I have been spending lots of time trying to understand different systems out there, and I had a few questions, sorry if some questions are reposts, but it's hard to go through every thread. I'm looking for a 16 channel system and will use approximately 10-12 cameras, but I wanted to get some clarification on a few items:
NVR - if the unit is going to be in my house, is it relying on my Internet Service Provider (ISP) to record, what if the internet goes down do the cameras go down as well or is it only using the ISP if I'm doing remote viewing via phone or tablet.
PTZ Camera- I'm planning on purchasing one PTZ camera so that it can face the street entrance as we've had 5 burglaries on our street alone and there are only 16 houses. Will a good PTZ be able to pick up a license plate, let's say 50-100 feet. I doubt the cameras location is going to be 100 feet, but just curious for realistic expectations on whether I can zoom/record a license plate upon playback. I've read that you should half the amount per the manufacturer.
HIKVision & Dahua - I have both listed below, are the systems/firmware in English or Chinese?
Cabling - since it's an NVR, all of the cables will have to be an Ethernet CAT-5e or if affordable a CAT-6 correct? Is this sorta future proofing for upgrades? Or should I be looking into something else? I have access to my attic and the cameras will all be for outdoor use, so the locations shouldn't be too much of an issue to run the cable through. Is there any picture quality loss after a certain amount of feet?
PoE - the Costco unit below has 8 PoE, but the other 8 will need their own power source. Per HIK and Dahua, they can accept all 16 over PoE, is my understanding correct?
I'm looking into getting something along the following systems, unless you guys can recommend something better:
http://www.costco.com/Swann-16-Channel-IP-NVR-with-3TB-HDD%2c-8-3MP-Cameras-with-115'-Night-Vision.product.100144944.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1163220-REG/hikvision_ds_7716ni_sp_16_embedded_plug.html
[mod: removed retailer link]
http://www.securitycameraking.com/16-channel-4k-nvr-with-60517-prd1.html
Rebranded NVRs - is this just a rebranded Dahua camera? Any cons going with this instead of a branded Dahua?
Thank you for your time!
