Simkill 0 Posted March 2, 2016 Hi all. I know a lot about computers, but not a lot about cameras! So I'm looking for some help. I'm looking for PoE outdoor day and night cameras (at least 720p, 1080p preferred), one must have a night time IR range of 20 meters or more, the other 10 meters is fine, but if the better is not too expensive I'll get 2 the same. They also need the ability to record to a NAS drive over a standard network. I have looked at complete NVR systems but would need 100m shielded cat5e to go with it which makes it too expensive really as each camera requires a direct connection into the main unit, so I'd like to utilise the network I already have and record to a NAS, preferably raspberry pie with USB drive, which I can set up a standard samba share on, but I can get something else if necessary. Any advice at all would be a great help as I feel a bit lost. Descriptions are not very descriptive! They don't say what the cameras will record to. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Boogieman 1 Posted March 2, 2016 Hi all. I know a lot about computers, but not a lot about cameras! So I'm looking for some help. I'm looking for PoE outdoor day and night cameras (at least 720p, 1080p preferred), one must have a night time IR range of 20 meters or more, the other 10 meters is fine, but if the better is not too expensive I'll get 2 the same. They also need the ability to record to a NAS drive over a standard network. I have looked at complete NVR systems but would need 100m shielded cat5e to go with it which makes it too expensive really as each camera requires a direct connection into the main unit, so I'd like to utilise the network I already have and record to a NAS, preferably raspberry pie with USB drive, which I can set up a standard samba share on, but I can get something else if necessary. Any advice at all would be a great help as I feel a bit lost. Descriptions are not very descriptive! They don't say what the cameras will record to. You do not need a homerun connection to record to an NVR. That is the beauty of network cameras. Start reading and learning or you will end up buying junk. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Simkill 0 Posted March 2, 2016 I've seen systems that come with say, 4 cameras, and each camera has it's own connection on the back of the main unit (camera 1/2/3/4). Not sure how this would work without a direct connection to each port, or am I just looking at the wrong type of product? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Boogieman 1 Posted March 2, 2016 I've seen systems that come with say, 4 cameras, and each camera has it's own connection on the back of the main unit (camera 1/2/3/4). Not sure how this would work without a direct connection to each port, or am I just looking at the wrong type of product? Connecting to the back is optional. Some NVR's only have a single lan port. With either type you connect the NVR to the lan and use a separate poe switch to power and transmit data to the NVR. This is basic IP camera knowledge that is why I suggest you spend more time learning about the cameras/technology before spending your money. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Simkill 0 Posted March 2, 2016 Ah ok, that sounds ideal. I honestly had no idea, the descriptions aren't at all descriptive on amazon, it doesn't say anything about that. I think I'm going to have to google a bit more like you said. Maybe when I'm less tired! I do appreciate your help, thank you. Edit: having read more questions and answers from manufacturers on Amazon, the ones I'm reading are saying they do have to be directly connected to the NVR and not just run off a PoE switch. Something to do with requiring a higher voltage than normal. Maybe you can link me up to a model that doesn't require direct connection for comparison? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Boogieman 1 Posted March 3, 2016 Ah ok, that sounds ideal. I honestly had no idea, the descriptions aren't at all descriptive on amazon, it doesn't say anything about that. I think I'm going to have to google a bit more like you said. Maybe when I'm less tired! I do appreciate your help, thank you. Edit: having read more questions and answers from manufacturers on Amazon, the ones I'm reading are saying they do have to be directly connected to the NVR and not just run off a PoE switch. Something to do with requiring a higher voltage than normal. Maybe you can link me up to a model that doesn't require direct connection for comparison? You are misunderstanding or the manufacture you are looking at is not using true 802.3 poe-dont use junk camera brands...start reading. Again, this is basic ip camera stuff and done everyday. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
traderjay 0 Posted March 3, 2016 Unfortunately the stuff you find on Amazon is junk as mentioned by the pros here. This thread gives a good primer on whats good and whats not - viewtopic.php?f=19&t=35868 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
