3 Types of DVR Systems for Recording Security Footage

December 15th, 2023



Surveillance in Chico, CA is very common in this age. In order to archive video footage recorded by surveillance cameras, it is very reliable to use Digital Video Recorders. Basically, a Digital Video Recorder is an electronic device that is used to record videos in digital format to a mass storage device. The basic components of a DVR include software, storage units and a computer hard disk that is all fused into a single unit that is capable of recording and storing video feed and converting them to digital data. These advanced technological devices have the ability to start recording based on the slightest movement through the use of motion detectors.

Since DVRs are associated with surveillance and security cameras, they are designed and developed in different sizes and for different security applications based on the user's requirement. A DVR may be small and may be easily concealable when dealing with a small surveillance camera or in some cases, they may be as large as a television device. DVRs also come with remote controls sometimes which enable a user to watch the footage over the internet from a different place other than in Chico. Basically, there are 3 different types of DVRs. These are as follows:

PC-Based DVR

Normally, a PC based DVR can be integrated into a fully loaded surveillance station. The station will have hardware as well as software compressions which will run on a personal computer. A PC based DVR will consist of a video board, a network card, memory drive as well as a motherboard. They also come with a DVR capture card which will have the necessary requirements like video inputs or Ethernet ports for analog security cameras or IP-cameras.

The main advantage of PC-based DVRs is the fact that they do not have any limitations when speaking about storage spaces. The space involved with these recorders are expandable and flexible so that additional peripheral storage devices can be linked to it.

Analog signals are converted to digital signals and then compressed so that they can be stored in the storage space and then used for further processing. The system allows the search and retrieval of images and videos recorded at any instant of time.

Embedded DVR

In such systems, the device works as a solitary unit and can record analog CCTV footage and store it in hard drives and other external storage devices. The basic software required to run the system as well as additional software is stored on the chip images and videos are stored in a hard drive. These type of systems usually have multiple internal memory spaces and ports that allow connection of other peripheral storage devices.

The system uses a real-time embedded operating system that isn't accessible by an external environment. This makes the system more secure and safe from viruses and malware.

Hybrid DVR

The uniqueness of this type of DVR is its ability to record multiple formats of video like analog CCTV footage and IP camera footage. It allows very smooth transition from analog to IP surveillance. However, the major disadvantage in this type of DVR is the lack of flexibility when compared to other types of DVRs. Because of its ability to accept more than one format of video, it doesn't have any video recording restrictions. This being said it is usually recommended to use analog recording in low-risk areas and IP camera to get high resolution when dealing with high-risk security areas. It is also very easy to manage the recorded analog or IP video data.

Conclusion

Security needs differ based on the different institutions in Chico, CA as well as different security needs. It is wise to consider all the requirements before investing in a DVR. In terms of efficiency, all DVRS are highly efficient based on the security needs. However, it is highly recommended to consult a professional Security Provider in Chico to get the most efficient DVR for your video recording and security needs.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268