tekkendork

My plan is to run one camera directly to the NVR. The other camera will connect to the NVR, too but I might use a MoCa adapter or powerline ethernet adapter to avoid running a long length of cat5/6. I think the NVR would be connected to the router using the same MoCa or powerline adapter.

Still shopping for a system and cameras. If I have three 3mp PoE cameras, recording at 24fps or less, will this affect web surfing/Netflix streaming, etc.? Or is it only an issue when I check the feeds remotely? Not sure how all of this works. My reported max download speed is 30mbps. Upload, 5mbps

Thanks very much, MrJimmo. That was extremely helpful. Network configuration will be a challenge for me but your explanation is a good pointer. I'll return with those questions eventually

I've spent the last 3 hours doing research! I have a few noob questions... 1. The NVR needs to be connected to a router in order to view the video remotely, correct? 2. If that's correct, I need to configure my router (port forwarding?) so the feed is accessible? 3. Then I need a 3rd party app for my iphone or desktop to view the video? 4. If I get a system that has motion detection, is there a specific app that will send me an alert on my phone? Sorry for the questions. I'm a bit slow

Much appreciated. I wonder if I could use MoCA adapters for shorter ethernet connections. I was considering that to expand my wired internet access anyway. I'm trying to avoid running long lengths of cable because the townhome has a slanted shed roof making attic access to the walls difficult. And the exterior is metal, so I don't want to punch more holes than I need to. A job for a professional, perhaps. Regarding the NVR and cameras...should they be the same brand or can you mix? And I haven't searched for this yet, but what are some brands to consider and ones to ignore? Thanks again everyone for your advice!

I wasn't aware of that. Thanks for the advice.

I looked for a general guide or stickied posts to help me build my first security video system, but I'm confused by all of the choices! I started looking at bundled systems like Swann, Lorex, Zmodo, etc. But buying components individually looks like the best option, correct? We have a 3 story townhome with metal siding. I would like 2 to 3 cameras -- One exterior camera at ground level pointed at the front entrance and one interior camera in the living room on the second level. If I got a third camera, I would position it outside of the garage on the opposite side of the front entrance. I'm thinking wireless is the way to go so I don't have to run cable over great lengths in difficult access areas. Being able to see live video via iphone or website is very important. I understand that I need a DVR to record the video. If this needs internet access to broadcast live video, it would be likely be located next to my computer on the 3rd floor. So my setup would be DVR, 2 cameras and possibly wireless signal boosters due to the distance, correct? I would like to keep the costs under $800 if possible. Any suggestions? Thanks much