How to Solve Live View Errors on Hikvision iVMS-4200 application

In this guide, we offer practical solutions to address common Live View errors encountered while using the Hikvision iVMS-4200 app.

This is the Desktop-based application created and maintained by Hikvision that allows the user to monitor and manage the security system strength from the computer (without the need to have access to physical access). It’s very convenient and it’s widely used.

However, there are some common Live View errors that users might encounter while using the iVMS-4200 software.

These errors can include frozen camera feeds, connection issues, distorted images, choppy images, and signal losses. Here we will address each of the most common scenarios, the error types, and how to solve them.

Before starting, always make sure you’re running the latest version of iVMS-4200 software. Sometimes the errors you may encounter are caused by buggy releases that are fixed simply by updating the software.

You can download the latest version here, or directly from Hikvision’s website.

Error HCNetSDK.dll[2]

The “HCNetSDK.dll[2]” error message commonly arises when the user lacks the necessary permissions for their device.

More often than not, this can be attributed to adding the device using an operator or super user account that doesn’t possess the required rights for live view access.

To fix the error, you can delete the device and add the device with the admin account again, or login the admin account to assign live view permission to other accounts. By utilizing an admin account, you ensure that the proper permissions are automatically assigned

Alternatively, if you wish to maintain the current device setup, you can opt for the permission assignment route. Logging into your admin account, navigate to the device’s remote configuration.

Here, head to Basic Settings and proceed to System. Within the System menu, find User Management and select the specific user you intend to modify.
So, the path should be Basic Settings > System > User Management > click User > Modify User and assign remote live view permission.

This step essentially authorizes them to access live views without encountering the “HCNetSDK.dll[2]” error.

Error Playctrl.dll[2]

The “Playctrl.dll[2]” error can lead to audio problems when trying to use the live view feature.

It happens when there’s a mismatch between the video and audio streams while attempting to activate audio during live viewing. The key to solving this lies in making sure both the video and audio streams are in sync.

To get rid of the error and enjoy synchronized audio and video, follow these steps:

Begin by confirming whether the channel you’re working with supports audio. This is important because trying to add audio to a channel without audio capabilities can trigger the “Playctrl.dll[2]” error.

Then, proceed by adjusting the video type settings. Click the remote configuration button on your device, then go to Basic Settings and find the Video & Audio section.

Here, you can select the option to set the video type as Video & Audio.

Error HCNetSDK.dll[5]

Error message HCNetSDK.dll[5] typically shows when the maximum limit for device connections has been reached, leaving no room for additional users. Basically: no more users are allowed, and the number of device connections has reached the max. limit.

One immediate measure you can take is to reboot the device. By doing so, you essentially reset the current connections and provide space for new users to establish connections.

Alternatively, you can opt to manage the existing connections to free up space for new users. Identify users who are currently connected and consider disconnecting those whose activities are less critical.

By stopping these connections, you can make way for others to access the device without encountering the error. Below is an example.

Error HCNetSDK.dll[91]

The “HCNetSDK.dll[91]” error code shows up when there’s a problem retrieving the substream or if the substream itself isn’t present.

To simplify, the substream is like a secondary video feed that’s sometimes used to provide lower-resolution video, conserving bandwidth. When this stream isn’t accessible or doesn’t exist, the error message pops up.

To fix the “HCNetSDK.dll[91]” error and restore a proper live view, you can follow these straightforward steps: Navigate to the Main View.

Adjust Stream Settings: Within the Main View, select the camera channel you’re working with. Then, simply right-click on the Stream option. From the drop-down menu, choose the Main Stream option.

Conclusion

By following the step-by-step guidance we’ve shared, you can overcome these common errors and restore seamless functionality to your iVMS-4200 software.

A crucial reminder before embarking on troubleshooting adventures: always ensure you’re operating on the latest version of the iVMS-4200 software.

Software updates not only deliver new features but often fix bugs and glitches that might lead to these errors.