Apart from traditional methods, you can also update your Hikvision device using the iVMS-4200 software. Updating the firmware of your unit can provide security and performance improvements, as well as adding features and new functions.
iVMS-4200 is a camera management software made by Hikvision that allows users to monitor their cameras using a computer or laptop. The software connects to the DVR, NVR, or straight to the cameras and lets you manage them allowing functions such as live view, playback, adjusting settings, etc.
You can even add devices remotely (from other locations). You’ll be able to upgrade the firmware as long as the devices show online on the iVMS-4200. If you do not have the IVMS-4200 software click here for the download.
The procedure is pretty straightforward and includes locating your device model, getting the right firmware, and upgrading the unit via the iVMS-4200. That’s all basically. It can get complicated if you don’t know what firmware to download and use for your unit.
Upgrading the firmware via iVMS-4200
Using this method you can update the firmware of your NVR, DVR, and IP cameras. Let’s say we need to update the firmware for the camera. In the first step, you need to find the camera model, firmware version, and build date. At least you need to know the camera model number.
There are a couple of ways to locate the camera’s model. For example, you can check the sticker on the camera’s body or the packaging box.
Additionally, you may find the model number on the SADP tool, on the iVMS-4200 listed devices, or even on the camera’s settings (via web browser). For more instructions on how to find the model number of your device refer to this article.
Below you can see the model of the device via iVMS04200. Go to Device Management > Device and on the second part of the screen, you should see all your devices listed on it. Each device shows its information such as Device Model, Firmware Version, etc.
Find the Firmware
Once you know the model of the device, you need to find the right firmware. You can do this by going to Hikvision’s website and locating the firmware for your camera model.
If you’re using Hikvision OEM devices (sold under other brand names), then you should contact the seller or the dealer. Firmware can be downloaded on this link as well.
Each firmware has a build date which is in fact the date when the firmware was released by Hikvison or the OEM seller. Make sure this date is newer compared to your current firmware version. Also, the update should be from a lower firmware version to a higher one, not the opposite (downgrade).
Keep in mind, that it’s very important to update the correct firmware on your camera. Most of the time flashing the wrong firmware won’t affect the device, it simply won’t go through.
But in some cases, it goes through and the unit may be damaged and lose all its functions and features. If you’re not sure, contact Hikvision or the seller to get the correct firmware.
Upgrade firmware using IVMS-4200
After downloading the firmware, locate the file and extract it by right-clicking on the file and selecting extract all or unzip. Usually, the downloaded files are automatically placed in your default download folder, unless prompted for a download location, then choose Desktop.
When prompted for an extract location, choose Desktop to extract the final file or any other folder that is convenient for you. The firmware file is named digicap.
Next, run the IVMS-4200 camera management software. Navigate to Device Management. Add the Camera by selecting the checkmark box to the left of it and clicking Add.
You will then be prompted to create a name for the camera and enter the login information (username and password). Click OK to finish.
Once the camera has been added, it will populate on the top half portion for the added devices. Select the checkbox to the far left of the added camera, then select the Remote Configuration icon to the right of the listed device. Select the Basic Settings option.
A new window will then pop up. Go to System-> Maintenance > Upgrade.
In the Upgrade section, select Browse, then locate the digicap file that was previously downloaded by you. Click Upgrade to start the process.
A prompt will ask to reboot the camera after upgrading. Select OK. Then a new prompt will appear to show the progression of the upgrade.
After 100% is achieved, the camera will automatically reboot. After rebooting, the camera will have the new firmware installed. That’s all, you just upgraded your device using the iVMS-4200.
If the upgrade doesn’t go through or fails, it means you are using the wrong firmware. You need to start over and ensure that the firmware is the correct one.
Other upgrading options include upgrading directly the camera via the web browser, upgrading the camera via a USB stick through the DVR or NVR, and upgrading using the SADP tool or the Batch Configuration tool. The logic and steps are similar across all these methods.
