1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Swann 8 Channel 960H Professional Security System. This system is designed to provide reliable surveillance for your home or business, featuring a Digital Video Recorder (DVR) with a 1TB hard drive and six 900TVL cameras with 82 feet night vision capabilities.
1.1 Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact Swann customer support.
- 8 Channel 960H Digital Video Recorder (DVR) with 1TB Hard Drive
- 6 x 900TVL Weatherproof Cameras
- 6 x BNC Video/Power Cables (60ft/18m)
- Power Adapters for DVR and Cameras
- USB Mouse
- Remote Control
- Ethernet Cable
- HDMI Cable
- Mounting Screws and Plugs
- Operating Instructions / Quick Start Guide
Figure 1.1: All components included in the Swann 8 Channel 960H Professional Security System package. This includes the main DVR unit, six security cameras, various cables for power and video, a USB mouse, a remote control, and mounting accessories.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety precautions before installing and operating this product. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the system.
- Power Supply: Use only the power adapters provided with the system. Using unauthorized power adapters may damage the system and void the warranty.
- Ventilation: Ensure the DVR unit has adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings. Avoid placing the DVR in enclosed spaces or on soft surfaces that may obstruct airflow.
- Environment: Do not expose the DVR or cameras to water, moisture, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight. The cameras are weatherproof but should not be submerged.
- Cables: Route all cables carefully to prevent tripping hazards or damage. Avoid placing cables in areas where they can be pinched or cut.
- Cleaning: Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
3. Setup
This section guides you through the physical installation and initial configuration of your security system.
3.1 DVR Connection
Before mounting cameras, connect the DVR to a monitor and power source for initial setup.
- Connect the supplied USB mouse to a USB port on the DVR.
- Connect the DVR to a monitor using the supplied HDMI cable or a VGA cable (not included).
- Connect the DVR to your network router using the supplied Ethernet cable for remote viewing capabilities.
- Connect the DVR power adapter to the DVR's power input and then to a power outlet. The DVR will power on automatically.
Figure 3.1: The Swann DVR unit with the USB mouse connected. The front panel displays power and hard drive activity indicators, essential for monitoring system status.
3.2 Camera Installation
Plan the camera locations carefully to maximize coverage and minimize blind spots. Ensure cameras are within reach of the supplied video/power cables.
- Mount each camera securely using the provided screws and wall plugs.
- Connect the BNC connector of the video/power cable to the BNC input on the camera.
- Connect the power connector of the video/power cable to the camera's power input.
- Route the other end of the video/power cable back to the DVR location.
- Connect the BNC connector of each camera cable to a BNC video input on the back of the DVR.
- Connect the power connectors from all camera cables to the camera power splitter, then connect the splitter to the camera power adapter and plug it into a power outlet.
Figure 3.2: A single Swann 900TVL security camera. This image shows the robust casing, the central lens, and the surrounding infrared LEDs that enable clear night vision up to 82 feet.
Figure 3.3: The complete Swann 8 Channel 960H Security System, illustrating the DVR unit connected to six cameras and a mouse, representing a fully assembled setup.
4. Operating
Once the system is set up, you can begin monitoring and recording video.
4.1 User Interface Navigation
Use the USB mouse to navigate the DVR's on-screen menu. Right-click to access the main menu, and left-click to select options.
4.2 Live View
Upon startup, the DVR will display the live view from all connected cameras. You can switch between single-camera view and multi-camera grid view.
4.3 Recording Modes
The DVR supports various recording modes:
- Continuous Recording: Records 24/7.
- Motion Detection Recording: Records only when motion is detected in a camera's view.
- Scheduled Recording: Records during specific times of the day or week.
Configure recording settings via the DVR's main menu under 'Record' or 'Schedule'.
4.4 Playback
To review recorded footage:
- Right-click on the live view screen to open the main menu.
- Select 'Playback'.
- Choose the date and camera channel you wish to review.
- Use the timeline to select the desired recording segment.
4.5 Remote Access
For remote viewing on smartphones or tablets, download the official SwannView Link app (or equivalent as per current Swann recommendations) and follow the in-app instructions for connecting to your DVR. Ensure your DVR is connected to the internet.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your security system.
5.1 Cleaning
- DVR: Gently wipe the exterior of the DVR with a dry, soft cloth. Ensure ventilation openings are free of dust.
- Cameras: Periodically clean the camera lenses with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust, dirt, or water spots that may affect image clarity.
5.2 Hard Drive Management
The 1TB hard drive will automatically overwrite the oldest footage when it becomes full. You can check the hard drive status and format it if necessary through the DVR's menu under 'HDD' or 'Storage'.
5.3 Firmware Updates
Occasionally, Swann may release firmware updates to improve system performance or add new features. Check the official Swann support website for available updates and instructions on how to apply them.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter and provides solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No video on monitor | Loose video cable, incorrect input selected on monitor, DVR not powered on. | Check all cable connections (HDMI/VGA). Ensure monitor is on correct input. Verify DVR power indicator is lit. |
| Camera not displaying | Loose BNC connection, camera power issue, faulty cable. | Check BNC connection at DVR and camera. Verify camera power adapter is connected and working. Test with a known working cable/camera if possible. |
| No recording | Hard drive full, recording schedule not set, motion detection not configured. | Check HDD status in DVR menu. Configure recording schedule or motion detection settings. Ensure hard drive is formatted. |
| Poor night vision | Infrared LEDs obstructed, camera lens dirty, insufficient ambient light. | Clean camera lens. Ensure no obstructions are blocking the infrared LEDs. Adjust camera angle if necessary. |
| Remote access not working | DVR not connected to internet, incorrect network settings, firewall issues. | Verify Ethernet cable is connected to DVR and router. Check network settings on DVR. Ensure router firewall is not blocking access. |
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the Swann 8 Channel 960H Professional Security System.
- Brand: Swann
- Model Number: e3638e76-0a6c-4bbd-a64f-54582f96465d (SWDVK-834506-CL)
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Video Capture Resolution: 960x576 (960H)
- Special Feature: Night Vision
- Number of Channels: 8
- Memory Storage Capacity: 1 TB (Hard Drive)
- Color: Black
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions (L x W x H): 15.2 x 8 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 14.25 pounds
- Compatible Devices: Cameras
- Low Light Technology: Night color
- Night Vision Range: 82 Feet
- Recording Mode: Standard definition video, Night vision
- Total USB Ports: 1
- Hardware Interface: USB 2.0
- Lens Type: Fixed
- Video Input: BNC
- UPC: 840236105748
- Date First Available: May 26, 2015
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Swann website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Online Support: Visit the Swann support section on their official website for FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and software downloads.
Contact: Refer to the Swann website for current contact methods, including phone numbers and email support.
