After more READING I am looking for a NVR IP system

[doug25427 0]

I am new to home video security and thought I had read enough to know what I wanted. All things considered I think my best way to go is NVR IP system. 8 channels will more than cover my areas.

I have one area at my home where it will be impractical to run CAT5 cable. I do have easy access to 120 volt power there. I think I can use a wireless camera but have to supply it with power... right? The other areas are fairly easy cable runs under the soffit mostly but two will have to be run inside the attic to keep the cable runs shorter. By the way... how far can CAT5 camera runs be before it causes an issue?

I don't see many systems or stand alone NVRs which support wireless cameras or maybe I am suffering from information overload? I have read some of these NVRs and or cameras will lose their programing if the power fails and they aren't easy to set up again. I surely want to avoid those.

I have a loose budget of $1500. I'm willing to hold off on installing all 8 cameras so as to afford a better core system adding additional cameras later.

I would appreciate anyone who might be able to steer me around the potholes.

Doug

[Firefighter 0]

pothole#1. The camera you claim can't be wired.

 

What are the obstacles? Detached garage/shed etc..?

 

Just curious, It may take a little extra work but the hard wired connection is normally better.

[doug25427 0]

pothole#1. The camera you claim can't be wired.

What are the obstacles? Detached garage/shed etc..?

Just curious, It may take a little extra work but the hard wired connection is normally better.

 

My asphalt driveway runs between my attached garage and a tool shed 24 feet from the attached garage. A good place to mount a camera would be on the tool shed facing the side garage entrance door. I'd have to saw cut the driveway to get a CAT5 to the tool shed.

Since I wrote this post I thought of mounting the camera(s) on the end of the attached garage so they cover the side of the garage eliminating the need to mount anything on the tool shed.

Right now I'd like to receive some advice on a reliable and easy to set up NVR. One that won't lose its set up information when the power goes out as it does around here too often.

Once I have the NVR nailed its on to the camera selections which will begin another round of endless reading and browsing the Net.

I was looking a year ago to add a video surveillance system to argument my home alarm system. I got into it so far, dropped it and I'm sorry I did now. A few days ago I had a mysterious alarm trip while I was away and no one can figure out what exactly happened. All anyone knows is someone entered the locked side garage door, 4 seconds later opened the unlocked mud room door leading into the house... and where my 90 pound Boxer was sleeping! When I got home I found the Boxer inside the garage. He is OK. The mudroom door shut and the side garage door shut and locked. No evidence in the slightest anyone entered the house or touched anything. Very weird to say the least.

Needless to say I want the property under video surveillance now. I'm sort of in a rush but not such a big rush as to buy without careful thought.

Thanks for your reply.

[shockwave199 0]

Avoid wireless. Unless you're good with networking, you shouldn't rule out analog. Your budget at the moment is better suited for analog as well. See my post in this thread for consideration-

 

viewtopic.php?f=54&t=36261

 

There aren't many nvr choices out there right now except for the ones talked about lately. And you'll want to buy the cameras that work with those nvs- the full package systems. Using third party cameras with nvr boxes that are meant for specific cameras will be hit and miss, and adds complication to setting up the whole thing. No matter how easy you want an nvr system to be, you have to be prepared to network into the cameras and all, for tweaks and firmware upgrades. IP systems are easier, and more complex all at the same time. And they cost a good deal more too.

 

Analog can be very effective. Don't let the majority of posts being in the MP/IP forum fool you. Analog can still be a great solution for many people like you. It's straight forward, reliable, greatly interchangeable for cameras, and if installed wisely it will catch the incidents you need. As much as I like IP systems and have even installed one in a business now, I look at my analog system at home and consider the choices out there and STILL come down on the side of keeping my analog system in place for another year or two. Mega pixel cameras still have a ways to go at the mid price point level. I figure in a couple years the choices of cameras and the features they have will be much more improved and plentiful. You could install analog using cat5 and baluns for your cabling, making it much easier to switch over to a network system down the line if you need to.

 

So, don't rule out analog if you want to get a system in place and start documenting the goings on around your property in short order. Good luck.

[doug25427 0]

Avoid wireless. Unless you're good with networking, you shouldn't rule out analog. Your budget at the moment is better suited for analog as well. See my post in this thread for consideration-

 

viewtopic.php?f=54&t=36261

 

There aren't many nvr choices out there right now except for the ones talked about lately. And you'll want to buy the cameras that work with those nvs- the full package systems. Using third party cameras with nvr boxes that are meant for specific cameras will be hit and miss, and adds complication to setting up the whole thing. No matter how easy you want an nvr system to be, you have to be prepared to network into the cameras and all, for tweaks and firmware upgrades. IP systems are easier, and more complex all at the same time. And they cost a good deal more too.

 

Analog can be very effective. Don't let the majority of posts being in the MP/IP forum fool you. Analog can still be a great solution for many people like you. It's straight forward, reliable, greatly interchangeable for cameras, and if installed wisely it will catch the incidents you need. As much as I like IP systems and have even installed one in a business now, I look at my analog system at home and consider the choices out there and STILL come down on the side of keeping my analog system in place for another year or two. Mega pixel cameras still have a ways to go at the mid price point level. I figure in a couple years the choices of cameras and the features they have will be much more improved and plentiful. You could install analog using cat5 and baluns for your cabling, making it much easier to switch over to a network system down the line if you need to.

 

So, don't rule out analog if you want to get a system in place and start documenting the goings on around your property in short order. Good luck.

 

That explains why I haven't seen many NVR options after hours of searching.

I wasn't all that interested in the very best video... just enough to ID someone. My main point for going NVR IP is the industry is moving this way. I guess the better thought is to get something of quality which fits what I actually need rather than be concerned about where the industry is going. I'm not one to upgrade something like this over and over. Once it is installed and doing its job well I'll leave it alone. I have plenty of hobbies right now!

I checked out some of your links. I don't think I need any PTZ cameras. I'll have to spend some time considering the various cameras to fit the different areas I want to monitor.

I read a little regarding baluns. The idea is to run CAT5 to the cameras and then add the balun to adapt it to BNC at the DVR? I though some of these DVRs used CAT5 for the camera input? I assume there are and will be better camera choices using CAT5.

As far as I can tell the choice begins with a good DVR and from there the rest is dialing in the camera for each channel's application. Have any good suggestions on a good DVR?

I didn't mention it and I think I should. The maximum distance for any camera to monitor will be 50 feet. All of the areas I want to monitor range from good night lighting to some night lighting.

Thanks for your reply

[shockwave199 0]

There are those who swear analog is and will certainly be irrelevant. Maybe, maybe not. Keep in mind what's relevant for YOUR needs. Lots of people simply get caught up in G.A.S., which is gear acquisition syndrome. They must have the latest, the best, the newest flavor of the month, or just enjoy this as a hobby and have the money to throw at it all the time. If you prefer to set it and forget it, you might want to think about installing an IP system after all. If you're gonna be picky and you must have the best images to satisfy your eyes and you want to install it and walk away, don't do analog. The image resolution will nag you, especially when you hang out here and see all the pretty pictures posted with mega pixel cameras. Not critical crime solving pictures mind you, just beautiful shots of cars and driveways and tress and streets and yards. It's implied those beautiful pictures could ID someone, but it's always a crap shoot. They simply give more of an edge- they tilt the odds in our favor. Nothing wrong with going for the best picture you can. It's just that many people come here with basic needs and get lulled into thinking it must be all or nothing. That's not really the case, imo. You need to read here more. Hours isn't enough. You don't have a grip on everything and it's all been generously written many times here. Search for your questions- it's a treasure trove here. In short, if for whatever reason I knew I wasn't going to upgrade down the line to a network system, I would not use baluns. I'd buy quality siamese cable in bulk and put on the connections myself. I posted some good places for product in that thread. Take a look around. Search, read, learn. Keep it simple and maybe you'll get a system in place before the next incident. Good luck.

[doug25427 0]

There are those who swear analog is and will certainly be irrelevant. Maybe, maybe not. Keep in mind what's relevant for YOUR needs. Lots of people simply get caught up in G.A.S., which is gear acquisition syndrome. They must have the latest, the best, the newest flavor of the month, or just enjoy this as a hobby and have the money to throw at it all the time. If you prefer to set it and forget it, you might want to think about installing an IP system after all. If you're gonna be picky and you must have the best images to satisfy your eyes and you want to install it and walk away, don't do analog. The image resolution will nag you, especially when you hang out here and see all the pretty pictures posted with mega pixel cameras. Not critical crime solving pictures mind you, just beautiful shots of cars and driveways and tress and streets and yards. It's implied those beautiful pictures could ID someone, but it's always a crap shoot. They simply give more of an edge- they till the odds in our favor. Nothing wrong with going for the best picture you can. It's just that many people come here with basic needs and get lulled into thinking it must be all or nothing. That's not really the case, imo. You need to read here more. Hours isn't enough. You don't have a grip on everything and it's all been generously written many times here. Search for your questions- it's a treasure trove here. In short, if for whatever reason I knew I wasn't going to upgrade down the line to a network system, I would not use baluns. I'd buy quality siamese cable in bulk and put on the connections myself. I posted some good places for product in that thread. Take a look around. Search, read, learn. Keep it simple and maybe you'll get a system in place before the next incident. Good luck.

 

Search, read and learn is always good advice. I stopped counting how many times specific forums have helped me avoid the potholes in the road of life.

I agree... a $10K or more video security system can not 100% guarantee a "gotcha" image. Too many variables to consider and it is impossible to cover every conceivable angle or the craftiness of crooks. I believe I have a good layered system now. A noisy, big dog, good outside lighting, deadbolts on every door and a monitored home alarm system with signage. The addition of a good video security system should finish the job.

I look at a video security system as a tool. I have plenty of tools but not many of the very best like Snap-On. What I have suits my needs. I can afford Snap-On tools but wouldn't buy them. The worst part of tool buying is to make sure not to buy a bad one when a few bucks more buys a real good one.

I'm prepared to spend in the range of $1500 for a system and accept the quality as not being the latest and greatest. Once its running right I doubt I'll be back on the forum unless I have an issue and need help. That is the point of my post... not to need help after buying a not so good system. I'm sure many here have asked the question why didn't you make inquiries here before you bought?

Once I make a DVR choice the remaining finer details should become easier. I'm fairly convinced buying the pieces separately with some thought/investigation should yield a much better system than a Big Box store, all in one system.

I'm a little surprised no one has a high recommendation on a good DVR. Amazon is full of recommendations of what NOT to buy.

Thanks for your reply

[Firefighter 0]

I know your not looking for bigbox kits. But, Have you considered the 8 Chan 2MP IP 1080P system from costco? Comes with the NVR, 8 Cameras, Wires etc... with the solid warranty, 3 years.

 

There are a few reasons why I would look at it, the largest being the extended 3 year warranty included.

Any issues? Just take it back, or trade it for another one.

 

Yeah Analog is still an option, But there is an undisputed fact that is the reason people are moving to MP IP.

Simply, More Pixels under the same conditions with similar settings etc... means a better chance at ID.

It's not "The best, gotta have it etc..." It just seems to provide a good "Value"

I'm not going to argue IP Vs Analog... Ive only had analog. It's been beat to death.

Shockwave, you seem to spend most of your posts aggressively defending analog.

Nothing against it by any means but

it almost seems like your trying to deter people away from ip mp.

 

Though I know you're just trying to help newbies understand and not get sucked into the

"gotta have this" stuff...

 

But the Hikvisions sets are looking pretty good in terms of lower end value.

 

Back on topic, you would have to trench the asphalt, Is that something you're highly against?

Need to ask yourself, if it would provide the best location then it might be worth it.

Depending on the distance, What about digging and laying some conduit in the ground around the driveway around to the shed? If it's under 100ft to the cam including all the way around the driveway then it might be an option.

[shockwave199 0]

I only suggest analog if it could make sense for a particular person. I'm not defending or pushing analog all the time. In some instances, it could still make sense.

 

Simply, More Pixels under the same conditions with similar settings etc... means a better chance at ID.

See, that's not necessarily true. That's what you come to believe when you haven't actually had an MP camera in line, and just form opinions from reading and looking at pictures. MP cameras have quirks. And even worse, unlike analog where the choice of cameras is endless, with NVR packages such as swann, lorex, or dahua, you're getting just one type of camera. Just ONE. Or if you want, for a bunch more money you can purchase a set of another type of camera- ONE other type of camera that works with their systems. At the price point for the average customer who would buy an analog system, an NVR package is actually quite limiting still. But that gets washed over by the thought of mega pixels and higher resolution. It is NOT just higher resolution that matters. You cannot throw all that matters for surveillance out the window just for the sake of higher resolution. If you do, you'll be disappointed. I do agree, seeing even a 1.3mp picture is a beautiful thing compared to an analog picture. And having that resolution means you can digitally drill into a shot more than you can with analog. But that's as far as resolution will go for you. Those who would buy into NVR packages still need varifocal camera choices, more fixed lens choices, light finder choices, cameras with audio, better WDR performance, some ptz choices, and eyeball dome choices which inherently work much better with IR built in than bubble domes. And the only eyeball dome I see available is a 1.3mp from dahua- kudos at least for that. If you want more and better camera choices, that changes the approach of your system entirely, as well as the cost.

 

All I'm saying is that mere higher resolution is not the end all of well installed surveillance. It's a big part of it, but everything else still applies AND, you need to be very comfortable with either learning some networking techniques or have some basic knowledge to carry you through. The package NVR system providers are banking on the fact that higher resolution will distract you from all the limitations at this point. And all things considered, for certain people who ask here, I'm just trying to truly assess their needs and keep it real for them. I am hoping like hell all the offerings and improvements in NVR boxes and MP cameras comes FAST because I want to install a system at home too! But, it still has to makes sense to go through all the work of the change from analog. It just doesn't yet. Mega pixels alone isn't enough to properly work for every area I need to cover. At least, not at my budget.

[Oliver1 0]

I had the same conflict, Ip cameras vs Analog, I just bought a hybrid dvr. Problem solved, everyone's happy.

[doug25427 0]

I know your not looking for bigbox kits. But, Have you considered the 8 Chan 2MP IP 1080P system from costco? Comes with the NVR, 8 Cameras, Wires etc... with the solid warranty, 3 years.

 

There are a few reasons why I would look at it, the largest being the extended 3 year warranty included.

Any issues? Just take it back, or trade it for another one.

 

Yeah Analog is still an option, But there is an undisputed fact that is the reason people are moving to MP IP.

Simply, More Pixels under the same conditions with similar settings etc... means a better chance at ID.

It's not "The best, gotta have it etc..." It just seems to provide a good "Value"

I'm not going to argue IP Vs Analog... Ive only had analog. It's been beat to death.

Shockwave, you seem to spend most of your posts aggressively defending analog.

Nothing against it by any means but

it almost seems like your trying to deter people away from ip mp.

 

Though I know you're just trying to help newbies understand and not get sucked into the

"gotta have this" stuff...

 

But the Hikvisions sets are looking pretty good in terms of lower end value.

 

Back on topic, you would have to trench the asphalt, Is that something you're highly against?

Need to ask yourself, if it would provide the best location then it might be worth it.

Depending on the distance, What about digging and laying some conduit in the ground around the driveway around to the shed? If it's under 100ft to the cam including all the way around the driveway then it might be an option.

 

Being in the business I have the experience and tools to cut the asphalt and install the cables. It was my first thought but I have abandoned the idea since I can cover the same area without the hassle.

It is hard to argue with Shockwave199's logic if he is correct about the limited options using NVR. Clearly the better the image the more likely you'll be able to make an ID all things being equal but like he said it is only one of the variables. I haven't been able to find one with reviews that aren't spotty. The Q-see has a motion detection issue, the Swann is supposedly tough to configure and yet another one loses it's setup info when the power goes out. Seems to me the NVR systems are not ready for a guy like me who wants to get them up and running without much trouble and then leave them alone to do their job. Or I could be wrong?

This is the only unit I noticed on Costco's site which would fit my needs.

http://www.costco.com/AvertX-8-Channel-Professional-IP-HD-Security-System-with-2TB-Hard-Drive-and-4-1080p-IP-Cameras.product.100033068.html#BVRRWidgetID

The specs say the NVR supports AvertX and ONVIF compliant cameras but they surely are NOT inexpensive. This NVR appears to be new enough not to have many reviews.

Given the fact I don't have a system now and have a budget to afford a NVR system this bundle has promise. I don't mind being limited to four cameras at first if I am beginning with a solid system.

Anyone have any comments on this bundle?

[doug25427 0]

I only suggest analog if it could make sense for a particular person. I'm not defending or pushing analog all the time. In some instances, it could still make sense.

 

Simply, More Pixels under the same conditions with similar settings etc... means a better chance at ID.

See, that's not necessarily true. That's what you come to believe when you haven't actually had an MP camera in line, and just form opinions from reading and looking at pictures. MP cameras have quirks. And even worse, unlike analog where the choice of cameras is endless, with NVR packages such as swann, lorex, or dahua, you're getting just one type of camera. Just ONE. Or if you want, for a bunch more money you can purchase a set of another type of camera- ONE other type of camera that works with their systems. At the price point for the average customer who would buy an analog system, an NVR package is actually quite limiting still. But that gets washed over by the thought of mega pixels and higher resolution. It is NOT just higher resolution that matters. You cannot throw all that matters for surveillance out the window just for the sake of higher resolution. If you do, you'll be disappointed. I do agree, seeing even a 1.3mp picture is a beautiful thing compared to an analog picture. And having that resolution means you can digitally drill into a shot more than you can with analog. But that's as far as resolution will go for you. Those who would buy into NVR packages still need varifocal camera choices, more fixed lens choices, light finder choices, cameras with audio, better WDR performance, some ptz choices, and eyeball dome choices which inherently work much better with IR built in than bubble domes. And the only eyeball dome I see available is a 1.3mp from dahua- kudos at least for that. If you want more and better camera choices, that changes the approach of your system entirely, as well as the cost.

 

All I'm saying is that mere higher resolution is not the end all of well installed surveillance. It's a big part of it, but everything else still applies AND, you need to be very comfortable with either learning some networking techniques or have some basic knowledge to carry you through. The package NVR system providers are banking on the fact that higher resolution will distract you from all the limitations at this point. And all things considered, for certain people who ask here, I'm just trying to truly assess their needs and keep it real for them. I am hoping like hell all the offerings and improvements in NVR boxes and MP cameras comes FAST because I want to install a system at home too! But, it still has to makes sense to go through all the work of the change from analog. It just doesn't yet. Mega pixels alone isn't enough to properly work for every area I need to cover. At least, not at my budget.

 

I get your points regarding IP vs Analog and to tell you the truth I began to consider analog more after your comments if only for all of the analog options. Since I'll be installing my first system I think it should be IP if I could find something reasonably stable. Like you said image quality is only one of the variables but high image quality is something to be desired. Installing analog even using the tricks to make the switch to IP easier later on seems to be the wrong way to go for a new first system install.

If you would take a look at this system and give me your comments with the varnish off.

http://www.costco.com/AvertX-8-Channel-Professional-IP-HD-Security-System-with-2TB-Hard-Drive-and-4-1080p-IP-Cameras.product.100033068.html#BVRRWidgetID

What makes forums great are the widely differing opinions and experiences we all have. I have found the best solutions to be found inside these discussion. It doesn't take the place of specific education on a subject but it does define the area to be studied.

By the way... I'm not a Network IP professional but I'm not illiterate either. I have resources who know Networking who can help me with the setup as long as what I buy isn't quirky out of the box. If I could have found a NVR system that had some consistent reviews I would have bought it by now.

I appreciate your time arguing your points in this post.

[shockwave199 0]

Well I'm not really arguing for analog. Just a different perspective is all. Food for thought.

 

The avertx system at costco is an interesting one. I've eyed it myself. Only one person here mentioned they had it, they liked it, but it could use some software tweaking. But they did like it, from what I can remember. And then, they simply dropped out of sight here. I tried to get a followup or two, but they split. It's a lot of money for an unknown. But it seems to me that the 16 channel nvr is actually more worth it. If you get the 8 channel, it only has four cameras. To fill it out you'll need to spend upward of 900 bucks for four more cameras. That puts you at around 3k right there. Why not spend the 3k and get eight cameras and a 16 channel nvr. That's room for expansion built right in. But the problem for me once again is the camera choices. Just two types isn't enough. And I'd have to call them to put together a custom package with the proper amount of the two different cameras for my needs- if that were possible. About the only manufacturer that has a decent selection of cameras is dahua. They're at different price points, but at least the selection is there and they will work with their NVR's for an all-in-one solution.

 

http://www.dahuasecurity.com/products_category/2-megapixel-32.html

[Firefighter 0]

I should have added this to my post....

 

When I said settings etc... I was including varifocal lens and everything.

a 2MP IP Camera with a 12MM lens vs a 700tvl camera with a 12mm lens and similar Settings, Features and performance etc....

the mp will win. Please remember, I'm talking about cameras that are similar in settings, Features etc...

All Other things aside, it does come down to the 2mp ip better resolution. ALL other things aside.

 

I am by far not comparing a costco hikvision to a low light box camera with a 12mm lens used for a specific zone. I would put my money on the analog in that case of course!!

 

I think that was kind of lost in my post. I agree 100% shockwave, those kits from costco are FAR

from anything past a simple overall kit. If the OP wan'ts the custom setup, specific cameras with specific lenses and other stuff, you can forget a box nvr for the "most" part. Custom Setup with PC software is the best option.

 

Back to the analog though, Any camera/mix works all together.... Could more simple could it get!

 

Sorry to have stirred up the pot.

 

Look forward to the OP posting about what he got, the install and pics/videos.

[doug25427 0]

Well I'm not really arguing for analog. Just a different perspective is all. Food for thought.

 

The avertx system at costco is an interesting one. I've eyed it myself. Only one person here mentioned they had it, they liked it, but it could use some software tweaking. But they did like it, from what I can remember. And then, they simply dropped out of sight here. I tried to get a followup or two, but they split. It's a lot of money for an unknown. But it seems to me that the 16 channel nvr is actually more worth it. If you get the 8 channel, it only has four cameras. To fill it out you'll need to spend upward of 900 bucks for four more cameras. That puts you at around 3k right there. Why not spend the 3k and get eight cameras and a 16 channel nvr. That's room for expansion built right in. But the problem for me once again is the camera choices. Just two types isn't enough. And I'd have to call them to put together a custom package with the proper amount of the two different cameras for my needs- if that were possible. About the only manufacturer that has a decent selection of cameras is dahua. They're at different price points, but at least the selection is there and they will work with their NVR's for an all-in-one solution.

 

http://www.dahuasecurity.com/products_category/2-megapixel-32.html

 

I agree...it is a lot of money to risk on a system without much feedback/reviews. I can cover my most critical areas with 4 cams and spring for the remaining 4 at a later date.

I'll defiantly have to consider the overall cost more than I have. I do have a wife I need to convince this purchase is in our best interest!

I checked out the link. Decoding the changes in Dahua brand names is a challenge. From what I am reading they don't sell their brand name in the USA. They change it to some other name and model number further clouding the ability to make sound choices.

Do you have a good site for their products?

[doug25427 0]

I should have added this to my post....

 

When I said settings etc... I was including varifocal lens and everything.

a 2MP IP Camera with a 12MM lens vs a 700tvl camera with a 12mm lens and similar Settings, Features and performance etc....

the mp will win. Please remember, I'm talking about cameras that are similar in settings, Features etc...

All Other things aside, it does come down to the 2mp ip better resolution. ALL other things aside.

 

I am by far not comparing a costco hikvision to a low light box camera with a 12mm lens used for a specific zone. I would put my money on the analog in that case of course!!

 

I think that was kind of lost in my post. I agree 100% shockwave, those kits from costco are FAR

from anything past a simple overall kit. If the OP wan'ts the custom setup, specific cameras with specific lenses and other stuff, you can forget a box nvr for the "most" part. Custom Setup with PC software is the best option.

 

Back to the analog though, Any camera/mix works all together.... Could more simple could it get!

 

Sorry to have stirred up the pot.

 

Look forward to the OP posting about what he got, the install and pics/videos.

 

I won't drop off the radar once I make a system choice. Once I decide on a system I'll make it a point to post the installation and the operational results. Adding to the forum knowledge base on a particular system is a good thing for everyone.

[shockwave199 0]

Well I'm not really arguing for analog. Just a different perspective is all. Food for thought.

 

The avertx system at costco is an interesting one. I've eyed it myself. Only one person here mentioned they had it, they liked it, but it could use some software tweaking. But they did like it, from what I can remember. And then, they simply dropped out of sight here. I tried to get a followup or two, but they split. It's a lot of money for an unknown. But it seems to me that the 16 channel nvr is actually more worth it. If you get the 8 channel, it only has four cameras. To fill it out you'll need to spend upward of 900 bucks for four more cameras. That puts you at around 3k right there. Why not spend the 3k and get eight cameras and a 16 channel nvr. That's room for expansion built right in. But the problem for me once again is the camera choices. Just two types isn't enough. And I'd have to call them to put together a custom package with the proper amount of the two different cameras for my needs- if that were possible. About the only manufacturer that has a decent selection of cameras is dahua. They're at different price points, but at least the selection is there and they will work with their NVR's for an all-in-one solution.

 

http://www.dahuasecurity.com/products_category/2-megapixel-32.html

 

I agree...it is a lot of money to risk on a system without much feedback/reviews. I can cover my most critical areas with 4 cams and spring for the remaining 4 at a later date.

I'll defiantly have to consider the overall cost more than I have. I do have a wife I need to convince this purchase is in our best interest!

I checked out the link. Decoding the changes in Dahua brand names is a challenge. From what I am reading they don't sell their brand name in the USA. They change it to some other name and model number further clouding the ability to make sound choices.

Do you have a good site for their products?

There's an extensive thread about where to find them. As far as convincing the wife, you might try this line in which I convinced myself- can we afford NOT to?