GCS Pelco DVR Interface - Galaxy Control Systems

Revision 1.1 

GCS Pelco DVR Viewer 

SG Software Interface Manual

GCS Pelco DVR Interface SG Software Interface Manual 

Information in this document is subject to change without notice. No part of this document may be 

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Copyright © 2000 Galaxy Control Systems All Rights Reserved 

Table 1 Revision History 

Revision History 

Rev # Date Description 

1.0 12/13/04 SG Software Interface Manual for GCS Pelco DVR Interface 

NOTE: at the time of this document’s creation, Pelco DX8000 is compatible with 

System Galaxy v6.5 (or higher). 

1.1 2/22/05 Updates to Chapter-2 Time Saver Tip and Chapter-5 Trouble Shooting Tips 

2 Revision 1.1 

Galaxy Control Systems 

PO Box 158 

3 North Main Street 

Walkersville, MD 21793 

Phone: (301) 845-6600 

Fax: (301) 898-3331 

email: info-usa@galaxysys.com 

website: www.galaxysys.com

Table of Contents 

SG Software Interface Manual GCS Pelco DVR Interface 

1 The GCS Pelco DVR Interface............................................................................ 5 

1.1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................5 

1.1.1 Scope of Document .................................................................................................... 5 

1.1.2 Document Keywords and Conventions ...................................................................... 5 

1.2 Overview of GCS DVR Interface for Pelco .............................................................6 

1.2.1 DVR Interface Diagram............................................................................................... 7 

1.2.2 System Requirements ................................................................................................ 8 

1.2.3 About Pelco VIDEO System ....................................................................................... 8 

2 PC & WorkStation Setup for Pelco ..................................................................... 9 

2.1 Task List: CONFIGURATION PROCEDURES.........................................................9 

2.2 (Task-1) DVR Network & Login Parameters.........................................................10 

2.3 (Task-2) Pelco Client Software .............................................................................10 

2.4 (Task-3) Registering Pelco in SG 6.05..................................................................11 

2.4.1 For Customers using Pelco DVR: ............................................................................ 11 

2.4.2 Registering the Pelco DVR:...................................................................................... 11 

2.5 TIME SAVER TIP Camera Configuration List.......................................................12 

2.6 (Task-4) Locating the DVR & Camera screens ....................................................12 

2.6.1 (Task-5) Adding the DVR in System Galaxy ............................................................ 13 

2.6.2 (Task-6) Adding/Renaming the Cameras in System Galaxy.................................... 14 

2.7 (Task-7) Linking Cameras with Readers & Inputs...............................................15 

2.7.1 (Task-7a) Link a Camera with a Door Reader device .............................................. 15 

2.7.2 (Task-7b) Link a Camera with an Input Device ........................................................ 16 

2.8 (Task-8) Validating Camera to Device Linking ....................................................17 

3 Operating DVR Video Viewer ............................................................................ 18 

3.1 About the DVR Viewer ...........................................................................................19 

3.1.1 DVR Viewer - Runtime Modes.................................................................................. 19 

3.1.2 DVR Viewer - Video Viewing Modes ........................................................................ 19 

3.1.3 GCS DVR Viewer Controls for Pelco........................................................................ 20 

4 Getting Video with the GCS DVR Viewer ......................................................... 25 

4.1 Blocking Video from Specific Workstations........................................................25 

4.2 Getting Live Video in System Galaxy...................................................................26 

4.2.1 Get Live Video from a device icon on the Hardware Tree........................................ 26 

4.2.2 Get Live Video from the Device Status Screen ........................................................ 27 

4.2.3 Get Live Video from an Event on Loop Monitoring/Event Screen............................ 28 

4.2.4 Get Live Video from an Alarm Event on the Alarm Screen ...................................... 29 

4.2.5 Get Live Video from a device icon on the Graphics Screen..................................... 30 

4.3 Getting Video from Activity History Report Screen ............................................31 

5 Troubleshooting Tips ........................................................................................ 34 

5.1 Getting video for the wrong camera/area ............................................................34 

5.2 ‘DVR Settings’ tab not available in Door/Input screen .......................................34 

5.3 ‘View Video’ option not displayed in SG short-menus .......................................34 

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5.4 ‘View Video’ option not displayed in Graphics Screen ......................................34 

5.5 “Pelco” not in DVR Type droplist (Adding a DVR)..............................................35 

5.6 “Pelco” Name is not on the GCS DVR Viewer.....................................................35 

5.7 GCS Viewer opens but does not display video ...................................................35 

5.8 Cannot get Video in Standalone Mode.................................................................35 

6 Appendix A: Camera Validation List ................................................................ 36 

7 Appendix B: Ping the DVR ................................................................................ 37 

8 Appendix C: Telnet DVR Port ID from DOS ..................................................... 38 

9 Appendix D: Telnet DVR Port from HyperTerminal......................................... 39 

List of Tables and Figures 

Table 1 Revision History ...................................................................................................................................2 

Table 2 Document Keywords............................................................................................................................5 

Table 3 Document Conventions........................................................................................................................6 

Table 4 Configuration Task List for GCS Pelco DVR Interface ........................................................................9 

Table 5 Definition of Controls on the GCS DVR Viewer for Pelco DX8000....................................................21 

Table 6 System Galaxy Camera Mapping Validation check list .....................................................................36 

Figure 1 - SG System Interface Diagram for Pelco DVR Interface....................................................................7 

Figure 2 - Product Registration Screen (bottom part) – DVR Support option..................................................11 

Figure 3 - The Menu Path to DVR and Camera screens (composite image) .................................................12 

Figure 4 - The GCS DVR Programming Screen (composite image) ..............................................................13 

Figure 5 - The Camera Programming Screen (composite image)..................................................................14 

Figure 6 - SG Door/Reader Properties Screen (composite image) ................................................................15 

Figure 7 - SG Input Properties Screen (composite image).............................................................................16 

Figure 8 - Starting GCS_Pelco_Viewer from a Short-menu (composite image) ............................................18 

Figure 9 - GCS Pelco DVR Viewer – Live Mode (composite).........................................................................20 

Figure 10 - Playback from an icon on the hardware tree (composite)............................................................26 

Figure 11 - Playback from a Device Status (composite image)......................................................................27 

Figure 12 - Playback from Loop Monitor Screen (composite image) .............................................................28 

Figure 13 - Playback from Alarm Screen with alarms (composite image)......................................................29 

Figure 14 - Playback from Graphics Screen with Door and Input Icons (composite image) ..........................30 

Figure 15 - SG Menu Path to View>Reports>Activity History (composite image)..........................................31 

Figure 16 - Activity History Report Selections screen (composite image)......................................................32 

Figure 17 - Playback from DVR Report Screen (composite)..........................................................................33 

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1 The GCS Pelco DVR Interface 

1.1 Introduction 

The GCS Pelco DVR Viewer Interface streamlines the Surveillance and Access Control Environments 

by allowing “on-demand” video viewing from within System Galaxy. 

The DVR Unit provides ‘continuous recording’ and sends video frames to GCS Pelco DVR Viewer when 

requested from System Galaxy software. The customer/user can select and view video from a distinct 

System Galaxy alarm or event message on monitoring screens and reports, as well as by individual devices 

(i.e. door, reader or other input) based on the setup of System Galaxy features. 

1.1.1 Scope of Document 

This manual covers the System Galaxy Software Interface for the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer. This manual 

describes the registration, setup and operation of the GCS Pelco DVR Interface in the System Galaxy 

Software and includes information on the operation and features of the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer 

IMPORTANT! It is recommended to complete the installation and setup of the PELCO SYSTEM 

before configuring system galaxy for the DVR Support/Interface. 

IMPORTANT: This manual does not cover the physical installation and setup of the DVR Unit and Camera 

equipment. Refer to the Pelco Installation and Product documentation for installation and setup of the Pelco 

Video System. 

1.1.2 Document Keywords and Conventions 

Table 2 Document Keywords 

Keyword/Term Description 

GCS Galaxy Control Systems (acronym). 

SG System Galaxy (acronym); Refers to the SG System ( its hardware and/or software) 

Loop Communication 

PC or LCS 

Loop Communication Server; the PC that hosts the System Galaxy software and usually 

includes the database on the host PC. However it is possible for SG database to be separate 

from the Loop Communication PC. Refer to the SG Manuals for information concerning various 

setups for the LCS and System Galaxy software. 

SG WorkStation A pc that has access to System Galaxy via network/server setup but is not the LCS. 

“associated” 

device 

A door/reader/input that has been configured with a DVR unit and Camera in its property screen; 

when the associated device generates and event, a SG menu option can be selected to retrieve 

the video feed from that message’s timestamp. 

DVR Interface The software application(s) that provide and allow intercommunication between the Access 

Control System and the Video Surveillance System. 

Pelco Video Pelco Equipment and Software: includes Client and DVR Server Software, hardware and/or 

System 

peripheral devices of any type that are a part of the Pelco Video Surveillance System (i.e. DVR, 

Cameras, etc). Reference diagram – Figure 1, Section 1.2.1. 

Pelco DVR Server The Pelco software that resides on the DVR Unit itself and is used to operate the DVR. Refer to 

Software 

the Pelco Product Manuals for installation and operation of this equipment. 

Pelco Client The Pelco software that resides on a PC/Workstation and is used to operate the DVR. Refer to 

Software 

the Pelco Product Manuals for installation and operation. 

DVR Digital Video Recorder (the physical DVR unit). 

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Table 3 Document Conventions 

Item Convention Used 

Document Style Chapters are numbered in ordinal, outline for readability and cross referencing purposes. 

Distinct terms Special text formatting such as italics, bold, single or double quotes, brackets, hyphenation as 

necessary for emphasis and to setup the information in a recognizable standard for readers. 

Screen Shots & 

Composite Images 

Diagrams & 

Drawings 

Types of distinct terms would be: 

names of software applications and system components; 

system or application keywords, terms or phrases; 

titles of screens and windows 

names of fields/buttons/etc.; 

Screen shots are provided to give visual queues and increase continuity between written 

instructions and user’s actual results. Tip Boxes may be added. 

Tip Boxes: Pertinent tips or clues may be included for continuity, but are not a replacement for 

descriptions and instructions. These tips are distinguished by a white background and a 

special border outlining the tip box. The tip-box is not expected to be present on the actual 

screen displayed. 

IMPORTANT: Many screen shots are composite images of several screen shots but shown 

in one image. This is done to show the pertinent fields, drop lists, or menu options that are 

available to the user in several different screen states. This allows user to see all that is 

available in one picture, Keeping in mind that certain fields are enabled/disabled dynamically 

based on the System Galaxy application’s current configuration and/or user’s current choice. 

Example: a screen may open in a default state with certain fields displayed (vs. 

not displayed) and enable (vs. disabled). User may select a button or perhaps 

click a tab and different fields will be enabled (vs. disabled). A composite 

image of the screen may show all the fields enabled and drop lists expanded. 

Diagrams are provided a visual representation of complex information, and to reinforce 

continuity between the information and the task the user is performing. 

Pertinent tips or clues may be included for continuity, but are not a replacement for descriptions 

and instructions. 

1.2 Overview of GCS DVR Interface for Pelco 

The System Galaxy DVR Interface for Pelco is an integrated part of System Galaxy Software v6.05 or 

higher. The main function of the DVR Interface is to provide the ability to link cameras (surveillance areas) 

with System Galaxy devices (i.e. doors/readers/inputs) and to allow automated and on-demand playback of 

live or recorded video feed. The playback of video is displayed by the GCS DVR Viewer window. 

The GCS DVR Viewer window automatically opens and plays live video when an armed alarm is triggered. 

The GCS Viewer also opens when an operator selects a ‘view video’ option within System Galaxy. The 

‘View Video’ options are available throughout System Galaxy Short Menus after proper registration and 

configuration is completed. 

Chapter 1: Introduction and Overview, System Requirements, System Diagram. 

Chapter 2: Registering and Configuring the DVR Interface in System Galaxy. 

Chapter 3: Operating the controls on the GCS DVR Viewer window. 

Chapter 4: Getting Video with the GCS DVR Viewer in System Galaxy. 

Chapter 5: Trouble shooting tips for the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer in System Galaxy. 

6 Revision 1.1

1.2.1 DVR Interface Diagram 


The diagram below shows a Galaxy Access Control System with TCP/IP connection to a Pelco Video System. 

System Galaxy provides viewing capability for live and recorded video feed/stream through the GCS Pelco DVR 

Viewer Window. 

Notice that there is not a direct connection between the System Galaxy hardware and the video surveillance 

hardware (i.e. DVR, cameras). Cameras are physically connected to the DVR on the “video surveillance 

side”. GCS DVR Interface uses a Network (TCP/IP) Connection to view a camera’s video once the camera 

is linked a System Galaxy door or input. 

Figure 1 - SG System Interface Diagram for Pelco DVR Interface 

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1.2.2 System Requirements 

The following list constitutes minimum requirements for interfacing with Pelco. 

The Loop Communication PC must be running System Galaxy v6.05 or higher. 

The Loop Communication PC must have LAN/WAN connectivity in order to interface with the Pelco Video 

System. 

The System Galaxy Controller(s) can be connected via any currently supported connection method (i.e. 

direct connect, modem, LAN, Lantronix). 

Pelco Client Software may be optionally installed on the Loop Communication PC or any WorkStation. 

(Refer to manufacturer’s instructions for correct installation). 

The Pelco DVR must be accept incoming requests from SG PC’s – Refer to Pelco Product Manual 

The GCS DVR Interface must be registered in the System Galaxy software. 

System Galaxy must use Login parameters that match the DVR Unit Settings. 

System Galaxy must use Network parameters that match the DVR Unit Settings. 

1.2.3 About Pelco VIDEO System 

. 

Installation of Pelco DVR (and surveillance system) is independent of System 

Galaxy, as illustrated in the Interface Diagram (See Fig1). However, System Galaxy is 

dependant on Pelco Video System configured appropriately in order to support the DVR 

Interface. 

The Pelco DVR Unit utilizes typical LAN/WAN connection. 

Note: The SG-Loop Communication PC (LCS) interfaces with the DVR using the specified 

TCP/IP parameters of the DVR unit. The IP Connection Settings on the Loop Communication 

PC and Workstations must match the parameters of the DVR Unit. See later sections of this 

manual. 

The Pelco DVR supports multiple camera connections (16 max) per DVR Unit. 

System Galaxy devices (inputs/doors/readers) can be linked to cameras, thus providing the ability to 

monitor areas where readers or sensors are placed. See section on setting up System Galaxy. 

NOTE: Pelco Video System does not allow System Galaxy’s Viewer to control camera positions or 

trigger video recording. DVR Recording is continuous/on. 

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2 PC & WorkStation Setup for Pelco 

2.1 Task List: CONFIGURATION PROCEDURES 

Installation, setup and operation of the Pelco Client Software are covered in the Product Documentation for 

the Pelco Video System. This Manual covers the System Galaxy software interface to the DVR Unit and 

how to register, configure and use the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer. 

IMPORTANT! It is recommended to complete the installation and setup of the PELCO SYSTEM 

before configuring system galaxy for the DVR Support/Interface. 

Use the below Task List as a companion list to the SG Software Guide’s- Main Setup Check List. Installer 

can perform these steps along with the normal registration and setup steps in the main SG Software Guide. 

This list focuses exclusively on the setup of GCS DVR Software Interface. 

Table 4 Configuration Task List for GCS Pelco DVR Interface 

Configuration Steps Original References 

Task 1. Getting network connection settings and login 

parameters for the DVR Unit. 

Task 2. Pelco Client Software: Installation of this software is not 

mandatory for SG to interface with the DVR. This 

software is discussed in the Pelco Client-side Software 

Manual. 

See Section 2.2 of this manual. 

Additional Resource: may be found 

in the Pelco Product documentation 

for supporting Instructions. 

See the Pelco Installation and 

Product documentation for 

supporting Instructions. 

Task 3. Registering GCS DVR Interface in System Galaxy Section 2.4 of this manual. 

TIME SAVER TIP: about recording DVR/Camera configuration 

Note: if you are interfacing with a lot of cameras or with 

multiple DVR’s you will want to fill out this list as 

you configure (i.e. during tasks 4-7). 

Section 2.5 of this manual. 

Task 4. Locating the DVR and Camera Programming screens Section 2.6 of this manual. 

Task 5. Adding the DVR to System Galaxy Software Section 2.6.1 of this manual. 

Task 6. Adding the Cameras to System Galaxy Software Section 2.6.2 of this manual. 

Task 7. Linking cameras with Readers/Inputs in SG Section 2.7 of this manual. 

Task 8. Validating the DVR and Camera connections for the 

GCS DVR Viewer 

Section 2.8 of this manual. 

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2.2 (Task-1) DVR Network & Login Parameters 

Obtain the network IP Address from the DVR Unit. The DVR’s IP address will be used in setting up the 

Pelco Video System. System Galaxy must use the same parameters as the DVR in order to interface with 

the surveillance equipment. 

To find the DVR IP Address at the DVR, open the DVR’s Software Application and go the Setup 

screen. This is the software that resides on the DVR Unit itself and may require a password. 

Or - Request IP settings from Site Administrator or IT Professional for assistance with 

passwords as needed since passwords are unique/site specific. 

Or - Use DOS Shell to get the IP Address from the DVR Unit: 

1. From the Window’s [Start] button on the DVR, click the ‘Run…’ option. 

2. In the Run window’s [Open] field type “cmd”. The Windows DOS shell will open. 

3. Type “ipconfig” at the prompt. The IP Address should be returned to the DOS Shell. 

IMPORTANT – Installer will want to coordinate with customer about creating a Login for System 

Galaxy. Logins/Rights/Permission may be limited to number of concurrent connections. 

You need to obtain the following: 

The DVR Unit IP Address 

The listening port number (should be 6808) 

A valid login Name 

A valid Password 

! CAUTION do not write down or save security (network and login) parameters ! 

2.3 (Task-2) Pelco Client Software 

Installation and operation of Pelco Client Software are covered in the Pelco Product Documentation. 

Pelco Client Software can be installed on the Galaxy Loop Communication PC (LCS) or workstation as 

desired. However, installation the Pelco Client Software is not mandatory. System Galaxy’s DVR Interface 

can connect to the Pelco DVR even if the Pelco Client Software is not running or not installed. 

IMPORTANT: If the Pelco Client Software is not installed it may be necessary to disable the DX IPSec 

Policy flag OR to manually configure the SG PC’s IP Address to be accepted at the DVR. These 

options reside on the DVR Server and should be described in the Pelco Manufacturer’s instructions. 

NOTE: It may be necessary to configure additional Login ID’s for the System Galaxy DVR Interface. 

There may be a limit to the number of logins allowed under a single Login ID. 

NOTE: Logins may be case sensitive. 

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2.4 (Task-3) Registering Pelco in SG 6.05 

2.4.1 For Customers using Pelco DVR: 

Use this Manual to assist with registration, setup and operation the GCS Pelco DVR Interface. Refer 

back to main SG-Software Guide for the normal installation/upgrade instructions. 

! New Installation will always require registration of SG System. Refer to SG-Software Guide. 

! Upgrading existing SG System to v6.05 does require re-registration when adding DVR Support 

for Pelco. Registration of DVR Support is described in Section 2.4.1. 

2.4.2 Registering the Pelco DVR: 

The Pelco DVR must be registered in the SG Product Registration Screen using the following steps. 

1) Open SG Product Registration screen - from menu options Configure>Options>Registration>System. 

Check the “DVR Support” check-box (at the bottom of the list) 

Complete normal registration process as needed. See the main SG Software Manual for 

remaining registration requirements. 

Click [Apply] button 

Click [OK] button 

2) Perform the registration for System Galaxy workstation as needed. 

3) Restart System Galaxy software application after registration is complete. 

Figure 2 - Product Registration Screen (bottom part) – DVR Support option 

Click [OK] 

3 

Apply 

1 

The DVR Support option 

must be “checked” 

2 

Click [Apply] button 

after completing any 

remaining registration 

settings 

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2.5 TIME SAVER TIP Camera Configuration List 

TIME SAVER TIP: In Section 2.8(Task 8), installer validates camera-to-device linking and video 

retrieval for each Galaxy device. A form is provided in that section (also in Appendix-A in the back of this 

manual). Installer can write down the setup on the Validation List during following tasks (4 through 7). This 

way the installer already has the list filled out and is ready to perform the Validation Steps in Task 8. 

Note: if you are interfacing with a lot of cameras or with multiple DVR’s you will want to fill out this 

list as you configure (i.e. during tasks 4-7). 

2.6 (Task-4) Locating the DVR & Camera screens 

New DVR & Camera menu options are added to the System Galaxy Configure>Hardware Menu: 

Select the DVR’s option to open the DVR Programming screen where operator must add the DVR to 

System Galaxy. 

Once the DVR has been added, select the DVR Cameras option to open the Camera Programming 

screen where operator can add or rename the cameras in System Galaxy. 

Figure 3 - The Menu Path to DVR and Camera screens (composite image) 


Open the DVR 

Programming Screen 

Open the Camera 

Programming Screen


2.6.1 (Task-5) Adding the DVR in System Galaxy 

The following steps describe adding a DVR Server Unit to System Galaxy. 

1. Open the DVR Programming Screen from the SG Main Menu, by selecting Configure/Hardware 

and choose the ‘DVR’s’ option. > 

2. Click the [Add] button in the DVR screen to add a DVR. 

3. Enter a name for the DVR in the [Name] field. (i.e. “DVR Unit 01”). This name will appear in the 

[Select a DVR] droplist on the DVR and Camera Programming screens and in the Reader/Input 

Properties screens. 

4. The ID Number is automatically assigned by System Galaxy. 

5. Choose the “Pelco DX8000” from the [DVR Type] picklist. 

6. Enter the IP address of the DVR Server Unit. 

7. The IP Port Number will default to 9002 when the DVR Type field is set to “Pelco”. 

8. Enter the User Name and Password (case-sensitive): Enter the [User Name] to match the DVR 

unit’s configuration. This can be found in the DVR Software in the Setup screen. System Galaxy’s 

configuration must match what is set at the DVR. 

9. Save Configuration: Click the [Apply] button to save settings. 

10. Restart System Galaxy software. 

NOTE: Use the [edit] and [delete] buttons respectively to edit or delete an existing DVR Unit configuration. 

Figure 4 - The GCS DVR Programming Screen (composite image) 

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2.6.2 (Task-6) Adding/Renaming the Cameras in System Galaxy 

The following steps describe adding a Camera to an existing DVR in System Galaxy. The DVR must 

be programmed first. See the previous section about Adding a DVR if needed. 

1. Open the DVR Programming Screen from the SG Main Menu, by selecting Configure/Hardware 

and choose the ‘DVR Cameras’ option. > 

NOTICE: there are automatically 16 default cameras present in the screen for the new DVR. 

2. Select the desired DVR Unit from the [Select a DVR] picklist. 

3. Select the desired camera from the droplist and click [Edit] button to rename as desired. 

4. Type in a Logical Name for the camera (i.e. “Lobby – Cam 02”). Note: If editing an existing camera, 

the desired camera can be select from the [Select a Camera] droplist. 

5. Enter the Camera number that matches the camera ID at the DVR Unit. For example: if you want to 

create a link to a camera that is setup at the DVR Unit to be camera 2, then set this field “2” in this 

screen so they will match/connect. 

6. Click the [Apply] button to save changes. Once a camera is saved it will display in the [Select a 

Camera] droplist. 

7. Restart System Galaxy software. 

NOTE: Use the [add] and [delete] buttons respectively to add or delete an existing Camera. 

Figure 5 - The Camera Programming Screen (composite image) 

In this example, the selected camera (“Lab Camera”) 

will link/connect to camera 2 at the DVR Unit. 

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2.7 (Task-7) Linking Cameras with Readers & Inputs 

Cameras can be linked with a Door Reader, Elevator Reader or other Input Device. This is done in the 

Properties screen for the desired reader/input device. Once a device is linked a camera, the user can initiate 

live video streaming from the SG short-menu option, View Live Video. 

The DVR Camera Settings tab displays in the Reader and Input Properties screens when a DVR has been 

registered in System Galaxy. The DVR and Camera droplists are populated with the names of the DVR 

Unit(s) and Camera(s) programmed in the DVR and Camera Programming screens (this section, parts 4a 

and 4b). 

2.7.1 (Task-7a) Link a Camera with a Door Reader device 

1) Open the Door Properties screen (from the Menu Bar, select Configure>Hardware>Door/Reader) 

TIP ~ Open Door Properties screen from short-menu by right-clicking the desired 

door/reader icon in the Hardware Tree, then selecting the ‘Properties’ option as 

illustrated. Loop, Controller and Reader Name fields should auto-fill to desired values 

when screen opens. Note: Elevator (red door icon not shown) will behave the same. 

2) Choose the desired Loop, Control Unit and Reader Name from drop lists as necessary. 

3) Select the ‘DVR Camera Settings’ tab and click [Edit] button (fields become enabled). 

4) Pick the desired DVR and Camera from the drop lists. 

5) (optional) Set the Ack option to “checked” to allow the reader to trigger an alarm if desired. This 

option is located in the Alarm Options tab. NOTE: that an alarm condition will automatically start up 

GCS DVR Viewer and live video feed plays back for the highest priority alarm. 

6) Click [Apply] button to save changes. 

Note: User can link more than one Reader with a Camera, but not more than one camera to a Reader. You 

can edit this screen later to change which camera or DVR you wish to link/associate. 

Note: You can disassociate the reader/door from any camera by setting the [Select DVR] field to “NONE”. 

Figure 6 - SG Door/Reader Properties Screen (composite image) 

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2.7.2 (Task-7b) Link a Camera with an Input Device 

1) Open the Input Properties screen (from Menu Bar, select Configure>Hardware>Input Devices) 

TIP ~ Open Input Properties screen from short-menu by right-clicking the desired input 

icon in the Hardware Tree, then selecting the ‘Properties’ option as illustrated. Loop, 

Controller and Input Name fields should auto-fill to desired values when screen opens. 

2) Choose the desired Loop, Control Unit and Input Name from drop lists as necessary. 

3) Select the ‘DVR Camera Settings’ tab and click [Edit] button (fields become enabled). 

4) Select the desired DVR and Camera from the drop lists. 

5) Set the Show in Tree option to “checked” to allow the input’s camera option to be selectable 

from the short-menu in the SG Hardware Tree. 

6) Set the Acknowledge option to “checked” to allow the input to trigger an alarm if desired. 

NOTE: that an alarm condition will automatically start up GCS DVR Viewer and live video feed. 

7) Click [Apply] button to save changes, then refresh Hardware Tree (close and re-open) to display 

the input icon in the tree. Hardware Tree can be refreshed/reopened from the View Menu. 

Note: User can link more than one Input with a Camera, but not more than one camera with an Input. You 

can edit this screen later to change which camera or DVR you wish to link. 

Note: You can disassociate the input from any camera by setting the [Select DVR] field to “NONE”. 

Figure 7 - SG Input Properties Screen (composite image) 

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2.8 (Task-8) Validating Camera to Device Linking 

Once the configuration is complete, verify that the input / reader devices are correctly mapped to the 

corresponding camera and that you can connect to each camera and display video for the area you expect. 

Fill out the table below to guide your verification. Then follow the numbered steps for each device. 

1. Select the Event Monitoring Screen ( System Galaxy is running and connected to loops) 

2. Open the Hardware Tree and expand the objects to see all inputs and readers (remember that an 

input requires the ‘Show in Hardware Tree’ option to be checked. See section 2.6.2. The Hardware 

Tree may require closing and reopening to refresh the object tree.) 

3. Induce an event for the device from hardware tree icon (i.e. right-click the icon and pulse or shunt). 

4. Select the resulting event on the Event screen and right-mouse-click to pick the ‘View Live Video’ 

option from the short-menu. See Figure-8 in Chapter 3 for an example. 

5. Verify DVR Viewer opens/displays video for correct area. Trouble Shooting Tips in Chapter 5 

6. Unshunt any input after verification is complete. (inputs only) 

7. Repeat steps 3 through 6 for each device in the list. 

Validating Correct Camera Connections (extra copy in the back – see Appendix A (Task-1)) 

DVR NAME: DVR LOCATION: 

Device Name/type 

(Front Door / reader ) 

Camera # 

( 1 ) 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

Camera Name 

( Lobby Cam ) 

Location/Area Displayed Check 

(Front Door and Lobby Area) Good 

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3 Operating DVR Video Viewer 

Operating DVR Video Viewer within System Galaxy is simple. The GCS DVR Viewer window opens when a 

“camera-linked-device” (or its status or message) is selected and a view video command is generated from 

the device’s short-menu. 

In the figure below, the door reader to the Computer Room is linked to a camera. When user selects and 

right-clicks the green door icon in the hardware tree will open the short-menu. If the device has been 

properly linked to the camera, the short-menu will display the ‘View Live Video’ option. Clicking/selecting this 

option opens the GCS DVR Viewer window and live video will display. 

Figure 8 - Starting GCS_Pelco_Viewer from a Short-menu (composite image) 

1 

Right-mouse-click the 

device icon and click the 

View Live Video option 

on the short-menu 

2 

(Viewer window is cropped for illustration purposes) 

The GCS DVR Viewer opens 

and plays live video. 

GENERAL NOTE: SG short-menus are displayed throughout System Galaxy screens when user performs a 

right-mouse-click on a device icon (or it’s status or message). If the device is linked to a camera the view 

live video option will be on the short-menu. These methods of getting live video are discussed in detail in 

following sections of this chapter. 

18 Revision 1.1

3.1 About the DVR Viewer 

3.1.1 DVR Viewer - Runtime Modes 


NORMAL/Auto-Run MODE: The GCS DVR Viewer opens and plays live video when an operator/user 

selects the ‘View Live Video’ option on any short-menu. The ‘View Live Video’ option displays on shortmenus 

only for devices (or their messages) that are linked to a camera. See section 2.6 for instructions 

on linking cameras. See remaining sections in this chapter for details on getting video feeds. 

NOTE: The GCS DVR Viewer can be individually disabled (per workstation basis) in the PC’s registry 

key. (See Section 4.1 for info on enabling/disabling). 

IMPORTANT TIP: if DVR Viewer is closed, it can be reopened by selecting the ‘View Live Video’ option 

from a short-menu by right-clicking an event or alarm message associated with a camera. 

STANDALONE MODE (diagnostic only) the GCS DVR Viewer can run independently of SG (for trouble 

shooting purposes) when correct connection parameters for logon and password are supplied. To find 

GCS DVR Viewer executable, right-click the window’s [Start] button and select the ‘Explore’ option. 

Navigate to the C:\Program Files\System Galaxy\PELCODX8000\ and double-click the 

GCS_PelcoDX8000.exe. Enter the correct Logon and password parameters found under the [Settings] 

button. See Figure 9 and Table 5 in Section 3.1.3 

3.1.2 DVR Viewer - Video Viewing Modes 

GCS DVR Viewer has two viewing modes which can be picked from the [Select Viewing Mode] droplist. 

Both Live and Recorded feeds are accessible from this DVR Interface window and are available from as far 

back as the DVR memory buffer can hold. See manufacturer’s information for DVR memory limits. 

Getting Live Video: the DVR Viewer allows user to see live feed by two methods: 

1. Select the ‘View Live Video’ option from a short-menu for a device, event or message in a 

System Galaxy screen. Convenient short-menu options have been added throughout SG for 

quick retrieval of video feeds. Note: This will restart the DVR Viewer if it has been closed. 

2. Also when the user selects the Live Mode option from the [Viewing Mode] droplist and selects a 

camera from the [Select Channel] drop list. See Section 3.1.3 figures and tables for details. 

Note: Video feed always starts in single camera view. 

Getting Recorded Video: the DVR Viewer allows user to retrieve recorded feeds by two methods: 

1. Select the ‘View DVR Video’ option from a short-menu for a report line item that is associated 

with a device that is linked to a camera. Note: The ‘Playback Controls’ become enabled/usable 

in this mode. See Section 3.1.3 figures and tables for details. 

2. When the user selects the Retrieval Model from the [Viewing Mode] droplist and enters the 

desired date and time, clicks the [Retrieve] button (binoculars) and chooses a camera from the 

camera droplist. Note: The ‘Playback Controls’ become enabled/usable in this mode. See 

Section 3.1.3 figures and tables for details. 

Note: Video feed always starts in single camera view. 

Note: System Galaxy adds an approximate 30 approximately second padding to time requested for 

recorded feeds. Therefore video retrieval will begin playing at 30 approximately seconds before 

requested time. 

Revision 1.1 19


3.1.3 GCS DVR Viewer Controls for Pelco 

The following picture shows a composite image of the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer. 

Buttons, drop lists, and fields are dynamically enabled/disable based on the selected Viewing Mode. See 

section 3.1.2 for description of video modes. 

Connection settings are available in Live Mode. 

Display Control buttons enable in Live Mode. 

Playback Controls display in Retrieve Mode. 

Figure 9 - GCS Pelco DVR Viewer – Live Mode (composite). 

See Table 5 for definitions by function. 

Live Video Controls start 

and stop Live Video for the 

selected camera. 

Select Camera droplist 

to choose the camera 

Retrieve Video Controls 

(recorded mode) allow user 

to switch to recorded video 

feed by date and time for the 

selected camera 

Video Session Pane: image shown at 320 x 240 pixel resolution. 

Settings and Connection buttons (Standalone Mode Only) allow 

user to edit the connection settings and to connect or disconnect the 

DVR Interface. Not available in the Auto-Run Mode. Runtime Modes 

are described in Section 3.1.1. 


Playback Slider 

allows user to slow 

the playback rate to 

catch single frames


Table 5 Definition of Controls on the GCS DVR Viewer for Pelco DX8000 

Live Mode 

[GO] & [STOP] 

Camera 

droplist 

Video Session 

Pane 

Real-Time Clock 

Playback Slider 

Controls & Buttons Described 

always available 


(not pictured here – see 

illustration of the viewer screen in 

Section 3.1.3) 

Mode of video feed for the GCS DVR Viewer 

can display Live or Recorded feeds. See 

section 3.1.2 for details. 

Use the green [GO] button to start live playback. 

Use the red [STOP] button to stop live playback. 

The Camera drop list allows user to select the 

camera/channel to display/playback. 

The contents of this list are dependent on the 

DVR Unit and System Galaxy configurations. 

The camera names are defaulted, but user can 

rename a camera in System Galaxy in the 

Camera Programming screen (See Section 

2.5.2). 

16 cameras automatically populate per DVR unit 

and user can deleted any unused cameras in 

the Camera Programming screen (See Section 

2.5.2). 

The Video Session Pane is the area where the 

video feed will display when the appropriate 

Mode and Camera selections have been made. 

Shows the real-time clocking / timestamp of the currently playing video feed. 


The playback slider allows the user to change the rate of playback so that a 

single image can be isolated. 

Revision 1.1 21


Retrieve Video 

controls 

Time 

selection field 

Date field and 

drop calendar 



The Retrieve Video Controls are for the Recorded video and retrieve video based 

on the values set in the Date and Time fields. 

Use the green [GO] button to start playback. 

Use the red [STOP] button to stop playback. 

(Description of the Date and Time Controls are below) 




The Time field displays for Retrieval Mode. 

User can set the hour, minutes and seconds of 

the video feed by over typing the value shown or 

using the up/down buttons. The Up/Down arrow 

buttons allow user to increment/decrement to 

desired value in the ‘highlighted’ segment of the 

Time field. 

The Date Time field displays for Retrieval Mode. 

User may choose a date in the current month or 

move the calendar to a different month or even 

change the year. 

A red circle indicates the current day if the 

current month is in view.

Connection Status 

Connection 

Buttons 

Connect 

Disconnect 

Settings 




The Connection Status fields show the current login and network parameters and 

the status of the connection (i.e. connected or disconnected). 

Beneath the Connection Status fields are the connection buttons. The 

connection buttons are described below. 

Only Available in Standalone Mode. 

The Connection Buttons allow user to control the connection of the connection 

(i.e. connected or disconnected). 

The Connection Buttons are described individually in the following rows of this 

table. 

Standalone Mode Only 



The Connect button connects the Viewer to the 

target DVR based on the network settings and 

login parameters provided in the ‘Settings’ 

Dialog. 

The disconnect button disconnects the Viewer 

from the DVR. 

The settings button opens the Network 

Parameters dialog box where user may 

set/change the connection parameters. 

For sites that have more than one DVR, this is a 

way user can switch connections between the 

DVR’s. 

Revision 1.1 23


Settings dialog 



Enter the network and logon parameters if needed to switch between DVR’s 

Pelco DVR’s listen on port 9002 

Use the same login parameters as the DVR Unit. 

24 Revision 1.1


4 Getting Video with the GCS DVR Viewer 

Once the Pelco DVR and Cameras have been setup, registered and configured in System Galaxy, the user 

will have the ability to start the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer. A device must be linked to a camera in order to 

trigger the video streaming from and event message or device icon. If a camera has not been linked to a 

device (reader/door/input), the user will only be able to select that camera from the open GCS DVR Viewer’s 

[Select Channel] droplist. 

NOTE: Right-clicking a message or device icon will cause the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer to reopen if it has 

been completely closed. See Chapter 3 for GCS Pelco DVR Viewer operating instructions. 

4.1 Blocking Video from Specific Workstations 

A System Galaxy customer may want the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer and DVR features to be disabled at some 

workstations and not at others. The GCS DVR features will be available by default at down-line SG 

Workstations where System Galaxy has been installed and GCS DVR Interface has been included in the 

Product Registration process at the LCS. To disable the GCS DVR features at an individual workstation, set 

the “DVR Enabled” value (in the workstation registry) to zero. 

To enable/disable the GCS DVR Viewer, do the following: 

1) Go to Window’s Start>Run… option, then enter “regedit” in the ‘Open’ field and click [OK]. 

2) Expand the ‘My Computer’ tree, then open ‘HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE’ folder. 

3) Open the following folders: SOFTWARE/GalaxyControlSystem/SystemGalaxy/Generic DVR. 

4) In the right-side task pane, double-click the “DVR Enabled” ICON to open edit dialog box. 

5) Enter the desired value in the [Value data:] field and click [OK]. 

Enter “0” (zero) disables the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer (Viewer cannot be opened from SG shortmenus) 

Enter “1” (one) enables the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer (Viewer runs from SG short-menus) 

Disabling the DVR from the registry setting will mean that the DVR Settings tabs are not available in the 

Reader and Input Properties screen and that the View Live Video option is not available from System Galaxy 

Short Menus. The auto playback on Alarm screen will also be disabled. This applies on a “per workstation 

basis”. Other PC’s will still be able to see video and set configurations. 

Revision 1.1 25


4.2 Getting Live Video in System Galaxy 

There are five ways to get live video in the System Galaxy. This section includes instructions and pictures to 

describe each way to start live video streaming in the GCS Pelco DVR Viewer. 

4.2.1 Get Live Video from a device icon on the Hardware Tree 

The ‘View Live Video’ option is available on the short-menu when a [Door/Reader icon] or an [Input icon] is 

selected from the Hardware Tree in System Galaxy. 

1) Right-click on a [Reader Icon] or [Input Icon] in the SG Hardware Tree that 

has been linked to a camera. NOTE: Elevator icons (red door icon) will behave the 

same as standard door icon. 

2) Select the ‘View Live Video’ option from the short-menu: This opens the GCS Pelco 

DVR Viewer and shows Live Video feed for the camera linked to the device. 

IMPORTANT: For trouble shooting tips see Chapter 5. 

Figure 10 - Playback from an icon on the hardware tree (composite) 

1 

2 


User right-mouse-clicks the selected reader 

or input device icon that is linked to a camera. 

Then selects the View Live Video option on 

the short-menu. 


3 

The DVR Viewer opens and plays 

live video session for the camera linked 

to that reader/input device.


4.2.2 Get Live Video from the Device Status Screen 

The ‘View Live Video’ option is available on the short-menu from a Device Status item: 

1) Open the Device Status window by selecting View>Device Status from the SG main menu and 

select the desired ‘Status Group’ with the desired readers and inputs included (or add/edit a Status 

Group as needed). Click [OK] to open the Device Status screen. 

2) Right-click a [Device Status icon/item] linked to a camera to get the short-menu. 

3) Select the ‘View Live Video’ option from the short-menu: This opens the GCS DVR Viewer and 

shows Live Video feed. 

IMPORTANT: For trouble shooting tips see Chapter 5. 

Figure 11 - Playback from a Device Status (composite image) 

1 

2 


User right-mouse-clicks the selected 

reader or input device status that is linked to 

a camera. 

Then selects the View Live Video option 

on the short-menu. 

3 



to that reader/input device. 

Revision 1.1 27


4.2.3 Get Live Video from an Event on Loop Monitoring/Event Screen 

The ‘View Live Video’ option is available on the event item’s short-menu in the Loop Monitoring screen. The 

Loop Monitoring screen and the Alarm Event screen are opened by default when System Galaxy is started 

running. The screens show active logging of events and alarms depending on 

1) In the Loop screen, Right-click an Event which is linked to a camera to get the short-menu. 

2) Select the ‘View Live Video’ option from the short-menu: The GCS DVR Viewer opens and shows 

Live Video feed. 

Figure 12 - Playback from Loop Monitor Screen (composite image) 

1 

2 

User right-mouse-clicks the selected 

message from a door/reader/input device 

that is linked to a camera. 

Then selects the Reader Commands 

option and the View Live Video option on the 

short-menus. 

1 


3 




to that reader/input device.


4.2.4 Get Live Video from an Alarm Event on the Alarm Screen 

Viewing live video is available from the Alarm screen: 

1) The GCS DVR Viewer automatically opens when an armed alarm comes in for a device that is 

linked to a camera. 

Also, users can still right-click an Alarm Event from the Alarm events List. Select the 

‘View Live Video’ option from the short-menu. 

Note: In the mini Graphics pane the user can right-click the graphic icon 

2) The GCS DVR Viewer opens and shows live video feed for the highest priority alarm when the 

alarm device is in the “ARMED” condition. If a device is activated when it is in the unarmed 

condition, the DVR Viewer will not automatically start up. However user can start Live video from 

the Event screen as described in Section 4.2.3. 

Figure 13 - Playback from Alarm Screen with alarms (composite image) 

1 

2 

Incoming alarm automatically opens the DVR 

Viewer window and video displays. 

a) User can still right-click an Alarm Event and 

select the Input Commands option and the 

View Live Video option on the short-menu. 

User can also get the View Live Video option 

on the short-menu from a graphic icon as shown. 

3 


The Pelco Viewer opens and plays 


to that reader/input device. 

Revision 1.1 29


4.2.5 Get Live Video from a device icon on the Graphics Screen 

The ‘View Live Video’ option is available on the short-menu from the Graphics screen: 

1) From the SG menu, select View>Graphics and right-click a Door or Input icon of a device that 

has been linked to a camera to get the short-menu. 

2) Select the ‘View Live Video’ option from the short-menu: The GCS DVR Viewer opens and 

shows video feed with Real-Time clocking/time stamp. 

Remember that the clocks on the System Galaxy PC’s and the DVR unit should be synchronized to a 

common master clock source for accurate clocking/time stamping. 

Figure 14 - Playback from Graphics Screen with Door and Input Icons (composite image) 

1 

Note: the GCS DVR Window will open when ‘View Live Video’ is selected. 

2 3 

User right-mouse-clicks the device icon on 

the Graphic screen that is linked to a camera 

Then selects the View Live Video option on 

the short-menu 



The Pelco Viewer opens and plays 

live video session for the camera 

linked to that reader/input device


4.3 Getting Video from Activity History Report Screen 

System Galaxy allows operator to get recorded video from the Activity History Report screen. A digital video 

clip can be started from the Report screen by right clicking the message line on the Report screen and 

selecting the ‘View DVR Video. The following pictures /instructions illustrate the abbreviated steps to open 

the DVR Report screen. 

To open the DVR report screen, user must setup an Activity History Report and include the desired 

selections (events) as needed. 

1. From the main menu in System Galaxy application, select View>Reports>Activity History. The 

Activity History Report Selections screen will open. 

Figure 15 - SG Menu Path to View>Reports>Activity History (composite image) 

1 

2 

User selects View Menu 

Then Report 

Then Activity History in System Galaxy 

> 

3 

Revision 1.1 31 

3


Once the Report Selections screen is open, user must choose the desired events by checking the 

appropriate options to specify which activities (events) to include. 

2. Select the desired loop and the devices to select by on the left side of desired tabs. 

3. Click (check) the events as desired in the ‘Reader/Door’ tab from the ‘Specify activities to include’ 

group of check-boxes. 

4. Click (check) the events as desired in the ‘Input Devices’ tab from the ‘Specify activities to include’ 

group of check-boxes. 

5. Click (check) the DVR View check-box on the bottom right corner of the Report Selections screen. 

6. Click [View Report] button to open the DVR Report screen in the System Galaxy window. 

Figure 16 - Activity History Report Selections screen (composite image) 

After setting up desired options and choosing desired readers and inputs, 

the user must check the DVR View checkbox 

> 

32 Revision 1.1


Once the SG DVR Report screen is open, user may start recorded video for certain events where 

device (reader/door/input) is linked to a camera/DVR Unit. Choose the desired events by checking 

the appropriate options to specify which activities (events) to include. 

7. Right-click the desired event (line item) on the DVR Report screen. 

8. Select the short-menu option to ‘View DVR Video”. 

9. The GCS DVR Viewer will open and start video from 30 seconds prior to the event’s timestamp. 

Remember that the system clocks on both the [System Galaxy PC’s] and the [physical DVR Unit] 

should be synchronized to the same master clock source for accurate clocking/time stamping and 

synchronization between the System Galaxy device and the video stream. 

Figure 17 - Playback from DVR Report Screen (composite) 

1 

2 


User right-mouse-clicks the selected event that is linked to a camera 

Then selects the View DVR Video option on the short-menu 

The Pelco Viewer opens and plays live video session for the camera 

linked to that reader/input device 

3 

Revision 1.1 33


5 Troubleshooting Tips 

5.1 Getting video for the wrong camera/area 

1. Check that the correct camera is linked to the device in the SG software screens (revisit Section 2.6 

about linking readers and input devices to cameras). If the device-to-camera mapping appears to be 

correct, then check the physical connections between the cameras and DVR – either swap your physical 

camera connections or rename your cameras in System Galaxy Programming screen (section 2.5.2). 

2. Check that the camera name in SG is correctly programmed to the desired Camera ID number. If the 

device-to-camera mapping appears to be correct, then check the physical connections between the 

cameras and DVR – either swap your physical camera connections or rename your cameras in System 

Galaxy Programming screen (section 2.5.2). 

3. Check that the camera is physically installed in the position expected and the cable is physically 

connected to the camera and to the DVR Unit to the video port intended for the desired area. Correctly 

connect the cameras at the DVR Unit. 

4. Restart System Galaxy after programming changes or to ensure previous changes were initialized. 

5.2 ‘DVR Settings’ tab not available in Door/Input screen 

1. Verify that the DVR Support System Registration is complete and valid (not expired). Section 2.4. 

2. Verify that the Registry settings are enabled. See Section 4.1 for instructions. 

3. Verify that the correct DVR Type is set in the DVR programming screen (Section 2.5.1). 

5.3 ‘View Video’ option not displayed in SG short-menus 

1. Verify that the DVR Support System Registration is complete and valid (not expired). Section 2.4. 

2. Verify that the Registry settings are enabled. See Section 4.1 for instructions. 

3. Verify that the correct DVR Type is set in the DVR programming screen (Section 2.5.1). 

4. Check that the reader/input device is correctly linked to a camera (Section 2.6). 

5. Verify that incoming events are time-stamped later than the time of the camera linking in SG Camera 

Programming screen. Events that came in from that device before the linking will not have the option to 

view video. User may wish to restart/re-open the target screen (i.e. Hardware Tree, Event Screen, 

Device Status Screen, Graphic screen or DVR Report screen) to reset software. Also user can restart 

System Galaxy. 

Note: video cannot be initiated or retrieved for messages, alarms or graphics that occurred before the 

camera is linked to the device. Once the camera is linked, messages from that point on can be use to 

initiate video streaming. 

5. Restart System Galaxy after programming changes or to ensure previous changes were initialized. 

5.4 ‘View Video’ option not displayed in Graphics Screen 

1. Check that the target device is correctly linked to a camera. See Section 2.6 for instructions. 

2. Remove and re-add the graphic icon on the Graphic screen to begin seeing the video linking option. 

(The device must be linked to the camera and saved to the database before it is added to a Graphic 

Screen. You may have added the graphic icon before it was linked or updated in the database.). 

3. Restart the Graphic Screen and/or restart System Galaxy to pick up change if necessary. 

34 Revision 1.1


5.5 “Pelco” not in DVR Type droplist (Adding a DVR) 

1. Verify that the correct option “DVR Support” is checked in the SG Product Registration screen. Contact 

Galaxy Control System as appropriate for information on or changes to your registration. 

2. Check the registry setting is set for DVR Enabled (Section 4.1) at the workstation in question. 

5.6 “Pelco” Name is not on the GCS DVR Viewer 

1. Verify that the correct option “DVR Support” is checked in the SG Product Registration screen. 

2. Verify that other DVR options are NOT checked (i.e. RapidEye, Loronix, Integral, etc) Section 2.4. 

3. Restart SG after correcting Registration. 

5.7 GCS Viewer opens but does not display video 

1. Open the GCS DVR Viewer in Standalone Mode (Section 3.1.1); click the [Settings] button and enter 

the correct IP Address, port number (9002) and login parameters; select desired camera and live 

mode. 

a. If you can get video in standalone mode then check the following: 

Check that System Galaxy DVR Programming screen has the correct network IP Address, 

login and passwords are correct and entered into the appropriate fields (section 2.5.1) 

Check that SG DVR Programming screen has the IP Port number set to 9002 (section 2.5.1) 

Check the registry setting is for DVR Enabled (section 4.1) and registration is current. 

b. If you cannot get video in standalone mode then see Section 5.8 

5.8 Cannot get Video in Standalone Mode 

1. Check that you can ping the DVR Unit from the System Galaxy PC. See Appendix B for 

instructions on pinging from System Galaxy PC. 

a. If you can ping go to step 2 in this section to telnet the DVR’s listening port. 

b. If you cannot ping the DVR Unit go to step 3 in this section. 

2. Check that you can telnet to port 9002 from System Galaxy. See Appendix C or D for 

instructions on Telnet from System Galaxy PC. 

a. If you can telnet port 9002 go to step 4 in this section. 

b. If you cannot telnet port number go to step 3 in this section. 

3. Check that the DVR Unit is powered up and running (client software program is running). 

a. You might consider restarting the DVR Unit and software after you make sure that the IP 

Address of the DVR is STATIC and not dynamically obtained. Dynamically obtained IP 

Addressing will require you to update all the IP Address settings at the System Galaxy PC’s 

every time a power interrupt occurs at the DVR. See the setup/configuration screen at the 

DVR Software to set this to a Static Address. An IT Professional can obtain a static Address. 

b. Enlist the help of your IT Professional if needed to verify routing/switching between System 

Galaxy PC/Workstations ant the DVR Unit. 

4. Check that the IP Address and Port ID at System Galaxy’s software match the DVR’s 

settings. Run the “ipconfig” command at the DOS prompt on the DVR Unit and confirm the IP 

Address at the DVR. Then verify that SG programming matches. (Set the SG Programming to 

match the IP Address of the DVR Unit. See Sections 2.2 and 2.5.1 for instructions on SG. 

IMPORTANT: The CLIENT software must be running. Note that the DVR has an option to control 

whether the DVR Unit’s IP Address is static or dynamically assigned. It is recommended that 

the DVR IP ADDRESS is set to be static (always the same). 

Revision 1.1 35


6 Appendix A: Camera Validation List 

Additional Camera Mapping Validation check list - Photocopy as needed. 

Table 6 System Galaxy Camera Mapping Validation check list 

DVR NAME: 

Device Name/type 

(Front Door / reader ) 

Camera # 

( 1 ) 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

16 

Camera Name 

( Lobby Cam ) 


DVR LOCATION: 

Location/Area Displayed Check 

(Front Door and Lobby Area) Good

7 Appendix B: Ping the DVR 


To ping a DVR Unit from the DOS command prompt at the System Galaxy PC/Workstation do the following. 

To open a DOS shell: 

1. Click [Start] button on the 

Windows® Task Bar 

2. Select the ‘Run’ option 

3. Type “cmd” in the field 

provided. 

4. Click [OK] button 

To ping: Once the DOS Shell opens, type the ping command with the target (DVR) IP Address. See figure 

below. Syntax is important, so type one space between command and IP Address. 

Type “ping nn.nnn.nnn.nnn”; where “n” stands for the numeric characters in the IP Address 

Example 1 shows a reply. Example 2 shows that the target IP Address is not able to reply. 

Example 1 – Ping with Reply – good connection 

Example 2 – Example Ping with Request Time Out – cannot connect 

Revision 1.1 37


8 Appendix C: Telnet DVR Port ID from DOS 

To telnet DVR Unit from the System Galaxy PC/Workstation you can run from the DOS command line. 

To open a DOS shell: 

1. Click [Start] button on 

the Windows Task Bar 

2. Select the ‘Run’ option 

3. Type “cmd” in the field 

provided. 

4. Click [OK] button 

To telnet from DOS: Once the DOS Shell opens, type the telnet command with the target (DVR) IP Address 

and Port ID. Syntax is important, so type one space between command and parameters. Type 

“telnet nn.nnn.nnn.nnn pppp”; where “n” stands for the numeric characters in the IP Address and 

“p” stands for the numeric characters in the port ID. If you prefer using HyperTerminal to telnet, see Appendix C. 

type one space 

Example 1 shows a reply. Example 2 shows that the target port ID Address is not able to reply. 

Example 1 – telnet from DOS with NO Conflict – good connection 

Example 2 – telnet from DOS with conflict – fail to connect 

38 Revision 1.1


9 Appendix D: Telnet DVR Port from HyperTerminal 

Follow these instructions to telnet the Port ID using HyperTerminal from the System Galaxy 

PC/Workstation. This verifies whether the Galaxy PC can call the listening port at the DVR Unit. 

From the Windows Task Bar: 

1. Click the [Start] button and select the menu path 

“Programs > Accessories > Communications > 

HyperTerminal”. 

2. When the ‘Connection Description’ window opens, 

enter a name for you connection (in our example we 

typed “Test”). 

3. Click [OK] 

In the ‘Connect To’ window: 

1. Type in the DVR’s IP Address in the in the [Host 

address] field. 

2. Type in the Port ID “9002” in the [Port number] field. 

3. Select “TCP/IP Winsock” in the [Connect using] field. 

4. Click [OK] to connect. 

Example 1 – Good Connection 

Example 2 – Connection Failed 

Revision 1.1 39

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