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Affected Roles: Administrator
Complexity: Medium
Last Edit: October 5, 2020
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In the event of System errors, software corruption, or display issues, Recovery Firmware files can be applied as a final troubleshooting step. By running the recovery program, the VMAX® A1 will be defaulted and reverted to an older version of its firmware, resolving most operational issues. Once the recovery is complete, the DVR firmware can be upgraded back to the latest release.
This article will guide you through the recovery process for the VMAX® A1 Series.
**Note: It is recommended to avoid the use of Kingston and San Disk brand USB sticks, as the DVR may experience an issue while allocating the firmware files from the USB.
Use the following links to download the appropriate Recovery Firmware files for your DVR. There will be a Download button in the top-right of the DropBox webpage.
If you do not know the model number or generation of your VMAX® A1, inspect the sticker on top of the VMAX® A1 or the current firmware version (located in the System Information menu).
(S/N begins with “VAH”)
(Firmware begins with 7.2.x.x.x)
(S/N begins with “HDR”)
(Firmware begins with 8.2.x.x.x)
**Note: When running the firmware recovery program, there should be no other items on the USB stick other than the Recovery Firmware files. Ensure that the files are not placed in a folder, as the System will be unable to locate the files if they are not placed in the root directory.
To perform a firmware recovery, please follow these steps:
Do not place the Recovery Firmware files into a folder on the USB stick. If files are not in the root directory of the USB stick, the DVR may not be able to locate the files to run the recovery program.
Once the files are copied to the USB stick, you may eject the USB stick from the computer.
You will know that the DVR has powered off when there are no LED lights ignited on the front panel of the VMAX® A1.
**Note: The recovery process time will take between 5 – 7 minutes. It is recommended to stay nearby the unit to remove the USB stick upon completion (see next step).
The DVR is currently using an outdated version of firmware as a result of running the recovery program. To learn more about the upgrading process, you can read Upgrading Firmware For A VMAX A1 (2.1 MP).
Follow the instructions below to update the DVR to the latest firmware build:
**Note: The links below will download the up-to-date firmware file(s) through your default web browser.
(S/N begins with “VAH”)
(Firmware begins with 7.2.x.x.x)
(S/N begins with “HDR”)
(Firmware begins with 8.2.x.x.x)
**Note: Do not place the up-to-date firmware file in a folder.
This completes the Firmware Recovery process. User and System settings will have been defaulted as a result of recovering the System.
If operational or System issues persist, please contact Digital Watchdog Technical Support for further assistance.