What is a Network Video Recorder (NVR)?
A Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a specialized computer that records security footage in digital format to a hard drive. Because the NVR does not have video capture capability, video is typically processed and encoded from the surveillance IP or CCTV camera and transferred to the NVR for storage via ethernet or WiFi network. NVRs are typically employed within IP video surveillance systems.
What is a Digital Video Recorder (DVR)?
A Digital Video Recorder (DVR) records video surveillance footage to local storage devices, most commonly a hard drive. DVR can record analog video sources on-site or capture video from a digital source. DVRs can be connected to analog cameras via coaxial cables, enabling them to be accessed remotely. DVRs offer enhanced functionality like the ability to search recordings for events or sort by time and date. DVRs can be configured to replace older footage once storage becomes full automatically.
Each security camera needs a central video recorder to transmit and archive the footage they are capturing. VCRs evolved into DVR models, which were then superseded by NVR technology that can monitor an unlimited number of cameras, whether in one location or around the world.
Here is a comparison between DVRs and NVRs:
Resolution of Recordings
DVRs can only record in 720p resolution. NVRs, on the other hand, offer 1080P high-definition recording capabilities and incredible picture clarity. D1 is standard video quality used by closed-circuit television systems, while HD offers a much clearer image with 1920×1080 pixels of detail.
Camera Connections
Connecting analog CCTV setups are complicated enough as they require BNC connectors for every camera connected to one single device – which means running lots of wiring between devices (or using PoE). This also limits how many cameras you can have at one time before another unit is required.
NVRs are a modern take on the DVR that solves many of its problems. The NVR eliminates these issues because it is connected directly to one network, whereas IP cameras transmit their footage via another connection. This makes scaling up an NVR much more accessible than with a DVR system which requires more complex hardware upgrades and installation processes in order for new systems to work properly together.
NVRs are the most common way to store and access footage from IP cameras. WiFi-equipped models can transmit video wirelessly without proximity limitations if they are on the same network. However, it’s essential to be aware of compatibility issues before buying your equipment.
Hybrid Video Recorders
Hybrid video recorders (HVR) are the latest in video surveillance technology. They can function with both analog cameras and IP cameras, giving them an edge over traditional systems. This versatility will save you money when it comes to buying new equipment.