Video Loss Troubleshooting for DVRs (first time setup)

This is a basic setup guide that you need to double check if in case your cameras are not showing any images upon first time setup. On this guide, it will show you a bit more detailed version of your Hardware QSG that came with your unit. You might see Video Loss, No Link, or No Video on your screen and if that is the case, then we need to check their connections first.

What error message do you see on the screen?

We need to identify first the error message that your screen shows.

• If you see No Signal, Video Mode Not Supported, or Signal Out of Range, check this article to help you out: Fixing “No Signal”, “Video Mode Not Supported”, or Blank Screen on Recorders
• If you can access the Menu interface of your recorder but you see Video Loss or No Video, it is just your cameras that are not showing images. Read the rest of the article to learn how to fix it.
  Here are some error message because of cameras not displaying any image:

 

(from a DVR-4900/8075)
(from a DVR-5580/5680)

 

Here is an overview of the things we need to check:

 

1. Camera to extension cable connection

For some of you who installed the cameras already and forgot to test the cameras first, that's alright. You can skip this step for now. You just need to make sure that the 2 connectors of your camera are both connected firmly to the extension lead; otherwise, you might end up with a powered camera but no video connection or a powerless camera with a video connection. Check the image below, that's how your camera needs to be connected to the extension cable.

a. Connect the power connector

b. Then connect the BNC video connector

Here is what it should look like after the connection.

2. Extension cable to power splitter

The extension will have 2 connectors on each end and you already used one end for the camera's video and power connection. The other end of that cable needs to be connected to the power splitter especially if you have multiple cameras on your setup (disregard the splitter if you are dealing with an additional camera since it will come with its own power supply). The splitter will have 4 leads on one end and a single lead on the other. Pick one lead from those 4 and connect the power lead of the extension cable to it. See the image below on how it should be connected.

3. Power splitter to the power adapter

Grab the single lead from the splitter and connect it to the power adapter. Use the provided 12v power adapter from the kit. Then plug the power adapter into a working power point, wall outlet, or power board. 

4. Extension cable to the DVR

Going back to the extension cable, we are left with one connector. That connector will be connected to the ports at the back of the DVR. These ports are normally labeled as Video In or Video Input. You need to push the BNC connectors and twist them to lock them firmly to the DVR. Check below on how to connect the BNC cable to one of the video connectors at the back of the DVR.

You are all set! Live feed from the cameras should now display on the TV/monitor. If in case it didn't, you might want to check Video Loss Troubleshooting for DVRs for some advanced troubleshooting.