If you work in the security sector, you’ll be familiar with concepts like Network Video Recorders (NVR) and Digital Video Recorders (DVR), particularly if you specialise in video surveillance solutions. When it comes to installing a video surveillance system, installers need to decide whether to opt for a networked digital recorder. The question is, which is better: NVR or DVR?
NVR are an important component of any networked video surveillance system. One of their main functions is to store video signals sent by IP cameras connected to the equipment to give remote access to data.
A DVR recorder processes analogue images and saves them in digital format on a hard drive or equivalent. That is the main difference: a DVR converts analogue images to digital format, while an NVR, generally speaking, only functions with digital images.
Both DVR and NVR record video sequences and store them on an external hard drive. However, there are differences regarding how the data is processed and how the equipment is configured.
Location
DVR recorders need to be on the same site as all the analogue signal wiring, i.e. this equipment is connected to an analogue CCTV system via a coaxial cable to the analogue signal input of the DVR. In the case of the NVR, this is not necessary. The equipment can be located outside the facility where the security cameras are located. This is because the connection with the cameras is via IP (LAN or WAN), which guarantees correct data traffic.
Video processing
The video in a DVR is encoded and processed in the DVR, while video on an NVR is encoded and processed in the camera and then transmitted to the NVR for storage or remote viewing.
Number of cameras
A DVR can only connect to a limited number of cameras, while an NVR can connect to an unlimited number of cameras. PoE and wireless IP cameras are used in NVR systems. At the same time, a DVR recorder connects to HD security cameras and other CCTV, and the quality of images and sound are of lower quality.
Processing capacity
NVRs have increased storage and processing capacity, a vital feature for video analytics solutions. This allows businesses to have a device that provides greater storage capacity, remote access, data security, and scalability.
If you still have doubts about the type of recorder you need in your installation, you should ask yourself: What kind of hardware is wired? Are you experienced in designing and configuring network devices? What kind of maintenance does the system require? What kind of access will the installation allow? Remote access? among others. Depending on your answers, you can opt for one system or another or even a hybrid NVR/DVR surveillance system that integrates both NVR and DVR functions.
As video surveillance systems evolve technologically, they bring new opportunities for accuracy and efficiency. However, our video analytics systems are compatible with both NVR and DVR recorders, achieving full integration and maximising security and protection levels.
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