The RD501 Series - 4K (8MP) 8-Channel Digital Video Recorder (DVR) lets you record and view compatible Lorex analog cameras locally on a TV/monitor and remotely with the Lorex Connect app.

Need more details? Refer to the RD501 User Manual for complete instructions, advanced features, and full specifications.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What’s Included
• Recorder Overview
• Connect Your System
• Run the Lorex Setup Wizard
• Add the DVR to the Lorex Connect App
• Camera Placement Tips
• Storage (microSD / HDD) & Overwrite
• Playback & Back Up Recordings
• Helpful Tips

What’s Included

• RD501 Series 4K (8MP) 8-Channel DVR (with pre-installed microSD card or pre-installed hard drive, depending on model)
• Network cable
• HDMI cable
• USB mouse
• Power adapter

Recorder Overview

Use the front and back panel ports to connect your display, cameras, network, and accessories.

Front Panel

1. HDD & power status: On indicates normal operation; off signals hard drive error or power is off.
2. USB Port: Used for the included mouse.

Back Panel

1. Audio in/out (RCA): Optional external microphone (single-channel audio) and speaker.
2. Video inputs (BNC): Connect compatible Lorex analog cameras.
3. HDMI: Connect to a TV/monitor for live viewing and setup (supports up to 4K UHD depending on display/camera).
4. VGA: Connect to a TV/monitor for live viewing and setup (up to 1080p depending on display).
5. USB: Connect the included mouse or a USB flash drive/external USB HDD.
6. MicroSD card slot: Insert a compatible microSD card for local storage.
7. RS485: Connect a compatible Lorex PTZ camera.
8. Power: Connect the included power adapter to supply power.
9. Network (LAN): Connect to your router for remote viewing in the Lorex Connect app.

Connect Your System

Follow these steps to connect your DVR to your cameras, display, and network.

1. Connect your cameras (BNC): Connect each camera’s BNC video cable to a DVR Video In port.
2. Connect your display: Connect the DVR to a TV/monitor using the included HDMI cable (or VGA, if needed).
3. Connect to your router: Connect the DVR to your router using the included network cable (LAN).
4. Connect the mouse: Plug the included USB mouse into a USB port on the DVR.
5. Power on: Connect the power adapter and turn on the DVR to begin setup.

Run the Lorex Setup Wizard

When the DVR starts for the first time, the Lorex Setup Wizard guides you through essential settings.

1. Create/Modify Password for the DVR.

   

2. Set Password Recovery (security questions) to help recover access if needed.

   

3. Select Language and Region.

   

   

4. Set Date & Time (time zone and format).

   

5. Optional: Follow the on-screen steps for App Setup to prepare for Lorex Connect.

   

Add the DVR to the Lorex Connect App

Use the Lorex Connect app to view live video, playback recordings, and receive motion notifications on your phone.

1. Download Lorex Connect on your smartphone (App Store or Google Play).
2. Open the app and log in (or create an account).

   

3. Tap Add device and select Recorder.

   

4. Name your system.

   

Camera Placement Tips

• Height: Install cameras about 8-10 ft (2.5-3 m) above the ground.
• Angle: Tilt cameras slightly downward to capture faces and important details.
• Coverage: Aim toward entry points like doors, driveways, and walkways.
• Clear view: Avoid pointing at walls, trees, or reflective surfaces.
• Night vision: Keep objects away from the lens to prevent IR reflection.

Storage (microSD / HDD) & Overwrite

Your DVR may include a pre-installed microSD card or a pre-installed hard drive, depending on model. You can also install a compatible SATA hard drive (up to 10 TB). If an HDD is installed, it becomes the DVR’s primary storage-even if a microSD card is also present.

• microSD: 1 slot (up to 256 GB)
• HDD: 1 bay (up to 10 TB SATA)

Overwrite automatically replaces older recordings when storage is full.

To check storage / format: Right-click in live view > Main Menu > Configuration > Storage > Hard Drive.

Playback & Back Up Recordings

Use Playback to search by date/time and export important clips to a USB drive. The RD501 supports up to 8-channel simultaneous playback (synchronized).

1. Insert a USB flash drive (or external USB HDD) into a USB port on the DVR.
2. Open Playback from the Main Menu.
3. Select the channel(s) and choose a date/time to search.
4. Use the timeline and controls to find the event.
5. Select Backup/Export and follow the prompts to save the clip to your USB drive.

Helpful Tips

• Remote viewing: Remote access requires a router and high-speed internet. For best results, a minimum 6 Mbps upload speed is recommended, and up to 3 devices can connect at the same time.
• Recording schedule: You can customize recording by time block (continuous vs. motion/AI) in Configuration > Storage > Schedule.
• 4K recording/viewing: 4K recording requires 4K (8MP) cameras. For 4K live/recorded viewing, use HDMI and a 4K-capable TV/monitor.