Where is the donwload files on anpviz dvr

Locating downloaded files on an Anpviz DVR can be a bit confusing for new users, especially if they are not familiar with how digital video recorders manage storage. These systems are built for efficiency and security, and they handle file storage differently than a typical PC. 

Anpviz DVRs are designed with embedded Linux systems and come with an internal hard drive. The footage captured by the connected cameras is saved directly to this internal drive. These DVRs also support downloading footage to USB drives or external storage, depending on the user’s interaction through the DVR interface or associated software like a CMS client or mobile app.

Because of the Linux-based system, the DVR doesn’t handle files in the same way a Windows or macOS device would. Instead, it uses a proprietary format to ensure video files are secure and difficult to tamper with. When you initiate a download, it usually converts these files into a more universally readable format like AVI or MP4.

Downloading Video from Anpviz DVR

Before discussing where the files go, it’s helpful to quickly explain how downloads occur. There are three primary ways to download footage from an Anpviz DVR:

Via USB on the DVR device itself

Through the CMS (Central Management Software) on a computer

Using the mobile app on a smartphone

Each method saves files in a different location, depending on the platform.

1. Finding Downloaded Files via USB

When using a USB drive plugged into the Anpviz DVR:

Insert the USB stick into one of the available ports on the DVR.

Use the DVR menu (accessed via monitor and mouse) to navigate to Backup or Export.

Select the desired date, time, and channel.

Choose the format (usually AVI or H.264) and confirm the backup.

Once this is done, the DVR creates a folder on your USB drive, typically labeled something like “Record”, “Export”, or a timestamped folder. This folder will contain the downloaded files.

To find these:

Remove the USB from the DVR and plug it into your computer.

Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).

Browse to the USB drive. The folder should be clearly named.

Inside, you’ll find your video files, often sorted by channel or date.

Sometimes, the file extension may be in a proprietary format. If it ends in .264 or .dav, you might need a specialized player like VLC or the Anpviz-specific media player, which can be downloaded from the official website.

2. Finding Downloaded Files from CMS Software

Anpviz offers a CMS client (commonly “VMS” or “Guarding Vision” depending on model compatibility) that connects to your DVR over the local network or internet. This client allows you to watch live feeds, review past footage, and download specific video clips directly to your PC.

To access these downloaded files:

Open the CMS software on your computer.

Log in and select the DVR device.

Use the Playback or Remote Playback tab to find the time range you want.

Use the Download button to save the file.

After the download completes:

Go to the Settings or Configuration tab in the CMS software.

Look for a section labeled Download Path, File Path, or Save Directory.

The files are usually saved to a default location such as:

C:\Users\[YourName]\Videos\CMS Downloads

C:\CMSDownload

A custom folder if you changed the path

If you’re unsure of the path:

Use your system’s file search feature.

Search for files with recent timestamps or extensions like .mp4. .avi, or .dav.

Additionally, the CMS software typically maintains a log of downloads. Checking this log can help confirm where the files are stored.

3. Finding Files Downloaded via Mobile App

Anpviz DVRs are compatible with mobile apps like XMEye, Guarding Vision, or a branded Anpviz app. These allow you to view live footage and download clips directly to your smartphone.

To find the location of downloaded files on your phone:

Open the app and go to the Playback or Local Files section.

Download the video by choosing the start and end times, then tapping Download.

The files are saved in the app’s local storage.

For Android users:

Open File Manager or My Files.

Navigate to:

Internal Storage/XMEye/Download/

Internal Storage/DCIM/Anpviz/

If you’re using a different app, check its settings for download location.

For iOS users:

Downloads are often stored within the app’s sandbox.

Open the app and go to Local Playback or My Downloads.

Use the Share button to export or save the video to the iPhone gallery.

You may need to allow storage permissions to save the video to your gallery.

Common Issues with Locating Downloads

Files Not Found on USB

If you can’t find your downloaded videos on the USB:

Make sure the export process completed successfully. Interrupted downloads won’t save.

Try re-exporting and confirm the file format selected.

Check for hidden folders or files using your computer’s file manager settings.

CMS Software Shows “Download Complete” But File Is Missing

This can be caused by:

Downloads going to a default folder that’s hard to find.

Antivirus or system permissions blocking file creation.

Download path changed or corrupted.

Revisit the CMS settings and check or reset the download directory.

Mobile Downloads Not in Gallery

If the video doesn’t appear in your phone’s gallery:

Go to the app and find Local Files.

Use the app’s Export or Share function to move the video to your main media library.

Make sure the app has media and file access permissions enabled.

Best Practices for Managing Downloads

To avoid confusion and lost files, follow these tips:

Always set a clear and easily accessible download folder in CMS software.

Use a file-naming system that includes date, time, and camera channel.

After downloading, move the video to an external hard drive or cloud storage for backup.

Use a media player that supports a wide range of formats (e.g., VLC or Anpviz’s custom player).

Regularly clear old downloads from your USB stick or phone to avoid clutter.

Converting Anpviz File Formats

Some files downloaded from DVRs may not play on regular players. If you’re dealing with .dav, .264. or .h265 formats:

Use VLC Media Player and adjust the codec settings.

Download Anpviz’s player from their website.

Convert the video using tools like HandBrake or Format Factory, which support batch conversion and common formats.

Summary

Finding downloaded files on an Anpviz DVR depends on how the files were retrieved:

USB: Plug into a computer and look for folders like “Record” or “Export.”

CMS Software: Check the software’s settings for the default download path, typically under Videos or a custom folder.

Mobile App: Files remain in the app unless exported manually to your phone’s gallery or storage.

Understanding how each platform handles file storage and download paths will make retrieving surveillance footage much easier. With the right steps and a clear understanding of where each method stores files, you’ll always be able to locate and manage your Anpviz DVR downloads efficiently.