Setting up a reliable surveillance system is key to enhancing security in today's connected world. Central to this system is the Network Video Recorder (NVR), which manages the footage captured by IP cameras. When configuring an NVR camera system, several questions may arise. How do IP cameras connect to the NVR? Are PoE switches required? This article discusses everything you want to know about NVRs and how to configure NVRs with IP cameras for your NVR security system, with or without PoE switches.
What Is NVR?
An NVR, at the core of an NVR security system, is a specialized computer system that receives live images or video streams captured by IP cameras and records them digitally to a hard disk, USB flash drive, or other mass storage device. It is typically used in IP video surveillance networks to provide centralized video controls. Users can view, playback, and download video recordings when needed.
Based on Windows or Linux operating systems, NVRs recorders have a user-friendly interface for everyday use and are equipped with intelligent motion detection and camera control capability. They also support remote access and offer benefits, such as handling large numbers of video streams and easy installation.
Read More: What Is NVR? Do I Need NVR for IP Camera?
How to Set Up IP Cameras for NVR Camera System?
There are two types of NVRs on the market: PoE NVRs and non-PoE NVRs. They use different methods to connect IP surveillance cameras. Here are the connection considerations and the specific methods for configuring the IP NVR camera system.
Configuration Preparation
Before setting up your NVR with IP cameras, it is crucial to verify that the NVR is compatible with the cameras you plan to use.
First, make sure that the NVR supports the specific models of IP cameras. This often involves checking for protocol compatibility, such as the ONVIF standard, which facilitates interoperability between IP security devices from different manufacturers.
Then, confirm that the NVR can handle the camera's resolution, as not all currently support 4K or 12MP cameras. If the camera's resolution exceeds what the NVR can process, you may need to access the camera's web interface to adjust the resolution settings downward.
Option One: Connecting IP Cameras to PoE NVR without PoE Switch
A PoE NVR has a built-in PoE switch, offering PoE ports for connecting IP cameras directly over Ethernet cables. So it does not require a separate power adapter to work. Below is a step-by-step guide to installing an NVR connection.
Use an Ethernet cable to connect the router and the PoE NVR, ensuring the NVR has internet access.
Connect IP cameras to the PoE NVR directly by Ethernet cables. With power over Ethernet technology, the NVR can deliver power to security cameras.
Connect the NVR and a monitor or TV via a VGA or HDMI cable. Make sure the monitor or TV is connected via the correct input (e.g. VGA, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
Once all connections are properly established, the NVR should be successfully connected to the IP cameras. A PoE NVR security system is ideal for IP surveillance within homes and smaller-scale commercial settings, such as family villas and chain stores.
Option Two: Connecting IP Cameras to Non-PoE NVR with PoE Switch
Non-PoE NVRs come with Ethernet ports but need an external PoE switch or adapter to power network cameras. Follow the steps below to finish the NVR connections with the use of a PoE switch.
Connect the LAN port on the PoE switch to the router using an Ethernet cable, and connect the non-PoE NVR and the router. Make sure the PoE switch and NVR are in the same network.
Connect IP cameras to the RJ45 ports on the PoE switch by Ethernet cables. The PoE switch will provide power and video transmission as the NVR does.
Connect the NVR and a monitor or TV via a VGA or HDMI cable. Make sure the monitor or TV is connected via the correct input (e.g. VGA, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
Note that users must add the cameras to the NVR to view and record footage from the cameras. Therefore, please follow the steps in the instruction manual attached to your NVR.
FAQs About NVR Security System
Does NVR Require the Internet?
Network video recorders can work without the Internet and continue to record and stream the video stream. However, without the Internet, users can not back up the videos on cloud storage, have no access to the recordings remotely, or even won't get push notifications or alerts in case of an intrusion.
Is NVR Better than DVR?
DVR (Digital Video Recorder) is a video processor that works with analog cameras and also functions as storage. The connection between an analog camera and a DVR makes use of a coaxial cable. The recorder does not provide power to the connected cameras. Therefore, a splitter is required to provide power to enable cameras to function.
DVRs are less costly than NVRs that work with IP cameras over Ethernet cables. For people who are looking for a relatively straightforward security system, a DVR system will be sufficient, especially if their property is already wired for a coaxial cable. For those who have remote monitor demands or have high-resolution requirements, an NVR with PoE functionality will be more suitable. So as for NVR vs DVR, choices should be made based on actual needs.
What is the Farthest Distance between a Security Camera and the Connected NVR?
The connection between an IP camera and NVR is achieved by Ethernet cables. Because of the signal attenuation, the maximum transmission distance of the Ethernet cable is 100 meters. Thus, the maximum distance that the camera can run from the NVR is also 100 meters. If users require a distance beyond 100 meters, they can use an Ethernet extender to extend the distance.
