Dahua Snapshot Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It
Being able to capture a quick snapshot from your Dahua security camera is a critical function, whether you're using the web interface on a computer or a mobile app like DMSS. When this feature fails, it can be due to a variety of reasons, ranging from browser compatibility issues to incorrect app permissions.
This comprehensive guide will help you diagnose and resolve the most common problems that prevent you from taking snapshots from your Dahua camera or NVR, ensuring you can capture that crucial piece of evidence when you need it.
Common Snapshot Problems and Symptoms
First, let's identify the specific issue you are experiencing:
- Snapshot Button Not Working in Web Browser: Clicking the snapshot icon in the web interface does nothing.
- "Please configure plugin" Error: You see an error message about installing or configuring a plugin to enable the feature.
- Snapshots Not Saving to Phone: You use the snapshot feature in the DMSS or gDMSS app, but the image is nowhere to be found in your phone's gallery.
- "Snapshot Failed" or "Operation Failed" Error: You receive a specific error message when attempting to capture an image.
- Saved Files are Corrupted: The snapshot creates a file, but it cannot be opened or is just a black image.
- Buttons Are Greyed Out: The snapshot and record buttons in the mobile app are disabled.
Solutions for Web Interface Snapshot Issues
Problems on a computer's web browser are most often related to browser plugins.
1. Use the Right Browser and Settings
Modern web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) have stopped supporting the NPAPI plugins that older Dahua firmware relies on for features like snapshots.
- Use Internet Explorer: The most reliable method is often to use Internet Explorer (not Edge). You may need to enable "Compatibility View" for the camera's IP address.
- Install the Plugin: When you first access the camera's web interface, it should prompt you to download and install a plugin. You must download, close the browser, and run this installer as an administrator.
- Enable the Plugin: After installation, you may need to explicitly allow the plugin to run in the browser's settings or when prompted.
2. Use Dahua's Desktop Software
A more modern and reliable alternative to the web interface is Dahua's Smart PSS software for Windows and Mac. This dedicated desktop application communicates directly with your devices and has full functionality, including snapshot and video export, without any browser plugin issues.
Solutions for Mobile App (DMSS/gDMSS) Snapshot Issues
On a smartphone, the problems are usually related to app permissions.
1. Grant Storage Permissions
This is the most common fix. The app needs your permission to save files to your phone.
- For Android: Go to
Settings > Apps > DMSS(or your app's name). Tap onPermissionsand ensure thatStorageorFiles and Mediais allowed. - For iOS: Go to
Settings > DMSS. Tap onPhotosand selectAll Photosto grant it access to your photo library.
2. Check Your Phone's Storage
If your phone's internal memory or SD card is full, the app will not be able to save new files. Check your available space in your phone's storage settings and free up space if necessary.
3. Update the App and Reboot
- Update the App: Ensure you are running the latest version of the DMSS (or equivalent) app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Restart Your Phone: A simple reboot can often resolve temporary glitches.
4. Verify User Permissions
If you are logged into the camera with a user account (not an admin account), it's possible your user role does not have the "Manual Capture" privilege. Log in as an administrator to check if the feature works. If it does, you will need to adjust the permissions for the other user account in the camera's user management settings.
If you have tried all these steps and the snapshot feature is still not working, check the health of the SD card in the camera (if installed) and ensure the camera's firmware is up to date.