How to Change Time on Zosi Camera

Changing the time on your Zosi camera ensures accurate video timestamps, which is essential for security and evidence. This guide walks you through multiple methods—using the NVR/DVR interface, mobile app, and web browser—so you can sync your system to the correct time zone and daylight saving settings.

Key Takeaways

• Accurate timestamps are crucial: Correct time settings help with monitoring, evidence collection, and syncing footage across devices.
• Multiple access methods available: You can adjust the time via the NVR/DVR menu, Zosi mobile app (Zosi Smart), or web browser interface.
• Time sync with NTP recommended: Enabling Network Time Protocol (NTP) ensures your Zosi system stays accurate without manual updates.
• Daylight saving time matters: Always check DST settings to avoid time drift during seasonal changes.
• Factory reset as last resort: If time settings won’t save, a factory reset may be needed—but back up recordings first.
• Firmware updates improve reliability: Keep your Zosi system updated to avoid bugs affecting time synchronization.
• Mobile app offers remote control: Use the Zosi Smart app to change time settings from anywhere with an internet connection.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Tip/Question?

Can I change the time on all Zosi cameras at once?

Yes! Time settings are managed at the DVR or NVR level, so changing the time on the recorder automatically updates all connected cameras.

Tip/Question?

What if my Zosi camera time is still wrong after setting it?

Try enabling NTP sync or rebooting the system. If the issue persists, check for firmware updates or replace the internal battery.

Tip/Question?

Do I need internet to change the time on my Zosi camera?

No, you can change the time locally via the monitor and mouse. Internet is only required for remote access or NTP sync.

Tip/Question?

How often should I check my Zosi camera time?

Check it monthly, especially around daylight saving time changes. Enabling NTP reduces the need for manual checks.

Tip/Question?

Can I schedule time changes on my Zosi system?

Not directly, but enabling NTP with a daily sync interval effectively automates time corrections.

How to Change Time on Zosi Camera: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your Zosi security camera system on the correct time isn’t just about convenience—it’s a critical part of maintaining reliable surveillance. Whether you’re reviewing footage for security incidents, syncing multiple cameras, or ensuring compliance with legal standards, accurate timestamps are essential. Fortunately, Zosi makes it relatively straightforward to adjust the time on your cameras, whether you’re using a DVR (Digital Video Recorder), NVR (Network Video Recorder), or accessing the system remotely via a mobile app or web browser.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every method available to change the time on your Zosi camera system. You’ll learn how to access the system menu, adjust time and date settings, enable automatic time sync, and troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll be able to keep your Zosi cameras perfectly synchronized with real-world time—no matter where you are.

Why Accurate Time Settings Matter on Zosi Cameras

Before diving into the technical steps, it’s important to understand why time accuracy is so vital for your Zosi security system.

When your camera records footage, it embeds a timestamp on every video clip. This timestamp appears in the corner of the video and is also stored in the system’s metadata. If the time is incorrect, it can cause confusion during playback, make it difficult to pinpoint events, and even compromise the credibility of footage in legal or insurance situations.

For example, if a break-in occurs at 2:15 PM but your camera shows 10:15 AM due to a time zone error, investigators may overlook critical evidence. Similarly, if you have multiple Zosi cameras around your property, inconsistent time settings can make it hard to reconstruct the sequence of events.

Additionally, many users rely on motion detection alerts and scheduled recording. These features depend on accurate timekeeping to function properly. A misconfigured clock could result in missed recordings or false alarms.

Finally, modern Zosi systems support cloud storage and remote access. If your local time is off, it can create sync issues with cloud backups or mobile app notifications. That’s why taking a few minutes to set the correct time is a small investment with big returns in reliability and peace of mind.

Understanding Your Zosi System: DVR vs. NVR

Zosi offers two main types of recording systems: DVRs (for analog cameras) and NVRs (for IP cameras). While the core functionality is similar, the interface and setup process can differ slightly.

A DVR connects to traditional coaxial cameras (like Zosi’s analog bullet or dome models) and processes video signals internally. These systems typically have a built-in menu accessible via a monitor and mouse.

An NVR, on the other hand, works with digital IP cameras over a network (usually via Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi). NVRs often offer more advanced features, including remote access, higher resolution support, and better integration with mobile apps.

Regardless of whether you have a DVR or NVR, the process of changing the time is very similar. Both systems allow you to adjust the date, time, time zone, and daylight saving settings through their main menu. However, NVRs may offer additional options like NTP (Network Time Protocol) sync, which we’ll cover in detail later.

It’s also worth noting that some Zosi systems come with a built-in battery-backed real-time clock (RTC). This means the time will persist even during power outages—unless the battery is dead or the system has been unplugged for an extended period.

Method 1: Changing Time via the NVR/DVR Menu (Local Access)

The most direct way to change the time on your Zosi camera is by accessing the system menu directly from the recorder unit. This method requires a monitor, mouse, and physical access to your DVR or NVR.

Step 1: Connect a Monitor and Mouse

First, ensure your Zosi DVR or NVR is connected to a monitor using an HDMI or VGA cable. Most Zosi systems have both options, but HDMI provides better image quality. Plug in a USB mouse to navigate the interface.

If you don’t have a monitor handy, you can use a TV with HDMI input—just make sure it’s set to the correct source.

Step 2: Power On the System and Log In

Turn on your Zosi recorder. The system will boot up and display the live camera feeds. You’ll need to log in to access the settings menu.

By default, the username is usually “admin” and the password is often “admin” or “123456”. If you’ve changed the password previously, use your custom credentials. If you’ve forgotten the password, you may need to perform a factory reset (we’ll cover this in the troubleshooting section).

Step 3: Open the Main Menu

Right-click anywhere on the screen to open the context menu. Select “Main Menu” or “Settings” from the list. Alternatively, some models have a physical button on the front panel or remote control to access the menu.

Step 4: Navigate to the Time Settings

In the main menu, look for a section labeled “System,” “Device,” or “Configuration.” Click on it, then find the “Time” or “Date & Time” option.

Here, you’ll see fields for:
– Current Date
– Current Time
– Time Zone
– Daylight Saving Time (DST)
– NTP (Network Time Protocol) – if available

Step 5: Adjust the Date and Time

Click on the date and time fields to edit them. Use the on-screen keyboard or your physical keyboard (if supported) to enter the correct values.

Make sure to set:
– The correct year, month, and day
– The accurate hour, minute, and second
– The proper time format (12-hour or 24-hour)

For example, if it’s 3:45 PM on June 10, 2024, enter:
– Date: 2024-06-10
– Time: 15:45:00 (for 24-hour format) or 03:45:00 PM (for 12-hour)

Step 6: Set the Time Zone

Select your correct time zone from the dropdown menu. Zosi systems typically support all major global time zones, including:
– Eastern Standard Time (EST)
– Central Standard Time (CST)
– Pacific Standard Time (PST)
– Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
– And more

Choosing the right time zone ensures that your system accounts for regional differences and automatically adjusts for daylight saving time (if enabled).

Step 7: Enable or Disable Daylight Saving Time

If your region observes daylight saving time, make sure the DST option is enabled. This allows the system to automatically “spring forward” and “fall back” when the time changes.

Some Zosi models let you customize DST start and end dates, while others follow standard U.S. or EU rules. Check your local regulations to ensure accuracy.

Step 8: Save and Exit

After making all changes, click “Save” or “Apply” to confirm. The system will update the internal clock, and all cameras will begin recording with the new timestamp.

Exit the menu and return to the live view. To verify the change, check the timestamp on one of the camera feeds—it should now reflect the correct time.

Method 2: Changing Time via the Zosi Smart Mobile App

If you prefer to adjust settings remotely or don’t have access to a monitor, the Zosi Smart mobile app is a convenient alternative. Available for both iOS and Android, this app lets you manage your Zosi system from anywhere with an internet connection.

Step 1: Download and Install the Zosi Smart App

Search for “Zosi Smart” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Download and install the app on your smartphone or tablet.

Step 2: Log In to Your Account

Open the app and log in using your Zosi account credentials. If you haven’t created an account yet, tap “Register” and follow the prompts to set one up.

You’ll need to add your DVR or NVR to the app by scanning the QR code on the device or entering the serial number manually.

Step 3: Access Device Settings

Once logged in, select your Zosi recorder from the device list. Tap on the gear icon or “Settings” to open the configuration menu.

Step 4: Find the Time Settings

Navigate to “System Settings” > “Time Settings” or “Device Info” > “Time Configuration.” The exact path may vary slightly depending on your app version.

Step 5: Update Date, Time, and Time Zone

Edit the date, time, and time zone fields just as you would on the local menu. The app provides a user-friendly interface with dropdowns and date pickers.

You can also toggle daylight saving time on or off directly from the app.

Step 6: Save Changes

Tap “Save” or “Confirm” to apply the new settings. The app will send the update to your Zosi recorder over the internet.

Wait a few moments for the system to process the change. You can verify the update by checking the live feed timestamp or reviewing a recent recording.

Method 3: Changing Time via Web Browser (Remote Access)

For advanced users or those managing multiple Zosi systems, accessing the recorder through a web browser offers full control without needing the mobile app.

Step 1: Find Your Recorder’s IP Address

On your local network, find the IP address of your Zosi DVR or NVR. You can usually find this in the router’s connected devices list or by checking the system info in the local menu.

Common default IP addresses include 192.168.1.108 or 192.168.1.109, but this may vary.

Step 2: Enter the IP in Your Browser

Open a web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) and type the IP address into the address bar. Press Enter.

You’ll be prompted to log in. Use the same admin credentials you use for the local menu.

Step 3: Navigate to Time Settings

Once logged in, look for a “Configuration” or “Setup” tab. Click on “System” > “Time” or “General” > “Date & Time.”

Step 4: Adjust Time and Enable NTP (Recommended)

Set the correct date, time, and time zone. Most importantly, enable NTP (Network Time Protocol) if available.

NTP syncs your Zosi system with internet time servers, ensuring long-term accuracy without manual intervention.

Enter a reliable NTP server address, such as:
– pool.ntp.org
– time.nist.gov
– time.google.com

Set the sync interval to daily or weekly for best results.

Step 5: Save and Log Out

Click “Save” to apply changes. The system will update and begin syncing with the NTP server.

Log out of the browser and verify the time on your camera feeds.

Enabling NTP for Automatic Time Sync

One of the best ways to keep your Zosi camera time accurate is by enabling NTP. This feature automatically syncs your system with global time servers, eliminating the need for manual updates.

Why Use NTP?

NTP ensures your Zosi system stays in sync with atomic clocks, which are accurate to within milliseconds. This is especially important for businesses, law enforcement, or anyone relying on precise timestamps.

Without NTP, your system clock may drift over time due to hardware limitations or power interruptions.

How to Enable NTP

Follow these steps in the local menu or web interface:
1. Go to “System” > “Time” or “Network” > “NTP”
2. Toggle “Enable NTP” to ON
3. Enter an NTP server address (e.g., pool.ntp.org)
4. Set the sync interval (e.g., every 24 hours)
5. Save settings

After enabling NTP, your Zosi system will periodically check and correct its time, even if you lose power or forget to adjust for daylight saving.

Troubleshooting Common Time Issues

Even with careful setup, you may encounter issues when changing the time on your Zosi camera. Here are some common problems and solutions.

Problem: Time Resets After Power Outage

If your Zosi system loses power and the time resets to a default value (like January 1, 2010), the internal battery may be dead or disconnected.

Solution: Open the DVR/NVR casing (if you’re comfortable doing so) and check the CMOS battery on the motherboard. Replace it with a new CR2032 battery if necessary. Alternatively, contact Zosi support for assistance.

Problem: Time Won’t Save After Changes

If you make changes but they don’t stick, it could be due to a software glitch or incorrect login permissions.

Solution: Log out and log back in as the admin user. Ensure you’re not using a guest or limited account. If the issue persists, try rebooting the system or performing a factory reset (after backing up recordings).

Problem: Time Zone or DST Not Applying

Sometimes, the time zone or daylight saving setting doesn’t take effect immediately.

Solution: Double-check that DST is enabled and the correct time zone is selected. Reboot the system to force a refresh. If using NTP, ensure the server supports your region.

Problem: Mobile App Can’t Connect to Change Time

If the Zosi Smart app fails to connect, it may be due to network issues or incorrect device settings.

Solution: Ensure your phone and Zosi recorder are on the same network (for local access) or that remote access is enabled. Check your router’s firewall settings and port forwarding rules.

Best Practices for Maintaining Accurate Time

To keep your Zosi camera system running smoothly, follow these best practices:

– Enable NTP: Always use Network Time Protocol for automatic sync.
– Update firmware: Check for firmware updates regularly to fix bugs and improve timekeeping.
– Use strong passwords: Protect your system from unauthorized time changes.
– Back up recordings: Before making major changes, back up important footage.
– Test after changes: Always verify the timestamp on a live feed or recording after adjusting time.

Conclusion

Changing the time on your Zosi camera is a simple but essential task for maintaining reliable security footage. Whether you use the local menu, mobile app, or web browser, Zosi provides multiple ways to ensure your system stays accurate.

By following this guide, you’ve learned how to manually set the time, enable automatic sync with NTP, and troubleshoot common issues. With accurate timestamps, you’ll have greater confidence in your surveillance system—whether you’re protecting your home, business, or property.

Take a few minutes today to check your Zosi camera’s time settings. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in security and peace of mind.