Important Information Before Job Site Visit
For optimal control and convenience, connect your system to the internet via a local network router. Ensure you can access this network through a personal computer for installation. Internet connectivity enables the use of OvrC, a remote maintenance service. For details, visit OvrC.com. If your surveillance system is isolated from the internet, download the technical reference manual from SnapAV.com, which includes a chapter on installation without the web interface.
Required Equipment
- The NVR and all cameras to be installed
- Network connection for the NVR
- Admin rights to a network computer for accessing the surveillance system
- Phillips screwdriver
- Two AAA batteries for the remote control
Additional Resources
The full NVR technical reference manual, hard drive installation guide, and other materials are available from SnapAV.com. Visit the product page and click the support tab. If installing additional hard drives, do so now before beginning installation.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including cadmium, known to the State of California to cause cancer, and phthalates, known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Safety Tips
- Handle the device with care; do not strike or shake it.
- Operate the device within its specified power source ratings.
- Protect the power cord from being stepped on or pinched, especially at connection points.
- Do not insert items through ventilation slots. If something falls inside, immediately turn off power and contact qualified personnel.
- Avoid exposing the device to water or moisture, which can cause damage and electric shock. If the device becomes wet, turn off power immediately and contact qualified personnel.
- Do not use in humidity above 85%.
- Keep the device away from heat sources like radiators or stoves.
- Ensure adequate ventilation when mounting in a closed space; do not block ventilation openings.
- Hard drive performance and lifespan are affected by temperature. Use the device in temperatures ranging from 14–131 °F.
- Handle hard drives with care.
- To prevent damage, do not move the device while the hard drive is spinning. Follow the shutdown procedure in the technical reference manual and wait at least 30 seconds before moving.
- When servicing or exchanging the hard drive, protect it from static electricity using a grounded static wrist guard and mat. Do not use an electric screwdriver.
- Clean the device with a dry cloth. Avoid strong or abrasive detergents. Use a mild detergent for stubborn dirt.
- Note and save system settings for easier configuration changes and recovery from failures.
Set Up the Hardware
Diagram Description: The rear panel of the NVR is shown with connections labeled for cameras, optional local video monitor (VGA/HDMI), optional USB mouse, AC power, and network gateway (Ethernet port).
Caution: Do not power up the NVR until all steps are complete.
- If desired, install the NVR in the rack. Otherwise, attach the rubber feet to the bottom corners.
- Connect the mouse to a USB port on the rear panel. It is recommended to leave the front USB port unused and accessible.
- If desired, connect a local monitor to the VGA or HDMI port.
- Connect your IP surveillance cameras to the camera ports. For network camera connections, consult the technical reference manual.
- Connect your network cable to the Ethernet port.
- Connect the power cord and turn on the power switch.
Install and Run the Luma Utility
The Luma Utility helps locate surveillance hardware and set up communications. It is a PC-only utility.
Download the Luma Utility installer from the Support tab on your product page at SnapAV.com. Ensure you use version v3.0.0.54 build 20180202 or later; earlier versions will not work.
Run the installer and accept the default settings.
Connect your PC to the network and launch the Luma Utility. It will scan the local network for Luma Surveillance devices. If your NVR does not appear, verify network connections, ensure the unit is powered up, and click the Refresh button.
Click on your NVR's entry to view details. If the NVR is inactive, use the text boxes on the lower right to activate it by creating a new secure password.
- Passwords must be 16 characters or less and can contain numbers, letters, spaces, and the special characters: : - /.
- Use a password that is long and easy to remember, like "parisinthespring", which is more secure and easier to recall than "D3x^7b".
Table Description: A table lists Luma NVR devices with their ID, Device Type, Device Name, Status (Active/Inactive), IPv4 Address, HTTP Port, Server Port, RTSP Port, Software Version, and Service Tag. One entry shows an inactive NVR.
A screenshot shows fields for 'New Password' and 'Confirm Password' with an 'Activate' button.
Edit the Network Settings
For network setting changes, consult the NVR manual.
Suggested Best Practices
Ensure 'Enable DHCP' is activated. In your router, reserve an IP address for the NVR's MAC address (found on the box or under System Settings > System Information). Refer to your router's documentation for details.
Change the Server and HTTP Ports
The HTTP port defaults to 80, enabling browser access. The server port defaults to 8000, enabling the Luma mobile application. For security, it is suggested to change these ports and record the new numbers. Consult your server or router manual for common and reserved port numbers to avoid.
To confirm changes, enter your created password and click Save.
Diagram Description: A screenshot of the 'Modify Network Parameters' interface is shown, with fields for Enable DHCP, Device Serial No., Device Name, IP Address, Server Port, Subnet Mask, Gateway, IPv6 Address, IPv6 Gateway, IPv6 Prefix Length, HTTP Port, RTSP Port, and Admin Password. Buttons for 'Modify' and 'Forgot Password' are present.
Optional: Prep for Plugin-Free Browsers
With firmware v3.4.99 build 200508, Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge can view your system remotely. Port forwarding setup in your network router (under 'Port Forwarding' or 'Applications and Gaming') allows internet access for remote viewing and operations. Refer to your router manual for assistance.
To access the recorder from browsers other than Internet Explorer, forward port 7681. This port is necessary for browsers that no longer support plugins (like Chrome and Firefox).
While the internal port 7681 cannot be changed, port translation is possible. The external port can be any available port. This port does not replace your HTTP port; it is a special port that needs to be forwarded on your router. If your HTTP port is, for example, 8042, your web address remains the same (e.g., MyHome.WirepathDNS.com:8042).
Diagram Description: A screenshot shows the 'Port Forwarding' configuration within a router interface. It includes fields for Protocol, External Port, External Address, Internal Port, Internal Address, and Description. Several port forwarding rules are listed, including for HTTP, RTSP, Server, and AP Telnet.
Find the necessary NVR settings, log in to your router, and enter the new port forwarding rules.
Complete Port Forwarding
Port forwarding setup enables internet access for remote viewing and operations. Configure these settings in your network router, typically under 'Port Forwarding' or 'Applications and Gaming'. Consult your router manual for guidance.
After finding the NVR settings, log in to your router and enter the new port forwarding rules. Once completed, your device's URL (e.g., MyHome.WirepathDNS.com) will direct you to the NVR login page from anywhere. If you changed the HTTP port from the default (80), append a colon and the new port number to the URL (e.g., MyHome.WirepathDNS.com:8042).
Table Description: A table lists port names (HTTP, Server, RTSP) with their Default Values, New Values, and Protocol (TCP/UDP). Separate fields are provided for NVR IP Address and Admin Password.
Port Forward Attached Cameras
If cameras are directly attached to the NVR and you wish to access them remotely, set up port forwarding for each camera. Cameras are accessed via the NVR's IP address, modified by port numbers 65001 (for camera 1) through 65016 (for camera 16). Forward these ports on your router. Camera management links on page 11 provide further reference.
Start the Web Interface
Get the Luma Plug-In
Open your browser, enter the recorder's IP address (from page 7) into the address bar, and press Return.
Below the login window, there may be a link to download and install the plug-in. If so, download the plug-in, close the browser during installation, and then close all browser instances.
Image Description: An icon labeled 'LumaWebComponents' is shown.
Install the LumaWebComponents plug-in. Restart your browser and return to the recorder's login window. Enter 'admin' for the username and the password created on page 6.
You may receive a pop-up asking to run the Luma Web Components plug-in; allow it to access your system. Save the recorder's page as a browser favorite.
Check the Cameras
After logging in, the live page should display your cameras. If a camera is offline, check its connection to the NVR and ensure it is powered on.
Edit Camera Settings (Optional)
To adjust camera settings, click the settings icon ⚙️. In the configuration screen, click 'Camera Management'. This displays a table of all IP cameras configured for the NVR. The rightmost column provides a link to each camera's web interface, accessible only within the network. Consult your camera manual for details.
Diagram Description: A screenshot shows the live view of a surveillance system with multiple camera feeds. Playback controls, a calendar, and a list of cameras with connection details are visible.
Reinstalling Network Cameras
If connecting previously networked cameras directly to the NVR, perform a hardware reset on the cameras. Refer to your camera's manual or the technical reference manual for specific instructions.
Set Up Dynamic DNS
This feature allows connection to your surveillance system from anywhere via the internet using a memorable web address.
Navigate to Basic Network Settings > DDNS. Check the 'Enable DDNS' box and select a DDNS Type and Server Address from the menu. 'WirepathDDNS' is recommended as it is hosted for Luma equipment and requires no additional setup after these steps.
Enter your desired domain name in the 'Domain' box. This creates a personalized server address shown under 'Device URL'. If your chosen domain is already registered, the system may add a unique ID (e.g., myhome13.WirepathDNS.com if 'myhome' is taken).
Click Save to finalize settings.
Note: With proper router port forwarding, the 'Status' entry will indicate normal DDNS status.
Diagram Description: A screenshot of the 'Configure This Computer' settings is shown, with tabs for TCP/IP, DDNS, PPPOE, and Port. The DDNS tab is active, displaying fields for Enable DDNS, DDNS Type, Server Address, Domain, User Name, Password, Confirm, Status, and Device URL. The 'WirepathDDNS' type and 'ns2.wirepathdns.com' server address are selected.
Camera Passwords
When the Luma NVR is activated, it sets all connected cameras to use the NVR password created on page 6.
When adding a camera manually, you must enter its password. Using default passwords after installation poses a security risk; change any camera with a default password like 'admin'.
To add a camera manually, go to Camera Management > IP Camera. Click the Modify button to open a dialog for entering camera information, including IP address, protocol, management port, a custom name (e.g., 'Front Porch'), username, password, and setting the 'Adding Method' to 'Manual'.
Camera passwords cannot exceed 31 characters and can only contain numbers and letters (no spaces or special characters). For enhanced security, use a long and memorable password.
Final Setup
Create Users and Set Passwords
Click on User Management. Click the Add button to create new user accounts with usernames and passwords. Account names can be up to 32 characters, containing only numbers and letters. It is recommended to create accounts for individual users for accountability if the system is rebooted or logs are erased.
Choose the account level: 'operator' or 'user'. The difference lies in default permissions, which can be customized. Consult the technical reference manual for details.
Synchronize the Time
Click on System Settings and select the Time Settings tab. Choose your time zone. North American time zones range from GMT-10:00 (Hawaii) to GMT-03:30 (Newfoundland). Disable the 'Enable DST' checkbox if necessary.
By default, the system uses Network Time Protocol (NTP) to synchronize with Coordinated Universal Time. Using NTP is strongly recommended for accurate system calibration.
For manual time synchronization or if your system is internet-isolated, refer to the technical reference manual.
Click Save to confirm changes.
You're Done!
Your system is now operational.
Next Steps
Customize your system for your customer's needs using the web interface:
- Set protocols for remote computer logins.
- Adjust camera frame rates to manage hard disk space.
- Set a custom recording schedule.
- Configure the system to send alert emails upon alarm triggers.
- Create privacy masks.
- Set up alarms to trigger between cameras and the system, and vice versa.
For more information on these capabilities, visit the product page at SnapAV.com and download the technical reference manual.
