If you encounter a message requiring you to format the HDD while playing back NVR recordings, or if the prompt to format appears again after formatting the HDD, please refer to this article for troubleshooting.

Applies to: Reolink NVRs 

Symptoms of Reolink HDD Format Failed

1. The HDD status or playback interface shows “HDD not formatted”.

2. The HDD prompts for formatting again after you have successfully formatted HDD.

Troubleshooting Steps for Reolink Hard Drive Not Formatting

If you are using the original HDD, please follow these steps:

  1. Make sure the power supply is the original one. The adapters for 8-channel and 16-channel NVRs typically use DC 52V, 53V, or 48V, and the adapters may vary slightly between different versions of the NVRs. The adapters for the RLN12W and RLN36 models use DC 12V. Sometimes, it can be easy to confuse the NVR's adapter with other adapters at home. If you're unsure whether the adapter you’re using for the NVR is the original one, please contact support for confirmation.

  2. Restart the NVR and then format the HDD again.

  3. Update NVR to the latest firmware version. Find the latest firmware for the NVR in Download Center – Reolink and manually upgrade it following How to Manually Update Firmware for Reolink Devices.

  4. Replace the HDD. If you have another HDD that meets the specifications, refer to How to Choose HDDs for Your NVR and test with the new HDD.

If you are using the 3rd-party HDD, please follow these steps:

  1. Make sure the power supply is the original one. The adapters for 8-channel and 16-channel NVRs typically use DC 52V, 53V, or 48V, and the adapters may vary slightly between different versions of the NVRs. The adapters for the RLN12W and RLN36 models use DC 12V. Sometimes, it can be easy to confuse the NVR's adapter with other adapters at home. If you're unsure whether the adapter you’re using for the NVR is the original one, please contact support for confirmation.

  2. Ensure HDD specifications meet the required type and capacity. For guidance, see How to Choose HDDs for Your NVR.

  3. Restart the NVR and then format the HDD.

  4. Ensure your NVR is using the latest firmware. Find and manually upgrade it in the Download Center – Reolink following How to Upgrade Firmware for Reolink Products.

  5. Replace the HDD. If you have another compatible HDD, test with the new one. Refer to How to Choose HDDs for Your NVR for specifications.

  6. Swap SATA Ports. If your NVR supports multiple hard drives, try connecting the HDD to a different SATA port to check if it can be recognized.

If the issue persists, please provide the following information when contacting Support: