tech_dog

I'm putting in a residential surveillance system and am trying to choose my DVR. I'm finding the combination of features I want is harder than expected. Here's what I'm after (I think): 1) 8-9 channel 2) 60-120 fps 3) Internet remote access (dynamic IP address) 4) Good feature set, including motion sensing recording 5) Good overall quality These are all easy, but my last but not least requirement appears to be a killer. 6) IR remote control! I'm wiring this thing into my home entertainment system, and can do all kinds of cool macros if the unit has an IR remote. The fact that I'm having so much trouble finding this makes me think I'm doing something wrong. Are there good units out there with IR remotes? Are there accessories that allow you to get IR control via the DVR remote ports? I'm shooting for something in the US$2000-$2500 range. How do the experienced people here address this type of requirement? Thanks in advance, T.

I haven't selected the DVR yet, but it seems the specs give more complete information than the specs for cameras. With the cameras, I've seen several with great specs that look fair to bad, and some with minimal specs that outperform. I'll probably be going with an 8 camera DVR that supports internet access. Any favorites there?

My vote goes with CBC BCH-IR39A bullet camera... it comes with 12 built in LEDs, 3mm-9mm AI lens, excellent color during the day and B&W during the night and fairly good picture in pitch dark... it takes both 12VDC and 24VAC power sources... Comes also with standard (3) years warranty... Pricing should be around $200.00 and it does deliver the goods for the price.. Thanks! I'll take a look, as the specs you list are about what I had in mind, although I could still go up a bit in price point if that brings something else to mind. Best regards, T.

I'm probably looking for a bullet that's large and obvious enough to be a deterrant. The area is lit all night with low wattage lighting, so I either need very sensitive cameras or IR. I'd like decent resolution color. Thanks for any help, T.

I've looked at the systems at the big warehouses, and I'm definitely looking for something better than that. I think my house would be a pleasant surprise for a burgler, but my real intention is to protect my family, not my stuff. I want something that looks substantial,but not huge, and serves as a deterent. If something ever happens I don't want to be surprised by a malfunction. I found prices on some AVTech and Eclipse products, and I'm willing to go a bit richer than that. I found specs for some nice looking CPCam cameras, i.e. the CPC381/CPC383, but can't find prices. I'm guessing they're a bit more and I'll do more searching. I'm also hoping for varifocal lenses to help compensate for my lack of expertise. Thanks for the information, and please let me know if there are any other quality & value brands that are the next step above this price point. Best regards, T.

I've been researching for some time, and feel I have a decent understanding of camera and DVR features and specifications. What's harder to determine is the relative quality of the different brand options. As a homeowner planning a self-installation, my requirements are basic, but I want to pick a brand that is well made, reliable, and gives good quality for the money spent. I'm looking for a Toyota, not a Mercedes or a Fiat. What brands are good, and what should be avoided? It's pretty tough for a nube to tell. Best regards, T.