The Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” error can pop up on your screen when you connect a camera to a Dahua recorder. Let’s troubleshoot it.
You might also receive an “Invalid Camera Video Standard” error message. They are the same thing and can be solved through the same steps.

This particular error happens when using a Dahua XVR recorder. An XVR has the power to support all kinds of camera signals, including:
- AHD
- Analog
- HD-CVI
- HD-TVI
- IP
These recorders can also be nicknamed “Penta-brid” like hybrid, but “Penta” signifies five. Thus, implying that the recorder can connect to various kinds of cameras.
Its capability is unmatched, yet, it does not mean it can work properly all the time. Errors such as the Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” can arise when there is a compatibility issue.
When the camera and recorder face a compatibility problem, you may solve it by updating the firmware or changing settings to a supported camera type.
Nevertheless, this error might not be fixable due to the camera’s resolution. If the recorder does not support it, you won’t be able to connect them together.
Below, I have compiled a guide to show you easy troubleshooting that can fix your Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” error in a few minutes. The instructions will work for any Dahua brand or OEM versions of the device.
Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” Error Troubleshooting
Suppose that you just purchased a new camera to add to your security system. All you have to do is connect it to your recorder. Once you do, a Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” message pops up on the screen.
Though it can be frustrating, the message simply means that the camera and recorder are not compatible. Thus, you now have to figure out a way around it.
Update Your Firmware
This is the perfect excuse to update your firmware. Regardless of other factors, if your monitor shows Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” error message, then it might need an update.
Keeping your recorder up to date is crucial. It keeps all kinds of issues and misconnections like this one from happening. For instance, if the camera’s resolution is high and the recorder is unable to keep up with it, you’ll need to update the firmware.
This especially applies to cameras that run on 5MPs or higher. Thus, to upgrade, you’ll need to download it from the Dahua official website or your seller.
It would be best if you always double-check that it is the correct upgrade for your device to avoid damaging it in any way. Once you find it, save the file to your computer.
Transfer it to a USB from the computer and insert it into one of the recorder’s USB ports. Then on your recorder, open “Main Menu,” then “System,” and finally, find the “Upgrade” button and click on it.
Then choose the file from the USB, and the update will run itself. After it is done, it will reboot and turn on once again in a matter of a couple of minutes.

Attempt to reconnect your camera to the recorder and see if you receive the Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” message. If so, there is something else you can try.
Altering the Camera Type Settings
The issue can sometimes be caused by the camera’s video format being different from the one of the recorder. For instance, if the recorder is set for HD-CVI cameras and your camera is an AHD, the connection will not be established.
To alter the camera type settings, enter the “Main Menu” and select the “Camera” option. Under the camera section, you should find “Settings,” and you will be presented with a menu as pictured below.

In these settings, you will need to match the type of camera you bought with the settings. To do so, inspect your camera’s box or check its specifications to find out what kind of camera you have.
For instance, if the camera is IP, you will select IP for the channel where you will plug in the camera. After you have selected the correct camera type, save the settings and await for the recorder to reboot.
Once the recorder is back online, the Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” message should be gone, and you should be able to see the camera’s live view.
Depending on what Dahua recorder you are utilizing, the interface might look different, though the steps are the same. Below you can see the GUI Dahua interface.
Furthermore, by selecting “Auto,” your recorder will choose the video formate automatically, but it’s not guaranteed to work. Doing manually is more reliable.
Lastly, the “Other” option seen on the settings can be used for cameras that are HD-TVI.
The recorder does not support the camera.
If the above troubleshooting did not work and you still see a Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” message, then it is possible that your recorder does not support your camera’s resolution.
If your recorder only supports a 2MP camera, and you connect a 5MP camera, it will not work. And thus, the message will continue to appear on your screen.
Final Thoughts
To remove the Dahua “Invalid Camera Format” error, you have to update the firmware, which you should be checking for every so often either way. And changing the camera type under settings to match your camera should work too.
In either case, if your recorder is not able to display the image because it does not support the camera’s resolution, then you will either have to switch your camera or the recorder itself.
Lastly, you can contact Dahua directly or the seller you bought it from for any issues you face.