Guide: Initialising a Hard Drive on Hikvision NVR/DVR

If you have installed a new hard drive in your Hikvision NVR (Network Video Recorder) or DVR (Digital Video Recorder), you need to initialise it before it can start recording footage. Follow this step-by-step guide to set up your hard drive.

Step 1: Power On the Device

1. Ensure the Hikvision NVR/DVR is properly connected to power.
2. Connect the device to a monitor or TV via HDMI/VGA.
3. Plug in a USB mouse (for easy navigation).
4. Turn on the NVR/DVR and wait for the system to load.

Step 2: Log In to the System

1. After the system boots, you will see the login screen.
2. Enter your admin username and password.
   • If you have not set a password, use the default credentials (check the manual).
   • If you have forgotten your password, reset it using Hikvision’s password reset process.

Step 3: Navigate to the Storage Settings

1. Right-click on the live view screen.
2. Select Main Menu.
3. Click on System Configuration or Configuration.
4. Go to the Storage section.
5. Select HDD Management or Storage Management (depending on the model).

Step 4: Initialise the Hard Drive

1. In the HDD Management section, you will see a list of installed hard drives.
2. If the hard drive is new, it will show as Uninitialized.
3. Select the hard drive from the list.
4. Click the "Init" (Initialise) button.
   • A warning message will appear stating that all data on the HDD will be erased.
   • Click OK to proceed.
5. Wait for the initialisation process to complete.
6. Once done, the status should change to Normal or Formatted.

Step 5: Verify and Restart

1. Check that the HDD status shows as Normal and the Capacity is detected.
2. Click Apply or Save.
3. Restart your Hikvision NVR/DVR to ensure the settings take effect.

Step 6: Check Recording Settings

1. Navigate back to Main Menu → Storage → Schedule Settings.
2. Ensure that recording is enabled (continuous or motion-based).
3. You can manually start recording by clicking Manual Record.
4. Check the live view and playback to confirm the footage is being recorded.

Troubleshooting

Hard Drive Not Detected?

• Ensure the SATA and power cables are properly connected inside the NVR/DVR.
• Use a compatible hard drive (preferably a surveillance-grade HDD like Toshiba Seagate SkyHawk or WD Purple).
• Try restarting the NVR/DVR.
• If the issue persists, try a different SATA port or test the hard drive in a PC.

HDD Shows “Error” or “Abnormal” Status?

• Try re-initialising the HDD.
• If the error continues, the HDD may be faulty and needs replacement.

Conclusion

Once the hard drive is initialised and set up, your Hikvision NVR/DVR will start recording footage based on your chosen settings. Always ensure you use a high-quality surveillance HDD to avoid potential failures.

If you need further assistance, check your Hikvision model’s user manual or visit Hikvision's official support page.