Choosing the Best NVR Camera System for Your Business

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Every business in today’s society needs a reliable surveillance system that helps to ensure their property and goods are safe and monitored around the clock. Perhaps, a couple of years ago, the combination of digital video recorders (DVR) and analog cameras was enough for most businesses and facilities.

However, in today’s highly digitized business landscape, a well-designed security camera system equipped with a network video recorder (NVR) connects well with modern smartphones and smart surveillance equipment. A good NVR system empowers you to monitor business activities, deter crime, and gather valuable video evidence in the unfortunate case of an incident.

However, the vast array of NVR camera systems available on the market can make it overwhelming to choose the right one for your business.

This comprehensive guide explores NVR camera systems, providing you with the knowledge required to make an informed decision when choosing one. This article covers key factors, such as the different camera options available and features you must look for in a potential NVR camera system for your business.

A Quick Overview of NVR Camera Systems

A network video recorder (NVR) camera system is a digital surveillance solution that utilizes IP cameras to capture video footage. IP cameras usually work by transmitting video data over a network (usually Ethernet, but could also use wireless networks) to a central NVR unit.

You can think of the NVR as the brain of the operation, which helps to record and store the video footage captured by the IP cameras to which it is connected.

Here is a breakdown of the core components that make up an NVR camera system:

IP Cameras: IP cameras are high-definition cameras that offer superior image quality in contrast to most traditional analog cameras. They typically come in various forms like bullet, dome, and turret styles, which helps them cater to different needs.
Network Video Recorder (NVR): A network video recorder, typically called an NVR, is a device that receives and stores video footage from IP cameras. Most modern NVRs offer various storage capacities, recording resolutions, and advanced features like remote viewing and motion detection.

Why Choose an NVR Camera System for Your Business?

Let’s say you are considering choosing a camera system for your business. Why should you choose an NVR camera system over traditional analog CCTV systems?

Here are five major reasons to choose an NVR camera system:

Superior Image Quality: IP cameras capture high-definition video footage, providing clearer details for identification and evidence collection. IP cameras are known for their all-around quality footage and accessibility.
Scalability: Most NVR systems can easily accommodate additional IP cameras as your business's security needs evolve. This is possible because there is usually no need to add a direct cable from the additional IP camera to the NVR; you simply need to make sure that the NVR and the additional IP camera are on the same network.
Remote Viewing: With NVR camera systems, you can access your camera network remotely from a computer, smartphone, or tablet for real-time monitoring and peace of mind, even when you are miles away from another country or state.
Advanced Features: Some NVRs come equipped with advanced features like motion detection, night vision, and remote PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) control for enhanced security and surveillance.
Digital Storage: NVRs can store video footage digitally on internal hard drives, external storage devices, or the cloud, making retrieval and management of video footage easier than using analog tapes.

Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing an NVR Camera

Now, it’s time to discuss the factors you should consider when choosing an NVR camera system from the plethora of NVR camera systems on the market:

Number of Cameras

The first factor to consider when choosing an NVR camera system (or any camera system) is the number of cameras needed to effectively monitor your business premises. You should consider areas like entryways, perimeters, parking areas, and other high-risk areas.

Camera Resolution

One of the many reasons IP cameras are preferred for business surveillance is their ability to record video footage at high resolutions. Higher-resolution IP cameras like the UNV 4MP 33x Lighthunter Network PTZ Dome Camera can record at Full HD (1080p) and Ultra HD (4K) resolutions, which helps to provide sharper images and better zoom capabilities. However, higher-resolution footage requires more digital storage space and more robust networks.

Night Vision

If your business facility requires 24/7 surveillance, you should consider choosing cameras with infrared night vision for clear visuals in low-light conditions. Cameras with color night vision can capture true-to-life colors at night.

Weatherproofing

Choose weatherproof cameras that can withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures for outdoor applications.

Storage Capacity

You should choose an NVR system with sufficient storage to accommodate your recording needs, especially if you intend to pair your NVR with high-resolution IP cameras.

Factors such as camera resolution, recording schedule (continuous or motion-activated), and the desired retention time for your footage will influence your storage requirements. Most businesses pair internal NVR storage with external storage, such as a network-attached storage (NAS) system.

Remote Viewing

If you need to monitor your business while on the go, then you should consider an NVR system that allows for remote viewing via a web browser or mobile app.

Additional Features

Depending on the sophistication of your business surveillance needs, you may consider additional features such as motion detection with customizable alert notifications, vehicle detection for traffic monitoring, and facial recognition for access control (if applicable to your model).

Ease of Use

While this may seem secondary, choosing an NVR system with a user-friendly interface for easy setup, configuration, and video playback can be helpful in an emergency or during rush hour.

Budget

NVR camera systems vary in price depending on their features, such as the number of supported cameras and overall image quality. Determine your budget and prioritize features that work well for your security needs.

Exploring Different Camera Options With Your NVR Camera

Below are some of the IP camera options you can pair with your NVR camera system depending on your security application:

Bullet Cameras: Bullet cameras are weatherproof cameras with a cylindrical design and are great for outdoor surveillance of entryways, perimeters, and parking lots.
Dome Cameras: These dome-shaped cameras are typically designed to be vandal-resistant and suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.
Turret Cameras: Turret cameras are compact cameras that offer a 360-degree horizontal and a wide vertical viewing angle, making them ideal for covering large open areas like lobbies or warehouses.
PTZ Cameras (Pan-Tilt-Zoom): PTZ cameras allow you to remotely control the pan, tilt, and zoom functions, enabling detailed monitoring of specific areas.
Varifocal Cameras: Varifocal cameras offer adjustable focal lengths, giving you the ability to zoom in and out for optical coverage and detail. Some varifocal cameras also offer adjustable angle-of-view.
Wireless Cameras: Wireless cameras connect to an NVR system via a wireless connection (with or without internet access). Wireless cameras allow for easy installation but are more prone to signal interference. You should consider wired PoE (Power over Ethernet) cameras for reliable connection and surveillance.

Other Important Considerations: Storage and Security

Storage Options: NVRs offer various storage options. Internal hard drives provide convenient on-site storage, while external hard drives or network-attached storage (NAS) devices offer increased capacity. Cloud storage is a viable option for offsite backup and remote access, but you should be mindful of associated subscription fees.
Security: To protect the integrity of your business’s security system, choose an NVR system with robust security features, including password protection, data encryption, and secure remote access protocols. If applicable, ensure that the system complies with relevant data privacy regulations, such as the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act).

Source the Best NVR Camera Systems From a Reliable Partner

Now that you understand the factors to look out for when choosing the best NVR camera system for your business, the next thing is to source it from a reliable and trusted vendor to ensure there are no holes in your business’s security and surveillance system.

All Security Equipment is an all-in-one vendor for all things related to security equipment and their accessories, safety gear, tactical gear, and everything in between. Our team sources the best NVR camera systems and their accompanying IP cameras from globally trusted brands to ensure you only choose from the best the surveillance industry has to offer.

Depending on the size of your business and the complexity of your wiring, you may require the services of a professional installer to help install and maintain your NVR camera system. All Security Equipment also provides you with a team of expert technicians to help with your NVR camera system.

Ready to pick an NVR camera system for your business?