Ensure you are not watching live view or playback on the iVMS-4200 PC software and the Hik-Connect mobile app simultaneously. Check Other Users:
Check for new firmware for your DVR/NVR, as updates can fix resource management bugs. Adjust Bitrate:
Sometimes, the system keeps channels "locked" even if you have closed them. A simple reboot can free up these resources. Go to -> Reboot . Method 4: Update Firmware
You have a 32-channel NVR. In the playback tab, you click "Select All" cameras and hit play. The system tries to decode 32 feeds at once, but the limit is 16 → Error.
Change the value to a higher number (e.g., from 4 to 16, depending on your system requirements). Click and restart the playback control screen. 2. Utilize Sub-Stream for Playback hikvision maximum number of channels under playback reached
This error generally occurs when the system's hardware or software resources for remote streaming are fully occupied. It doesn't always mean you've reached a literal channel count limit; it often indicates that existing "slots" for data transmission are stuck or over-utilized Common Causes Active Sessions:
It is important to understand that this is rarely a "bug"—it is a hardware limitation.
By following these recommendations and implementing the suggested solutions, Hikvision users can ensure efficient and reliable video surveillance system operation, even in demanding applications.
If other users are accessing the system, they might be hogging the playback channels. Access the NVR via a web browser. Ensure you are not watching live view or
Lower the camera's resolution or bitrate settings in the configuration to reduce the load on the network. Use Proper Network setup:
This comprehensive guide breaks down why this error happens and provides actionable steps to fix it. Understanding the Root Causes
Helps you know your hardware's exact playback limits (e.g., 4-ch @ 1080p).
The "Maximum number of channels under playback reached" error indicates that your recording device (NVR/DVR) has a strict limit on for playback. A simple reboot can free up these resources
Previous playback sessions on mobile apps (Hik-Connect) or PC software (iVMS-4200) may not have closed correctly, leaving the channel "occupied" on the NVR.
Select only the specific 1, 2, or 3 cameras you need to investigate.
Lower the maximum playback performance settings if your PC struggles to keep up. Solution 4: Optimize Camera Bitrate and Compression
If you only need to check one camera, don't use synchronous playback (which plays all cameras in unison). Select only the camera you need to review. 5. Check Remote User Access