normicgander

Rory, I agree. I went with an open mind because I see all devices as tools to get the job done in a cost-effective manner. While I understand the differences, the end result or goal is the same. Also, there was not one WDR IP camera that I could find, especially in a minidome version. Except the megapixel camera systems, the IP video quality of most exhibitors didn't impress me...

First, regarding police interview rooms or even any other combined (audio associated with video) audio/video interception the audio quality is the most important. The video just substantates and archives the event(s) and is often used to demonstrate the behavior of all parties (suspect(s) and agents/police officers). It appears you selected a security type DVR which is designed mainly for timelapse recording etc. The audio sync problem will likely render the DVRs unusable for your intended purpose. Typically an agency requires what I call a "first" evidence recording. This has typically been fulfilled with VHS, 8mm or other tape formats, allowing the tape to be sealed as "evidence." However, all agencies are being forced to digital formats of some sort, to include optical and solid-state recorders with removable media. I would recommend using a CF card recorder which supports MPEG2 video and PCM stereo audio. I always use spaced-pair stereo mics with increases intelligibility. You can hear suspects breathing in my recordings. We have all watched those cheesey interview rooms recordings with muffled, low-level audio. Also, your client could use a cost-effective DVD recorder. You would most likely have to use an line time/date generator, which why timelapse VCRs/DVRs are often used. Sorry for being long-winded. Good luck.

VST_Man, Please find the link below for more info: http://www.techsecsol.com/educationalprog.htm

Hello everyone: Are there any forum members attending the TechSec IP-security conference in Savannah, Ga., Feb26-28? Rory: ACti is going to be there....

There's a book authored by Vlado Damjanovski titled "CCTV Networking and Digital Technology." I think I paid less than $30 for it online. I highly recommend it because it covers all the components of the CCTV system as well as signal egress methods, headend equipment and recording technology.

Hmm.. Just some thought in general on the old low voltage (class 2/3 circuits) vs. high voltage (class 1 circuits) saga. Many states require LV licenses. It seems just another way for local and state governments to support their bureaucracies. Look how many trades are licensed, yet sub-standard work is performed (i.e. a bad hair cut, poorly built home, bad auto repair or medical treatment). The consumer has relief from harm in the courts as with any business industry. Some electricians and their lobby groups want us out-lawed because we are a threat to a specialty portion of their trade. This has been the main reason why some states started licensing programs. I don't install alarms or fire protection systems, but I can see the need in that area. But data, phone, CCTV or audio and other class 2 circuits? My state senator told me there are periodic pushes for regulation in Michigan from special interests, but he said it wouldn't happen in the near future. It's going to happen and the consumer will pay for it....

Rory, I agree that the GE Wavereader software is hard to beat. Sanyo says the VA-SW5000 Spider software is available that provides a higher level of remote viewing capability. Another thing about the Sanyo 3716 is that motion detection is only recorded as an alarm. It would be better to have the program option of motion detection as an event to the "normal" section of the HD or an alarm to the "alarm" section of the HD....

At first, the 720 x 240 specification scared me away from the Sanyo DVRs. However, another dealer kept saying how great the M-Jpeg pictures were and that the Sanyo DVRs were quality bulit. Plus some of the posts on this site convinced me to try one on an installation. The Cheetah 3716 produces a far better image than the GE DVMRe-16CT series and is much more cost effective. The think the 720 x 240 is the field resolution, but I could be wrong.... Has any used any stand-alone NVRs with IP and analog inputs? Some of my customers just need to access the "DVR" from their desktop when needed and will not be monitored unless there's an issue. Thanks

FYI: Albeit rather empirical, I compared the Videology, GE Ultraview and the Nuvico WDR mini domes in the shop and garage areas and I have to say the Nuvico performed the best. The Nuvico has high quality construction and uses sony imager. The WDR function can even be turned off and the camera has a 2nd monitor test output for setup. While the Nuvico PDF sheet indicates that the dome is available in a 4 to 9mm varifocal. I asked them if a wider angle varifocal such as a 2.6 to 6mm was available. Surprisingly they said yes, which is a far better response that I received from GE. The Videology processed the scene illumination no beter than a standard A/I lens camera. Cheers

I have used UTP CAT5E rated direct burial cable on several projects with great results. Even if there are PVC conduits I still use direct burial because most of the conduit end up having water in them. Also, I've come to the conclusion that the use of an active receive hub which allows for proper video equalization is essential. Most active hubs, such as NVT 1662 provide lightning protection. Good Luck.