Install HDD Into DVR (CCTV)

In this Instructable, I'm showing you how easy it is to prepare a brand new DVR (Digital Video Recorder) for an operation in a CCTV system, where a crucial step is installing the HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

The HDD is used for storing all the footage from the cameras and I highly recommend that you get one that is specialized for use in CCTV systems. This HDD needs to operate for 24 hours, 7 days a week and quality is a must.

The DVR used in the Instructable is a Dahua XVR5108C-X but the instructions are general and can be applied to literally any other DVR that you have.

Get everything you need for your CCTV system:

• Dahua XVR5108C-X DVR - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_d8eyKyf
• Dahua 2MP dome camera HAC-HDW1200M - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_d8i3coB
• Dahua 2MP bullet camera HAC-HFW1200SP - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dWVA5aP
• 12V camera power supply - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_d81TMj9
• BNC Connectors - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dXKHdbZ
• CCTV Cable with power - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dTLUTrh

The case on the DVR is held in place with 4 screws that are accessible from the bottom of the DVR.

Flip the DVR upside dow and then with a small screwdriver remove each of the screws.

When the screws are removed, gently pull the corners of the case up to release the clips that hold it in place.

As you can see the inside is quite empty and that is to have enough space for the HDD to sit into.

To prepare the HDD for installation, we must first remove it from the packaging and connect the two cables that come with the DVR.

The first cable is the power adapter for the HDD that is connected to the larger port, usually on the far left side of the disk.

Next is the data cable that is right next to the power cable.

Both have a small notch out of plastic so they can't be installed upside down.

As a final step in the preparation of the hard drive, we will very loosely attach the 4 screws that will hold the DVR in place so we can slide them into the dedicated bracket later on.

On the bottom plate of the DVR, there is a mount for the HDD that is marked.

Place the HDD over that mount and with the DVR flipped upside down, slide the screws to the side so they HDD sits over the mount. Some DVRs do not have this sliding feature but instead, they just expose the mounting holes directly and the screws are added from there.

Once all of the screws are in position, use the screwdriver to secure the HDD so it does not move.

With the HDD in place, we need to connect the wires coming out of it to the DVR electronics board.

Both of the cables have designated and separate by form connectors so you can't confuse the cables.

With the electronics done, you can now return the cover to the DVR and secure it with the 4 screws that we first removed.

It is now time to connect the cameras and start using your DVR.

You can check the video for a demonstration of the entire process and if you like it that I encourage you to subscribe to my YouTube channel. I make videos about electronics, code, and generally making and I'm sure you'll find something of interest.

You can also check my other Instructables for more interesting projects and ideas.

Thank you for reading!