Swann Security DVRs or NVRs can only be set up and configured out of the box using a hardwired connection to a TV or standalone monitor. Such display devices must have all of the following: 

• Have the same display resolution within the range of a DVR or NVR's display resolution setting (see  example of VGA/HDMI Resolution below).
  • Swann DVR or NVR's display resolution can range between:
    • HD (720p) to Full HD (1080p), or 
    • HD (720p) to 4K or UHD (2160p)
      
  • If your TV's minimum display resolution (e.g. 4K) is greater than the DVR or NVR's maximum display resolution (e.g. 1080p), they will not work together. See Video Mode Not Supported or Signal Out of Range or No Signal if you used a 4K TV on a 1080p recorder.
• Have a VIDEO IN port, such as:
  • HDMI IN port for minimum Quad HD or 4K video quality.
  • VGA IN port for maximum Full HD video quality.
• Compatibility of VIDEO IN port with the display cable. Please see Display connection guide

What kind of display cable can I use with my DVR / NVR?

Swann DVRs or NVR kits come with a 3 feet / 1 meter HDMI cable. You can use an extended HDMI cable provided it is:

1. A Standard HDMI (Type A Full size) cable.
2. Type A HDMI-to-Type A HDMI on both ends of the cable.

Please see How long can I run a HDMI cable from my Swann DVR/NVR to my HD TV?

Although you can view the cameras from a phone or computer, this is done via remote access. This feature requires an Internet connection and does not have full access to the DVR / NVR settings unlike via HDMI or VGA connection.

We do not recommend the use of:

• Smart TV connections via WiFi or Ethernet. This is not supported yet by Swann DVRs or NVRs.
• A display adapter or connector, such as DVI to VGA or HDMI to DP, RCA to HDMI, VGA to HDMI, etc. This may cause live view video quality degradation or no display output to your TV.
• A splicer for split screen dual-monitor. This is not supported in Swann Security DVRs or NVRs. 
• A laptop or computer with an HDMI OUT port. Chances are your laptop or computer's video port is an HDMI OUT or VGA OUT port where it only mirrors its desktop view outward to a TV or standalone monitor. If you are unsure, please consult the manufacturer of your laptop / computer of its video specifications or how to switch source on your laptop if it has an HDMI input or VGA input port.