This document serves as a Quick Start Guide for ASPECT Digital Video Recorders (DVRs), covering models DVR-2M-4-2, DVR-2M-8-2, DVR-2M-16-2, DVR-2M-32, DVR-8M-4, DVR-8M-8, and DVR-8M-16. It provides essential information for installation, initial setup, and basic operation of these devices.
Function Description
The ASPECT DVR is designed as an out-of-the-box CCTV system optimized for ease of installation and operation. Its primary function is to record and manage video footage from connected cameras, providing a comprehensive surveillance solution. The DVR supports both HD analogue cameras and IP cameras, offering flexibility in system design. It automatically starts recording video from connected cameras upon setup, simplifying the initial configuration process. The system is designed to enhance security by encouraging the use of secure usernames and passwords, and it includes features for password recovery.
The DVR acts as a central hub for video surveillance, allowing users to view live feeds, playback recorded footage, and manage camera settings. It integrates with a dedicated application for smart devices and a CMS (Central Management System) for computers, enabling remote access and control.
Usage Features
Installation and Initial Setup
The installation process begins with identifying the components included in the box, such as the DVR unit, remote control (for some models), HDD mounting screws, power supply unit (PSU), rack mount ears (for larger models), USB mouse, and a quick start guide.
The rear panel of the DVR features various ports for connectivity:
- BNC connectors (CAM1-CAM32): Used for connecting HD analogue cameras. The number of supported cameras varies by model (e.g., CAM1-CAM4 for DVR-2M-4-2, CAM1-CAM32 for DVR-2M-32).
- ETHERNET/WAN port: For network connection to the Internet, router, network switch, and network IP cameras (does not provide PoE).
- VGA output: Connects to a main display monitor with a maximum resolution of 1920x1080.
- HDMI output: Connects to a main display monitor with a maximum resolution of 3840x2160 for DVR-8M series and 1920x1080 for DVR-2M series.
- ALARM IN terminals (AI1~AI16, GND): For alarm input.
- RS-485 port: Communications port for connecting PTZ cameras with RS-485 support.
- ALARM OUT port (AO1~8, COM): For alarm relay output.
- POWER INPUT: Power input for the NVR.
- AUDIO IN/OUT RCA connectors: For connecting microphones and speakers.
- USB ports: For connecting USB devices such as a mouse or backup devices.
The front panel includes an IR remote control receiver, USB ports, and a STATUS LED that displays the status of power, network, and hard drive.
System Topology
The DVR system connects various components:
- AHD Cameras: Connect to the BNC ports on the DVR.
- Microphone: Connects to the audio input.
- PTZ Camera: Connects via RS485 for pan, tilt, and zoom control.
- Monitor: Connects via VGA or HDMI for video display.
- Router: Connects to the Ethernet port for internet access and remote viewing.
- Power Supply: Powers the DVR.
- Mouse: Connects to a USB port for system navigation.
Start-up Wizard
Upon initial boot-up, a start-up wizard guides the user through the essential setup steps:
- System Login: Users log in with default credentials (username: admin, password: blank).
- Enhanced Security Password: It is highly recommended to create a secure password with uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. A password recovery email address should also be set up.
- Set Continuous, Alarm & System Alarm Recording: Users can define recording schedules for each channel, selecting between continuous, alarm, or system alarm recording types. Pre-record time and stream (main/sub) can also be configured.
- Network Settings: DHCP is enabled by default. Users can untick DHCP to set a static IP address, ensuring stable network connection for IP cameras and remote access.
P2P Connection
The DVR supports P2P (peer-to-peer) connection for remote access via smart devices:
- Download and open the ASPECT application on a smartphone (iOS or Android).
- Register and log in to an account.
- Add the device by scanning the QR code (Cloud ID) displayed on the DVR screen or manually entering the P2P Cloud ID.
- Enter the DVR's username and password, and select the default stream (sub stream is recommended for faster display and reduced mobile data usage).
- Save the settings and start live view.
Live View and Menu Navigation
From the live view, right-clicking the mouse opens the main menu, providing access to various functions:
- Main Menu: Access to all NVR functions and settings.
- Start-up Wizard: Relaunch the setup wizard.
- Auto Channel Config: Search and add compatible IP cameras.
- IP Channel: Configure connections to IP cameras.
- Channel Status: View recording status of each channel.
- Playback: Shortcut to playback functions.
- Record Control: Open control settings for recording.
- PTZ Control: Open PTZ controls.
- UTC Control: Open Coaxitron controls.
- Colour Setting: Adjust camera colour settings.
- Output Adjust: Adjust display output.
- Mute: Turn off sound.
- Check Version: Open system version information.
- Logout: Logout, switch user, restart, or shutdown.
- View: Change the live view layout.
Adding IP Cameras
To add IP cameras:
- Change the HD channel type to IP via Main Menu > Setting > Channel > Channel Type. The DVR will reboot after applying changes.
- Ensure the DVR is properly configured for the local network.
- Right-click from Live view and select 'IP channel'.
- Use the bottom window to scan the network for compatible IP cameras.
- Select the desired channel position from the top window and double-click the IP address to add it.
Playback
The DVR offers various playback options:
- Normal Play: Standard video playback.
- Event Play: Playback of event-triggered recordings.
- Bookmark Play: Playback from bookmarked points.
- Smart Play: Intelligent playback features.
- Time Division Play: Playback based on specific time segments.
- Snapshot Play: Playback of captured snapshots.
Users can select the channel and date, then use the play icon to start playback. A control bar allows pausing, speeding up, slowing down, going backward, and stopping the video. Options for clipping, labeling, or locking video files are also available.
Backup
To back up video files:
- Access the 'Backup' tab from the main menu.
- Select the channel, record type, time, and day to search for files.
- Set the video file format (e.g., .avi).
- Connect a USB device with sufficient free space. If the device doesn't show, click 'Detect'. If there's insufficient memory, click 'Format' to clear the USB device.
- Select the desired video files and click 'Start'.
CMS Connection
The ASPECT CMS (Central Management System) is a computer program for connecting to devices over a WAN:
- Install and launch ASPECT CMS on a computer.
- Log in with default credentials (username: admin, password: admin), which should be changed for security.
- The software allows managing, displaying live video, searching playback video, setting up e-maps, and configuring device settings.
PC Playback
After backing up video files, they can be played on a computer using the ASPECT video player:
- Launch the ASPECT player (downloaded via QR code).
- Navigate to 'Playlist', select '+' then 'add file'.
- Browse to the backed-up video file and open it.
- Press play and use the control bar to control video speed and direction.
Maintenance Features
Password Management
The DVR supports a password reset function for forgotten user account passwords. This requires the recorder to be properly configured to a network.
- From the login page, click 'Forgot Password'.
- An email with a password recovery code will be sent to the email address set during the enhanced security password setup.
- Enter the code from the email into the password recovery field on screen and click 'OK'. The device will reboot.
- After rebooting, the user will be prompted to enter a new secure password and recovery email.
System Updates
While not explicitly detailed as a user-initiated feature, the mention of "Check Version" in the Live View menu suggests the ability to view system version information, which is a prerequisite for understanding when updates might be needed or available.
Data Backup
The dedicated 'Backup' feature allows users to transfer recorded video files to an external USB device, ensuring data preservation and freeing up internal storage if needed. The ability to format the USB device directly from the DVR simplifies the process of preparing external storage for backup.
Remote Access and Monitoring
The P2P connection feature and CMS integration allow for continuous monitoring and management of the surveillance system from remote locations, facilitating proactive maintenance and response to events.
Security Recommendations
The guide strongly emphasizes creating secure passwords and user accounts to enhance system security. It also advises using a generic mailbox for password recovery that multiple individuals can access, ensuring that password resets can be performed even if one individual is unavailable. Regular review and update of admin passwords are also implied, especially when connection details for the ASPECT app need to be updated.
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