DVR with external alarm input

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I am looking for a DVR with "alarm inputs" for under around $300.00

 

I have tried Q-see, ZIOS, and HD-view, They are all the same machine under different labels. They all have alarm inputs but they all have unreasonably difficult to use software.

 

"Amcrest" has good software, but I cant figure out how to add external alarm triggers to it.

 

Please recomend another brand to try.