Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Q-See QC8941 4-Channel 1080p IP Network Video Recorder. This device is designed to record surveillance footage in ultra-clear 1080p resolution, ensuring the safety and security of your property. It features H.264+ video compression for efficient storage and Power over Ethernet (PoE) compatibility for simplified camera connections.
Product Overview
The Q-See QC8941 NVR is a robust solution for managing your IP surveillance system. It supports up to 4 IP cameras and includes a pre-installed hard drive for immediate use. Its compact design allows for flexible placement.

Figure 1: Front view of the Q-See QC8941 4-Channel NVR. This image shows the sleek black casing of the NVR with the Q-See logo and status indicators on the front panel, along with a USB port on the right side.
Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your Q-See QC8941 NVR:
- Unpack the NVR: Carefully remove the NVR and all accessories from the packaging.
- Connect Power: Connect the included power adapter to the NVR's power input and then to a power outlet.
- Connect a Monitor: Use an HDMI or VGA cable to connect a monitor to the corresponding port on the NVR's rear panel.
- Connect a Mouse: Plug the USB mouse into one of the USB ports on the NVR (front or rear).
- Connect to Network: Connect an Ethernet cable from the NVR's LAN port to your network router or switch.
- Connect IP Cameras: Connect your PoE-compatible IP cameras directly to the NVR's PoE ports using Ethernet cables. For non-PoE cameras, connect them to your network and ensure they are on the same network as the NVR.
- Power On: The NVR will typically power on automatically once connected to power. Follow the on-screen prompts for initial setup, including setting up an administrator password and configuring network settings.

Figure 2: Rear panel connections of the Q-See QC8941 NVR. This diagram illustrates the various ports including power supply, VGA monitor, network (LAN and PoE ports), external microphone, HDMI display, and USB mouse connections.
Operating Instructions
Once your NVR is set up, you can begin monitoring and recording:
- Live View: Access the live view interface on your connected monitor to see real-time footage from all connected cameras.
- Recording: The NVR is configured to record in 1080p resolution. You can customize recording schedules (continuous, motion-detection, scheduled) through the NVR's menu. The H.264+ compression technology optimizes storage space while maintaining video quality.
- Playback: Use the playback function to review recorded footage. You can search by date, time, and event type.
- Remote Monitoring: Download the official Q-See application for Windows, Mac, or Apple iOS devices to monitor your cameras remotely. Refer to the Q-See website for specific application details and setup guides.
- Hard Drive Management: The NVR supports 1 SATA HDD up to 6 TB. The pre-installed hard drive will automatically overwrite older footage once full, based on your settings.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your NVR:
- Keep Clean: Regularly clean the exterior of the NVR with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners directly on the device.
- Ventilation: Ensure the NVR is placed in a well-ventilated area, free from obstructions that could block airflow to the vents. Overheating can affect performance and lifespan.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Q-See official website for firmware updates. Keeping your NVR's firmware up-to-date can improve performance, add features, and enhance security.
- Data Backup: For critical footage, regularly back up recordings to an external storage device or cloud service, if supported.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your NVR, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Video Display:
- Check if the monitor is powered on and correctly connected to the NVR via HDMI or VGA.
- Ensure the NVR is powered on and its status indicators are active.
- Try a different monitor or cable to rule out faulty equipment.
- Cameras Not Displaying:
- Verify that IP cameras are powered on and correctly connected to the NVR's PoE ports or your network.
- Check network connectivity for both the NVR and the cameras.
- Ensure cameras are properly added and configured within the NVR's camera management settings.
- Confirm that the cameras are compatible with the NVR.
- No Recording:
- Check the recording schedule to ensure it is active.
- Verify that the hard drive is detected and functioning correctly.
- Ensure there is sufficient storage space on the hard drive.
- Check for any error messages related to the hard drive or recording.
- Remote Access Issues:
- Ensure the NVR is connected to the internet.
- Verify network settings, including port forwarding if required by your network configuration.
- Confirm that the remote viewing application is correctly configured and updated.
- Check your internet connection on both the NVR side and the remote viewing device.
For more detailed troubleshooting or issues not covered here, please refer to the Q-See official support resources.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | QC8941 |
| Brand | Q-See |
| Number of Channels | 4 |
| Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Video Compression | H.264+ |
| Connectivity Technology | Ethernet (PoE compatible) |
| Hard Disk Support | 1 SATA HDD up to 6 TB (Pre-installed HDD may vary in size) |
| Remote Monitoring | Windows, Mac, Apple iOS devices |
| Item Weight | 5 pounds |
| Package Dimensions | 10.2 x 8.9 x 1.9 inches |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Q-See website. Q-See provides various support resources, including FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and customer service contact options.
Online Support: Visit the Q-See Store on Amazon or the official Q-See website for the latest support information and resources.





