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Home > Exploring the pros and cons of standalone security camera DVR devices for video surveillance recording
March 11, 2010
By: Lynn Bryant
There is no question that utilizing a digital video
recorder (DVR) has distinct advantages over traditional
time-lapse VCRs for surveillance video recording
applications. You may not have realized however that there
are two distinct kinds of DVR recording devices, a
standalone model and a PC-based version. Deciding on which
style is most appropriate for you will depend entirely on
your specific security needs and monitoring preferences.
The purpose of this article is to take a closer look at
how standalone DVRs function. Having a better understanding
of some of the positives (pros) and negatives (cons)
associated with standalone security camera DVR devices can
help you decide if the standalone model is right for you.
The basic function of any DVR is to record video onto
some type of hard drive device in order to facilitate future
viewing. A standalone surveillance DVR accomplishes this
with one single circuit board, which is housed in a compact
box type unit. DVRs are very similar in appearance to a
consumer DVR or DVD player, and contain all the necessary
devices, software, and components needed to facilitate the
recording process.
Positive benefits associated with a standalone model
Standalone models are a very popular choice among buyers
for a number of reasons. These include:
- Easy to install and use -- One of the biggest
advantages of a standalone model is the fact that all
the software and hardware is already pre-configured for
you. This can greatly simplify the setup process, and
eliminate potential software and hardware compatibility
issues that can arise if you choose to go with the
PC-based version. For this reason, standalone models
make a much better choice if you are not very
technically savvy.
- Extremely reliable -- Standalone models have
been known to be extremely reliable. These DVRs are
completely pre-built, tested, and functional right out
of the box. You are much less likely to be faced with
configuration errors due to improper setup. In addition,
standalone models function with very little interaction
from the user, and can be relied on to function as
designed.
Potential drawbacks to consider with a standalone
model
DVRs that are built as standalone models are very simple
devices. They are very effective at recording video feeds
from video surveillance cameras. In some surveillance
applications however, basic standalone models can sometimes
fall short. Some potential drawbacks to consider include:
- Difficult to upgrade or expand -- Because a
standalone model is built as one complete unit on a
single circuit board, they are not easily expandable or
upgradeable. If you need to expand your surveillance
system to accommodate additional cameras above what your
current DVR can handle, you will need to purchase a new
DVR. If you foresee having to make changes to your
surveillance system in the future, you may want to go
with a PC-based DVR, which can accommodate future
expansion much easier.
- Not built to accommodate large networks of
cameras -- Standalone models are usually built to
accommodate four or eight video surveillance cameras,
and occasionally will even go up to 16. If you have a
need to incorporate more than 16 surveillance cameras in
your security system, you will not be able to use a
standalone model. You will need to go with a PC-based
DVR, which can be expanded to accommodate a much larger
network of cameras.
While this is not an exhaustive list, it does provide a
few points to consider when trying to determine which style
of DVR is best for your surveillance operation. As with all
aspects of video surveillance systems, you will need to
carefully consider your security needs in determining the
most optimal components for your operation.
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.
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