Lunkhead

Hey, JJ: I appreciate your reply. I've noted that not many appear to be using QNAP VS. Build quality is one thing. Buggy software's another. Thanks for the "heads up" from your experience.

Thanks, Buellwinkle. I've changed course a bit and am focused presently on Mobotix. It seems that their T24 door station might be the best choice for controlling entry at my sister's front gate. I'm also intrigued by their "decentralized system" concept. My sister won't need a lot of cameras, maybe six or fewer. The Mobotix hemispherical approach, with processing being handled in each camera, seems like it could also be advantageous for applications such as monitoring the barn and animal areas with Q24s. There's no inboard IR, but I suppose illumination could be added. Do you have an opinion on these? How would the "day" camera versions of these models work at night, with added IR illumination, I wonder... Poorly, because the day versions filter IR? Or do they? So, how does the Mobotix cam, MXCC software and NAS system solution perform on your scorecard? And what if we also wanted to add an ACTi box cam at the gate for a full on frontal view of visitors? Mobotix says MXCC can incorporate other brands of IP (or analog) cams, but maybe other brands wouldn't interface well with the "decentralized topography". My sis is IOS everything and since Mobotix now offers apps for iPhone and iPad, this could be perfect for her situation. Do you know of a better alternative to the T-24 for entry/access/communication for a remote gate location? That's kinda where my switch to thinking Mobotix got started... And again, thanks very much for your kind reply.

Buellwinkle, your contributions here and at NCC.com are extremely helpful. Thanks very, very much! I don't know how you have the time to post as often as you do. Thanks to many others as well. I enjoyed over 30 years tenure with a major Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer, including serving as a Regional Service Manager covering 11 southern states way back in the 70's, but no involvement with surveillance/security systems until now. Yes, both my feet are indeed getting very wet... After reading reviews here and on the NetworkCameraCritic.com site, I'm looking at probably various ACTi cams for use with a QNAP VioStor VS-4116 Pro+ NVR solution. The ACTi NVR I was most intrigued by was their GNR-2000, but that now seems to be discontinued, requires licenses for cameras beyond 4, etc. I also like the features of the QNAP over the ACTi GNR-3000 (dual LAN, 4 drive bays, inboard RAID, build quality, etc) and the QNAP is even a little less expensive, as well (~$1800). So, I'm really leaning toward that option, if it works well. Do you have any experience or opinions in that regard? I was considering Dahua cams and NVR, but their whole approach just seems too flaky and "hey, watch out... that seller is not authorized" for comfort. I loved your description of how the warranty coverage works for Dahua cams (buy a new one), and your recent comments in another string regarding Dahua Cams=Dead End were particularly insightful. And some people get the 8 channel Q-See or Swann systems with 4 cams, then can't get additional cameras without buying another package deal (just to get the cams?)?? Goofy. I need maximum reliability and flexibility with as little complexity as possible for my little sister's new 45 acre property acquisition in the Blue Ridge mountains near Asheville, NC. She sold her Veterinary Clinic in Alaska and is retiring and relocating to her new place next month. She will be raising various animals, and there will be several outbuildings, barns, tractor shed, workshop, etc, where cams may ultimately be helpful. The front gate is ~650' from the house and not quite line of sight, but I think I can reach the location with pole mounted wireless for a couple of cams there (call box, straight on front view). We're trying NOT to have to bury cable/fiber over the hilly, rocky terrain at that distance. Ethernet Over Powerline is not an option, as power near the gate location is separated by 2 transformers from power at the house. We will also need to figure out a networked gate control system/intercom, but I have some ideas in that regard (but ANY input is most welcome, there). Also, reliable cellular service is not available at this remote property, presently, but I am investigating directional antennas and amplification, as a 3watt "bag phone" was able to make a call or two, sporadically, so there is at least a little bit of signal "out there". I'm planning to cover key locations across the property via APs (5GHz Ubiquity?), so she will have internet access while outside the house for Smartphones, iPads, etc, which could also be used to monitor camera locations. Sorry this post is "all over the place", topic wise, but there's a lot involved, as you can see. I very much appreciate any and all ideas and input. Thanks, Thanks, Thanks!!!

This really is a great forum. I'm very impressed by the thoughtfulness and spirit expressed in the posts that I've read. Good for you, fine folks... What a nice thing it is. And, thanks for updating with posts regarding AvertX. I'm still curious about them, but for pro gear dollars, am currently thinking I'm leaning toward a QNAP/VioStor NVR solution like the VS-4116 Pro+, with my choices of cameras at various specific locations. Compatibility is a good thing, I think. Thanks again for all the input. Me? I'm a newbie to all of this...

I was looking at these systems as well (emphasis on was). Here's some news: "Abandonment Notice! On Wednesday, February 20, 2013, status on the AVERTX trademark changed to ABANDONED - AFTER PUBLICATION." https://www.trademarkia.com/avertx-85724765.html