If you are seeing an Input Output Video Standard Mismatch or invalid camera video standard message on a Hikvision or TruVision DVR, the problem is usually related to incompatible camera settings, display output configuration, or system video standard conflicts. In some cases, users may need to reset the Hikvision DVR, restore default settings, or troubleshoot connected cameras to get the system working again. In this guide, we explain the most common causes of video standard mismatch errors, how to factory reset a Hikvision DVR, and what to do if your DVR is beeping, displaying the wrong video format, or failing to show camera feeds correctly.
Does this TruVision Input Output Video Standard Mismatch notification look familiar?

Many users searching for this problem are also trying to find answers for how to reset a Hikvision DVR, how to factory reset a Hikvision DVR without a password, or how to stop a Hikvision DVR beep sound after a configuration issue. Whether you are dealing with a Hikvision DVR reset jumper, a camera video standard mismatch, or a recorder that no longer displays properly, understanding the source of the error can help you restore video output faster and avoid unnecessary hardware replacement.
How to Change the Monitor Standard input output mode

Open up the menu on your DVR. Select the Monitor menu, then check the first line where it says Monitor Standard. If it is set to PAL, click the drop down arrow and select NTSC or vice versa. Make sure to Save or Apply changes. See following image:
What is PAL and NTSC?
PAL stands for phase alternating line and is the standard video broadcast format in Europe, Australia, and most of Asia. NTSC, named for the National Television System Committee is the standard broadcast format for the United States. See here for further details regarding video standards.
Needing to make a video standard change to your DVR is a common configuration change
This article is geared toward the TruVision DVRs by Interlogix. But you could be experiencing a video standard mismatch alarm on a wide variety of DVR's, such as Swann, Tektronix, Hikvision, Zmodo and others. Look at your manufacturers users guide for how to adjust the video standard on your brand of DVR.
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We trust this article helped you with your TruVision Input Output Video Standard Mismatch alarm. We welcome your feedback in the comments section below.
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Hikvision DVR Reset and Troubleshooting – Frequently Asked Questions
How do I manually reset my DVR?
To manually reset a DVR, you typically need to restore the device to its factory default settings. The exact steps can vary depending on the brand and model, but most DVR systems follow a similar process.
1. Use the DVR menu (if you have access)
If you can log in to the DVR, go to the System Settings or Maintenance menu and look for an option such as Factory Reset, Restore Default Settings, or Default Configuration. Selecting this option will reset the DVR to its original factory settings.
2. Use a hardware reset button or jumper
Some DVR models include a reset button or reset jumper on the motherboard. To use this method, power off the DVR, open the device casing, locate the reset jumper or button, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reset the system.
3. Reset using the manufacturer’s recovery tools
Certain DVR brands, including Hikvision or TruVision systems, may allow a reset using specialized tools, firmware utilities, or a recovery procedure if the password is lost.
After performing a manual reset, the DVR will typically erase configuration settings, user accounts, and network settings, returning the system to its default state. You will then need to reconfigure cameras, recording schedules, and network settings before using the system again.
How do you reset a Hikvision password without a reset button?
If your Hikvision DVR or NVR does not have a physical reset button, you can usually reset the password using Hikvision’s built-in password recovery process. This method typically requires access to the device and may involve generating a reset file or verification code.
1. Open the login screen
Connect a monitor and mouse to the DVR or NVR and go to the login screen. Click “Forgot Password” if the option is available.
2. Export the recovery file or QR code
The system may generate a verification code, QR code, or encrypted reset file. Save this file to a USB drive or scan the QR code.
3. Contact the system administrator or Hikvision support
Provide the generated file or code to the system installer, distributor, or Hikvision support team. They can generate a reset key or unlock file specific to your device.
4. Import the reset key
Once you receive the reset file or code, load it back into the DVR or NVR through the password recovery screen. This will allow you to create a new administrator password.
Important:
Modern Hikvision systems use enhanced security features, so resetting the password often requires device verification. If the password cannot be recovered using the software method, you may need assistance from the original installer or an authorized Hikvision service provider.
How do you unbind a Hikvision DVR without the admin password?
Unbinding a Hikvision DVR or NVR from a Hik-Connect account without the administrator password can be difficult because the device is designed to prevent unauthorized access. In most cases, you will need to verify ownership of the device before it can be unbound.
1. Try logging in with the administrator account
If possible, log in to the DVR using the admin credentials and go to Network → Advanced Settings → Platform Access (Hik-Connect). From there, you can disable the service or unbind the device from the account.
2. Use the password recovery process
If the admin password is lost, you may need to reset the password using Hikvision’s password recovery tool or the “Forgot Password” option on the login screen. This typically involves exporting a verification file or QR code and receiving a reset key from Hikvision support or the device distributor.
3. Contact the original installer or distributor
Many Hikvision systems are registered by the installer. The installer or reseller may be able to verify ownership and help remove the device from the existing Hik-Connect account.
4. Factory reset the DVR
In some cases, a factory reset may remove account bindings, but this depends on the model and firmware version. Be aware that resetting the device will usually erase configuration settings, network settings, and camera configurations.
Because Hikvision uses security protections to prevent unauthorized control of surveillance equipment, unbinding a device without proper credentials may require assistance from Hikvision support or an authorized service provider.
What is the admin password for a Hikvision DVR?
Most Hikvision DVRs and NVRs do not have a universal default admin password. Newer Hikvision systems require users to create an administrator password during the initial setup to improve security and prevent unauthorized access.
However, on some older Hikvision DVR models, the default login credentials were commonly:
- Username:
admin - Password:
12345or123456
Because of security concerns, Hikvision removed these default passwords on newer devices. If the password has been forgotten, you will typically need to use the password recovery process through the device’s login screen by selecting “Forgot Password.”
The recovery process may involve:
- Exporting a reset file or QR code
- Contacting the installer, distributor, or Hikvision support
- Importing a reset key or unlock file to create a new password
If you cannot access the password recovery feature, you may need help from the original installer or an authorized Hikvision service provider to regain access to the DVR.
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