AR-6040 AR-6080 AR-6160 GV-W1615 GV-DVR016 GV-RAZ Review

Note this review is subject to change as problems with remote reviewing are resolved.

This review is done by a owner of DVR's of GVI models listed  (GVI no longer gives support to the DVR's) AR-6***.  This review includes the GV-DVR016 and the GV-W1615.

The AR-6*** are good units for the low cost now being advertised on Ebay, compared to a high end DVR.  The DVR's are not for those wishing the more options of today's tech knowledge.  But still offers some of the options for remote viewing ones home, while away at low cost.  The Frame capture rate maybe less than today rate.  But the DVR does give a great recording that can be used for prosecutions.

The Andriod APP "IP CAM VIEWER" works nicely with the AR-6*** and creator makes updates to the APP almost monthly.

For GV-DVR016 devices with Windows 8.1 works for remote viewing live feeds of the DVR.  Using IE11 and Remote Agent program at this time.

GV-1615 network is disable and not remotely viewable.

The down fall is that the units are out of date to today's tech. , no tech support by the manufacture (Bankrupt) and not able to do what the newer DVRs can do.  Remote playback maybe very slow (via the GUI software) but the APP above works well for alerts if setup right.  The APP does not allow playback for DVR history, but does allow show recording on demand now on your Android itself.  While some may find this un-welcomed.  The DVR's still will provide access to ones homes or office, on demand.   If you interested in one of these unit and what types of cameras I use see the right side bar for where, I have purchased items from.

Note: The DVR may no longer be usable with windows with IE 10 or above, see crash alerts noted on this blog. This applies only to the AR-6*** not the GV-**** DVR's  The GV-**** DVR's use a different software.


If you wish to buy a GV-DVR016 or a GV-W1615,  the GV-DVR016 is a better choice.  IMO
Being that the GV-W1615 has it's internet connection dis-able and not viewable remotely.  The GV-DVR016 is the same DVR with the internet remote capability enabled.  It uses a software freely available on the internet called Remote Agent  (RA-1648).  But no known remote ANDROID App known working at this time.  But is viewable on Windows 8.1 IE11 based devices.

Device I Use for my GV-DVR016 "UNBRANDED UB-15MS10"

Email alert settings for all above that work unknown at this this.  Only my GV-RAZ will send me alerts via email setting.

FAQ's

Some FAQ
FAQ list is made-up of google searching request that people found blog.

How do I remote view my DVR?
First it depends on the DVR you have.  This Blog Info is only meant for GVI DVRs.  If you have one you can view it in many ways.

1 Home network ip address
2 DDNS address
3 URL address
4 Remote software with internet address of DVR


What ports do I use for remote viewing my DVR?
For the AR-6*** start by using the default 80 port and use IE browser, enter the IP address your route assigned the DVR and port forward it on your router. Follow instructions on the blog's remote viewing setup page.  http://gvidvr.blogspot.com/p/remote-viewing-via-phone-app.html
You can change the default port if you wish , but first I recommend using the default setting.

Is there an App that I can use to view remotely?
For the AR-6*** Yes  I use "IP CAM VIEWER PRO"  there are 3 versions Lite, Basic which are free and Pro which cost $3.99.  The Pro allows you to do more, but the free ones allows you to try out the APP and see if it works for you.

Note: The GVI Security APP AUTOIP was removed form the Apple store and play-store due to lawsuit of copyrights.  From best info I have been able to discover on the web searching on the subject.

For GV-DVR016 use Windows 8.1 base phones / tablets and install the Remote agent program.

What is the RS-232 port for?
This port is for a special controller device for the PTZ cameras, such as this one on Ebay http://www.ebay.com/itm/SAMSUNG-CCTV-SSC-5000-GVI-Camera-DVR-remote-controller-Free-Express-/331079331781?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d15ddafc5

This device not needed to control PTZ cameras, but used by those needing real-time control of PTZ camera functions.

Port is also used to comm. with unit via special serial cable to edit chipset settings.

Can I Install a GV-W1615 motherboard in a GV-DVR016?
Yes you can but the features  of the motherboard will not change.  If it's a GV-W1615 it will remain at a GV-W1615.  But the front and back sister-boards boards are able to be connected without making any modifications to connections.

Password reset
Sorry you need this info, use this blog page for info suggestion to resolve problem.
http://gvidvr.blogspot.com/2014/03/password-reset-after-forgetting-password.html

GV-DVR016 and GV-W1615 info

Info here is research info on the GV-DVR016 and the GV-W1615 built by Samsung for GVI.

The GV-DVR016 and GV-W1615 was built by Samsung as many other for GVI DVR's . They used many of the same chipsets on the motherboards for GVI as they did for the units sold under the Samsung Brand plates.


For all viewing this page.  If you have one of these DVRs here's  the best collection of info these units known on the web.

From research done while working with other owners of a GV-DVR016 or GV-W1615 and myself owning one of each now.  Here's what has been discovered and my best offer to those with them.

First the difference between the two units known by me is that the GV-DVR016 uses a Program name "REMOTE AGENT" for remote viewing the DVR.  NOT GUI software like the AR-6***s.
The GV-W1615 has it's network comm. disabled from the factory.  The two use the same motherboard as far as I can see, but have different firmware.  But they have different firmware installed that is very apparent in the OSD options of each.  So if you exchange the motherboard from one to the other it will retain the firmware.  The sisterboards are able to be connected, just as the other was installed.  The closest known downloadable manual for the DVRs is the one for the SHR-1042 built by Samsung in 2007.  www.apexcctv.com/support/Downloads/Standalones/Samsung/GV-DVR1042/GVIDVR1042_Manual.pdf the GV-DVR016 and GV-W1615 were built in 2009,  The instructions in this manual is the closest match to the manual provide to buyers of these units downloadable known by owners of each type in different locations.

Working together I have been able to help the owners of a GV-DVR016 with remote viewing problems.   I have now remote viewed other owners of a GV-DVR016 using the "REMOTE AGENT" software via the owner setting up an acct for testing it for them.  There are two ways to connect to the DVR GV-DVR016, one with using "Remote Agent" program and one by using IE.

First for those that do not have the program RA1648 (Remote Agent) you can connect to the DVR remotely using IE browser.  Just enter the local IP address that your router is using or showing the DVR is connect with.  exp. 192.168.0.3   [In house network IP]  Outside viewing will be available after port forwarding the DVR router address.

To connect enter the IP address that the DVR is connecting to your router with.  If you are not sure how to find this info.  follow these instructions:
First your router should have DHCP turned on.  This allows new devices to be assign a IP address when they first turn on.  (Note: The dvr also needs to have DCHP turned on for the two to assign a IP address)  But  DCHP on the DVR does not need to be turned on the first time it's connected to the router.  Once the DVR is turned on enter the network settings and turn it on and then click on update on the OSD (On Screen Display) it will connect with the router and update the other settings it needs.

Now your DVR and router should be connected in house.  Look on the DVR for the address assigned to it by the router.  Should be 192.168.*.* depending on the router you have.

Now open IE and enter 192.168.*.* and a pop-up alert will appear.  Select allow once or always depending on your wish.  Select always if the PC you are using is going to be one that you will be using alot.  If the PC is not your own, then select once.  A new pop-up question will appear asking if you wish to run a program, select yes and the files needed to view your DVR will open.

Now you should see a menu for WEBDVR showing, now.  IF you have not change the default port settings or password yet, follow these instructions.

For the port enter 6100
For user enter ADMIN
For password enter 1234

Click on modify then OK
Now click on the connect button on the screen and you will be connected with the GV-DVR016.

If you are not at home you can use your home IP address and do the same thing.  If you do not know your home IP address you can use many different sites.  But you must port forward the DVR port on your router first.  See blog page for port forward (Router setup) for info.  Use "canyouseeme.org to test to see if you have port forwarded your DVR correctly and to get your home IP address.

Once you have port forwarded the ports for the DVR IP addresses 192.168.*.* 6100 and 80.  you can enter the Home IP address from anywhere to connect to the DVR.  If you are using a friends PC for example enter the IP address in the browser line.  And the same thing will happen as if you were at home.  111.222.333.444

Video of the connecting these ways currently being edited for public viewing.

Note: No Android APP useable known for the GV-DVR016, but best bet for FREE is "IP CAM VIEWER"  there are 3 versions Lite, Basic and PRO.  Lite and basic are FREE to try out, PRO is for those that are finding it usable for there DVR.  AGAIN THE APP DOES NOT WORK FOR THE GV-DVR016 but updates by the programmer of the APP show some promise in it being able to work.

What does work for Tablets is

Some good news for viewing your DVR away from home on a tablet.  I purchased a UNBRANDED tablet off EBAY for $64.00 which uses Windows 8.1 not Android base OS.  Just to see if it would work for remote viewing the DVR.

www.ebay.com/itm/271890255736?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

The good news is YES is will work, you only have to install the program RA and connect to the DVR just like you do now.  You may be able to get one for a lower price from another seller.  I purchased this one from this seller because it came with the power supply.  But there's another seller that has many of these without it.  It uses the mini USB port to recharge the battery.  You might have a cable already from some other device you have.

I just got it this morning June 13 2015 so I'm still playing around with it, but it works.  So if you wish to use a tablet for around the house to monitor your DVR, this maybe a good option.  The screen resolution on this tablet does allow you to see the full menu option.  Unlike my netbook, which does not.  As for using a phone, you might  ask a friend that has Windows 8.1 OS  base phone and see if they will let you test it out.

I just checked EBay for Windows 8.1 phones and see there are alot of phones with it.  You might look into getting a cheap one to try out, that can use your current SIM card.

Walmart has some Windows 8.1 phones for $50.00 www.walmart.com/browse/cell-phones/1105910?facet=operating_system:Microsoft+Windows  as well if that helps out.

Adding a DVD burner to a GV-DVR016
You may wish to add a DVD burner to your DVR if it did not come with one.  Installation is mostly the same but you do not use the standard holes, like you would for a HDD.  Use the middle holes on the tray to mount the DVD burner.  I installed mine using the SATA connector number 4 and the shortest power connector, so that the other power supply connectors can reach the other SATA installation option areas.

Need more recording space options
You my wish to convert from one to the other for better options.  While the GV-DVR016 has 4 SATA the GV-W1516 only has 3.

The GV-DVR016 has the internet option turned on, while the GV-W1615 has it turned off.

The GV-W1615 has room for DVD burner and total of 3  SATA HDD and has slot for HDD Hot bay installation.

GV-DVR016 has motherboard room for 4 SATA HDDs one is used for DVD back-up burner.

Using the GV-DVR016 motherboard in a GV-W1615 may be a better choice to some. As it adds the Hot bay option and with the GV-DVR016 motherboard it allows internet option.

Or you my use the loop out option from the GV-W1615 to the GV-DVR016 to record events from the GV-W1615.

The front panel control options are the same, but the button layout is different between the two.


Google search for the GVI GV-DVR016 is very limited, so I'm trying to help others with problems.

Currently all with these units, that have asked for help have been able to get their DVR viewable on their PC remotely.

Additional Note:  There appears to be a problem with email alerts using the default settings.  Your unit GV-DVR016 my shutdown abnormally if you have email alerts set.  Suggestion at this time is to set the unit not to notify you via email of alerts.  And see if that does not stop the abnormal shutdowns, you may experience.

It's believed that, wrong settings overload IP servers and they are returning a command to shutdown unit.

Below info will be moving to a GVI history page but left here til moved.

I found this link reporting the connection between Samsung and GVI reported. http://www.securityinfowatch.com/press_release/10490643/samsung-unveils-new-16-channel-dvr

Which is a press release on the SHR-6164 DVR.

While this is not believed by me to be the GV-DVR016, it shows the connection between the companies clearly.

Here's a link to a report on GVI Security history http://www.securitysales.com/article/gvi-security-shuts-down-operations/GVI_Security

Additional reports can be found here: http://www.securitysales.com/topic/tag/GVI_Security


Will update with more info when more shared info about the above info is given to me. Via comment on this blog.

GVIDVR

Page Updated 8 June 2015

Password Reset after forgetting password

No known way to reset the DVR back to the default 1111 setting!  If you change it be sure to place the new password on the inside or some where you can find it. And still in a secured location.

I have tried the following with no success.

• Removed the battery and removed the power supply.
• Pressed the reset green button on the motherboard.  (Reset button reboots the DVR)
• Jumped the con21 pins before power is applied and then booting the DVR.
• Pressed the reset green button on the motherboard while con21 pins are jumped.  With it powered up which causes the DVR to reboot.  As well as powering it up while in the configuration.  With the battery removed and with it installed.

The only way to reset it back to default is by restoring the DVR to back to Factory settings while logged in with a level 8 priledge user or  "admin"!

So do not loss or forget your "admin" password if you change it!

Untested programs for resetting ADMIN password on the GVI DVRs, but here's some programs to check out if you wish to try out.
Google for "Calculate code" or 
"Super calculator"
Programs create a limited time password that may be able to allow you to enter the DVR menu.  Uses the current time to generate the password, without effecting your DVR.

Be sure to only download from a manufacturer website
Links I used to download programs to be added this month of May 2015.

Hard drive Installation Questions

The hard drive size depends on how you are going to use the DVR and how often you are going to look in on the info.

I set my units to record real time and with the playback program I can watch a time frame I select for reviewing.  How you wish to use the DVR is really the same on any DVR home security system.

A 160 gig HDD may work for you if you wish to choose to overwrite the oldest videos and have time or setup alerts correctly.  But for those that wish not to get every alert, but wish to review something after you notice something different in your neighborhood.  A larger size 1T or more HDD may be better choice.


Your DVR may not see a HDD from your old PC and format it.  To get around this problem delete all partitions from an old / used HDD and then create one new one, then format it to FAT32.  Then install it into the DVR and it should then format it to the format  of the DVR when you turn the DVR on.  Some may need to format it manually, by the DVR menus.
Note: Changing the DVRs time will require the HDD to be reformatted, so be sure to have the time set first.

Setup instructions

This info excludes the installation of a hard drive, if a hard drive is installed. The DVR will format it at time of start-up.

Follow the step by step links for next step for out of box instructions by clicking on the link.  Out of box next link is http://gvidvr.blogspot.com/ then click on the step by step link at the end of each step.

Info on GVI AR-6040 / AR-6080 and AR-6160

Note: Some units have been noted as not friendly to HDD of larger size(1T and 1.5T).  Causing un-expected rebooting of the units or HDD failure notice.   Please be aware of this issue, as your HDD may not be unusable. GV-DVR016 is one DVR here that has done this, the HDD reformatted works fine in another DVR (GV-W1615).  But not in the GV-DVR016,  it has happened in other GVI models here as well.  Cause unknown, just be aware that the HDD may not be in failure, but other problem with the DVR may be causing it to fail in the DVR. 
HDD that have had this problem, ran hotter than normal.  They seem to just lock-up like Windows systems.

Info on connecting AR-6***, GV-DVR016 remotely with a PC via web IE or software as well as Android APP to use.  GV-RAZ info being posted as well now, see top menu tab bar for page for the GV-RAZs

Blog is for info on how to get your AR-6040 / AR-6080 / AR-6160 GUI software loaded(running) on Windows system.  I'm only an  owner of  GVI  AR-6040 / AR-6080 / GV-DVR016 / GV-W1615 and GV-RAZ DVRs, wishing to share info with others.  I'm not employed by any outside sources of the company that is selling or the bankrupt GVI Security.  Info on these DVRs is located on this blog for your search for help on using them. For info on the GV-DVR016 / GV-W1615 or GV-RAZ please use the top menu tab bar or side bar for info.

Note: This info is all that has been collected up to date 15 May 2015 on getting a GVI system GUI software working on Windows with IE.  All the problems you may have with the system without following instructions.  If you have a problem with getting it to load, please see the info on the Crash Alert page or ask for help via my "HELP REQUEST" page.

Use the tab menu bar for help with the topic you need help with.  I have links to sites with all the info I have collected by topic.  Still adding more info as I can. If you need help you can email me at GVIDVR@woh.rr.com and I will do my best to help you out if I can.

Note: You do not have to have internet connection to comm. with your GVI DVR while you run the setup procedures offered on this blog. I loaded the GUI software without the internet, using just my HOME network.

Meaning you only need to have your router set correctly to comm. with your PC and GVI DVR.  All links on the Installation  page, are what I used myself.

Last firmware update is 1.00.72 and no other updates will becoming.  This update fixed some functions while viewing GUI on display.  Also "Back" and "Exit" commands on display where added.  Update your unit before going on with loading the GUI software first.  Info on where to download the firmware update and how to instructions on the menu bar.
* GUI = Graphic User Interface

Blog is using settings for replies and Disqus for open discussions.  Due to conflicts with Disqus some post or pages will not have one or the other. 

Out of the Box instructional follow along using the step by step links.

Step by step setup instructions start next step click on link http://gvidvr.blogspot.com/p/firmware-update.html