Most DVR / NVR recorders overwrite footage after 7 to 30 days. Act quickly.
1. Before exporting
- Photograph the recorder screen next to a phone showing the real time. This records the clock offset for the CCTV Time Corrector.
- Note the recorder make and model, the channel / camera numbers and where each camera points.
2. Export
- Export in the recorder's native format (e.g.
.dav,.264) and, if available, in MP4. Native files keep original quality and metadata; MP4 is easier to review. - Export a few minutes before and after the incident.
- Also export the player software the recorder offers, if any.
3. Integrity
- Hash every exported file with the Hash Calculator and print the custody receipt.
- Work only on copies.
4. Review
- Use the Video Frame Extractor for frame-by-frame review and lossless stills.
- Improve dark or blurry stills with the Forensic Image Enhancer. Every step is logged.
- Estimate height with the Height Estimator using a door or other object measured on site.