




file within the SmartPSS installation. A known fix for version 2.002 involves manually replacing this file. Close SmartPSS completely. Download the updated dhnetsdk.dll (refer to the Cornick Support guide for the specific file link). Locate your installation folder (usually
To resolve this error, users should follow a logical progression from software resets to hardware configuration:
Once you have regained access, implement these changes to never see "Failed to start playback" again:
: Some versions (specifically v2.002) have a bug in the dhnetsdk.dll file. Manually replacing this file in the installation folder ( C:\Program Files\Smart Professional Surveillance System\SmartPSS ) with a newer version often resolves the error. file within the SmartPSS installation
The "exclusive" modifier often points to an Access Control List (ACL) problem where the device tells the SDK that the active session does not have permission to invoke a specific playback handle.
Under the tab, look for SmartPSS or Smart Professional Surveillance System . Right-click the process and select End Task .
SmartPSS is convenient, but the manufacturer's web interface for your NVR is the most direct connection and is more likely to work. If playback works in the web GUI, as is often the case, it confirms your NVR, hard drives, and recordings are working correctly. Use the web GUI for urgent reviews, then troubleshoot SmartPSS at your convenience. Download the updated dhnetsdk
: The Network SDK ( dhnetsdk.dll ) acts as the communication bridge between the Smart PSS desktop interface and the recorder's internal file structures. A corrupted or outdated DLL file blocks archival stream requests.
The user account logged into SmartPSS does not have sufficient permissions to play back footage.
The error "Exclusive" implies the stream is reserved for one user. Check if someone else (or another software like BlueIris, Milestone, or a mobile app) is currently viewing that specific camera. If another device is pulling the "Main Stream" (HD), and the camera is set to "Single Stream" mode, SmartPSS will be rejected. The "exclusive" modifier often points to an Access
I can provide specific for your exact device once I have those details.
: Open your Task Manager while SmartPSS is running, find the SmartPSS process, right-click it, and select End Task . Then, restart the application as an Administrator.
To avoid the error in the long term, consider these best practices. Keep your NVR firmware regularly updated to prevent bugs and improve compatibility. Always use a unique user account for SmartPSS (e.g., "SmartPSS_User") instead of the default "admin" account to help prevent exclusive session conflicts. If SmartPSS proves unreliable for your needs, alternative Video Management Software (VMS) options include (for Amcrest devices) or Blue Iris , a popular third-party VMS known for broad compatibility and a stable playback engine.







