Are Swann DVRs easy to install?

Swann DVRs are designed with Do it Yourself installation in mind. Most people who can set up a VCR or Home Theatre system will not have any problems installing a DVR.
The plugs and cables do not need tools to install and are a simple click, push or twist fit. But if you do need assistance our Support Technicians are here to help.

Can I connect my existing CCTV cameras to your DVRs?

Our DVRs use BNC or RCA connections and many of our DVRs include BNC to RCA adapters which will connect to the vast majority of cameras available today.

Do I need a special Monitor or TV to connect my DVR to?

No, Swann DVRs will connect to most modern TVs using the provided cables/adapters.
If you can hook up a VCR or DVD player to your TV then you can hook up a Swann DVR.

Why can’t I see the DVR image on my TV?

Confirm your DVR is powered on and running. Next, make sure your TV is set to the right input. Most TVs will have a button labelled Input, Source, A/V, Line, L1, L2 or Input Select.
If you are unable to change inputs, consult your TV manual or contact your TV manufacturer.

Can I see all my cameras on my TV at the same time?

Yes, all of our standalone and PC DVRs can split the screen to view all of your cameras.
You can also switch views to single camera mode to view each camera in full screen allowing you to see more detail.

Can my DVR work without a TV connected to it?

Yes, once you are happy with the recording settings and options you can disconnect the DVR from your TV and move it to a secure location. If/when footage is needed you can connect a TV or monitor to the DVR to review footage.

Can I connect a Wireless camera system to my DVR?

Swann wireless camera receivers can be connected to DVRs using BNC to RCA adapters provided with most DVRs. However, due to the variable nature of wireless signals and the potential for interference to cause false motion triggers, wireless cameras are not as well suited to DVR systems as wired cameras are.

What cables do I need to extend the range of my cameras from
the DVR?

Swann has a range of suitable cables just for this purpose. Choose the appropriate cable length and type of connection (BNC or RCA) for your camera/DVR combination from our extensive range found on the Swann Security website or check with your local Swann retailer.

Can I cut any of my DVRs cables to suit a particular use or application?

Swann DVRs and their components are carefully designed and built to give reliable and trouble-free service. Any modifications not authorised by Swann could possibly damage the DVR and/or components or affect their reliability or performance. Cutting cables or any other unauthorised modifications of the product will void any warranty.

What is Motion Recording?

Motion Recording allows you to record only when the DVR detects a change in the camera image. Recording only when motion occurs will save hard drive space and time when playing back footage. All Swann DVR’s are equipped with motion detection and most will allow you to select the region you would like to detect such as a door or driveway.

Can I view my Swann DVR4-Alert from my office or another location?

Swann has many DVR models that are capable of displaying images over a network or the internet such as the PRO-Net and the DVR4/8/16Net Plus series. Consult our website for more detail on any of our DVRs including networking capabilities.

How long will my Swann DVR record?

Depending on the size of your hard drive, picture quality settings and frames per second, recording times will vary. Here is a general guide on recording times. Note exact recording times will vary by model.

NOTE: The table below is an average number of hours you can continually record to an 80GB hard drive based on the DVR4-Alert or DVR4-1000 in NTSC mode. These are approximate times only. Consult your DVR’s manual for more precise recording times.

Why isn’t my DVR powering on?

Make sure you are using your DVR’s power supply to power on the unit. The DVR should always have its own power supply and should never be sharing power with other devices such as cameras or power splitters.

Why do I get a HDD Detect error when my DVR is turned on?

Make sure the hard drive jumper settings are set to “Master”. The jumper settings are usually displayed on the hard drive or in the manufacturer’s manual. Ensure the IDE ribbon cable is inserted correctly into the hard drive. Looking at the connections on the back of the hard drive with the label of the hard drive facing up, gently insert the IDE cable with the red/black stripe on the right side of the cable and alignment notch on the top of the cable. Ensure the pins line up correctly and are not bent.

Is it legal to use a DVR to watch and/or record people like neighbors, family or staff?

All jurisdictions have specific laws and regulations relating to the use of cameras. Before using any camera or DVR for any purpose, it is the buyer’s responsibility to be aware of all applicable laws, regulations that prohibit or limit the use of cameras and to comply with the applicable laws and regulations. The legality of watching people other than yourself may change between countries or even state to state. Contact your local government’s privacy information body or your local Police Department for more information on what/any restrictions you may face.

What is the maximum hard drive size I can use?

The maximum hard drive size Swann recommends is 400GB with 8MB of cache. Swann recommends using Seagate hard drives with your Swann DVR system.

Can I contact you if I have any problems or questions about my DVR?

Yes, Swann Security strives to provide you with easy Do-it-Yourself solutions however if you have any questions or problems with a product we encourage you to contact our friendly and knowledgeable Support Technicians who will be there to answer your questions or concerns.

Technical Support in the UK 020 8358 6656