IP cam & NVR questions

[moocowman 0]

I’m going from Geovision pc based DVRs to IP cams and NVRs. Can someone please answer some questions?

 

1) Can NVRs vary the recording resolution of individual cameras? One of the problems I have with Geovision’s DVR is the video source resolution is global. If I set to a higher res, it eats up too much drive space because ALL the cameras are now recording at that higher resolution. I’d like to have some cams recording at megapixel settings and some at lower resolution.

 

2) If a cam doesn’t have motion detection, is it a bad thing because it’s constantly creating traffic by sending video over the network?

 

3) If a cam doesn’t have motion detection, can the NVR detect motion so that it only records when there’s motion? I read in some places that the NVR doesn’t do it, that you need some kind of management software. In other places, it looks like the NVR’s software will do it. Maybe some NVRs will, some won’t? Or am I misunderstanding the function of an NVR entirely?

 

4) Do IP cams adhere to a standard so that you can buy cams from different makers and still be completely compatible with whatever NVR you choose?

 

5) Can cameras be configured through the NVR or do you have to configure each cam through its own interface? This kind of relates to adhering to some kind of standard.

[dexterash 0]

1. Yes

2. Depends on network topology and devices used. There are cameras that connect & stream and there are equipments that connect to cameras. NVRs are in the 2nd category. NASes ar in the 1st category.

3. Usually MD is done by the IP Camera, not the NVR. The camera "signals" the NVR. I know, this is opposite from standard DVR operation.

4. Depends. There is some standardization, but not with the best implementation. Proprietary protocol is always preferred. Anyway, look for/at ONVIF and PSIA.

5. Usually, depends on the NVR.

 

Cheers!

[moocowman 0]

Thank you kindly for the reply. I'm starting my hunt for a system. I'm going to replace 4 Geovision systems and add one at my home. I want to do enough research to make sure I don't get buyer's remorse. I hope to not spend a ton of money on it neither.