NVR VS DVR

The main difference between the network video recorder (NVR) and digital video recorder
(DVR) is in how they process raw video data. A DVR converts analog footage into a digital
format, while an NVR typically only works with digital footage. DVR systems process data at the
recorder, while NVR systems encode and process data at the camera before transmitting it to
the recorder for storage and remote viewing. Unless they’ve been reconfigured, the DVR
connects to an analog CCTV system via a coaxial cable, while the NVR connects to an IP
camera system over an Ethernet or WiFi connection.

DVR System Components - Pros, Cons, Differences:

 Analog Cameras: DVR systems typically use analog security cameras (otherwise
known as CCTV cameras). The reason why DVR security systems are typically priced
lower compared to NVR systems is due to the camera. Analog cameras transmit analog
signals to the recorder, which then processes the video data. Compared to an NVR
system, most DVR cameras are less complex and expensive.
 Coaxial Cables: The analog camera connects to the DVR through a coaxial cable,
which can run up to 500 meters but could result in some limitations.
1. Coaxial cables - unlike PoE cables - do not supply power to the camera. This
means two types of cables are needed - one for power and one for video
transmission.
2. Coaxial cables are wider and stiffer than Ethernet cables, which can make
installation a challenge.
3. Audio is a limitation since standard coaxial cables are not able to support audio
transmission.
  AD Encoder: DVR recorders rely on AD encoders to process raw video data from the
camera into viewable footage. As a result, every camera in a DVR system needs to be
connected to the recorder as well as a separate power source.
  Audio Limitations: Standard coaxial cables don’t natively transmit audio signals - an
added RCA connection is required to support it. DVR recorders also have a fixed
number of audio input ports, which limits the number of cameras that can record sound.

NVR System Components - Pros, Cons, Differences:

 IP Cameras: NVR systems utilize IP cameras, which are capable of processing video
data before relaying it to the recorder. IP cameras are typically more robust, and able to
record and transmit audio in addition to images. Advanced hardware on IP cameras
open the door to intelligent video analytics like license plate and facial recognition.
 Ethernet Cables: If they’re not wireless, IP cameras typically connect to the recorder via
Ethernet cables. They can only run up to 100 meters, but have a number of advantages
over coaxial cables.
1. Some camera solutions may come with a Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection,
meaning that only one cable is required to support power, video, and audio. This
eliminates the need for splitters that are commonly seen in DVR systems.
However, it’s important to note that not all Ethernet-connected cameras are PoE-
capable — many IP cameras still require an Ethernet connection in addition to a
separate power supply.
 2. They tend to be easier to set up due to their thinner shape, cost less, and be
more readily available compared to coaxial cables.

Recorder: The NVR recorder is only used for storing and viewing the footage. It doesn’t process
video data - a step that’s done at the camera before it’s sent to the recorder.
Audio Support: Because Ethernet cables can transmit audio natively, camera with a microphone
on an NVR system can record audio to the NVR.
Higher Storage Capacity: NVR camera systems can upload footage to cloud-based servers - an
advantage of being connected to the internet. Unlike DVR systems they aren’t limited to on-
premise storage, and as a result, they can support a higher capacity compared to DVR systems.

Which is better, NVR or DVR?

In essence, both the DVR and NVR record video footage onto a hard drive. Their differences lie
in their design and implementation: how they process raw data, how they are set up, and what
cameras they are compatible with. The best system for you is ultimately a balance of needs. To
guide you in your decision, here are some considerations to take:

1. What hardware do you have in place currently (ie: wiring)? Are you prepared to replace
it?
2. Are you comfortable programming network devices?
3. How much maintenance is required?
4. Who needs access? Is remote access required?

Another consideration is that both systems can be inflexible and difficult to scale. Some
restrictions to include:

 Opening/forwarding ports is required for remote access, which puts your system at risk
for security vulnerabilities.
 Due to the many hardware pieces that need to be maintained, total cost of ownership
(TCO) can be unpredictable and high.
 Updating NVRs is often costly (software updates and licensing fees are not always
included) and time-consuming is they’re deployed in multiple locations.
 Adding and relocating cameras is inflexible due to the limited number of ports on each
recorder.

Generally regarded as more “traditional” systems, DVR and NVR surveillance have their
advantages. However, as technology advances, many organizations require more storage
space, scalability, data security, ease of use, video analytics, and reliable remote access. A
modern alternative to the traditional systems include cloud and hybrid cloud solutions - read
more in the next section.
How Do NVR Security Systems Work?

NVR security solutions allow surveillance footage to be broadcasted, recorded and stored both
online and offline. Let’s look at the main features to get a better sense of how these systems
operate.
Main Features of NVR Security Systems

 Integrates with IP Cameras: Unlike DVR systems, which are directly wired to analog
cameras, NVRs work with internet protocol (IP) cameras that can send and receive
information across a network, and record high-quality visual and audio footage.
 Processes Video Data at the Camera: IP cameras are capable of encoding and
processing video data, which means network video recorders don’t require an encoder.
Rather, processed footage is streamed to the NVR recorder for viewing and storing.
 Provides Remote Access to Footage: Since NVR camera systems are usually connected
to the internet, footage can be accessed remotely via mobile devices and desktop
applications.
 Wireless Connections: In an NVR system, each IP camera is connected individually to a
single network which is configured, either wirelessly or via Cat5e and Cat6 ethernet
cables.
 Operates on a Closed Circuit: Just because NVR camera systems can connect to a
network, doesn’t mean they have to. If businesses aren’t interested in having remote
access to their IP cameras, these systems can operate like conventional CCTV
solutions.
Benefits of NVR Camera Systems

 High-Resolution Image Quality: Different models of IP cameras offer varying degrees of

resolution; however, resolution isn’t the only factor that determines the quality of the
captured image. At a high-level, frame rates, lens type, and infrared night vision also
impact the clarity of footage.
 The image quality typically recorded by NVR systems are superior to that of analog DVR
cameras, which record with lower resolutions and frame rates. It’s worth noting that
some DVR systems can now record at 4K resolution, but these come at a hefty price
point.
 Increased Flexibility: IP cameras, which rely on network video recorders (NVRs) to retain
video footage, present businesses with more flexibility in terms of mounting locations.
Depending on whether cameras are installed near or far from the local on-premise
recorder, businesses can determine whether wired wireless installation makes more
sense.
 Advanced Features and Security: Many IP cameras have advanced features, such as
facial recognition, motion detection and night vision capabilities. This technology can
benefit many levels of enterprise business. When paired with cloud storage solutions,
NVR security systems can also be configured with password protection, two-step
verification and encryption to prevent unauthorized access.
 Scalable Storage: The fact that NVR systems are cloud compatible means that storage
is scalable by adding additional servers. This allows companies to operate security and
surveillance systems 24⁄7 without needing to worry about running out of space.
 Remote Access: Cloud storage means that, with the appropriate set up and permissions,
business owners and surveillance staff can view footage remotely using their preferred
devices—any time, any place, on demand.
 Power Over Ethernet: In addition to providing an internet connection, Cat5e and Cat6
Ethernet cables can power IP cameras, which cuts down on the amount of wiring that
these security systems need.

Challenges of NVR Camera Systems

 Expensive Set Up: The cost of an NVR surveillance system far surpasses that of a
DVR solution. Overhead costs for IP cameras, internet connections, operating software
and cloud storage all need to be taken into account.
 IP Compatibility: While the vast majority of IP cameras will work with an NVR system, it
isn’t a given. Business owners should always check to make sure that all of the
equipment they buy will work with their selected storage system.
 Possible Signal Loss: Although a wireless system offers many advantages, WiFi signal
loss is something to bear in mind. When a connection drops, entire surveillance systems
—including any in-progress recordings—will cut out, too. Some network video recorders,
however, come with an internal Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) surge protector that
will provide emergency power during an outage.
 Internet Connection: To take advantage of an NVR security system’s best capabilities,
an internet connection is required. And unfortunately, this can increase overall costs,
and limit where surveillance cameras can be installed. In remote locations where signals
are hard to find, enterprises are better off using analog DVR systems.
Main Difference
NVRs are paired up with IP cameras, with a resolution starting from 2MP to 12MP (or higher),
which is out of the question for analog cameras in a DVR security system.

Some security brands have produced 4K DVR security camera systems. However, with
improved clarity, the DVR system will lose its price edge, since they need highly priced video
processor chips to produce high quality images.

Audio:

You don’t have to worry about audio problems of NVR for IP camera itself recorded video
footage natively integrated with sound. In most of Reolink's IP camera models, and even with
integrated two-way voice intercom function, you can not only accept the sound of the
environment in real time, and also use the speaker to talk to the outside world.

However, for the DVR, to record sound is difficult because the analog video signal does not
support voice transmission, and to have sounds in the video, we need to add an audio RCA
connector to the DVR, which requires additional installation.

Distance:

You can place the NVR virtually anywhere as long as the network is available. By contrast, the
DVR CCTVs are rather limited by the coax cables, with a max transmission distance of about
300ft.

Cloud-Based Server:

As we said, the function of the NVR is closely linked to the network service, so most NVRs can
certainly use cloud storage for surveillance video information storage. It can not only reduce the
burden of local storage capacity, but also to protect the safety of the material, preventing hard
disk damage caused by the loss of material.
DVRs, however, do not have cloud storage services.
DVR CONNECTION, POWER SUPPLY
DVR CONNECTIONS