Smart PSS is Dahua's legacy (but still widely used) video management software. The "PC-NVR" feature allows a standard Windows computer to act as a recording server, storing footage directly on its hard drive—no dedicated hardware NVR needed.

Complete Guide: Smart PSS PC-NVR Setup What is PC-NVR? PC-NVR is a built-in function within Smart PSS that turns your computer into a recording device. It records video streams from IP cameras directly to your PC's hard drive. This is ideal for small systems (1–16 cameras) where you want to avoid buying a separate NVR. Requirements

Windows 7/10/11 (64-bit recommended) At least 4GB RAM (8GB+ preferred) Dedicated HDD for recordings (SSD for OS + separate HDD for video) Cameras connected to same local network Smart PSS software (latest version: 2.0 or higher)

Step 1: Install Smart PSS

Download Smart PSS from Dahua's official website or your reseller. Run the installer as Administrator. Follow defaults (install location: C:\Program Files\SmartPSS ). Important: During installation, ensure PC-NVR component is checked (enabled by default). Complete installation and reboot your PC.

Step 2: Initial Launch & Login

Open Smart PSS. Create a local login password (this is for the software interface on this PC). Default view opens with no devices.

Step 3: Add IP Cameras to Smart PSS Before enabling PC-NVR, you must add your cameras to the device list.

Click Device tab → Device Manager . Click Add (or Search to auto-find cameras). Enter camera details:

Name: Any friendly name Device Type: IP Camera IP Address: e.g., 192.168.1.108 Port: 80 (or 37777 for Dahua) User: admin Password: (your camera's password)

Click Test → OK . Repeat for all cameras.

Step 4: Enable and Configure PC-NVR This is the critical step where your PC becomes the recorder.