Security camera + DVR server suggestions?

AirGibson

Member
Nov 30, 2000
60
0
0
It's hard finding sites dedicated to reviewing the various alternatives for DVR security systems. I'm looking for a total solution, including a dedicated DVR box as oppsed to just a card that I plop in an existing machine. If anyone here has recommendations on a particular system that has a lot of bang for the buck, or a site with good general info, I'm all ears. Some places I've already visited:

http://www.visiowave.com
http://www.video-insight.com/
http://www.aver.com/products/security.shtml

But like I say, I have no idea which ones are excellent, and which ones should be avoided. It's hard finding comprehensive, unbiased reviews anyhow.
 

tcsenter

Lifer
Sep 7, 2001
18,954
577
126
You'd be surprised how similar most security DVRs under $500 ~ $600 look on the inside. Many brands use the same ODM/OEM. e.g.

Swann Communications has DVRs that are the same models sold under Lorex and Q-See brands. Lorex, Home Sentinel, Sentinel CCTV, and Sylvania are all Strategic Vista brands, and their security product lines are identical.

Other brands with low-cost security DVR:

Clover Electronics USA

Speco Technologies

Advanced Video Technology


I picked up this Sentinel 4CH DVR (w/o HDD) at Outpost.com a few months back for $170. It is identical to this Lorex 4CH DVR that sells for $300 (w/o HDD). This is probably the best deal going in 4CH security DVRs, but it has crappy remote/network viewing and control capabilities (RS232/RS485 only, no USB or RJ45, requires an external server/control board, limited to 2CH). This will be used strictly for home security, not an observation system, so better remote/network capability is not an issue for me.

You probably would want to look for full-featured remote/network viewing and control via USB2.0 or ethernet (or both) with built-in IP server. The AverMedia EB1104NET looks like a real decent DVR for the money (~$360.00), accept two HDDs up to 250GB each and sports USB2.0 for remote viewing (PC or network).

Then there is the high-end stuff (with a high-end price tag); Panasonic, Samsung, Philips, JVC, Dedicated Micros, among others.