Click the Video Loss tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select a camera you would like to configure.
  4. Check Enable to enable video loss events for the selected channel.
  5. Configure the following to customize settings for video loss events:
    • Show Message: Check to show a popup message on the monitor if one of your cameras loses video.
    • Send Email: Check to enable email alerts. You must configure email alerts before you will be able to receive them (see 21.5.3 Configuring Email Alerts ).
    • Record Channel: Select the channels that will record when motion is detected on the selected channel. Set the length of recording following a video loss event in the Post-Record field.
    • PTZ Linkage: Set connected PTZ cameras to start a tour, pattern, or go to a preset location.
    • Sequence: Sequence mode will begin. Select the numbered tiles next to this option to include the corresponding channels in the sequence.
    • Picture Storage: Check the box to save a snapshot of the corresponding channels.
    • Buzzer: Check to enable the system buzzer.
  6. Click Apply to save changes.

21.2.3  Configuring Alarm Input Devices

You can connect alarm input devices such as motion sensors (not included) or glass break detectors (not included) to the system. The system can be set to trigger recording or take other actions when these devices are activated.
To connect alarm devices:
Graphic
  • Connect the included green alarm blocks to the back panel of the recorder.
  • Connect your alarm device according to the supplied documentation.
To configure alarm input devices (not included):
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Event Settings tab from the side panel, then the Local Alarm tab from the drop-down.
    Graphic
  3. Select the alarm input port the device is connected to.
  4. Check Enable.
  5. Enter a name for the alarm.
  6. Select NO (Normal Open) or NC (Normal Close) depending on the type of alarm input device you have.
  7. Click Setting next to Schedule to configure the times of the week when the selected device will be activated. By default, the device will be activated 24/7.
    Graphic
    • Click or click-and-drag along each of the red timelines to quickly add or remove time from each day’s schedule in 30–minute segments.
    • Click icon beside 2 or more days to link schedules (icon ). This allows you to quickly change multiple schedules at once.
    • To make fine adjustments to a schedule, click icon . This will allow you to set exact start and end times for a schedule.
  8. Configure the following system responses and parameters for the alarm input device:
    Graphic
    • Alarm-out Port: Check the box to activate alarm output devices (not included) when the selected device is triggered. Select the alarm output devices that will be activated, then enter the number of seconds the alarm output device(s) will activate after the selected device is triggered next to Post-Alarm.
    • Show Message: Check to enable an on-screen pop-up when the selected device is triggered.
    • Send Email: Check to enable email alerts. You must configure email alerts before you will be able to receive them (see 21.5.3 Configuring Email Alerts ).
    • Record Channel: Click the checkbox to enable video recording when the alarm is triggered. You can then select the channels the system will record on.
    • Post-Record: Enter the number of seconds the system will record after video loss occurs.
    • PTZ Linkage: Check to enable PTZ actions when video loss occurs (PTZ camera required; not included). Click Set to select which PTZ actions will be taken by each camera.
    • Sequence: Check to enable a custom sequence mode when motion is detected on the selected channel. Then click the channels you would like to display in the custom sequence mode.
    • Picture Storage: Check to save a snapshot.
    • Buzzer: Check to enable the system buzzer.
  9. Click OK to save changes.

21.2.4  Controlling Alarm Output Devices

You can connect alarm output devices (not included), such as sirens or strobe lights, to the system. The Alarm Output menu allows you to enable or disable alarm output devices and manually an activated device.
To connect alarm devices:
Graphic
  • Connect the included green alarm blocks to the back panel of the recorder.
  • Connect your alarm device according to the supplied documentation.
    To configure alarm output devices (not included):
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Event Settings tab from the side panel, then the Alarm-out Port tab from the drop-down.
    Graphic
    To control alarm output devices:
  • To enable alarm output devices, select Auto or Manual for each device you would like to enable. Select Off to disable the alarm output device. Click Apply to save changes.
  • To manually disable activated alarm devices, click OK next to Alarm Reset.

21.2.5  Configuring Hard Drive Warnings

Hard drive warnings will notify you if an issue is detected with the hard drive.
    To configure hard drive warnings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Warning tab from the side panel, then the HDD tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Event Type, select the hard drive event you would like to configure. Check Enable to activate the selected warning.
    • No Disk: No hard drive detected.
    • Disk Error: A hard drive error has been detected.
    • Disk Full: The hard drive is full or almost full. You can enter the percentage of disk space remaining that will trigger a warning under Less Than (e.g. when less than 10% of the hard drive is empty, trigger a warning). Disk Full warnings will not occur if overwrite is enabled.
    • All: Configure warnings for all hard drive events.
  4. Configure the responses the system will take when the selected event occurs:
    • Alarm-out Port: Check the box to activate alarm output devices (not included) when the selected event occurs. Select the alarm output devices that will be activated, then enter the number of seconds the alarm output device(s) will activate after the selected event occurs next to Post-Alarm.
    • Show Message: Show a popup message on the monitor.
    • Send Email: Check to enable email alerts. You must configure email alerts before you will be able to receive them (see 21.5.3 Configuring Email Alerts ).
    • Buzzer: Check to activate the system buzzer.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.2.6  Configuring Network Warnings

Network warnings will notify you if there your system loses connection to the Internet or local network or if there is an issue on your network.
    To configure network warnings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Warning tab from the side panel, then the Network tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Event Type, select the event type you would like to configure. Check Enable to activate the selected warning.
    • Offline: The system has lost connection to the network.
    • IP Conflict: More than one device on your network has the same IP address.
    • MAC Conflict: More than one device on your network has the same MAC address.
    • All: Configure responses for all network events.
  4. Configure the following for the selected event type:
    • Alarm-out Port: Check the box to activate alarm output devices (not included) when the selected event occurs. Select the alarm output devices that will be activated, then enter the number of seconds the alarm output device(s) will activate after the selected event occurs next to Post-Alarm.
    • Show Message: Check to show a popup message when the selected event occurs.
    • Send Email: Check to enable email alerts. You must configure email alerts before you will be able to receive them (see 21.5.3 Configuring Email Alerts ).
    • Buzzer: Check to activate the system buzzer.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.2.7  Configuring Device Warnings

Network warnings will notify you if there your system loses connection to the Internet or local network or if there is an issue on your network.
    To configure network warnings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS. Click the Warning tab from the side panel, then the Device tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Event Type, select the event type you would like to configure. Check Enable to activate the selected device warning.
    • Fan Speed Exception: The device has a fan speed issue.
    • Disk: The device has an HDD error, no HDD, or no space.
    • Network: The device has network disconnection, IP conflict, or MAC conflict.
  4. Configure the following for the selected event type:
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.2.8  Searching Event Logs

Search all channels for events, including motion detection and video loss.
    To access the log menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click EVENTS, then the Event Log tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select an event type to search for.
  4. Select a time period for your search, then enter a start and end time.
  5. Click Search.
  6. Events that match your search criteria are displayed:
    • The Time column displays the date and time of the event.
    • The Type column is formatted to show <[Event Type]: [Channel Number]>.
    • Click Details to see more information on the selected event.
    • Smart motion events have more options than other events. You can view the event by clicking the Playback icon icon and view a snapshot by clicking the Picture icon icon , or back up the video clip and picture to a USB flash drive (not included) by clicking Backup.

21.3  Display Menu

Configure display, resolution, and viewing sequence settings.

21.3.1  Setting the Monitor Resolution (Display)

Configure the system’s monitor resolution and other display settings.
    To set the monitor resolution:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click DISPLAY, then the Display tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Resolution, select the correct resolution for your monitor.
  4. Click Apply to save changes. Click OK again to restart the system using the new resolution.
    To configure other display settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click DISPLAY, then the Display tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Configure the following:
    • Output Port: Indicates the main screen port.
    • Enable Decoding: Check to enable smart decoding.
    • Time Display: Check to show the time on the monitor.
    • Channel Display: Check to show the channel names on the monitor.
    • Image Enhancement: Check for the system to digitally improve the video quality on the live display. This setting does not affect recordings.
    • AI Rule: Check to enable displaying the captured face and mask detection images or to display the value of people detected during people counting.
    • Original Ratio: Set the system to show the true aspect ratio of the cameras on the live display. This may add black bars on the top and bottom of the image.
    • Temperature: Check to enable to display temperature reading.
    • Live Audio: Check to enable the audio adjustment function for a channel during live view.
    • Transparency: Select the menu transparency.
  4. Click Apply to save changes.

21.3.2  Configuring Sequence Mode

Sequence mode cycles through connected channels to give you an overview of what is happening on all cameras. You can customize the order that channels appear in Sequence mode, as well as configure which viewing modes should be used.
    To configure Sequence mode:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click DISPLAY. Click the Sequence tab from the side panel, then the Main Screen tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Choose how many channels will appear on screen when Sequence mode is triggered by motion detection (you must check Sequence when configuring motion detection — see 13 Smart Motion Plus for details) or by an alarm.
  4. Check to enable Sequence mode.
  5. Enter the amount of time in seconds that each channel or page will appear on screen during Sequence mode.
  6. Select a viewing mode to configure. It is recommended to start with View 1 and make your way to View 9. By default, all viewing modes are included in the Sequence mode cycle.
  7. Configure the order of channels shown on screen for each viewing mode. Uncheck channels / channel groups that you want to remove from the Sequence mode cycle.
  8. Click Apply to save changes.

21.4  Camera Menu

The Camera Menu allows you to manage IP cameras, set recording parameters, and assign custom names for your cameras.

21.4.1  Viewing Camera Status

View the connection and alarm status for all connected cameras.
    To view camera status:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA. Click the Registration tab from the side panel, then the Device Status tab from the top panel.
    Graphic

21.4.2  Camera Firmware Versions

View firmware versions for connected cameras.
    To view camera firmware versions:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA. Click the Registration tab from the side panel, then the Firmware tab from the top panel.
    Graphic

21.4.3  Upgrading Camera Firmware

You can update the firmware for connected IP cameras through the NVR. Firmware upgrades provide enhanced functionality for the cameras. Typically, a camera firmware upgrade will not be necessary unless directed to do so by technical support.
    To upgrade the camera firmware:
  1. Download the camera firmware file.
  2. Extract the firmware file and copy it to a USB thumb drive (not included).
  3. Insert the USB thumb drive (not included) into a USB port on the system.
  4. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  5. Click CAMERA. Click the Registration tab from the side panel, then the Update tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  6. Check the cameras you would like to apply the upgrade to in the list and then click USB Upgrade.

21.4.4  Camera Image Settings

Use the Camera Setting menu to adjust image settings for your cameras.
    To adjust image settings:
  1. In the Live View display, right-click on the channel you would like to configure and select Camera Setting.
    Graphic
  2. Configure the following settings as needed:
    • Profile: Select from image setting presets.
    • Brightness: Adjust the image brightness.
    • Contrast: Adjust the image contrast.
    • Saturation: Adjust the vibrancy of colors in the image.
    • Sharpness: Adjust the sharpness of the image.
    • Gamma: Adjust the light-to-dark balance of the image.
    • Mirror: Select Enable to flip the image horizontally.
    • Flip: Select 180° to flip the image vertically, or select Normal for the default orientation. You can also select 90° or 270°.
    • Corridor Mode: Not supported.
    • Backlight Mode: Select one of the following backlight compensation modes:
      • SSA (Smart Scene Adaptive): Adjusts the lighting levels in the picture so you can see objects in the foreground if there is a strong light source behind them, especially good for scenes that include traffic lights or headlights.
      • BLC (Back Light Compensation): Adjusts the lighting levels in the picture so you can see objects in the foreground if there is a strong light source behind them.
      • WDR (Wide Dynamic Range): (Compatible camera required) The camera compensates for changes in brightness across the image to enhance the picture quality of both light and dark areas.
      • HLC (High Light Compensation): The camera dims the brightest areas of the image to make them clearer.
      • Close: Disable this function.
    • Day/Night Mode: This setting sets the camera’s day/night mode. Select Auto for the camera to automatically determine whether to use color or black and white mode. Select Black&White for the camera to use black and white mode at all times. Select Color for the camera to use color mode at all times.
    • Auto Iris: (Compatible camera required) When set to Enable, the iris size changes automatically according to the ambient lighting condition, and the image brightness changes accordingly. When set to Disable, the iris stays at full size and does not change with the ambient lighting condition.
    • 3D NR: Select On to turn on the camera’s noise reduction feature. Noise reduction will ensure a cleaner image, especially at night, and may reduce the amount of disk space required to store video.
    • WB Mode: This mode allows you to adjust white balance levels for the camera. Choose from the list of preset modes, or select Auto to have the system automatically set the optimal white balance mode.
    • Illuminator: (Compatible camera required) Click Setting to adjust the illuminator intensity in the image for ambient lighting conditions. Select Manual to adjust the brightness of the illuminator manually or Auto for the system to automatically adjust the illuminator intensity. Select Off to turn off the Illuminator.
  3. Click Apply to save changes.

21.4.5  Configuring Video Overlay Settings

The Overlay tab allows you to configure the text and information that appears overtop of the camera image, such as time and channel display.
    To configure video overlay settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA. Click the Overlay tab from the side panel, then the Overlay tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select the camera you would like to configure.
  4. Configure the following settings:
    • Time Display: Check to display the time information during live view. Click Set next to Time Display to choose the position of the time display overlay. Click-and-drag the time display to reposition it. Right-click when finished.
    • Camera Name: Check to display the channel information. Click Set next to Channel Display to choose the position of the channel display overlay. Click-and-drag the channel display to reposition it. Right-click when finished.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.
  6. (Optional) Click Copy to copy overlay settings to other channels.

21.4.6  Configuring Video Privacy Masking

Privacy Masking, also known as the good neighbor feature, allows you to hide areas in the camera’s field-of-view when recording.
    To configure video privacy masking settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA. Click the Overlay tab from the side panel, then the Privacy Masking tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select the camera you would like to configure.
  4. Check to enable privacy masking.
  5. Click Add.
  6. Set a name for the rule by double-clicking the mouse over the Name.
  7. Select the privacy masking type, then draw the area:
    • Color Lump: This option will black out the camera’s image in the defined privacy masking area.
    • Mosaic: This option will blur the camera’s image in the defined privacy masking area.
  8. To draw a privacy masking box, click around the designated area in the camera’s live view screen.
  9. To delete a rule click the Operation icon icon for that rule or click Clear to delete all.

21.4.7  Configuring Snapshot Recording Settings

The system can be set to record snapshot images when a camera detects motion. These snapshots can be viewed through the Playback menu or can be attached to email alerts and push notifications. Use the following procedure to set the snapshot parameters for each camera.
    To configure snapshot recording settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA. Click the Recording tab from the side panel, then the Snapshot tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Configure the following settings for snapshots saved automatically from motion detection or the snapshot schedule:
    • Camera: Select the camera you would like to configure.
    • Type: Select Scheduled for the system to take snapshots at fixed intervals throughout the day, or select Event for the system to take snapshots only when triggered by motion detection (snapshot recording must be enabled in the motion detection menu - see 13 Smart Motion Plus for details).
    • Size: The image size is the same as the Main Stream resolution of the camera.
    • Quality: Select the snapshot image quality between 1 (lowest) and 6 (highest)
    • Interval: Enter the time between snapshots in seconds.
  4. Under Snapshot, select the number of snapshots the system will take when the snapshot button is pressed.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.4.8  Creating Custom Channel Names

You can assign custom names to your cameras. For example, you can name your cameras based on their location (e.g. hallway or front door).
    To create custom channel names:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA, then the Channel Name tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Click a channel to enter a custom name.
  4. Click Apply to save changes.

21.4.9  PoE Manager

View the status of IP cameras connected to the recorder, including video transmission speed and power drawn through PoE.
    To view camera PoE status:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click CAMERA, then the PoE tab from the side panel.
    Graphic

21.5  Network Menu

Configure and manage network settings.

21.5.1  Selecting DHCP or Static IP Address (TCP/IP)

Configure IP address settings.
To configure IP address settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click NETWORK, then the TCP/IP tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Check DHCP (recommended) to let the system automatically obtain an IP address from the router.
    OR
    Uncheck DHCP to assign a static IP address (advanced users only).
  4. If you uncheck DHCP, configure the following:
    • IP Version: Select IPv4 or IPv6.
    • IP Address: Enter the IP address you would like to assign to the system. Make sure that no other device on your network is using the same IP address.
    • Subnet Mask: Enter the subnet mask for your network.
    • Default Gateway: Enter the gateway address for your network.
    • Preferred DNS: Enter the address of your primary DNS server.
    • Alternate DNS: Enter the address of your secondary DNS server.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.5.2  Configuring System Ports (Connection)

Configure ports used by the system for remote connectivity. If you are using DDNS connectivity, port forwarding is required for the HTTP Port (default: 80) and TCP (Client) Port (default: 35000).
To configure system ports:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click NETWORK.
  3. Click the Port tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  4. Configure the port numbers as needed.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.5.3  Configuring Email Alerts

You can configure the system to send out email alerts for motion detection or other events.
    To configure Email Alerts:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click NETWORK, then the Email tab from the side panel.
  3. Check Enable to enable email notifications.
    If you want to use Lorex’s email server (recommended):
    Graphic
  1. Under Mail Select, select Lorex Mail to use the Lorex email server to send out alarm notifications. This is the recommended setting.
  2. Configure the following:
    • Email Schedule: Configure time periods during which email alerts will be sent.
    • Receiver: Enter the email address that will receive alerts.
    • Sender: Enter the sender’s email address.
    • ALERT: Enter the subject line for the email alert.
    • Attachment: Check to include an image attachment of the camera.
    • Sending Interval: Enter the interval between alert emails.
    • Health Mail: Check to enable health check emails. Health check emails will be sent periodically to ensure that the system is functioning normally. Enter the interval in minutes for health check emails.
  3. Click Test to send a test email.
  4. Click Apply to save settings.
    If you want to use your own email server (advanced):
    Graphic
  1. Under Mail Select, select Customize.
  2. Configure the following:
    • SMTP Server: Enter the SMTP server address.
    • Port: Enter the port used by the SMTP server.
    • Anonymous: Check if your server supports anonymous log ins. Otherwise, leave this unchecked.
    • Username: Enter the SMTP user name.
    • Password: Enter the SMTP password.
    • Receiver: Enter the email address that will receive alerts.
    • Sender: Enter the sender’s email address.
    • ALERT: Enter the subject line for the email alert.
    • Attachment: Check to include an image attachment of the camera.
    • Encryption Type: Select SSL or TLS if your server uses encryption. Select None if your server does not use encryption.
    • Sending Interval: Enter the interval between alert emails.
    • Health Mail: Check to enable health check emails. Health check emails will be sent periodically to ensure that the system is functioning normally. Enter the interval in minutes for health check emails.
  3. Click Test to send a test email.
  4. Click Apply to save settings.

21.5.4  Configuring Switch Settings (Advanced)

Configure the networking settings for the internal PoE switch.
    To configure switch settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click NETWORK, then the Switch tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Configure the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway for the internal PoE switch.
  4. Click Apply to save changes. The system will restart.

21.5.5  P2P Setting

The P2P Setting menu is used only to enable / disable remote access to the system using a P2P connection.
    To change P2P setting:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click NETWORK, then the P2P tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Check Enable to use P2P, or uncheck to disable.
  4. Click Apply.

21.6  System Menu

Configure general system settings, including date & time, holidays, and security.

21.6.1  Configuring General System Settings

Configure miscellaneous system settings.
    To configure general settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click SYSTEM. Click the General tab from the side panel, then the General tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Configure the following:
    • Device Model: The device’s model number.
    • Device No.: Not supported.
    • Language: Set the system languages. Available options are English, French, and Spanish.
    • Video Standard: Select NTSC (North America) or PAL (Europe).
    • Instant Playback: Select the amount of time (in minutes) the system will go back when instant playback is activated in live view.
    • Logout Time: Select the idle time (in minutes) before the system will logout the current user.
    • IPC Time Sync: Select how often (in hours) the NVR will update the time on the IP cameras.
    • Interval: Set the length of time (hourly) for video files saved to the hard drive. For example, if set to 3 hours, the system will create a new video file for 3 hours of continuous recording.
    • Navigation Bar: Check to enable the Navigation Bar that comes up when you left click in live view.
    • Mouse Sensitivity: Use the slider to adjust the mouse speed.
  4. Click Apply to save changes.

21.6.2  Configuring Holidays

You can set certain days as holidays. Holidays have a special recording schedule.
    To configure holidays:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click SYSTEM. Click the General tab from the side panel, then the Holiday tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Click Add.
  4. Configure the following:
    Graphic
    • Name: Enter a name for this holiday.
    • Effective Mode: Select Once for the holiday to occur only this year or Always for the holiday to be repeated each year.
    • Time Period: Select Date to select a specific date, or select Week to select holidays based on which week they fall on.
    • Start Time / End Time: Enter the date for this holiday.
    • Add More: Check to enable adding another holiday.
  5. Click OK.
  6. To delete a Holiday after it's been added, click the Operation icon icon .

21.6.3  Configuring Serial Port

The serial port, also known as the communication port, is used to connect to external control devices.
    To configure the serial port parameters:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click SYSTEM, then the Serial Port tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Configure the following:
    • Function: Select a serial port protocol.
    • Baud Rate: Select the proper baud rate, with 115200 being the default.
    • Data Bit: Select the proper data bit between the value range from 5 to 8, with 8 being the default.
    • Stop Bit: Select between the values 1 or 2 bit seconds.
    • Parity: Select between None, Odd, Even, Mark, and Null.
  4. Click Apply to save changes.

21.6.4  Configuring IP Filter

Configure permissions for external IP addresses attempting to access the unit.
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click SYSTEM.
  3. Click the Security tab from the side panel, then the Firewall tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  4. Check Enable.
  5. Select Allow List to add IP addresses or ranges that are permitted to access the recorder, or select Block List to add IP addresses or ranges that are not permitted to access the recorder.
  6. Click Add to enter an IP address or range.
  7. Click Apply when finished.

21.6.5  Configuring IP Filter — Sync Time-Allowlist

Configure permissions for external IP addresses that are permitted to sync the recorder’s time.
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click SYSTEM.
  3. Click the Security tab from the side panel, then the Sync Time-Allowlist tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  4. Check Enable.
  5. Select Allow List to add IP addresses or ranges that are permitted to access the recorder, or select Block List to add IP addresses or ranges that are not permitted to access the recorder.
  6. Click Add to enter an IP address or range.
  7. Click Apply when finished.

21.7  Storage Menu

Set the recording schedule and manage the hard disk drive.

21.7.1  Configuring Pre-Recording

The system can pre-record video when motion detection events occur. This will ensure that the system records the entire event when motion is detected. By default, the system pre-records 4 seconds of video every time motion is detected.
    To configure pre-recording:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE. Click the Schedule tab from the side panel, then the Record tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select the camera you would like to configure.
  4. Under Pre-Record, select the duration for pre-recording.
  5. Click Apply to save settings.

21.7.2  Configuring Snapshot Recording Schedule

The system can capture snapshots when motion detection or smart motion detection events occur. This will ensure that the system captures the event when motion is detected.
    To configure pre-recording:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE. Click the Schedule tab from the side panel, then the Snapshot tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select the camera you would like to configure.
  4. Check the recording type you would like to configure, or check All.
  5. Configure the schedule as needed:
    • Check Continuous, Motion, Alarm, or Smart Detection to select the recording type you would like to configure.
    • Click-and-drag on each day to customize the recording schedule. The schedule is set up as a grid, which each block representing one hour.
    • Click icon beside 2 or more days to link schedules (icon ). This allows you to quickly change multiple schedules at once.
    • To make fine adjustments to a schedule, click icon . This will allow you to set exact start and end times for a schedule.
    • To disable all recording of the selected type on the selected day, click icon .
  6. Click Apply to save settings.

21.7.3  Formatting the Hard Drive

Format the hard drive to erase all saved data. If you install a new hard drive, you must format the hard drive using the procedure below before you will be able to record.
    To format the hard drive:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE, then the HDD Manager tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select the hard dive you would like to format.
  4. Click Format, then click Yes to confirm.

21.7.4  Configuring Hard Drive Type

The system supports the following hard drive types:
  • Read/Write: Normal recording hard drive.
  • Read-Only: The system can playback data from this hard drive, but it will not record to it.
To set the hard drive type:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE, then the HDD Manager tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select the hard drive type under the Type column next to the hard drive you would like to configure.
  4. Click Apply to save changes. The system will restart to complete this operation.

21.7.5  Configuring Hard Drive Groups (Advanced)

Hard drive groups allow you to balance recordings across multiple hard drives. For example, you can record channels 1~4 to one hard drive and 4~8 to a second hard drive. This can reduce the amount of wear on the hard drives and may extend the life of the hard drives.
    To configure hard drive groups:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE. Click the Disk Group tab from the side panel, then the Disk Group tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Disk Group, assign a group to each hard drive. To set up two hard drive groups, assign one hard drive to group 1 and the other to group 2.
  4. Click Apply. The system will restart to apply changes.
  5. When the system restarts, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  6. Click STORAGE. Click the Disk Group tab from the side panel, then the Main Stream tab from the top panel.
  7. For each channel, select the hard drive group you would like to record the main stream (high quality) video and then click Apply.
    Graphic
  8. Click the Sub Stream tab. For each channel, select the hard drive group you would like to record the sub stream (reduced quality) video and then click Apply.
    Graphic
  9. Click the Snapshot tab. For each channel, select the hard drive group you would like to record snapshots and then click Apply.
    Graphic

21.7.6  Configuring Record Estimate (Recording Calculator)

Use the recording calculator to get an estimate of your maximum recording time in days for the installed hard disk drive, or how much hard disk drive space would be required to retain a specific amount of days.
    To obtain a recording estimate:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE, then Record Estimate from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Select Recording Days for the total number of days worth of recordings your hard disk drive can store, or select Disk Requirement for the total storage needed to record for a specific number of days.
  4. For Recording Days mode, click Select to choose your hard disk drive from a list to output the total number of days your hard disk drive can store. For Disk Requirement mode, enter a number of days to output the total amount of storage required.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.7.7  FTP (Advanced)

Send recordings and/or snapshots to an FTP server.
    To configure FTP settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click STORAGE, then the FTP tab from the side panel.
    Graphic
  3. Check Enable to allow FTP connection, and select either FTP or SFTP depending on your configuration.
  4. Configure the following:
    • Server Address: Enter the FTP server’s address.
    • Port: Enter the FTP port.
    • Username: Enter your FTP username.
    • Password: Enter your FTP password.
    • Anonymous: Enable if your FTP server supports anonymous login.
    • Storage Path: Enter the directory to save recordings and/or snapshots to.
    • Record File Size: Enter the recording file length in minutes.
    • Camera: Select a camera to set FTP recording preferences for.
    • Day: Select a day of the week to configure FTP recording settings for, or select All to apply to all days of the week.
    • Period 2: Select up to 2 periods of time where the system will save recordings to the FTP. Check Alarm, Motion, or Continuous beside each period to determine which recording type will be uploaded to the FTP.
    • Picture Upload Interval: Enter the interval between snapshots in seconds.
    • Camera Setting: Select the camera tiles for FTP.
  5. Click Apply to save changes.

21.8  Information Menu

View system information, backing up or upgrading the system, and more.

21.8.1  Version Information

View system information such as device ID, model number, IP address, and firmware version.
Graphic
    To access the Version Info menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Information tab from the side panel, then the Version tab from the top panel.

21.8.2  Hard Drive Information

View information related to the hard drives installed in the system, including capacity, status, and type.
Graphic
    To access the HDD Info menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Information tab from the side panel, then the Disk tab from the top panel.

21.8.3  Recording Information

View start and end times of recordings saved on the hard drive.
Graphic
    To access the Record Info menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Information tab from the side panel, then the Record tab from the top panel.

21.8.4  BPS

Shows bitrates of connected cameras. The bitrate is the amount of data the camera is sending to the system.
Graphic
    To access the BPS menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Information tab from the side panel, then the BPS tab from the top panel.

21.8.5  Fan and CPU Status

Configure fan speed setting and monitor system health.
Graphic
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Information tab from the side panel, then the Device Status tab from the top panel.

21.8.6  System Log

Search for system logs in a certain time range.
Graphic
    To access the log menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION, then the Log tab from the side panel.

21.8.7  Event Information

View a summary of active system alarms. Activated alarms are highlighted in white. Additional info such as channels that are currently detecting motion is shown.
Graphic
    The following alarms are shown in the Alarm Status menu:
  • No HDD: No hard drive is detected.
  • HDD Error: Hard drive error detected.
  • Disk Full: Hard drive is full.
  • IP Conflict: More than one device on the network is using the same IP address.
  • Net Disconnect: System is not connected to the network.
  • MAC Conflict: More than one device on the network is using the same MAC address.
  • Video Loss: Shows disconnected channels.
  • Motion Detection: Shows channels with active motion alarms.
    To access the event information menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION, then the Alarm tab from the side panel.

21.8.8  Online Users

View all users connected to the system using computers or mobile devices.
Graphic
    To access the online users menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Network tab from the side panel, then the Online User tab from the top panel.

21.8.9  Network Load

View network traffic your system is sending and receiving.
Graphic
    To access the network load menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Network tab from the side panel, then the Network Load tab from the top panel.

21.8.10  Network Test

Test if your system can connect to other devices over the LAN or Internet. You can enter the IP address of a device and click Test to determine if your system can connect to it.
Graphic
    To access the network test menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Network tab from the side panel, then the Test tab from the top panel.

21.8.11  Saving Your System Configuration to a USB Thumb Drive

The system allows you to save your current system configuration to a USB thumb drive (not included). This is useful if you want to backup your current settings.
    To save your system configuration to a USB thumb drive:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Update/Reset tab from the side panel, then the ConfigBackup tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Device Model, select the USB device where you would like to save the configuration.
  4. Click Export to save your current system configuration.
    To restore a saved system configuration:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Update/Reset tab from the side panel, then the ConfigBackup tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Under Device Name, select the USB device where the system configuration is saved.
  4. Click the folder with the configuration file you would like to restore. Configuration file folders are labeled “Config” and then the time and date the configuration was saved (e.g., Config_20220425103727).
  5. Click Import to restore the system configuration.
  6. Click OK to confirm. The system will restart to complete the operation.

21.9  Restore Default Settings

Restore the system to its default settings.
    To restore default settings:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Update/Reset tab from the side panel, then the Default tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Check the menus you would like to reset to default settings.
  4. Click OK.

21.9.1  Upgrading Firmware Manually

The primary method for upgrading system firmware is automatically over the Internet. The system also supports firmware upgrades from a USB thumb drive (not included).
Prerequisite:
  • Save the .bin firmware file for your unit onto a USB flash drive (not included), and connect the drive to one of the system’s free USB ports.
    To upgrade firmware manually:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Update/Reset tab from the side panel, then the System Upgrade tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Click System Upgrade.
  4. Click on the .bin firmware file for your recorder.
  5. Click Start.

21.9.2  Automatic Firmware Upgrades

Firmware upgrades provide enhanced functionality. The system will automatically check for firmware upgrades if it is connected to the Internet.
    To configure automatic firmware upgrade:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click INFORMATION. Click the Update/Reset tab from the side panel, then the System Upgrade tab from the top panel.
    Graphic
  3. Ensure Automatically Check for Updates is checked.
  4. Click Check for Updates to check for a newer firmware version.
  5. If a newer version is found, click Upgrade Now to upgrade the system.

21.10  Shutdown

Shut down, restart, or log out of the system.
    To access the shutdown menu:
  1. From the Live View display, right-click to open the Quick Menu, then click Main Menu.
  2. Click icon , then select one of the following:
    Graphic
    • Logout: Log out the account that is currently active.
    • Manual Reboot: Manually power off the system, then restart.
    • Shutdown: Power off the system.