|
Home > Utilize the power of DVR security software to enhance the functionality of your video surveillance system
December 18, 2006
By: Lynn Bryant
A good digital video recorder adds an enormous amount of
functionality to your video surveillance system. Spending
the time to investigate your options and invest in a quality
DVR will help you get the most out of your home or business
surveillance system. The primary component that governs the
features and functionality of the DVR cameras and the DVR
itself is the DVR security software.
DVR software comes preloaded on most stand-alone DVRs
that you purchase. However, if you are running, or looking
to build your own PC-based DVR camera system, the DVR
software can be added separately as a stand-along
application. This allows you to customize your DVR to fit
your particular needs. This article focuses primarily on
what to look for in a DVR software program for your PC.
Let us consider some of the basic features you should
look for in DVR software. Not all are necessary, but this
list provides a good framework of what to consider.
- Motion detection functionality -- There are
varying levels of functionally related to this feature
that may vary based on the software application you are
considering. At the very least, you should have the
ability to trigger camera recording when motion is
detected. More advanced DVR software and cameras allow you
to use the cameras to remain focused on a target and
automatically track the target's movement. Another great
feature to look for is the ability to trigger electronic
alerts when your cameras sense motion. This can either be
an automated email alert with video clip attached, or in
some instances even an alert sent directly to your mobile
phone.
- Camera control and configuration abilities --
You should be able to adjust image resolution on a per
camera basis. Some applications offer the ability to
automatically adjust image resolution based on a
pre-configured event trigger. This is a great feature to
have, but is not as critical as being able to manually
adjust camera resolution. Other camera control features
you should look for are pan/tilt/zoom functionality,
ability to adjust video capture rate, and the ability to
remotely view captured video through an Internet web
browser.
- Maintaining of alarm and event logs -- Quality
DVR software applications provide the ability to track and
monitor alarm triggering events through a time stamped
event log. This gives you a better understanding of
details surrounding the event itself.
- Video archival and search functionality --
Another feature that may not seem as critical, but can
save you a tremendous amount of time is an intuitive video
archival system with advanced search functionality. This
makes it much easier to store your video and perform
searches based on specified criteria. This also makes the
process of reviewing your video much more efficient.
If you take the time to carefully research the available
features of the DVR software program before you buy, it will
help you maximize the benefits of your surveillance system.
About the Author
Lynn Bryant is a successful freelance writer and
contributor to Video-Surveillance-Guide.com. Your
definitive guide to video surveillance equipment, CCTV
cameras and wireless security systems for home and business.
Also See:
[
PhotoBlocker number plate spray reviews provide answers ]
[
Wireless outdoor surveillance systems provide simplified
home security ]
[
Guide to DVR security
cameras & PC-based video security systems ]
[ top of page ]
Related Articles
[ top of page ]
|
