What is a Digital Video Recorder?
A digital video recorder or a dvr is a device that records video streams to a disk drive in a digital format. For most users, a DVR is the device used to record your favorite shows on TV (and to avoid those pesky commercials), but in the surveillance world they are used to record the video streams that are created by cctv cameras. Digital Video Recorders or security dvrs are not IP based, like Network Video Recorders, but utilize analog coax cabling to connect to CCTV cameras. Digital Video Recorders are classified by channels (the number of CCTV cameras that it can record video streams from). The number of channels ranges from 1 to 64, but most DVR deployments sit in the 4 to 32-channel range.
DVR security systems vs. Digital Video Recorder
Well good news, you don't have to choose, they are actually the same thing! Digital video recorders are actually configured for security and surveillance applications. The DVRs capture video signals from closed circuit television cameras for the purposes of detection and documentation. Many are designed to record audio as well. DVRs have evolved into devices that are feature rich and provide services that exceed the simple recording of video images that was previously done through VCRs.
With the combination of a DVR CCTV system the user is provided a multitude of advanced functions over VCR technology including video searches by event, time, date and camera. There is also much more control over quality and frame rate allowing disk space usage to be optimized, and the DVR can also be set to overwrite the oldest security footage should the disk become full. In some DVR security systems remote access to security footage using a PC can also be achieved by connecting the DVR to a LAN network or the internet.
Is my TiVo or Time Warner box a security DVR?
One might believe that a security DVR is the same as the TiVo that is in your living room, but its definitely not. The recorder that is running in your home for entertainment purposes is for exactly that. Your TiVo is for your television and for your enjoyment. A security DVR, in its standard application is used for security and surveillance in both the residential and corporate world. They have been utilized by large corporations and small mom and pop grocery stores. The recorders can be used at construction sites or simply to check in on your dog. They are incredibly versatile machines. Don't get the wrong idea about this...it is not used to spy on people, it is used to keep your home or office safe from burglars, or any other unwarranted home intrusions. There is nothing more comforting than knowing that your house, property and all of your belongings are protected by the partnership of a dvr security camera system.
How to break down a DVR
Security DVRs may be categorized as being either PC based or embedded. A personal computer-based DVR architecture features a classical personal computer with video capture cards designed to capture video images and clips from your IP camera in mpeg form. An embedded type DVR is specifically designed as a digital video recorder with its operating system and application software contained in firmware or read-only memory.
Surveillance Digital Video Recording Review
"This is the kind of DVR that every business needs to have working with their surveillance system!"
- Donny from Arizona
Need help choosing the proper dvr solution?
We have a team of Digital Video Recorder experts that are ready to help you find the right solution to meet your surveillance needs. We offer a wide range of surveillance and recording equipment featuring an extensive catalog of Digital Video Recorders (DVR). Whether you are interested in a single channel DVR or a 16-channel video server, IP Camera Supply can deliver a solution that meets your needs of your home or office as well as your wallet, so don't hesitate to call 1-866-885-4853.
