BBKingAdrock

Hello friends, I have been tasked by an installation contractor if I can build a PC-based DVR system to meet his needs and beat the competitor's price. My understanding is that he has installed these systems, but has always purchased them as kits from online retailers. I have built PCs for him in the past (not for cctv purposes). I can put together a formidable PC rig no problem, but have no cctv experience. My question to you, is it as simple as locating the right dvr card for my purposes, and putting a couple in my machine? He wants the system to be able to support 24 cameras, but will only be using 20 to start. Suggestions on which dvr card to use is much appreciated. No audio capture is needed at this time, and I will make the PC as robust as possible. Apologies if I have not included enough info, I will gladly elaborate as much as needed. Thanks in advance, BBK

What about using two different sized cards, in my case a 8 channel and a 16 channel. Or is that a recipe for disaster, using nonaymmatrical cards?

Tom, I just watched some video comparing different captured frame rates. Wow. Almost no difference between 30 and 15, and 10 fps was fluid as well. I appreciate the advice, I will definitely be satisfied with 15fps. That said, it would appear I am looking to get two cards, 16 channels each, 240 fps.

Thanks for the reply Harrar. One thing I wanted to clarify: The reason I asked only about the dvr card at this time, is because it is the unknown hurdle to me being able to proceed forward with the task. I've seen cards from $30 to $1200, and I believe I'll need at least 2, so I need to establish how much I'm going to spend on these cards before I know if it is worth moving forward. Basically, what I'm saying is, if I have to buy $2000 worth of dvr capture cards, I can probably just stop my work right now. I'd like to keep my card cost to three figures, if possible (but don't let that deter you from giving me your recommendation). To answer your questions: -They plan on using traditional/analog cameras -They want the cameras to be motion detect only, but these will be going into a bar/club. Therefore, the ones in high traffic areas will probably be recording the better part of the day. -I'm told the longest runs will be around 70'. To be safe, let's say no more than 100'. -FPS is a bit of a hassle. In doing some snooping around, I have found some sources that have convinced me that FPS is mostly fools gold. That said, my customer is expecting a card capable of 30 (theoretically). I'd like to deliver that, or near enough. Thanks again -bbk