USER’S MANUAL

C50XFR SERIES

24/7
SUPPORT
www.NightOwlSP.com English
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Thank you for choosing Night Owl Security Products!
By purchasing a Night Owl product, you receive a one (1) year warranty covering manufacturing defects in
material and workmanship. In addition to warranty and technical support benefits, you have access to our
vast library of free instructional “How to Videos.” You can also view our instructional videos by clicking the
“How to Videos” tab within your product’s page on our website.

Night Owl’s C50XFR Series Camera Compatibility:

Night Owl’s C50XFR Series DVRs are compatible with most analog cameras (400-900TVL), Night Owl’s
Analog HD (AHD) and HD Analog (HDA) cameras, including: CM-C20XL-BU and CM-C50XL-BU

If the camera’s video quality either day or night is degraded, you may need to change the cable run from
the camera to the DVR. This system is designed to work with CL2 UL Rated cabling or better.
Please see the warranty section of this manual for exclusions and additional details. Not all features and
capabilities are shared across all models so you may see features which are not applicable. Additionally,
you may see screen images that do not exactly match those on your TV/Monitor/Smart Device.
THIS MANUAL WAS ACCURATE AT THE TIME IT WAS COMPLETED. DUE TO OUR ONGOING EFFORT TO
CONSTANTLY IMPROVE OUR PRODUCTS, FUNCTIONS MAY HAVE BEEN ADDED OR CHANGED.

Before setting up your system, you MUST update your DVR’s firmware. Please follow these steps:
1 Connect one end of the included Ethernet cable into the LAN port on the back of your DVR. Connect the other
end into your Modem/Router to establish an Internet connection.
2 Next, connect the DVR to your TV/Monitor using the provided HDMI cable. If your TV/Monitor does not have an
HDMI port, you may use a VGA cable (not provided).
3 Using the provided DVR power adapter, power on the DVR.
4 Once the DVR is powered on, the Startup Wizard will begin. Follow the steps within the Startup Wizard to
upgrade your system’s firmware.
NOTE: Your DVR must be connected to the Internet in order to upgrade the firmware.

Quick Setup Guide

Use a QR Code scanner on your Smart Device to scan the QR Code to

the left to access the Quick Setup Guide for assistance in configuring
Night Owl Security system.

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 TABLE
OF CONTENTS

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: FCC Warnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chapter 2: Safety Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Chapter 3: Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.1 System Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.2 Package Contents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
3.2.1 DVR Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2.2 Camera Diagram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.2.3 Mouse Diagram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chapter 4: Camera Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.1 Video/Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.2 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.2.1 Standard Camera Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.3 Mounting the Cameras. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Chapter 5: DVR Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.1 Connecting to a TV (via HDMI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.2 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Chapter 6: Getting Started. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.1 Startup Wizard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.1.1 Camera Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.1.2 Network Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.1.3 Firmware Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
6.1.4 Password Creation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
6.1.5 Date and Time Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
6.1.6 Night Owl Connect App . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
6.1.6 (a) Using Night Owl Connect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
6.1.6 (b) App Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
6.1.7 Password Verification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
6.1.8 Camera/Channel Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
6.1.9 Camera Positioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.1.10 Channel Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
6.1.11 Default View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
6.1.12 Helpful Links . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
6.1.13 Wizard Complete. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
6.2 Displays and Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
6.2.1 Login Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
6.2.2 Live View (All Channels). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
6.2.3 Right-Click Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
6.2.3 (a) Light Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.2.3 (b) Facial Detection Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

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 6.2.4 Menu Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Chapter 7: Menus and Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
7.1 General Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
7.1.1 Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
7.1.2 Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
7.1.3 DDNS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
7.1.4 Google Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
7.2 Cameras Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
7.2.1 Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
7.2.1 (a) Advanced. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
7.2.1 (b) Setting Detection Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
7.2.2 Advanced. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
7.2.3 Adjustments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
7.2.4 Familiar Face . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
7.2.4 (a) Familiar Face Upload - Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
7.2.4 (b) Familiar Face Upload - USB. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
7.2.4 (c) Familiar Face Upload - HDD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
7.3 Record Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
7.3.1 Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
7.3.2 Playback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
7.3.2 (a) Video Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
7.3.2 (b) Right-Click Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
7.3.2 (c) Playback Mode Menu - Facial Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
7.3.3 Exporting Recordings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
7.4 Device Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
7.4.1 HDD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
7.4.2 PTZ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
7.4.2 (a) Using Control Method RS485. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
7.4.2 (b) Using Control Method UTC (Up-The-Coax). . . . . . . . . . . . 72
7.5 System Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
7.5.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
7.5.1 (a) DST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
7.5.1 (b) NTP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
7.5.2 Users. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
7.5.2 (a) Modify User . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
7.5.3 Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
7.5.4 Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
7.6 Advanced Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
7.6.1 Maintain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
7.6.2 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
7.6.3 Alarm Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
7.6.4 Auto Upgrade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

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Chapter 8: Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Chapter 9: Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Chapter 10: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Chapter 11: User Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Customer Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover
Night Owl’s DVRs are manufactured for quality and ease of use. As such, our DVRs contain menus
designed for advanced users that should not be adjusted without having enhanced knowledge regarding
the menu. In most cases the default settings allow for optimal functionality. The menus that should
ADVANCED maintain the default settings are indicated with this icon.

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 CHAPTER 1
FCC WARNINGS

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Chapter 1: FCC Warnings

FCC
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Compliance Statement

These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against frequency interference in residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not installed
or used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communication.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on. The user is encouraged to try and 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.

CAUTION!
The Federal Communications Commission warns the user that changes or modifications
to the unit not expressly approved by the part responsible for compliance could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

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 CHAPTER 2
SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS

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Chapter 2: Safety Instructions
USE THE PROVIDED POWER ADAPTER.
Do not use this product with a power source that applies more than the specified voltage.

NEVER INSERT METAL INTO THE DVR CASE OR ITS OPENINGS.

Inserting metal into the DVR case may cause electric shock.

DO NOT OPERATE IN WET OR DUSTY AREAS.

Avoid placing the DVR in areas such as a damp basement or dusty attic.

DO NOT EXPOSE THE DVR TO RAIN OR USE NEAR WATER.

If the DVR accidentally gets wet, unplug it and contact technical support immediately.

KEEP PRODUCT SURFACES CLEAN AND DRY.

To clean the outside case of the DVR, use a lightly dampened cloth. Do not use cleaning solutions or solvents.

DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES.

Do not install the DVR near any heat sources such as stoves, heat registers, radiators or electronics (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.

UNPLUG THE DVR WHEN MOVING IT.

Make sure that the DVR is unplugged before you move it. When moving this device, be sure to
handle it with care.

MAKE SURE THERE IS GOOD AIR CIRCULATION AROUND THE DVR.

This DVR uses an internal hard drive, which generates heat during operation for video storage. Do not block
vents on the DVR, as these vents reduce the generated heat while the system is running. Place this product
in well-ventilated area.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE TOP COVER.

If you observe any abnormal operation, unplug the DVR immediately and contact technical support.
Do not attempt to open the DVR to diagnose the cause of the problem.

HANDLE THE DVR CAREFULLY.

If you drop the DVR on any hard surface, it may damage the device. If the DVR doesn’t work properly due
to physical damage, contact an authorized dealer for repair.

IT IS RECOMMENDED TO USE YOUR DVR WITH AN UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY (UPS).

Connecting your DVR and cameras to a UPS allows continuous operation even during power outages.
The run-time duration will depend on the rating of the UPS used.

CAUTION!
You may be subjected to severe electrical shock if you remove the cover of the DVR.

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 CHAPTER 3
SPECIFICATIONS

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Chapter 3: Specifications
3.1 System Requirements

Please be sure that your PC/MAC® complies with the following specifications:
• PC Operating System: Windows® 10 and above
• MAC Operating System: MAC OS X® 10.9 and above

Please be sure that your mobile device complies with the following specifications:
• Android™: 4.2 and above
• iOS®: 9 and above

THIS MANUAL WAS ACCURATE AT THE TIME IT WAS COMPLETED. DUE TO OUR ONGOING EFFORT TO
CONSTANTLY IMPROVE OUR PRODUCTS, SPECIFICATIONS MAY HAVE BEEN ADDED OR CHANGED.

4.2 Package
3.2 PackageContents
Contents
DISCLAIMER: The exact components of your system, images and quantities may vary depending on your model
number. While these may vary, this manual will address the setup and initial configuration of your DVR and cameras.

DVR Camera(s) DVR Power Camera Power

Adapter (x1) Adapter(s)
(1 per 4 cameras)

60 ft. Video/Power Cables Power Splitter(s) 6 ft. HDMI 6 ft. Ethernet

(1 cable per camera) (1 per 4 cameras) (x1) (x1)

Items Not Included

RESET LAN1 LAN2 LAN3 LAN4 WAN

Monitor Router
Mounting Safety USB NOTE: Monitor is required
Hardware Stickers Mouse (x1) for initial setup.

NOTE: For best results, use the included Night Owl accessories. Third party accessories may not work properly.

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3.2.1 DVR Diagram
Once you have downloaded Night Owl Connect and connected your DVR to your router, you can network
your DVR by scanning the QR Code which is located on the top of the DVR.

QR Code FRONT VIEW

REAR VIEW 4 7

CH1

15 13 11 9
CH2
A B

16 14 12 10

RS485

1 2 3 5 6 8 9

Images used are for reference only. Your product may vary slightly depending on your model number.

1 Video Inputs – Allows for the connection of BNC wired cameras. Wireless cameras connect to the
DVR’s built-in Wi-Fi.
2 Audio Output – Allows for the connection of an amplified speaker using an RCA connector.
3 HDMI Output – Allows for the video connection. If the TV/Monitor has an HDMI input, connect the
HDMI cable from the HDMI output port on the DVR to the HDMI input port on your TV/Monitor.
NOTE: Preferred method.
4 RJ-45 (Ethernet) Port – Used to connect the DVR to your router/modem via the included Ethernet cable.
5 USB Ports – Allows for the connections of a USB mouse and/or a USB flash drive. You will connect
the included USB mouse to assist you in navigating the DVRs menu interface. You will connect a
USB flash drive to download video files from the DVR and save them to your USB flash drive.
6 Audio Inputs – Allows for the connection of audio enabled cameras by connecting the white RCA
plug to one of the audio inputs. After making the audio input connection, be sure to enable the audio
function in the DVR’s menu interface. (VGA Cable not included)
7 VGA Output – Allows for the video connection. If the TV/Monitor has a VGA input, connect the VGA
cable from the VGA output port on the DVR to the VGA input port on your TV/Monitor. (VGA Cable not
included. VGA Port not available on all models.)
8 RS-485 (PTZ) Port – Allows for the connection of a Pan-Tilt- Zoom (PTZ) camera.
NOTE: Some PTZ cameras utilize Up-the-Coax (UTC) technology and will not require the RS-485
port to function.
9 Power Input – Used to connect the included 12V DC power supply.

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3.2.2 Camera Diagram
CAMERA

5MP Resolution
Wide Viewing Angle 100º

Night Vision up to 100 ft.

Built-In Spotlight

3-Axis Mounting Bracket

(Vandal-Proof Wire
Camera Protection)

Video/Power Cables

Connect all cameras locally before final placement to ensure that all components function properly.

4.2.3 Mouse Diagram

3.2.3 Mouse Diagram

MOUSE

Live Viewing:
Double-click the left button on any camera view in split-screen mode to bring it to full screen display.
Double-click again to return to split-screen mode. Right-click to show the Right-Click Menu at the
bottom of the screen. Right-clicking again hides the Right-Click Menu.

In Setup:
Left-click to make a selection. Right-click to cancel setup or return to previous screen.

To Enter Values:
Move the cursor to a blank field and click the mouse. A virtual keyboard appears and supports numbers,
letters and symbols. The Shift function accesses symbols in addition to upper case letters.

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 CHAPTER 4
CAMERA
INSTALLATION

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Chapter 4: Camera Installation
4.1 Video/Audio

Connect all cameras locally before final placement to ensure that all components function properly.

1 Locate an included 60 foot Video/Power cable.

2 Connect a camera to one end of the cable by matching the BNC connectors (yellow) and DC power
connectors (red).

3 Audio enabled cameras (not included) have an additional (white) RCA connection which transmits the
audio signal and connects to the Audio Input port on the back of the DVR.

Camera

4 Plug BNC connectors on the other end of the cable into a Video Input port on the back panel of
the DVR.

5 Repeat for all cameras, noting the channel number associated with each camera.

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4.2 Power

4.2.1 Standard Camera Power

1 Locate an included power splitter.

Power Splitter

2 Connect the power splitter to the remaining DC power connectors (red) of the cables.

3 Plug the power splitter into the labeled camera power supply, then plug the camera power supply
into an available wall outlet or UPS. Keep in mind, Night Owl always recommends utilizing a surge
protector to minimize the risk of damage caused to your DVR in the event of a power surge.

Cameras Power Camera Plug into surge protector

Splitter Power Adapter

Make sure all cameras are working prior to mounting by connecting them as described in the
section above. Once all cameras are confirmed to be fully operational, you can run the cables and
mount the cameras at their final locations.

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4.3 Mounting the Cameras

Connect all cameras locally before final placement

to ensure that all components function properly.

Camera distance from DVR.

The further the camera is from the DVR or monitor, the higher the chances of signal degradation.
The camera’s power supply should be located as near to the camera as possible. When the distance
from the DVR exceeds 160 ft., the power level drops, resulting in video degradation.

Do NOT place near high voltage wires or other sources of electrical interference.
Electrical interference degrades the quality of the signal.

Place camera out of reach to avoid vandalism.

Avoid direct exposure to weather.

Do not place the camera where rain or snow will hit the lens directly nor should the camera be
placed so that the sun or bright light shines directly into the lens. Your camera is weatherproof, but it
will not work when submerged in water. Ensure that all power and video connections are not directly
exposed to water and are protected from the elements.

Mounting surface.
The mounting surface must hold at least four times the camera’s total weight.

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Follow these instructions to correctly install your cameras.

1 Locate a camera and choose a location where you would like to mount the camera.

2 Indicate screw positions by marking three holes on the surface where you plan to mount the camera,
using the holes in the camera base as a guide.

3 Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the included screw anchors, drill into the mounting surface
using the guide marks you placed in the previous step.
4 Insert the screw anchors.

5 Line up the camera base holes with the screw anchors. Holding the base in place, insert screws and
tighten until secure.

6 Once the base is screwed in place, make sure that the camera is securely mounted by placing gentle
pressure on the mount.
7 Adjust the camera housing to point in the direction of the area you would like to monitor.

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 CHAPTER 5
DVR
INSTALLATION

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Chapter 5: DVR Installation
5.1 Connecting to a TV (via HDMI)

1 Locate the included HDMI cable.

HDMI

2 Plug one end of the cable into the HDMI port on the back of the DVR.

DVR
DVR

3 Connect the other end of the cable to an available HDMI input on your TV or monitor.

TV Monitor
/ MONITOR

4 Select the appropriate video input channel on your TV or monitor to view the DVR.

If your TV/Monitor does not have an HDMI port, you will need to purchase a VGA video cable.
For VGA connection, attach one end of the VGA cable to the DVR VGA port and the other end
to your TV VGA port.

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5.2 Power

1 Locate the labeled DVR power adapter.

NOTE: The camera power adapter and DVR power adapter should never be interchanged.

DVR power adapter

may vary slightly.

2 Plug the included power adapter cable into the back of the DVR.

3 Plug the other end of the power adapter cable into an available wall outlet. If you are using an
uninterruptible power supply (UPS), plug the adapter cable into one of its output sockets. Keep
in mind, Night Owl always recommends utilizing a surge protector to minimize the risk of damage
caused to your DVR in the event of a power surge.

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 CHAPTER 6
GETTING STARTED

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Chapter 6: Getting Started
6.1 Startup Wizard
When the DVR is powered on it displays the Night Owl logo while initializing.

After initialization, you are prompted to use the Startup Wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions to:

Complete the basic setup of your DVR. Test your cameras locally.
Upgrade the firmware. Create an Admin password.
Set up the Night Owl Connect App. Configure the recording settings.
Configure notifications.

24
6.1.1 Camera Test
The Camera Test screen of the Startup Wizard serves as a reminder to test the camera connections to the
DVR. If a connected camera displays a “No Signal” message, please visit www.NightOwlSP.com and click
on the Support tab.

6.1.2 Network Check

The Network Check screen of the Startup Wizard displays instructions for how to connect your DVR to the
Internet. You will need the included Ethernet cable to establish connection, your DVR will not be able to
wirelessly connect to your router/modem. Once you have made the required connection using the Ethernet
cable, click “Test” within the Startup Wizard to confirm Internet connection.

25
The Advanced Network Configuration tab is recommended only for advanced users.

Once the Internet connection has been established, the Startup Wizard displays a successful connection screen.

If your DVR is not able to establish Internet connectivity, a Connection Failed screen appears.
Follow the instructions on this screen to re-test the network.

If you wish to proceed with the DVR setup without a network connection, you may do so by clicking the box
marked, “I do not want to connect to a network at this time.”

26
6.1.3 Firmware Check
The Firmware Check screen of the Startup Wizard automatically checks for updated firmware for your DVR.

NOTE: If your DVR does not have a network connection, the firmware will not update.

If a firmware upgrade is detected, the startup wizard displays the screen below. Please select “Upgrade” to
download and install the new upgrade to your system.

Once prompted, the DVR begins updating, and when complete the DVR restarts automatically. This process
could take up to 10 minutes, please be patient.

NOTE: Do NOT turn off your DVR or disconnect it from the Internet while the system is upgrading.

When the firmware for your DVR is updated to the most current version, the Startup Wizard displays the
below screen.

27
6.1.4 Password Creation

The Password Creation screen of the Startup Wizard requires you to create an admin password for your DVR
system. Night Owl strongly suggests that you write down your admin password in the Quick Setup Guide of your
DVR, as you will be required to log in any time you want to configure or adjust your system settings.

This screen will also require that you set a recovery email address in the event that your admin password is forgotten.

NOTE: You will not be able to complete the Startup Wizard unless a recovery email address is established. To change
your recovery email address, you MUST rerun the Startup Wizard.

Simply click on the text box to open the on-screen keyboard. Use this keyboard to create your admin
password and to enter your recovery email address.

28
NOTE: Forgot the admin password? Click the “Forgot PWD?” tab in the Startup Wizard and a Secure Code will be sent to your
recovery email address. Enter the Secure Code when prompted, then create a new password for the DVR. Your DVR MUST be
connected to the Internet to receive the secure code.

If the DVR is not connected to the Internet, the Secure Code can’t be sent to your recovery email address. In
this case, the screen below appears, please follow the instructions to contact Tech Support, and an agent can
assist you in creating a new password for your DVR.

6.1.5 Date and Time Setup

The Date and Time Setup screen of the Startup Wizard allows you to set the current date and time. You may
choose to use Network Time Protocol (NTP) to auto-configure the current date and time.

NOTE: In order to use Network Time Protocol (NTP), your DVR must be connected to the Internet.

29
6.1.6 Night Owl Connect App
The Night Owl Startup Wizard gives you information on where to find the Night Owl Connect App and how it
can be used to remotely view your DVR recordings and live stream.
Follow the next steps to create your Night Owl Connect account.

Once you have installed the Night Owl Connect App on your smart device and created an account, you can
scan the QR Code in the Startup Wizard to configure your DVR with the Night Owl Connect App!
Night Owl recommends using the same recovery email address that you previously chose in the Startup
Wizard when creating your Night Owl Connect account.

DISCLAIMER: QR Code within this image is not active. Please scan

the QR Code on your TV/Monitor within the Startup Wizard.

NOTE: To view the system remotely, the DVR must be connected to the Internet.

Please follow the next steps for creating

and using your Night Owl Connect account.

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6.1.6 (a) Using Night Owl Connect

Download and Install Application

1 Download the appropriate App from the App Store or Google

Play Store and install the application on your device.

NOTE: Setup is the same for Smartphone and Tablet.

2 Create an account using an email address

for the username and a password between
6–20 characters.

3 After completing the account setup and

verification process, sign into the App and tap
the “+” symbol to add a device.

The Night Owl Application leads you through the rest of the setup process.

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Connecting and Adding your Device

NOTE: When adding a new device, it may take 5–10 minutes before you begin receiving notifications.

A device can be added to the Night Owl Connect App by using the application’s Smart Auto Detection or
through a QR Code Setup. With Smart Auto Detection, your DVR will automatically be detected by the Night
Owl Connect software, making connecting easy! To use this preferred method, ensure your Smart Device and
DVR are both on the same network.

Wi-Fi

Ethernet Cable

4 Adding a Device
To begin adding a new device, first select the
yellow plus sign within the Device menu. Then
select your device type from the Device list and
follow the on screen instructions.

4A Smart Auto Detection

If your DVR and Smart Device are
running Night Owl Connect on the same
network, the Smart Auto Detection will
find your DVR. If this method is not
available, please use the QR Code Setup
from step 4B below.

4B QR Code Setup
To use the QR Code Setup, select “Setup
Device by QR Code” and hover your
Smart Device camera lens over the QR
Code located on the top of your DVR.

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 Log into your App

5 On the Device Login screen, enter the login information for the DVR (Remember, the DVR login and
Night Owl Connect App login are different). The DVR username is admin by default. If you are not the
admin, login with your username credentials.

admin is case sensitive

(all lowercase).

The password will be the same password you created during the Startup
Wizard and should be stored in your Quick Setup Guide. You must key the
DVR password verbatim to add it to the App.

NOTE: This is the password of your DVR, NOT the password used to log into the Night Owl Connect App.

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6.1.6 (b) App Overview

Live View Add Device Account

Displays real-time Add compatible devices Manage account settings,
footage of your system. to the App. add a shared device, and
change password.

34
6.1.7 Password Verification

The Password Verification screen of the Startup Wizard displays your Admin password. Night Owl strongly
recommends writing down your password within the Quick Setup Guide of your DVR.

6.1.8 Camera/Channel Settings

The Camera/Channel Settings screen of the Startup Wizard serves as a reminder to mount your system’s cameras
in the final position so you can make accurate adjustments to positioning, detection area and channel sensitivity.

35
6.1.9 Camera Positioning
The Camera Positioning screen of the Startup Wizard shows how you can use the Live View feature of the
Night Owl Connect App to easily adjust your cameras’ position and viewing angle.

NOTE: The “Live View” feature in the Night Owl Connect App allows you to gauge the position and viewing angle of your
cameras before mounting. You still have to physically adjust the cameras.

6.1.10 Channel Configuration

The Channel Configuration screen of the Startup Wizard explains in detail how you will configure your Channel
Settings. Please read this screen thoroughly as the following screen allows you to configure Channel Settings
for each channel connected to a working camera.

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 1
2

5a

5b 5
5c

The second Channel Configuration screen of the Startup Wizard allows you to configure the following channel settings:

1 Edit channel name.

2 Turn on/off alarm (push notifications).

3 Define motion detection area.

4 Adjust motion sensitivity.

5 Configure channel recording schedule:

5a 24/7 Motion – Channel records when motion is detected.

5b 24/7 Continuous – Channel records non-stop during selected times.

5c Custom Schedule – You define the recording modes, dates and times.

NOTE: If you select Custom Schedule, but do not edit all active channels, the unedited channels will default to 24/7 recording.

37
6.1.11 Default View
The Default View screen of the Startup Wizard allows you to select the default view of the monitor connected
to your DVR. You may select several viewing options from the drop-down menu:

1*1 channels onscreen.

2*2 channels onscreen.

3*3 channels onscreen.

8 channels onscreen (if applicable).

16 channels onscreen.

38
6.1.12 Helpful Links
NOTE: Please scan these QR Codes directly from your TV/Monitor, NOT directly from this page.

The Helpful Links and Support screen of the Startup Wizard contains QR Codes linked to:

DVR/NVR Troubleshooting Guide

PC/MAC® software download page
DVR/NVR Support page
Remote Viewing Support page

For more information, visit www.NightOwlSP.com and click the Support tab at the top of the page.

6.1.13 Wizard Complete

Once you have successfully completed the Startup Wizard, click “Finish” to begin using your Night Owl DVR.

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6.2 Displays and Icons

The following sections describe the main screens you access for login, playback, recording and configuration.

6.2.1 Login Screen

Any time you want to configure or adjust your system settings you will be required to login by entering your
user name and password. It’s important you save your login info or you won’t be able to access your DVR.
Be sure to store your user name and password in a safe location. You will need this information to access
the main menu.

User Name: Enter the Username created in the Startup Wizard or User Menu.
Password: Enter the Password created in the Startup Wizard or User Menu. If the password is incorrect,
you will be prompted to try again. Keep in mind the password is case sensitive between 6 and 20
characters.
Forgot PWD?: Sends a secure code to your recovery email. Once you enter the secure code, you can
create a new password. Your DVR MUST be connected to the Internet to receive a secure code. If
you do not have an Internet connection, follow the instructions on the DVR to call Tech Support,
and an agent will assist you in creating a new password for the DVR.

40
6.2.2 Live View (All Channels)
Live View is the default screen you see when viewing all channels on your DVR. You can customize the Live
View by selecting a Quad, Eight, or Nine channel configuration. In Quad and Nine view mode, double clicking
on a channel displays the camera image in full screen; double click the full screen channel to revert to multiple
channel view. In Eight view mode, double click on a channel to display in the larger screen within the Eight
view screen; double clicking the larger screen turns that channel into full screen view. Double click again to
revert to Eight view mode.

B CAM01

C D E F I K G J

A Date and Time: Current date and time of the system.

B Channel Name: On screen display of channel name.
C DVR Status Recording Icon: Indicates that your DVR is currently recording video from this camera.
This icon is the same whether the recording was scheduled, initiated manually or triggered by motion.
D Speaker Icon: Allows you to enable or disable audio streamed from an audio enabled camera.
E Motion Detection Icon: Indicates that an alarm event such as motion detection, video loss or tampering
has occurred.
F Refresh Icon: Auto detection of camera formatting. By double clicking on this icon, you can change the
format from CVI to AHD to TVI. This would allow the DVR to have different types of cameras connected
at once.
G Question Mark: Shown when there is no signal to that particular channel.
H Video Loss Icon: Indicates that the specific channel has lost the feed from the corresponding camera.
This may be caused by a disconnected/damaged cable, the camera may have lost power or the camera
may have been de-registered from the channel. This also appears if you do not have a camera connected
to the channel.
I Human Detection Icon: Indicates that an alarm event due to human activity has taken place.
J Night Owl Logo: Indicates that the coaxial transmission protocols are operating.
K Facial Recognition Icon: Indicates that an alarm event due to human activity has taken place.

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6.2.3 Right-Click Menu

A B C D E F G H I J K L M

A Main Menu: Access the main menu to configure or adjust settings. Be sure to store your username
and password in a safe location. You will need this information to access the main menu.
B Lock Screen: Manually locks or unlocks screen. Once the screen is locked, you need to enter your
username and password to gain access.
C Startup Wizard: Prompts the Startup Wizard to begin Startup Configuration.
D Quad View: 4 channel viewing layout.
E 8-Channel View: 8 channel viewing layout.
F 9-Channel View: 9 channel viewing layout.
G 16-Channel View: 16 channel viewing layout.
H Auto Sequence: Start/Stop the slide show sequence of each channel.
I Audio: Adjust the volume of the audio streaming from an audio enabled camera or audio input.
J PTZ: Open the Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) menu. This function will only work when a PTZ camera is
connected to your DVR.
K Playback: Access the recording/playback menu and functions.
L Light: Manage individual light control settings for each camera.
M Face: Add/Remove the facial detection menu from the right side of the screen.

42
6.2.3 (a) Light Menu
For cameras with spotlights, use this sub menu to adjust the settings of the light.

On - All Bubble: Turns on the spotlight(s) for camera(s) with this feature that are connected to the DVR.
On - Ch.1 - Ch.16 Bubble(s): Activates the spotlight for the spotlight camera connected to the selected channel.
Off - All Bubble: Turns off the spotlight for all spotlight cameras connected to the DVR.
Off - Ch.1 - Ch.16 Bubble(s): Turns off the spotlight for the spotlight camera connected to the selected channel.
DelayTime: Determines the amount of time the spotlight will be on/active when manually turned on from the
Light Menu.
Maximum DelayTime: The maximum DelayTime is 5 minutes, or 300 seconds.
Minimum DelayTime: The minimum DelayTime is 5 seconds.

43
6.2.3 (b) Facial Detection Menu
With Facial Detection enabled, this menu populates with detected faces. Detected faces appear on the left
side of the menu.

The right side of the window shows the facial match if the person’s profile exists in the DVR’s Familiar
Faces database.

44
6.2.4 Menu Screen
Access the main menu by selecting the Menu Icon on the Live View bar.

Within the menus, you will be able to access settings and parameters for all aspects of your DVR system.

A B C D E F

A General Menu: Access Display, Network, DDNS, and Chromecast submenus and mange the settings
for those categories.
B Cameras Menu: Access to Settings, Encode, Adjustments, and Familiar Face settings.

C Record Menu: Setup or modify general recording, triggered events and recording settings. Access
recordings playback.

D Device Menu: Monitor available HDD space and access PTZ settings.

E System Menu: Access general settings such as timestamp displays, user access, system info and access logs.

F Advanced Menu: View and change maintenance settings, upgrades and HDD alerts.

45
 CHAPTER 7
MENUS
AND SETTINGS

46
Chapter 7: Menus and Settings
Some menu screens allow you to copy similar settings to multiple channels. Choose the channel you would like
to copy information from in the first drop-down box (Copy), then select the channel you would like to copy the
information to from the second drop-down box (To). Click “Copy” when the proper channels have been chosen.

Be sure to click “Apply” to save all changes you make in the menus. If you do not save the
changes, they will not be applied. You can also select the Default button on any page to
restore default settings for those parameters.

47
7.1 General Menu

The general menu allows you to access display and network settings for your DVR system.

7.1.1 Display

Slide Show: By default, checking the box for Slide Show activates all views. To remove a view,
deselect the box and/or boxes next to the view you want removed.
Slide Show Time: Adjust the length of time that each channel is displayed during the sequential
view. You can select between 1 and 300 seconds per channel. To begin the auto sequence feature,
click on the Auto Sequence icon which is located on the quick access bar.
View 1: This is the full screen slide show setting. Select the number of channels to include in the
slide show sequence.
View 4: This is the Quad View slide show setting. Select the number of slides based on the
number of channels you are using. One slide will show 4 channels.
View 8: This is the 8-View slide show setting. Select the slide based on which channel you would
like to feature on the maximized view.
View 9: This is the 9-View slide show setting.
View 16: This is the 16-View slide show setting.
VGA/HDMI Resolution: Optimize the display resolution to best fit your TV/Monitor. By default the
DVR will select a resolution of 1920 x 1080.
NOTE: Do NOT select a resolution size larger than your TV/Monitor can accommodate.

Transparency: Modify the menu transparency when displayed on the screen.

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7.1.2 Network ADVANCED

Find network values and optimize connectivity based on your Internet connection. In most cases the values
should populate automatically once your DVR is connected to your Modem/Router and Internet connection is
established. The values in this section should only be adjusted if you are an advanced user and have extensive
experience in device networking.

DHCP Enable: The most common network connection type. These values are collected
automatically from your ISP when connected.
Static IP: Modify these values if you are using a static IP address. Information can be obtained
from your router and ISP.
IP Address: Network address of the connected DVR.
Subnet Mask: The range of IP addresses that can be found in the network. This should always be
set to the default address 255.255.255.000.
Gateway: The connection between two networks. This should always be the IP address of the
connected router.
DNS1: Primary Domain Name System server address.
DNS2: Secondary Domain Name System server address.

49
7.1.3 DDNS
The DDNS option allows you to set up a free website address that points back to the DVR regardless of whether
the IP Address changes. If you do not have a static IP Address, you should use this option.
Please visit www.NightOwlDVR.com to register for your free domain name (DNS).

DDNS Type: When using the Night Owl free domain name server, you must configure this setting to
NIGHTOWL.
Enable: Allows you to enable or disable the use of DDNS protocol.
Domain Name: Input the domain name you created by registering your DDNS at www.NightOwlDVR.com.
User Name: Input the UserID created during the DDNS registration.
Password: Input the password created during the DDNS registration.

50
7.1.4 Google Home

The Google Home Menu allows you to enable or disable the streaming feature. For more information on using
Google Home, please visit our support site.

Support Link: Night Owl Connect - Google Home

Enable: When selected, the device can stream to Chromecast.

51
7.2 Cameras Menu
Adjust or modify the settings for each camera connected to your DVR.

7.2.1 Settings

Channel Name: Select the channel you want to configure.

Selection of the Type of Motion Trigger:
Motion Detection Enable: When checked, the motion detection feature will be enabled
on the selected channel. By default all channels have motion detection enabled.
PIR: Toggle between ON and OFF for passive infrared sensor (PIR) based motion detection.
Human Detection/Face Recognition: Enabled by default. Monitors the channels for human
motion, and upon detection, scans for facial features.
Triggered Actions:
Record: Enables the corresponding action to take place when either detection or
recognition takes place.
Push: Enables the corresponding action to take place when either detection or
recognition takes place.
Light: Toggle between ON and OFF to enable spotlight on the camera during motion detection.
Basic Detection: Enables the corresponding action to take place when basic motion detection
takes place.
Human Detection: Toggle between ON and OFF to enable human motion detection on
the camera.
Facial Recognition: When enabled, a push notification is sent to the App when this
event takes place.

52
7.2.1 (a) Advanced

Sensitivity: Adjusts the level of motion detection. A lower setting requires more movement in the
camera range to begin recording.
Motion Detection Area: Clicking “Set” allows you to configure areas that detect motion. The “Red
Boxes” denote the areas that detect motion. When finished, right-click to return to the menu.
Facial Detection Area: Clicking “Set” allows you to configure areas that detect faces. The “Red
Boxes” denote the areas that detect faces. When finished, right-click to return to the menu.
Do Not Disturb: Set the time frame at which the system will notify the user of activity.
Post Record: Set the amount of time to record after motion is detected (between 30 and 300
seconds). This feature also sets the amount of time the spotlight remains on after detecting motion.
Notification Interval: Set the timing between each motion detection event and push notifications.
Default parameters are configured for optimal use. Adjusting the intervals may result in missed
notifications.
Notification Schedule: Set the push notification schedule.
Mode: Select “Single” or “Group.” The DVR captures a single human or a group of humans.
Interval: Time assigned to the DVR to analyze the camera and process the data to evaluate if any of
the alarms should take place, such as Facial Recognition.
Face Priority: Select to enable or disable. Enabling gives priority to the Facial Recognition features of
the selected channel.
Write Log: If checked, this menu option saves a log of when a motion detection event occurs.
Buzzer: Select to enable or disable the buzzer alarm when an event is triggered.

53
Set the push notification schedule by following the steps below:

1 Select the day you want to configure.

2 Configure up to four time spans for which you would like to receive push notifications. Checking the
box next to the set time frame activates the push notification schedule.
3 Continue editing by selecting different days from the drop-down menu.
4 Click “OK,” then select “Apply” on the menu screen to save the settings.

54
7.2.1 (b) Setting Detection Area

Night Owl’s Smart Detection Security System uses both motion sensors and infrared sensors to ensure the
number of false alerts produced are minimal. Current motion detection technology allows your system to
begin recording when a pixel change is detected by your unit. With the incorporation of infrared sensors,
now your system must detect both a pixel change and a change in heat in order for your system to record
when set to motion. Night Owl utilizes high tech UTC cabling which sends a signal from the camera to the
DVR. If configured, the DVR will then send a push notification out to your Smart Device which will contain
an embedded video clip of the object triggering the motion and infrared sensors.

In order to set the PIR Detection Area for your PIR camera, first log in to your DVR’s Main Menu then select
Cameras > Motion. Choose the channel you want to configure from the drop down menu labeled Channel and
then click the Area > Set button. You will be directed to the detection area screen. By default, all squares
should be red, indicating the entire field of view is set to detect heat change.

If there is an area within the camera’s field of view that you do not want detection to be active, follow the steps below:

1 Click on a square in one corner of the area you don’t want to be detected.

2 Click and drag the mouse over the area you want to block.
3 Release the mouse and verify you have selected your desired area.
4 Right click the mouse and select Save to apply settings and exit the menu.

55
7.2.2 Advanced
View or modify general recording settings for your DVR system.

NOTE: Turning on the Spotlight feature requires enabling the “Human Detection,” “Motion,” and “Light” settings
under the Cameras>Motion Settings, within the DVR.

Channel: Select a channel to edit.

Video Compression: Set the video compression format to optimize transmission bandwidth and
storage space on your DVR.
Resolution: Choose between 960H (960 x 480), 720p (1280 x 720), 1080p (1920 x 1080),
3MP, 4MP, 5MP, or 8MP resolutions based on your TV or monitor capabilities.
Frame Rate (FPS): Increase or decrease the frames per second of the streaming video depending
on your connection speed. Higher FPS equals better video quality. If experiencing lag or stutter,
lower the FPS.
Bitrate Type: Select CBR (constant bit rate or a fixed encoding speed) or VB (variable bit rate or an
average encoding speed); if using VBR, you must select the desired quality of video.
Quality: Select the quality of video recording.
Bitrate: Adjust the amount of data transferred while streaming. The default setting is sufficient for
most networks.
I-Frame Interval: Choose the interval between I-Frames. When the interval is shorter, the video
quality is higher, however the video needs more network capacity. When intervals between
I-Frames are longer, the video transmission uses less bandwidth, but the video quality is lower.
Audio: Click the box to record sound if your camera is audio enabled. Audio enabled cameras are
only included in certain kit models.

56
7.2.3 Adjustments

Channel Names: Set display options for each channel.

Time Display: Time displayed on channel view.
Channel Title: Display channel name on channel view.
Record Status: Display record status on channel view.
Alarm Status: Display alarm status on channel view.
Channel: Set the channel to edit.
Color Setting: Click “Set” to access a sub-menu to adjust the colors of the selected channel. In
this sub-menu, you can adjust the Hue, Brightness, Contrast, Grain, Horizontal Sharpness, Vertical
Sharpness and Saturation of the image.
Copy: Click “Copy” to set the current channel’s settings to another channel.

57
7.2.4 Familiar Face

The familiar face menu performs 2 primary roles.

1 Allows the user to create a maximum of 32 familiar face profiles that can have multiple images
saved to it.
2 Compares the profiles to images found in the Facial Detection alarms to verify if a face is recognized.

Channel: Select the channel and use the Channel button to open a menu. This menu allows you
to create a profile by capturing the current face in the selected channel view. Maximum of 32
profiles can be created.
USB Name: USB storage devices can have saved images that can be used to create profiles.
Maximum of 32 profiles can be created.
HDD: The Hard Disk Drive may have stored faces that were detected. Select the “Date” and the
“HDD button.” In the new menu, select the channel and the image from the HDD, and add it to
create a new profile. Maximum of 32 profiles can be created.

58
7.2.4 (a) Familiar Face Upload - Channel
From this menu, facial capture technology scans the currently selected camera for a face.

To create a profile:

1 Select “Refresh” to load the face into the template.

2 Name the new profile being created.

3 Categorize facial images in the database.
4 Select the photo view, either front, right side, or left side.

5 Select “Import” to save the profile and then cancel to exit.

59
7.2.4 (b) Familiar Face Upload - USB

The USB device will be scanned for images.

To create a profile:

1 Select the image from the list on the left.

2 Name the new profile being created.

3 Categorize facial images in the database.
4 Select the photo view, either front, right side, or left side.

5 Select “Add.”

6 Select “Cancel” to exit.

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7.2.4 (c) Familiar Face Upload - HDD

From this menu, the HDD is scanned for images based on the date selected.

To create a profile:

1 Select an image from the list view on the left.

2 Name the new profile being created.

3 Categorize facial images in the database.
4 Select the photo view, either front, right side, or left side.

5 Select “Add.”

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7.3 Record Menu
From this menu you can enable recording, set video settings and adjust streaming options.

7.3.1 Schedule

Channel: Select the channel to edit recording settings.

Video Length: Enter the duration of time to record when motion is detected, between 1 and 120
minutes. When using Continuous Recording, the video length will be the time scheduled.
Max Pre-Record: Input the amount of time you would like the DVR to pre-record once an alarm has
triggered recording.
NOTE: You may choose between 0 and 30 seconds of pre-record. Keep in mind that this is an approximation.

Record Configuration: Click and drag to select the scheduled times of continuous and motion/
alarm recording. Each square represents one hour of time within that day. Red squares indicate
the DVR is set to Motion Record. Yellow squares represent the time in which the DVR continuously
records.
Copy: Copy record settings to multiple channels.
Default: Revert to factory settings.
Save: You must select “Save” once a change has been made. If you do not select “Save”, your
changes revert to the previous settings.

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7.3.2 Playback

7.3.2 (a) Video Playback

Search and playback all recorded video from this menu. Choose your desired date and times from the options
below, then click Play to view recorded video. Right-click to exit back to the menu screen.
A

B
F

E D

A Playback Origin: Select the origin of the playback, it’s possible choosing two options:
Read/Write: Reading the recording on the HDD.
Backup Devices: Reading the recording on a external flash drive.
NOTE: The recording MUST be exported by the DVR.

B Calendar: Highlighted dates indicate recordings are available for viewing on these days from the
selected cameras.
C Camera Selection: Search for recordings from up to two cameras at a time.
D Export File Mode: Switch to export file mode.
E Video Playback Control Pane: You can perform various playback operations such as pause, slow
and reverse/forward. You can also clip parts of the video recording and save to external USB
storage media. When multiple cameras are being played, the control pane works for the selected
camera on the video screen.
F Video Screen: Video recordings are played here when you click Play from the Playback toolbar
below. If you have selected more than one camera, the Video screen will appear in a multiview
format. You can easily view a particular camera in full-screen by simply double-clicking on the
camera’s screen. To return to the multiview display, double-click on the screen again.

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7.3.2 (b) Right-Click Menu

Right-click within the Video Playback screen to access the menu bar (as shown above). This menu bar allows
you to go back, exit to the live view, stop playing, enter full screen, or change the decoding for the playbacks
(not recommended).

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 2 4 6 8 10 12 14
1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15

19

16 17 18

1 Start/Play/Pause: Start/Play/Pause playback.

2 Play Backward/Pause: Play/Pause backward playback.
3 Stop: Stop playback.
4 Slow Down: Slow down video playback (x1/2, x1/4, x1/8).
5 Rewind: Rewind video playback (x1/2, x1/4, x1/6, x1/8).
6 Fast Forward: Fast Forward video playback (x1/2, x1/4, x1/6, x1/8).
7 Previous Frame: Move the video to the previous video frame.
8 Next Frame: Move the video to the next video frame.
9 Previous Recording: Switch the playback video to the previous recording. If the playback video is
Motion Recording, it will switch to the previous motion detection file, if it is Continuous Recording, it
will rewind the video feed by one hour.
10 Next Recording: Switch the playback video to the next recording. If the playback video is Motion recording,
it will play the next motion detection file, if it is Continuous Recording, it will fast forward one hour.

11 Repeat Playback: Once the playback has finished, the video will restart at the first recording of the selected day.
12 Full Screen: View the playback video in full screen.
13 Start/Stop Clipping: Clip interesting parts of the recorded video by clicking Start Clipping at the start
and Stop Clipping at the end.
14 Backup: Backup video clippings to an external file drive.
15 Status: Indicates the current status of the playback.
16 Sync Mode: Show recordings from multiple channels in a single playback timeline.

17 Type of Recording Filter: Allows filtering based on the type of recording: Motion or Continuous.

18 Timeline Scale: Modify the video timeline in time period.

19 Timeline: Show all the cameras playback recording video during the selected time.

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7.3.2 (c) Playback Mode Menu - Facial Detection

From the menu shown below, Facial Detections that have taken place can be viewed here. The user can
change the channel, or date and then use the “Import” button to add the image to a new profile.

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7.3.3 Exporting Recordings
To export a Recording, once you have selected a specific date, switch to Export Recording Mode by clicking
the Export File icon.

A list of all recordings will show in the navigation panel. You can play the video on the video screen before exporting.
Play the video on the video screen, before exporting, by double clicking the video segment you want to watch.

After selecting the videos that you would like to export, click the Backup icon.

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The backup Dialog:

Refresh: Will search for USB storage devices plugged into the DVR.
Backup: Export the recording videos.
Burn: Start recording the live view video in the selected flash drive.
Format: Format the selected flash drive.

NOTE: This option will delete all data from your flash drive.

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When “Backup” option is selected:

Recording: Recording Options: Motion Detection (MD), Manual, General, Alarm/MD, and All.
Channel: The channel to export recordings.
Start Time: Date/Time to start searching for recordings.
End Time: Date/Time to end the search for recordings.
Remove: Delete the recording from the search.
Add: Shows the recordings. Prompts the menu to display video recordings within the set search parameters.
Backup Format: The type of format used to backup your recordings. Standard format is MP4 and should be set
to default. H26X should ONLY be selected if the firmware supports it. Please refer to system specifications.

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7.4 Device Menu

7.4.1 HDD

Check available memory on your DVR HDD and set recording parameters to optimize storage.

Select: If multiple drives are installed, choose the HDD you would like to customize.
Format Storage: Select to create free space on the Hard Disk Drive by permanently deleting the
existing data.
View Recording Times: Shows recordings that are on your HDD.
View Type and Capacity: Shows total storage being used and available space on your HDD. Also
shows the type and status of recording. Also shows the type and status of the DVR’s HDD. If the
status does not say Normal, please restart your DVR. If the status does not return to Normal after
restarting, you may need to replace your HDD.

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7.4.2 PTZ

7.4.2 (a) Using Control Method RS485

Configure settings on your DVR to control a PTZ enabled camera.

Channel: Choose the channel with a PTZ enabled camera. Not all cameras are PTZ enabled.
Protocol: Is the type of PTZ data protocol that the DVR will use to control the PTZ cameras. The
Default Value for Night Owl’s PTZ camera is PelcoD.
Address: Enter an ID number for the PTZ camera, greater than 0. If using multiple PTZ cameras,
ID numbers cannot be the same.
Baudrate: Indicate the frequency of communication to the PTZ camera. We recommend leaving
the default setting which is 9600.
Data Bits: Select the amount of data to send during each transmission. 8 bits is standard for all
modern data transmissions.
Stop Bits: Select the amount of extra data to send each time a direction is sent to the camera. The
stopbit serves as a buffer between commands and should be 1 (by default) when utilizing Night
Owl’s AHD PTZ camera.
Parity: Detects corrupt commands sent to and from the PTZ camera. This should generally be left Disabled.

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7.4.2 (b) Using Control Method UTC (Up-The-Coax)

If you are connecting a PTZ camera that utilizes UTC (Up-the-Coax) technology and does not require the use of
the RS-485 port, you will need to change the control method for the channel the PTZ is connected to.

3 4

As the PTZ camera and DVR will communicate via the BNC Video/Power cable, you will need to change the
control method to UTC. To do so, login to your DVR and the follow these steps:

1 Select Device.
2 Select PTZ.
3 Select UTC from the drop-down for Control method.
4 Select Apply.

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7.5 System Menu

7.5.1 General

Set or adjust basic DVR settings such as the time, date and language.

System Time: Manually set the date and time of your DVR.
Date Format: Choose the display format for the date. You can select Month/Day/Year, Year/Month/Day
or Day/Month/Year.
Date Separator: Choose the format of date display.
Time Format: Select between a 12Hour or 24Hour display.
Language: Pick between ENGLISH, SPANISH or FRENCH language preferences.
Storage Full: Choose Overwrite if you would like your DVR to write over old recordings when the HDD
is full. Choose Stop Record if you would like your DVR to stop recording when the HDD is full.
Video Format: NTSC or PAL formats are available to choose from. NTSC is the standard for video in
North America and is the DVR’s default setting. Prior to changing the video format, make sure that
your TV/Monitor is PALL compatible.
Menu Timeouts: Select the duration of time for an inactive menu to be displayed on-screen.
NTP: Select to change the NTP server.

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7.5.1 (a) DST
Configure Daylight Savings Time settings.

DST: Enable or Disable the Daylight Savings Time feature.

Week Day - Date: Indicate whether you would like this feature to be applied the week of or an
exact date.
Start Time: Select the date and time to apply the DST offset.
End Time: Select the date and time to remove the DST offset.

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7.5.1 (b) NTP
Configure National Time Protocol.

Server Address: Select the server that the DVR will use.

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7.5.2 Users

Create and modify user’s permissions.

Modify User: Select an existing user from the list to change the Username, Enable or Disable
password access and modify permissions.
Modify Group: Select an existing group from the list to change the Group Name, Enable or Disable
password access and modify permissions.
Modify PWD: Modify password.
Add User: Add a new user.
Add Group: Add a new group.
Delete User: Remove user.
Delete Group: Remove group.
Refresh: Restore User/Group settings to factory default.
Modify Email: Edit the email address used for password recovery.

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7.5.2 (a) Modify User

User Name: Create the new user’s User Name.

Memo: Optional description of the new user account.
Group: Select a group to administer authority parameters.
Authority: Customize DVR authorities for the selected Group.

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7.5.3 Info

View your DVR system’s information and specifications at a glance. This menu will provide crucial device
and network information to allow manual reconfiguration of your mobile application if needed. Keep in mind
you can also scan the QR Code on this screen using your Night Owl Connect App to quickly reconfigure your
mobile device via our Owl Scan feature.

Hardware Version: The current hardware version of your DVR.

Firmware Version: The current software version of you DVR.
Device Name: Product model number of your DVR.
Model: Product model number of your DVR.
UID: Your DVR’s unique identifier.

NOTE: Please scan the QR Code directly from your TV/Monitor, NOT from this page.

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7.5.4 Log

Search for logs of all events and notifications on the DVR.

Type: Select the type of event log that you would like to Search for. Each choice corresponds to
an action or event that was triggered and noted within the system. For example, System logs are
recorded when the DVR time is synced with NTP (if enabled) or if the system is turned on or off.
Start Time: Choose the initial date of your log search period.
End Time: Choose the end date of your log search period.
Previous Page: Select to move backward through the search log.
Next Page: Select to move forward through the search log.

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7.6 Advanced Menu

Configure additional settings related to maintenance, hard drive space and upgrades.

7.6.1 Maintain

Adjust settings related to default user access and reboot schedules.

Reboot: Set the frequency of reboots if this feature is enabled.

Auto Delete Old Files: Set whether you would like the DVR to automatically delete old files. This
option is like the Overwrite option, however this allows you to customize the time period in which
the HDD will automatically delete old recordings.
Load Default: Revert to the standard reboot schedule.
Shutdown: Display the power menu (Shutdown, Reboot, or Cancel).
Load/Save: Load previously saved settings from a USB flash drive. Export logs and DVR
configuration settings to a USB flash drive for future use.

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Within the Load Default menu, you may select which settings you would like to restore to default.

7.6.2 Events

Configure notification settings for other triggered events not related to motion detection such as disk error,
disk full and/or video loss. These events will be added to the Alarm Status window.

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 Event Type: Choose the type of event notification that you would like to appear on the Alarm
Status window.
No Storage: The HDD is full.
Storage Device Error: Refers to the status of the HDD and notifies you if it crashes or
has become corrupt.
Storage: No Space: This event setting allows you to set a percentage of available HDD
space alarm so that when the available storage space is less than the percentage it is
set to, the notification appears on the Alarm Status window.
Net Disconnection: The DVR lost Internet connectivity.
IP Conflict: Another device is attempting to use the same IP Address of your DVR.
Illegal Login: Unauthorized access was attempted on your DVR.
Video Loss: The absence of video due to power loss or disconnection.
Enable: Select channel, then turn notifications on or off for the selected Event type.
Show Message: Enable an icon to be displayed in Live View when the selected Event Type is triggered.
Buzzer: Turn an audible buzzer on for a duration of time to alert you when this Event Type
happens. Deselect to disable this feature.
Push: Select this option to send a notification to your Night Owl Connect App when this Event Type happens.
NOTE: This option is not available for Event Types: Net Disconnected or IP Conflict.

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7.6.3 Alarm Status

The Alarm Status notification message shows each camera’s alarm status. To prompt the Alarm Status message,
enable the “Show Message” check mark on the Camera>Motion or the Advanced>Events menus. By default,
this message is disabled.

Index: Represents each camera.

Type of Alarms:
Video Loss: Video loss is regarded as an alarm event and occurs any time the DVR does
not receive an active video signal on any of its inputs.
Motion Detection: Video motion detection occurs when there is movement in front of
your camera.
Video Obstruction: Flags scenarios in which someone may cover the camera’s field of
view or if they are attempting to tamper with the video signal.
Notifications Check:
Empty: No trigger detected.
Green Check Mark: Unchecked alarm that already finished.
Red Check Mark: The alarm is happening.
Advanced: Provides information about this window and allows you to adjust alarm notification settings.
OK: Hide the alarm status and verify that the alarm was noticed.

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Red Check: The alarm is happening.
Green Check: Unchecked alarm that already finished.
Empty Box: No trigger detected.
Clear Alarm State In Time: 0 Seconds:
0 Seconds: Clear alarm after 0 seconds.
5 Seconds: Clear alarm after 5 seconds.
30 Seconds: Clear alarm after 30 seconds.
5 minutes: Clear alarm after 5 minutes.
30 minutes: Clear alarm after 30 minutes.
After Confirmation: Clear alarm after confirmation.
Never: Never clear alarm.

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7.6.4 Auto Upgrade

Control settings for auto upgrades of the DVR firmware.

Upgrade from USB: Upgrade the DVR firmware from a USB flash drive. To upgrade DVR firmware,
insert a USB flash drive containing the DVR upgrade file into the USB port on the back of your
DVR. Then select the correct file from the “Upgrade File” drop-down menu and select “Upgrade.”
Auto Upgrade: Enable or Disable the auto upgrade feature. Firmware updates are detected automatically
when this feature is enabled. The default selection for the auto upgrade feature is “Enable.”
Check For Updates: Click on “Check” button to manually check for updated firmware versions. If
an upgrade is detected, click “OK” on the pop-up window to download and install the new version.
Camera Upgrade: To upgrade camera firmware, insert a USB flash drive containing the camera
upgrade file into the USB port on the back of your DVR. Then select the correct file from the
“Upgrade File” drop-down menu and select “Upgrade.”

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CHAPTER 8
GLOSSARY

86
Chapter 8: Glossary
C50XFR: 5MP (Megapixel) Hi-Definition Analog System with Human Detection Technology and Built-in Motion-
Activated Spotlights.
DDNS: Dynamic Domain Naming System. Method for automatically updating hostnames, addresses, URL’s or other
information on a given name server.
DHCP: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A network protocol that allows a server to automatically assign a device
and IP address.
Facial Capture and Recognition: Technology that captures a person’s face from up to 10 ft. from the camera, scans
the system’s database for a match, and sends a Familiar or Unfamiliar Face alert to your Smart Device.
Familiar Face Alert: An alert with a captured image of a face that matches your system’s database of stored profiles.
Human Detection: Technology that uses advanced algorithms to detect human motion, reducing false alerts to your
Smart Device.
IP: Internet Protocol. Protocol for standard communications across the Internet.
ISP: Internet Service Provider. An organization that provides services for accessing or using the Internet.
PIR: Passive Infrared. Heat-based sensors eliminate most false alarms and only delivers alerts when people, animals
or vehicles are detected.
SMTP: Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. Standards used for email transmission.
Unfamiliar Face Alerts: An alert with a captured image of a face that doesn’t match your system’s database of stored
profiles.
UPS: Uninterrupted Power Supply. Device used to keep the DVR and cameras powered when the main power supply
is lost or disconnected.
UTC (Up-the-Coax): This new technology allows for PTZ functions to be sent back and forth between the DVR and
camera using a standard BNC (Video/Power) cable without the need for a separate port.

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CHAPTER 9
WARRANTY

88
Chapter 9: Warranty
NIGHT OWL, LLC (“Night Owl”) provides the following warranty to the original retail purchaser only (the
“Purchaser”) with respect to this product (the “Product”):

For a period of one (1) year after the date of sale, the Product shall be free from manufacturing defects
in material and workmanship. In the event that the Product is defective, the Purchaser must return the
Product at Purchaser’s cost with the original proof of purchase receipt. In its sole discretion, Night Owl
will either repair or replace the Product at no additional cost to the Purchaser. Any replacement Product
(or parts) will be covered by the same warranty as the original Product through the expiration date of the
original warranty period.

Exclusions
This warranty does not apply to the following parts or upon the following events:
1. Bulbs, LEDS and batteries;
2. The Product was not used or installed in the manner described in the installation instructions;
3. Negligent use of the Product or misuse or abuse of the Product;
4. Electrical short circuits or power surges;
5. Use of replacement parts not supplied by Night Owl;
6. Product is either tampered with, modified or repaired by another service provider;
7. Product has not been maintained in accordance;
8. Accident, fire, flood or other acts of God;
9. Failure to use Night Owl approved accessories;
10. Defects or damages arising by use of the Product in other than normal conditions (including
normal atmospheric, moisture and humidity conditions).

Except as otherwise prohibited by law, this warranty is in lieu of other warranties, express or implied and
Night Owl neither assumes no authorizes any person to assume for it any other obligation or liability
in connection with the sale or service of the Product.

In no event shall Night Owl be liable for any special or consequential damages arising from the use of
the Product or arising from the malfunctioning or non-functioning of the Product or for any delay in
the performance of this warranty due to any cause beyond its control. This warranty shall not apply to
installation or the removal and re-installation of products after repair.

Night Owl does not make any claims or warranties of any kind whatsoever regarding the Product’s potential,
ability or effectiveness to prevent, minimize or in any way affect personal or property damage or injury. Night
Owl is not responsible for any personal damage, loss or theft related to the Product or to its use for any harm,
whether physical or mental related thereto. Any and all claims or statements, whether written or verbal, by
salespeople, retailers, dealers or distributors to the contrary are not authorized by Night Owl and do not affect
this provision of this warranty.

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Disclaimer
Certain uses, publication and/or distribution of video/audio recordings from security cameras and/or audio
devices are prohibited or restricted by federal, state and local laws. When enabling and/or using audio
recording features with your hidden security camera, be sure to comply with the laws in your country, state
and locality.

Mac and Mac OS X are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Windows, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows
7, Windows 8 and Windows 10 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.

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 CHAPTER 10
TROUBLESHOOTING

91
Chapter 10: Troubleshooting
If a problem occurs, you may be able to easily correct it yourself. The following table describes some common
issues and their most likely solutions. Please refer to the table before calling technical support.

Error Possible Causes Solutions

1. Confirm that all cables are
connected correctly.
Cable from power adapter is
2. Confirm that the power
loose or is unplugged.
adapter is securely connected
to the back of the unit.
1. Confirm that the system is
powered ON (LED indicators
on the front should be ON).
2. If the unit is connected
System is not receiving power or through a power bar or surge
is not powering up. protector, try bypassing the
Cables are connected, but bar and connecting the power
system is not receiving sufficient directly to the wall outlet.
power. 3. Confirm that there is power at
the outlet.
4. Connecting the power cable
to another outlet.
5. Test the outlet with another
plugged device (such as a
phone charger).

Go to the Device Menu > HDD

Hard drive is full (0%) and the
Overwrite is not enabled. and ensure that Overwrite is set
unit is no longer recording.
to Auto.

Mouse cable is not firmly

connected to the system. Firmly connect the mouse cable
to the USB Mouse port on the
Mouse is not connected to the front panel.
system.

Mouse not detected by system. Power off the system

(disconnect power cable). Firmly
connect a USB mouse to the
System needs to be reset. USB Mouse port on the front
panel of the system. Reconnect
the power cable to the DC 19V
port on the real panel.

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 Error Possible Causes Solutions
1. Check the camera video cable
and connections.
2. Disconnect and reconnect the
There is no picture on selected
Camera cables are loose or have cable at the system and at
channels/camera picture is not
become disconnected. the camera.
being displayed.
3. Try moving the camera to
another channel or use
another cable.
Audio cables are loose or have Check the AUDIO connection to
been disconnected. the DVR.
Left click in Live View to bring
The image on the DVR appears, up the Volume control and
Audio channels are disabled.
but does not have sound. ensure that the channel(s) are
not low or muted.
Volume on external speakers Increase volume on external
(not included) is low or off. speakers (not included).
A “whirring” noise is coming The noise means the exhaust
Fan is active.
from the system. fan is working normally.
The system beeps at startup. The beep at startup is normal.
Go to Right-Click Menu > Main
The system beeps during motion Motion detection is enabled, but Menu > Cameras > Motion >
detection. the alarm buzzer is activated. Select the Channel and
un-check the Buzzer check box.

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 CHAPTER 11
USER INFORMATION

94
Chapter 11: User Information
Be sure to write down all the important information below and place it in a secure location.

General DVR Information

NOTE: This information can be found on page 76 and 78.

Admin Password:
User Password:
Model Number:
UID:

Internet Login Information

NOTE: This information can be found within the General Menu tab under Network in your DVR’s Main Menu.

Web Port:
IP Address:
Subnet Mask:
Gateway:
DNS1:
DNS2:

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 NEED HELP?
Why Call? Our Support Site Has It All!
For system manuals, troubleshooting guides, FAQs, video tutorials and more:
1 Please visit www.NightOwlSP.com.

2 Click the Support tab.

3 Type C50XFR in the search bar.

4 Access the support material needed.

CONTACT US

PHONE (English, Spanish & French) EMAIL WEBSITE

Technical Support Technical Support 24/7 Product Support
1.866.390.1303 [email protected] • How-To Videos
Live Chat 24/7, 365 days a year • Manuals
Sales Support
[email protected]
Pre-Sales Support
1.866.979.0580

www.NightOwlSP.com
iPhone, iPad, Mac and Mac OS X are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Rev 190802
Windows, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows
10 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the
United States and/or other countries.

96