What is a Security DVR?

DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. A Security DVR is capable of taking the video from digital or analog cameras and recording it into a digital format on a hard drive. It can record high quality video, maintenance free, for weeks or even months. An ideal replacement for time lapse VCRs.

What is a video capture card?

A video capture card or DVR card is a graphic card inside the Security DVR system which captures the signal from the cameras and stores the video on the hard drive.

How many hours of video can the Security DVR store?

The length of archive depends on number of cameras, frames per second (FPS) and amount of available hard disk space. Our preconfigured systems usually provide several weeks of archive on motion detect mode.

How does motion detection work? Through the camera or software?

Motion detection works through the software in the DVR system by recording video when pixels in the image change. Most Security DVRs offer a sensitivity scale so the user can set the sensitivity of the motion detection.

Can I view live and recorded video locally?

Yes.

Can I view live and recorded video remotely?

Yes, most of our Security DVR systems are Internet enabled. You can view live and recorded video from anywhere through the Internet.

What kind of broadband do I need? How much bandwidth?

Basic DSL or cable will suffice in most cases.

Can several users view one site at once?

Most Internet-enabled Security DVR systems allow multiple users to view the same site simultaneously. However, as more people look at the same cameras/DVR at the same time, the bandwidth will be shared between them.

Can I record audio?

Yes, if the Security DVR system comes with an audio option you can record audio. Most analog cameras do not come with built in audio, so you will probably need a separate audio kit.

Can I listen to live and recorded audio remotely?

Yes, some of our Security DVR systems have that option. With an optional audio module, you can listen to live and recorded audio from anywhere through the Internet.

How many cameras do I need?

This will depend on the size and layout of the area you wish to survey. On average, we recommend one camera per 1000 Sq. Ft.

Can I use my existing cameras?

Yes, you can use your existing CCTV cameras. Simply plug them into the back of the Security DVR which replaces the VCR.

What is Lux?

Illumniation is measured in units called Lux. For more information, please refer to our LUX Explanation Page

Can I zoom in with a camera?

Yes, but you need a special camera called a Pan-Tilt-Zoom or PTZ camera. Otherwise, most of our DVRs have Digital Zoom available.

What type of Operating System (OS) does the Security DVR use?

Our Standalone Security DVRs are Linux based.

What happens if there is power outage?

Most Security DVRs will come back on as soon as power is restored. However, we suggest an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) which provides a short period of backup power and also serves as a surge protection device.

Can the Security DVR report an alarm?

Yes, some Security DVRs have that option.

What is LUX?

Measuring Illumination: the Unit of Lux If a candle is one foot away from an object, it gives one foot-candle of light illuminance onto the object. This is about 10 “lux,” and is an informal definition of lux. The unit of lux (illuminance value) tries to relate the actual energy per unit-area falling on a surface to what the human eye perceives

Direct sunlight 100,000 - 130,000 lux Full daylight, indirect sunlight 10,000 - 20,000 lux Overcast day 1,000 lux Indoor office 200 - 400 lux Very dark day 100 lux Twilight 10 lux Deep twilight 1 lux Full moon 0.1 lux Quarter moon 0.01 lux Moonless clear night sky 0.001 lux Moonless overcast night sky 0.0001 lux