6 reasons preconfigured NVR appliances can boost the performance of video surveillance systems

NVRs come preinstalled with latest software releases to minimise setup time

Looking for a perfect marriage of hardware and software for a video management system application? A preconfigured network video recorder (NVR) appliance may fit the bill. Consider these advantages of going the NVR appliance route, as suggested by vendor companies contacted by SourceSecurity.com.

1. Greater freedom of deployment

NVRs provide more application flexibility – because the recorders can be placed virtually anywhere as long as they are on the same LAN network as the IP-based cameras. With an NVR-based system, a camera that is capable of capturing high-resolution images can also record and play back at the desired resolution, maintaining clean and crisp images for positive identification and actionable intelligence. Panasonic’s NVRs offer greater scalability and more storage to support larger, comprehensive surveillance installations of up to 64 cameras with a single device. Intelligent, embedded motion detection analytics and powerful search capabilities allow users to quickly and easily find specific incidents and expand seamlessly with on-board and external storage. Remote, mobile connectivity is also possible with free security viewing applications.

2. Less setup time

NVRs come preinstalled with latest software releases to minimise setup time, according to Genetec. The verified and tested hardware configuration maximises software performance. Reduced installation time through the use of application wizards and automatic update tools can ease configuration and maintenance of the system. There is a single point of contact for hardware and software issues, and automated software releases.

3. Better performance and storage

The recent preference for megapixel and ultra-megapixel camera usage has forced vendors to develop appliances that can accommodate the needed extra storage, according to Genetec. Government mandates to increase video retention periods in certain verticals have also played a role in increasing the pressure to provide even more storage.

4. Easy connectivity and scalability

NVRs truly are the building blocks of today’s systems. For example, Milestone’s Husky NVRs can be connected together cost-effectively for unlimited scalability. The NVRs are compatible with Milestone Interconnect to use XProtect Corporate for central command and control of remote Milestone Husky NVRs on the edge. Multiple Milestone Husky M30s or Milestone Husky M50s can be connected with a master/slave configuration, with video viewable from all connected cameras by simply connecting to the master server – more than 50 configurations. Milestone NVRs feature configuration wizards, automatic license activation, and automatic device (i.e., camera) discovery.

5. Pre-tested configuration of hardware and software

With video appliances, the interaction between the hardware and the video management system (VMS) has to be thoroughly tested and the software pre-loaded on the appliance. This provides installers and end users with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that the potential for software conflicts or data corruption is minimal, according to OnSSI. The systems require significantly less maintenance than separately purchased servers and VMS, which provides end users with an even greater value proposition and a more attractive ROI, according to OnSSI.

6. Expanding capabilities and functionality

NVR appliances continue to advance and take on leading features and functionality, according to Panasonic. They can incorporate simple and more advanced analytics, and handle all kinds of streams of video without constant bandwidth concern. They can be installed for the small business and effectively scaled up as the company grows, without a major cost headache or obstacle. They are intelligent, networked devices that give users more power with their video surveillance solution today.