Building a DVR is Easy or is it?
Building a DVR is just like building a PC, right? For the most part building a DVR is similar to building a PC. When building your PC, you need to think about the functionality you want form the completed system?
When building a PC for gaming you will want a high end processor, extra ram, and more HDD space. So when building a DVR you need to think about the true purpose of the machine.
· Is the quality of recorded video or real time video more important? When choosing a DVR card you have to consider the fps (frames per second) real time viewing capabilities and play back fps? Cards are often listed as 4 Channel 120fps/60fps, which translates into 120 fps real time viewing and 60 fps play back speed. Real time speed is 30 fps, however the human eye can only see about 24 fps (the brain and eye can’t process the information quick enough). You will be able to view this card in real time however when watching recorded video you will only be able to see a maximum of 15 fps (4 channel/60 fps). This video will not be “choppy”, however you will be able to tell a slight delay.
· How long are you planning on storing the recorded video? When building your DVR, it is important to consider how many days of recording you want to store. Some customers know if there is a problem immediately and check the video the same day of an incident. However, there are some customers that might not realize an event, until 2-4 weeks later. So you will need to consider your storage requirements. I recommend using the Seagate Surveillance Edition HDD’s. We have found them to be the most reliable and trust worthy HDD’s in the market today.
· Do you plan on recording audio? If you are planning on recording audio, be careful! Some DVR Cards will record audio, but only a few channels and others will record on each channel. Before purchasing your DVR Card, make sure you look at the specs. Also be aware that state laws vary and in some states you will need to have “audio is being recorded” signage.
· Are you looking to use Analog or IP Surveillance Cameras? DVR Cards are either considered Analog compatible or Hybrid DVR Cards. An analog DVR Card will only support analog surveillance cameras, whereas a Hybrid DVR Card will support both Analog and IP Surveillance Cameras. Hybrid DVR Cards are usually more expensive than a standard DVR Card. Just remember most DVR Cards on the market today will only support analog surveillance cameras!
I hope that these few tips help provide you with a little insight into choosing the right DVR Card, whether you are looking to build your own DVR or are looking to purchase a complete preassembled Surveillance System.
Ryan Temple is the Director of Operations for PCSurveillance.net. PCSurveillance has been serving integrators and manufacturing customized Surveillance Systems throughout the US since 2002. You can read more of Ryan’s articles at http://blog.pcsurveillance.net/ Ryan can be reached at ryan@pcsurveillance.net
