GE

Security

SymNet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R

User Manual

SymNet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

Copyright

Copyright 2005, GE Security Inc. All rights reserved.

This document may not be copied in whole or in part, or otherwise reproduced except as
specifically permitted under US copyright law, without the prior written consent from GE.
Document number/revision: 0150-0302B.

Disclaimer

The information in this document is subject to change without notice. GE, in keeping pace with
technological advances, is a company of product innovation. Therefore, it is difficult to ensure
that all information provided is entirely accurate and up-to-date. GE accepts no responsibility
for inaccuracies or omissions and specifically disclaims any liabilities, losses, or risks, personal
or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use or application of any of
the contents of this document.
This publication may contain examples of screen captures and reports used in daily operations.
Examples may include fictitious names of individuals and companies. Any similarity to names
and addresses of actual businesses or persons is entirely coincidental.

Trademarks and patents

GE and the GE monogram are registered trademarks of General Electric.

The SymNet product and logo are registered trademarks of GE Security.
Other trade names used in this document may be trademarks or registered trademarks of the
manufacturers or vendors of the respective products.

Software license agreement

GE software supplied with GE products is proprietary and furnished under license and can be
used or copied only in accordance with the license terms.
THE ENCLOSED PROGRAM IS FURNISHED SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS
AGREEMENT. RETENTION OF THE PROGRAM FOR MORE THAN 30 DAYS, OPENING OF THE
SEALED WRAPPER, IF ANY, SURROUNDING THE PROGRAM, OR USE OF THE PROGRAM IN ANY
MANNER WILL BE CONSIDERED ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGREEMENT TERMS. IF THESE TERMS ARE
NOT ACCEPTABLE, RETURN THE UNUSED PROGRAM AND ANY ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION
TO GE FOR A FULL REFUND OF THE LICENSE FEE PAID. (FOR INFORMATION REGARDING THE
RETURN OF PROGRAMS ENCODED OR INCORPORATED WITHIN EQUIPMENT, CONTACT THE
NEAREST GE SALES OFFICE.)

Intended use

Use this product only for the purpose for which it was designed; refer to the data sheet and user
documentation. For the latest product information, contact your GE sales representative or visit
us online at www.gesecurity.com.

FCC compliance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Contact

Direct all inquiries about GEs legal policies with regard to this product to:
Director of Legal Services
GE Security
12345 SW Leveton Drive
Tualatin, OR 97062-9938 USA

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Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Conventions used in this document. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Safety terms and symbols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Product contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Installation environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Associated equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
The default IP addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
SymNet connectors and indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Making power connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Setting the IP address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
General connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
I/O port pinouts for audio and alarm connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
WebServer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
To access the web interface: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Network settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Streaming settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Streaming video overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Streaming settings for UDP unicast or TCP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Streaming settings for UDP multicast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
MPEG settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Display options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Serial pass thru settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Password settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Network time protocol settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Factory reset settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Symbrowser. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Upgrading the SymNet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Technical Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Contacting technical support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Online publication library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

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Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

Introduction
This is the GE SymNet User Manual for models VSC-5RC and VSC-5R. This document includes an overview
of the product and detailed instructions explaining:

how to install and configure; and

how to connect to other GE IP devices.

There is also information describing how to contact technical support if you have questions or concerns.
To use this document effectively, you should have the following minimum qualifications:

a basic knowledge of CCTV systems and components; and

a basic knowledge of electrical wiring and low-voltage electrical connections.

Read these instructions and all ancillary documentation entirely before installing or operating this product.
The most current versions of this and related documentation may be found on our website. Refer to Online
publication library on page 28 for instructions on accessing our online publication library.
Note:

A qualified service person, complying with all applicable codes, should perform all required hardware installation.

Conventions used in this document

The following conventions are used in this document:
Bold

Menu items and buttons.

Italic

Emphasis of an instruction or point; special terms.

File names, path names, windows, panes, tabs, fields, variables, and other GUI elements.
Titles of books and various documents.

Monospace

Text that displays on the computer screen.

Programming or coding sequences.

Blue italic

Hyperlinks to cross-references, related topics, and URL addresses.

Safety terms and symbols

These terms may appear in this manual:
CAUTION

Cautions identify conditions or practices that may result in damage to the equipment or other property.

WARNING

Warnings identify conditions or practices that could result in equipment damage or serious personal injury.

Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

Overview
Product description
The GE SymNet VSC-5RC and VSC-5R are small footprint video streaming units that are used for video
monitoring and surveillance over IP networks. They use MPEG-4 compression technologies to deliver high
quality video, audio, and data over 10/100 Base-T networks. The SymNets basic function is to either encode
analog video (NTSC) to MPEG-4 digital video or decode MPEG-4 digital video to analog video. The GE
SymNet comes in two versions; the VSC-5RC is a standalone unit that can be horizontally or vertically
mounted and the VSC-5R which is an FO rack mountable version. The VSC-5R works with the FO 500R
series of enclosures.

Features

Works with the SymNet, SymNet-4, SymVeo IP camera, and SymNav software.
Advanced MPEG4 video compression.
Composite video input and output connection.
Alarm input and output connections.
Remote configuration over ethernet or RS232.
Password protection.
Standard, medium, and high video quality settings.
Can be setup as an encoder or decoder.
Video streaming with UDP and TCP/IP support.

Product contents
The SymNet system consists of the SymNet, this manual, a SymNav Software CD, a 13.5 VDC 1.33 Amp
Power Supply, a 16-way 2 row terminal block connector, a 3 position connector, an SVHS to BNC video
adapter cable, and an RS-232 serial cable.
Check the package and contents for visible damage. If any components are missing or damaged, contact the
supplier immediately. Do not attempt to use the unit. If, for any reason they must be returned, the contents
must be shipped in the original packaging.

Figure 1. VSC-5RC product contents

Installation environment
Power: Ensure that the site's AC power is stable and within the rated voltage of the external power
supply. If the site's AC power is likely to have spikes or power dips, use power line conditioning
or an Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS).
Ventilation: Install the unit in a well-ventilated area. Take note of the locations of the cooling vents
in the unit's enclosure, and ensure that they are not obstructed.
Temperature: Observe the unit's ambient temperature specifications when choosing a location space.
Extremes of heat or cold beyond the specified operating temperature limits may cause the unit to
fail. Do not install the unit on top of other hot equipment.
Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Moisture can damage the internal components.
Do not install this unit near sources of water.

Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

Associated equipment
Associated equipment you might need:

A SymVeo IP camera.
An analog monitor to view video.
Alarm input devices: Pressure sensors, motion detectors, etc.
Alarm output devices: Buzzers, sirens, flashing lights, etc.
A PC connected via ethernet cable.
A slotted screwdriver with a tip size of 2 cm or smaller.

For instructions regarding the connection of the associated security equipment in your system, please consult
the instruction manual of the associated equipment.

Passwords
Passwords are provided to limit access to the WebServer and the SymNav software. It is recommended that the
default passwords be changed after installation is complete. As a security measure, store the password in the
administrator's secured files or in a limited access area.
Table 1.

Default passwords

Password name

Program

Changeable by user

Default password

Admin Password

WebServer

Yes, through the webserver

admin

Log In Password

SymNav

Yes, through the Security

menu

12345

The default IP addresses

The SymNet comes with preset IP addresses, they are;

Note:

IP address of 3.112.55.10
Subnet mask of 255.255.254.0
Gateway address of 3.112.54.1
These IP addresses should be changed before you connect to your IP network. Contact your network administrator to
obtain your network specific addresses.

SymNet connectors and indicators

Figure 2. Connectors and indicators

Connectors
1. Power connector: For connecting the 13.5 Volt DC external power supply to the VSC-5RC. The
VSC-5R draws its power from the FO rack.
2. I/O connector: For connecting alarm, audio, RS232, RS485 input and output.
3. Video I/O connector: For the input and output connection of two composite monitors.
4. Ethernet port: For connecting to a LAN or WAN. Used for upgrading the software over the Internet
and accessing the webserver.

Indicators
1. Power LED: Indicates power is on when LED is lit.
2. Link: Indicates data activity on the ethernet port.
3. Tx activity: Indicates that the unit is transmitting data.
4. Rx activity: Indicates that the unit is receiving data.

Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

Installation
Making power connections
Note:

This only applies to model VSC-5RC. Model VSC-5R receives power from the FO rack. If the terminal block is already
connected to the power supply, go directly to step 4.

To make the power connections, see Figure 3 on page 6 and do the following:
1. With a screwdriver, loosen the terminal screws (pins 1 and 3) on the provided 3 position terminal
block.
2. Insert the flying leads into sockets 1 and 3. The +13.5v lead at pin 3 and the ground lead at pin 1.
3. Retighten the terminal screws until snug, ensuring that the power leads are secure.
4. Insert the terminal block into the power connector of the SymNet.
5. Supply power to the unit by plugging the power supply into a properly rated power source.
The power LED illuminates to show that the SymNet is receiving power. If it does not illuminate, check the
terminal block connections and the power source.
Figure 3. The terminal block connections

Setting the IP address

In order to use the SymNet correctly you must change the IP addresses from the defaults to ones that your
specific network will recognize. This requires a serial cable (provided) and a connection to a PC.
Figure 4. Serial cable schematic

Making the serial cable

Note:

If the serial cable is already connected to the terminal connector go directly to step 4.

To make a serial connection, see Figures 4 and 5 and do the following:

1. Orient the 16-way terminal connector with the 16 socket side down and the keying ridge facing away.
2. Insert a small slotted screwdriver into pin 11 on the 3rd row down (see Figure 5). Push the screwdriver
until it bottoms out. Insert the blue/white wire into pin 11.
3. Repeat step 2 with the blue wire in pin 12 and the orange/white wire in pin 16.
4. Clip the Ferrite sleeve (provided) on to the serial cable.
5. Insert the connector into the I/O socket on the SymNet and insert the DB9-M end into the serial port
(COM1) of your PC.
Figure 5. 16-way terminal block wiring for RS232 protocol

Run HyperTerminal
1. Power up the SymNet.
2. Launch HyperTerminal by selecting Start/Programs/Accessories/Communications/HyperTerminal.
3. Type in <any name> in the Connection Description dialog box and click OK.
4. Select the correct COM port and click OK.
5. Ensure the port settings are 57600 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, and no flow control. Click
OK.
6. Enter ? to display the menu.
7. Press 1 for the network settings.
8. Press 2 to change the network settings.
9. Enter the new IP addresses and then press enter.
Note:

Obtain your network specific IP addresses from your network administrator.

10. After the Gateway address is entered the SymNet will reboot.
11. Remove power from the SymNet and disconnect the serial cable from your PC.

Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

General connections
Use the figure below as a guide to connect the various peripherals to the connections on the SymNet.
Figure 6. Connection diagram

1. Line-level Microphone with Amp. (Audio In)

5. PC with SymNav

2. Speaker with Amp. (Line-level audio output)

6. SymVeo IP camera

3. Alarm I/O and RS485

7. Power Supply

4. RS232 Serial connection to PC

8. Composite Video In and Video Out

I/O port pinouts for audio and alarm connections

To add alarm, audio, and RS485 connections wire the 16-way terminal block according to Figure 7 on page 9.
Use a similar procedure to the wiring of the serial port as described previously.
Figure 7. I/O Port pin numbering

The side of the SymNet is equipped with an accessories I/O Port (16-pin connector). Wire all I/O devices to
the 16-way terminal connector that was supplied with the unit. Connect the terminal connector to the I/O port.
Do not attempt to wire accessories directly to the I/O port.
If the terminal connector is lost or missing, contact GE Customer Service for a replacement (Part Number
3110-0127).
Pin 1: Alarm In

Pin 9: RS485 -

Pin 2: Ground

Pin 10: RS485 +

Pin 3: Alarm Out

Pin 11: TxD

Pin 4: Ground

Pin 12: RxD

Pin 5: Audio In

Pin 13: RTS

Pin 6: Ground

Pin 14: CTS

Pin 7: Audio Out

Pin 15: DCD

Pin 8: Ground

Pin 16: Ground

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Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

WebServer
The SymNet has an integrated WebServer interface. The WebServer provides the user the means to remotely
configure, upgrade, and view information about the SymNet. The default IP address from the factory is
3.112.55.10. To get the SymNet to stream video, at a minimum the Streaming settings must be configured.

To access the web interface:

1. Launch Internet Explorer (version 5.5 or later) on any local Internet connected PC or laptop.
2. Type in the units IP address (xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx) or hostname (see network settings page) in the address
field and press enter. The Enter Network Password box should appear.
3. Enter the correct Username and Password in their respective fields (the default username and password
is admin). Click the OK button.
4. The SymNets home page window should appear.
Figure 8. SymNet home page

On this page you will find links for Configure, SymBrowser, Info, and Upgrade.
Clicking on the Configure link will launch the Configuration web page.

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Figure 9. Configuration page

On this page you can remotely modify the following settings of the SymNet:

Network settings including the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Gateway Address.
Streaming settings including setting the unit as a sender or receiver and streaming mode.
MPEG quality settings.
What display options to view.
Serial pass-thru settings for controlling domes and PTZ cameras with a connected keyboard.
Password settings.
Network Time Protocol settings.
Factory reset for resetting all parameters back to the default settings.

Network settings
This page provides an alternate method of changing the SymNets IP addresses. You can also enable DHCP
(Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) and assign your unit a hostname. DHCP is an Internet protocol for
automating the configuration of devices that use TCP/IP. DHCP can be used to automatically assign IP
addresses.

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Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

Figure 10. Network Settings page

Streaming settings
These pages setup the video streaming properties of the SymNet. Video streaming is a new concept to many, so
we have included the following overview. A certain level of IP network knowledge is required to properly set
up video streaming.

Streaming video overview

Video Streaming is the process that the SymDec family, including SymNet and the Symveo IP camera use to
listen on a specific UDP/TCP port for control messages and respond to them. The communication over this
protocol can be between a PC application, such as SymNav software and any of the above products. The UDP/
TCP port is configurable. The default port setting is 8092. IP Multicast is also supported.

IP Multicast
IP multicast is a bandwidth-conserving technology that reduces traffic by simultaneously delivering a single
stream of information to thousands of recipients. IP Multicast delivers source traffic to multiple receivers
without adding any additional burden on the source or the receivers while using the least network bandwidth of
any competing technology. High-bandwidth applications, such as MPEG video, may require a large portion of
the available network bandwidth for a single stream.

13

Note:

Configured incorrectly IP multicast can become a serious drain on your networks resources! If you are at all uncertain
on how to setup IP multicast, please contact your network administrator or IS professional.

The Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) controls the assignment of IP multicast addresses. It has
assigned the Class D address space to be used for IP multicast. This means that all IP multicast group addresses
will fall in the range of 224.0.0.0 to 239.255.255.255. This address range is only used for the group address or
destination address of IP multicast traffic. The source address for multicast video is always the source or
senders IP address.

UDP Sender and UDP Receiver Overview

UDP (User Datagram Protocol), is a connectionless protocol that, like TCP, runs on top of IP networks. Unlike
TCP/IP, UDP/IP provides very few error recovery services, offering instead a direct way to send and receive
datagrams over an IP network. It's used primarily for broadcasting messages over a network. A UDP sender
sends out digital video over an IP network. A UDP sender can be the SymDec-1, SymDec-4, Symveo IP
Camera, or SymNet (Encoder). A UDP receiver is typically a SymDec-1, SymNav software, or a SymDec-4,
which can display and record the streamed video. The SymNet (Decoder) can also be setup as a receiver, but it
can only display the streamed video since it does not have recording capability.
To prevent a waste of network resources, the UDP sender does not send out streaming video until a receiver
informs the sender that it is interested in receiving the stream. The UDP receiver sends out a START message
every 30 seconds to the IP address in its streaming settings menu. The streaming settings page is located on the
receiving device's web page.
When a sender receives a START message, it will start streaming out to the receiver's that are requesting it.
When the sender does not receive any START message for one minute, it will stop sending to that device.
To speed up the initialization process after bootup and configuration changes, The UDP sender sends out a
READY_TO_SEND message to the multicast IP address. When the receiver gets this message, it will send out
the START message immediately if it is configured to receive from that sender (It does not wait for 30 seconds).
Note:

The above information also applies if your Sender and Receiver are configured to use TCP instead of UDP.

SymNav software
SymNav software is the next generation of software that supports MPEG4 based video compression. The
Symdec-1, SymDec-4, SymNet, and SymVeo IP Camera all use MPEG4 compression.
SymNav software also connects to these products using UDP/TCP protocols depending on what is configured.
The default setting is UDP. Changing from UDP to TCP or TCP to UDP is accomplished through the SymNav
software application.
SymNav software can connect to a maximum of 4 video streams. This can be 4 separate SymDec units with 1
stream each or 2 SymDecs with 2 streams each.

Sample Network Setup

We recommend that video streaming is setup on a private network. The following configuration setup is based
on the following network diagram. These settings are implemented through the individual unit's web page. To
access the unit's web page simply launch your Internet browser and input the unit's IP address in the address

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Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
User Manual

bar. Typical numbers are shown for the purpose of illustration. Real addresses must be chosen by the user
based on actual network parameters.
At a minimum the following information must be known:

The IP addresses of all the units involved in this network.

The Subnet Masks of all the units involved in this network.
The Gateway addresses of all the units involved in this network.
A valid streaming or multicast address.

Streaming settings for UDP unicast or TCP

Figure 11. A sample network configuration

Figure 12 illustrates streaming settings for a UDP unicast from the SymNet to the SymDec-4.
The SymDec-4 is setup as a receiver in Normal mode with the Receiver Cam Map IP address set at
192.168.10.20 (The IP address of the sender). The SymNet is setup as a sender with the streaming address set

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at 192.168.10.40 The IP address of the receiver. Once these settings are saved on their respective web pages the
SymNet will begin sending streaming video (once requested) and the SymDec-4 will begin receiving
streaming video.
All the settings on the Advanced Streaming settings must match between the sender and the receiver.
In this configuration both the SymDec-1 and SymDec-4 are able to receive a video stream from the SymNet or
SymVeo IP Camera.
Figure 12. SymDec-4 setup as receiver and SymNet setup as sender

Streaming settings for UDP multicast

Figure 13 illustrates streaming settings for a UDP multicast from the SymNet to the default multicast address.
The default multicast address is 230 for the first field and the balance being the units current IP address.
The SymDec-4 is setup as a receiver in Normal mode with the Receiver Cam Map IP address set at
192.168.10.20 (The IP address of the sender) and Use default Multicast Address checked. The SymNet is setup
as a sender with the mulitcast address set at 230.168.10.20. Once these settings are saved on their respective
web pages the SymNet will begin sending multicasting video (once requested) and the SymDec-4 will begin
receiving streaming video.

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Figure 13. Sample UDP multicast settings

To use a multicast address other than the default, uncheck Use default Multicast Address on both web pages,
click the Advanced command in the mode drop-down menu and enter the same multicast address in the
Streaming Address field.
Figure 14. The advanced mode screen

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The advanced mode screen has settings for:

The Streaming Port

Streaming Address
Sender Control Enable
Sender Control Port
Receiver Control Enable
Receiver Control Port

These settings must match exactly between the multicast device and any device which wants the stream.
Note:

Configured incorrectly IP multicast can become a serious drain on your networks resources! If you are at all uncertain
on how to setup IP multicast, please contact your network administrator or IS professional.

MPEG settings
This page provides settings that have to do with MPEG quality and speed. Three quality settings are available;
standard, medium, and high. The MPEG preset settings control the video latency (delay). Selecting the low
latency preset can increase the speed of the video, but the quality will suffer. There is also a setting to turn
MPEG audio On or Off.
Figure 15. MPEG settings screen

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Display options
This page allows you to select the camera title.
Figure 16. Display options screen

Serial pass thru settings

This page provides the means to use the SymNet to pass RS485 commands between devices like a KTD
Keypad and a Dome camera. Two SymNets are required for this type of setup. One is setup as a transmitter and
the other as a receiver.
In the system described below;

SymNet 1 is configured as a receiver for serial pass-through data and as a sender to stream video to
SymNet 2.
SymNet 2 is configured as a sender for serial pass-through data and as a receiver for the streaming
video for SymNet 1.

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Figure 17. Serial pass thru diagram

Table 2.

Serial pass-thru cabling

Composite video cable supplied with SymNet.

This is the 4310-0032 cable supplied with the KTD-405 keypad. Wire pin 3 (+ve) to pin 10 of the
16-pin I/O connector on the SymNet. Wire pin 6 (-ve) to pin 9 of the 16-pin I/O connector of the
SymNet.

Network interface cabling. Typically a standard CAT-5 patch cable.

Standard high quality 75-ohm coaxial cable, BNC to BNC. Connects between the video in
connector of the monitor to the video out connector on the SymNets video adapter cable.

This is another 4310-0032 cable supplied with the ProBridge. Wire pin 3 (+ve) to the RS422 A
terminal on the dome interface board. Wire pin 6 (-ve) to the RS422 B terminal on the dome
interface board.

Standard high quality 75-ohm coaxial cable, BNC to BNC. Connects between the video out
connector of the domes interface board to the video input connector on the SymNets video
adapter cable.

This cable is the RJ45 control cable supplied with the KTD-405 Keypad. You can also use a
standard straight-through CAT-5 patch cable.

1. Set up all the other equipment per the manufacturers instructions.

2. Wire the system per the above diagram.
3. Ensure that the baud rates and ports are the same between the two.
4. Click the Enable radio button on both units web page.

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Figure 18. Receiver settings

5. Enter the IP address of the receiver on the transmitters web page.

6. Click on the Save buttons, then click the Connect button on the transmitter side.
Figure 19. Transmitter settings

Assuming all the other connections are valid the units should be passing through RS485 data.

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Password settings
Type in a new username and password on this page. Click Confirm to implement. To return the username and
password to the default admin, Click on the Reset button.
Figure 20. Password settings screen

Network time protocol settings

The screen provides settings for syncing and selection of Network Time Protocols.
Figure 21. The Network Time Protocol settings window

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Factory reset settings

The screen provides for re-setting certain parameters bat to the default settings.
Figure 22. The factory default settings window

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Symbrowser
The SymBrowser screen provides you access to live and recorded video without the need for additional
software. Simply type in the units IP address and click on the connect button. The following features are
available:

Right-click on the video to switch from live or playback mode or view full-screen.
Double-click to switch from a quad stream to a non quad stream and back again.
In playback mode, use the Go to button to start playback from a selected time and date.

Figure 23. The SymBrowser screen

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Upgrading the SymNet

To properly upgrade the SymNet the following preconditions must exist:
1. The Flash upgrade file and path. This file is obtained by calling GE Technical Support at
1-888-437-3287. When calling, please have the following information available:

The model number of the product

The serial number and revision of the product
The current firmware version
The date purchased.
Symptoms of the unit that might require upgrade.

2. The SymNet unit connected to a PC equipped with Microsoft Internet Explorer version 5.5 or later
with an ethernet cable.
3. The IP address of the SymNet.
4. Please exit all non-essential software on the PC.
5. Ensure that the SymNet is not currently recording.
Follow the steps below to Upgrade the SymNet:
1. Launch your browser software (Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 or later).
2. Enter the IP address of the SymNet in the address field of the browser.
3. The Enter Network Password window should appear. Enter the correct Username and Password in
their respective fields. (The default username and password is admin). Click the OK button. The
SymNet upgrade page should appear.
Figure 24. Upgrade web page

4. Navigate to the upgrade file using the Browse button or type in the correct path and filename. Click on
the Send File button.

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Figure 25. Upload confirm screen

5. Click on the Confirm Button. A progress bar will appear. PLEASE WAIT FOR THE PROGRESS
BAR TO FINISH, THEN WAIT FOR CONFIRMATION! Click on the Reboot button to restart the
unit for changes to take effect. If unsuccessful, download the flash file again and retry the steps 1-5.

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Technical Specifications
General
External Power Supply:

100-240 Volts AC, Auto-Ranging adapter

Output Voltage:

13.5 Volts, 1.33 Amps

Power consumption:

.5 Watts Max.

Operating Temperature Range:

Operating: 0 to 40 C. Storage: -20 to +60 C.

Relative Humidity Range (Non-Condensing):

Operating: 10% to 80%. Storage: 10% to 95%

Dimensions:

Inches: 1.13 x 9.28 x 6.3, MM: 29 x 236 x 161

Weight:

3 lbs. (1.30 kg)

Connections
Power

3-pin male

Accessory I/O Port (RS232, RS485, Audio, Alarm):

16-pin male connector.

Composite Video In and Out:

SVHS style connector

10/100 Ethernet Port:

RJ-45 connector

Video
Video Signal Input:

1 Volt peak-to-peak, +/- 10% 75 Ohms, autosensing

Video Signal Output:

1 Volt peak-to-peak into 75-ohm

Input Termination:

75-ohm

Colors:

Y:U:V 4:2:2, 16.8 Million Colors

Gray Scale:

256 Levels

Video Compression Standard:

MPEG4

Audio Compression Standard:

MPEG1 Layer 2

Audio
Audio Input:

315mV, 40k Ohms. Unbalanced.

Audio Output:

315mV, 600 Ohms. Unbalanced.

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Part Numbers
User Manual

0150-0302

All specifications are subject to change without notice. GE believes all specifications are correct, but no
liability is assumed for omissions or errors.

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Symnet VSC-5RC/VSC-5R
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Contacting technical support

For assistance installing, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting this product, refer to this document and
any other documentation provided. If you still have questions, you may contact technical support and sales
during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific
Time).
Table 3.

Sales and support contact information

Sales

Technical support

Phone:

800-469-1676

888-437-3287

E-mail

[email protected]

[email protected]

Fax

541-754-7162

541-752-9096 (available 24 hours a day)

Note:

Be ready at the equipment before calling for technical support.

Online publication library

Another great resource for assistance with your GE Security products is our online publication library,
available to all of our customers on our website. To access our publication library, go to our website at the
following location:
http://www.gesecurity.com

In the Tools area at the top, click the Publication Library link then select Video Surveillance. After you
register and log on, you may search through our online library for the documentation you need.1

1.

Many GE Security documents are provided as PDFs (portable document format). To read these documents, you will need
Adobe Acrobat Reader, which can be downloaded free from Adobes website at www.adobe.com.