Security of property and people is important for any commercial and industrial business owner. They are investing in various security solutions, such as IP CCTV cameras and NVR systems to achieve this safety and security. IP CCTV cameras have been described and discussed several times over the years; however, Network Video Recorders (NVR) are understated for various reasons. They are used with IP cameras to enhance the effectiveness of security installations. What makes them popular? How to set up NVR for the IP camera on the network? This post discusses everything you wish to know about NVR camera systems
NVR Camera System
A Network Video Recorder (NVR) system is a software application designed to collect and store videos captured by all cameras connected to the network on mass storage devices.
Unlike other storage devices, it features no specific video capture hardware, and the software is operated on a dedicated device. NVR is usually employed on the IP video surveillance systems, and they are capable of streaming video/audio data on a single cable.
NVR is very much similar to digital video recorders (DVR). DVR is mainly used with analog cameras, whereas NVR is used with IP Cameras. It is basically a DVR of an IP camera.
Also read: NVR or DVR
Types of Network Video Recorders
Network video recorders (NVR) are distinguished into two types depending on their powering functions.- PoE NVR: PoE NVR features PoE ports and is only compatible with cameras with PoE specifications. These cameras are plugged into the PoE port of the NVR. These recorders require no separate adapter. You can connect a CAT 5e/6 cable from the camera to NVR. This will power the camera and support the transmission of data/audio/video over a single cable.
- Non-PoE NVR: These NVRs have no ports for connecting the camera at the back panel. It requires an external power adapter or PoE switch to connect to the network camera. Most non-PoE NVRs feature built-in scan functions that can trace the cameras on the network.
How to Configure NVR for IP Camera with a PoE Switch?
For configuring, the NVR for IP camera on the network using PoE switch, you will require some components and accessories including a power cable, an Ethernet cable, SATA cables, security screw, and a power supply cable for hard drive installation. Most manufacturers provide technical assistance during the connection process or they also supply an easy-to-understand instruction manual with the product and accessories.
The NVR configuration starts with a hardware setup. Here is how you can proceed with the hardware setup:
- Take the Ethernet cable from the router and connect it at the back of NVR. Ensure that NVR is connected to the Internet.
- Use Ethernet cables to connect the IP cameras to PoE NVR. As the NVR is enabled with the PoE technology, it can easily power the IP cameras.
- Take an HDMI cable or a VGA cable to connect NVR and TV or monitor. Ensure that you use the right input to connect the TV or the monitor— HDMI 1, HDMI 2, or VGA
When these steps are performed properly then NVR and IP camera connection can be easily made. Software setup is the next step in the configuration, and this can be easily done by following the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer.
How to Configure NVR for IP Camera without PoE Switch?
As discussed before, NVR without PoE switch has no Ethernet ports at its back panel. It utilizes an external power adapter or an external PoE switch to power each IP camera. Like NVR with a PoE switch, the NVR configuration for IP camera without a PoE switch also begins with the hardware configuration. Here is how to proceed:
- Take an Ethernet cable to connect the LAN port on the external PoE switch and the router. Then connect the router with the non-PoE NVR.
- Use Ethernet cables to connect all IP cameras to the PoE switch RJ45 ports. The PoE switch will deliver power as well as support video transmission.
- Use an HDMI cable or VGA cable to connect the monitor and the NVR. Always use the right input for making the connection.
Recording will be enabled only when users add the cameras to NVR. This can be easily done by referring to the steps in the instruction manual.
Things to Consider When Setting Up an NVR for IP Cameras with a PoE Switch
- Planning Your IP Camera System: Before setting up your IP camera system, it is important to identify your security needs. What areas do you want to monitor? Do you need 24/7 surveillance, or only during specific hours? Once you have answered these questions, you can choose the right IP cameras, NVR, and PoE switch for your system. You should also decide on the number and location of cameras, and calculate power and bandwidth requirements.
- Setting up Your PoE Switch: PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch is an essential component of an IP camera system. It allows you to power and connect multiple IP cameras with just one Ethernet cable. To set up your PoE switch, connect it to the network and configure the switch settings. Test the switch and ensure it works properly.
- Connecting Your IP Cameras to the PoE Switch: Once your PoE switch is set up, you can attach your IP cameras to it. First, connect the cameras to the switch and configure camera settings and IP addresses. Test the cameras and ensure they work properly. You should also consider the placement of the cameras and make sure they capture the areas you want to monitor.
- Connecting Your NVR to the PoE Switch: An NVR (Network Video Recorder) records and stores video from your IP cameras. To connect your NVR to the PoE switch, attach the NVR to the switch and configure NVR settings and network parameters. Test the NVR and ensure it works properly.
- Monitoring and Managing Your IP Camera System: To monitor and manage your IP camera system, you can access it remotely using a computer or mobile device. You can also set up alerts and notifications to notify you when motion is detected or other events occur. It is important to regularly review video footage to ensure the system works properly and identify any security threats.
All the above pointers will help improve your understanding on NVR systems, but that is not enough. You must address several factors while selecting NVR security systems for your applications. First, you need to check the compatibility of NVR security systems with the IP cameras on the network. Next, you need to ensure the NVR camera system supports the camera resolutions because many cannot support 12MP or 4K security cameras. After all these considerations, ensure to use quality PoE switches for the connection. VERSITRON provides PoE media converters and switches in different configurations. PoE switches are one of the most popular products in their collection. You can contact the company’s experts to discuss your requirements for PoE switches for IP CCTV cameras and NVR systems. Versitron provides PoE media converters and switches in different configurations.
Related Product Table
| Model | Function | Connector | Fiber Cable | Wavelength | Max Distance | View Details |
| FDVTR1003A | Transmitter | ST Simplex | MM | 1310nm | 3 Km | |
| FDVTR1005A | Receiver | ST Simplex | MM | 1310nm | 4 Km | |
| FDVTR1A03A | Transmitter | ST Simplex | SM | 1310nm | 5 Km | |
| FDVTR1A05A | Receiver | ST Simplex | SM | 1310nm | 6 Km |
FAQs
NVR when connected to the Internet provides easy remote access to the recordings. It sends alerts or notifications to users regularly and creates a backup of the videos on cloud storage solutions. Without the Internet, NVR will record and stream the videos, but they will not be remotely accessible to users.
The maximum transmission distance of the Ethernet cable connecting the NVR and an IP camera is 100 meters. This distance is limited due to the attenuation of signals. The Ethernet extender is used to extend the transmission distance beyond 100 meters.
No, you can use NVR without the Internet, too. Most NVRs can be operated as CCTV systems without the Internet. However, the absence of the Internet makes it difficult to view the captured footage off-site.
No, IP CCTV cameras do not always need NVR. Many IP CCTV cameras have SD card slots, allowing users to record and store videos.
Yes, you can add more cameras to NVR. If you use an 8-channel NVR, you can add more cameras to it without buying a new NVR. Depending on your expansion plans, you can buy NVR with 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128 channels.
To set up an IP camera, choose the right model, mount it securely, connect it to power and your network, access its interface Through a browser, configure settings, and enable remote access if desired.
To connect an NVR to the internet, link it to your local network using an Ethernet cable, then configure its IP address. Next, set up port forwarding on your router and optionally enable Dynamic DNS. Ensure security measures are implemented, such as changing default credentials and testing remote access to confirm the setup.
