Intro:
Dahua NVR systems export to DAV and ASF. A DAV file is a compressed and encrypted video file created by DVR365 or Dahua Technology's digital surveillance system. ASF files exported straight from the NVR cannot be fast forwarded during playback without significant artifacts occuring while viewing in VLC, etc. For compatibility we ultimately want an MKV container file for audio (if it exists) and video. We can speed playback up to our heart's content and without creating unwanted artifacts.
Procedure:
HandBrake:
Export ASF from NVR and rename files so you'll remember which order they go in.
Drag first ASF onto HandBrake v1.7.2 or greater
Select "NVR" profile. This is a custom profile keeping the source resolution the same, taking x264 and re-encoding it to x265 to save space. (format: mkv, dimensions: resolution limit = none, video: encoder x265, fps = same as source, constant framerate, advanced options = make blank, del subtitle track)
Save the file to a common location.
Click "Add to Queue" at the top.
Start Queue.
Drag file #2 onto HandBrake and repeat until all files have been converted from ASF to MKV.