1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the Dahua XVR5108HS-X 8-Channel Penta-brid Digital Video Recorder. The XVR5108HS-X is a hybrid video recorder supporting HDCVI, AHD, TVI, CVBS, and IP video inputs, offering versatile compatibility for various surveillance systems. It features H.265+/H.265 dual-stream video compression and supports up to 12 IP camera inputs (8+4 channels) with a maximum of 6 MP per channel.
Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper and safe operation. Keep this manual for future reference.
2. Safety Information
- Ensure the power supply voltage matches the specified requirements.
- Do not expose the device to moisture, rain, or extreme temperatures.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on the device.
- Disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.
- Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
3. Product Overview
3.1 Front Panel
The front panel of the Dahua XVR5108HS-X features indicator lights for HDD activity, network status, and power, along with a USB port for peripheral connections.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the Dahua XVR5108HS-X Digital Video Recorder. This image displays the device's sleek black casing, front-facing ventilation, and indicator lights for HDD, NET, and POWER status. A USB port is visible on the lower right side of the front panel.
3.2 Rear Panel
The rear panel provides various ports for video input, audio input/output, network connection, and power.

Figure 3.2: Rear panel layout of the Dahua XVR5108HS-X. This diagram illustrates the various connection ports, including BNC video inputs, RCA audio input/output, HDMI, VGA, Ethernet, RS485, USB, and DC 12V power input. Each port is numbered for easy identification.
Key to Rear Panel Connections:
- Video In (BNC)
- Audio In (RCA Connector)
- Audio Out (RCA Connector)
- HDMI Interface
- Network Interface (Ethernet)
- RS485 Interface
- USB Interface
- DC 12V Power Input
- VGA Interface
3.3 Dimensions
The physical dimensions of the XVR5108HS-X are provided to assist with installation planning.

Figure 3.3: Dimensional drawing of the Dahua XVR5108HS-X. This diagram shows the length (260mm), width (235.6mm), and height (47.6mm) of the device, including side and top views for precise measurement.
4. Setup
4.1 Hardware Installation
Follow these steps to install the hardware components of your DVR system.
- Hard Drive Installation: Open the DVR casing, mount the hard drive(s) securely, and connect the SATA power and data cables. Close the casing.
- Connect Cameras: Connect your HDCVI, AHD, TVI, CVBS, or IP cameras to the corresponding video input ports (BNC for analog/HDCVI/AHD/TVI, Ethernet for IP cameras).
- Connect Display: Connect a monitor to the HDMI or VGA output port.
- Connect Audio: If using external audio, connect audio input devices to the RCA Audio In port and speakers to the RCA Audio Out port.
- Network Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable from the DVR's network interface to your router or network switch.
- Connect USB Peripherals: Connect a USB mouse to one of the USB ports for navigation.
- Power On: Connect the DC 12V power adapter to the DVR and then to a power outlet. The device will power on automatically.

Figure 4.1: System connection diagram for the Dahua XVR5108HS-X. This diagram illustrates how various components such as cameras (analog and IP), audio devices, monitors (HDMI/VGA), network devices, and USB peripherals (mouse, keyboard) connect to the DVR.
4.2 Initial Configuration
Upon first boot, the system will guide you through an initial setup wizard.
- Language Selection: Choose your preferred language.
- Password Setup: Create a strong administrator password.
- Network Settings: Configure network parameters (DHCP or static IP).
- Date and Time: Set the correct date, time, and time zone.
- Hard Drive Initialization: Format the installed hard drive(s) for recording.
- Camera Search: The system will automatically detect connected cameras. For IP cameras, you may need to add them manually via the network interface.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Live View
After initial setup, the DVR will display the live feed from connected cameras on the monitor. Use the mouse to navigate the interface.
- Split Screen: Right-click on the live view to access options for changing the screen layout (e.g., 1, 4, 8, 9, 16 camera views).
- PTZ Control: If PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras are connected via RS485 or network, use the PTZ control interface to adjust camera direction and zoom.
5.2 Video Recording
The DVR supports various recording modes and compression standards.
- Compression: H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264.
- Resolution: Supports 5M-N, 4M-N, 1080P, 1080N, 720P, 960H, D1, CIF.
- Recording Speed: Main stream: 1st and 2nd channel 5M-N (1~10fps), other channels 4M-N/1080P (1~15fps); 1080N/720P/960H/D1/CIF (1~25/30fps). Sub stream: D1/CIF (1~15fps).
- Recording Schedule: Configure continuous, motion-detection, or alarm-triggered recording schedules through the system menu.
5.3 Playback
Access recorded footage for review.
- Navigate to the "Playback" menu.
- Select the desired date, time, and camera channel.
- Use the timeline to locate specific events.
- Utilize smart search features for quick event retrieval.
5.4 Network Access
The DVR can be accessed remotely via network.
- Web Client: Access the DVR through a web browser by entering its IP address.
- Mobile App: Download the official Dahua mobile application (e.g., DMSS) for remote viewing and control on smartphones.
- CMS/Smart PSS: Use Dahua's Central Management Software for managing multiple devices.
6. Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the DVR free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Ensure ventilation openings are clear.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Dahua official website for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and security.
- Hard Drive Health: Monitor the health of the hard drive(s) through the system menu. Replace failing drives promptly.
- Backup Configuration: Regularly back up your DVR's configuration settings to a USB drive.
7. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues and their solutions.
- No Video Output:
- Check HDMI/VGA cable connections.
- Ensure the monitor is powered on and set to the correct input.
- Verify camera connections and power.
- No Recording:
- Check if the hard drive is installed and formatted.
- Verify recording schedules and motion detection settings.
- Ensure the hard drive is not full.
- Network Connection Issues:
- Check the Ethernet cable connection.
- Verify network settings (IP address, gateway, DNS).
- Ensure the router is functioning correctly.
- Fan Noise:
- The DVR has a fan control function. Access the system menu to adjust fan settings or check for overheating.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Processor | Embedded Processor |
| Operating System | Embedded Linux |
| Analog Camera Input | 8 Channels, BNC (HDCVI, AHD, TVI, CVBS) |
| IP Camera Input | 8 + 4 Channels (up to 12 IP channels), up to 6 MP per channel |
| Audio Input/Output | 1/1, RCA |
| Video Compression | H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264 |
| Recording Resolution | 5M-N, 4M-N, 1080P, 1080N, 720P, 960H, D1, CIF |
| Display Interfaces | 1 HDMI, 1 VGA |
| USB Ports | 1 (front) + 1 (rear) for mouse/backup |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 260mm x 235.6mm x 47.6mm |
| Power Consumption | 10 Watts (excluding HDD) |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Dahua Technology website. Technical support is available through your local distributor or Dahua's customer service channels. Please have your model number (XVR5108HS-X) and serial number ready when contacting support.
Note: Spare parts availability and software update guarantees are subject to regional policies and product lifecycle. Please consult Dahua's official resources for the most current information.





