About 4 Channel Digital Video Recorders
The majority of 4 channel DVRs are going to be standalone DVRs. One of the main reasons why is that standalone DVRs are so independent of firmware updates. They are a "set it and forget unit". Unlike PC based DVRs, which have a Windows Operating system and need to have system updates and maintenance to avoid interruptions in the record process. There are many advantages other than a Linux platform that makes owning a standalone 4 channel DVR ideal. They are light weight, so it is easy to relocate the unit if you move or decide to move it to a more secure room. Also they usually come with a mouse, or a remote so it is easy to use and there is really nothing new to learn. In fact, they are very similar to operating old VCR or TV DVR boxes. All the menu styles are similar, so in less than a day or so you will be comfortable operating the unit. We feature a few different models, some standalone DVRs and some PC-based DVRs. Although a few models may look the same (and have the same exterior), they have different options enabled to fit into your budget. If you need extra hard-drive space for record time, call us and we will configure a discount 4 channel DVR for you at no extra cost.
Types of 4 Channel DVRs
Four channel DVRs typically come in three different options having two do with hard drive sizes, recording formats, and transfer connections. The very basic 4 channel DVR is a triplex DVR with 120 fps. Most 4 channel DVRs will have 120 fps (frames per second recoding), it is rare find a DVR without that option. So even at the basic option you have real-time recording 4 channel DVR. The second type is the pentaplex DVR. Most of those DVRs are network capable and you can login remotely to check on live video or in some cases play back video. These pentaplex 4 channel DVRs give you a lot of flexibility and usability that most triplex DVRs will not. There is a lot of software out now that will let you connect your iPhone/cellphone to your security DVR and monitor video and audio. There are 4 channel
PC based DVRs too. These are very different from standalone security DVRs. They have a much better software GUI (graphical user interface) than a standalone DVR. Using a PC based 4 channel DVR is like operating a computer from home or work. The major thing about 4 channel PC based DVRs is that they are upgradeable. You can add more cameras to your setup, you can also add more hard-drives for longer record
time too. So know you can see why there are so many different types of 4 channel DVRs, mostly it is a convenience factor.
How to Choose the right 4 Channel DVR
So how do you select a 4 channel DVR? We always start out by asking this question: What are you trying to do? Depending
on what is actually is going on will have a huge impact on what DVR you need. If you are a homeowner that just wants
to keep an eye around the home, then a triplex standalone DVR may suffice. If you are not home much and always on the go,
then you will want to look into a network security DVR. With an RJ45 connection port, you can plug your security DVR to
your router or modem, assign it an IP address and check your operation out from your mobile phone, laptop, and or work
computer. The same thing applies for a small business owner. It really depends on what your application is. With so many
different people in the world, it is hard to say what works for everyone. Everybody's application is different. There are
many factors that play into that, for example, budget. How much money does one have to the purchase a state-of-the-art DVR system?
You'll be surprised most will keep themselves from getting what they really want because of the budget. Do not let a budget
deter you from getting the right DVR. Look at your application, study it, and then plan out positives and negatives before
choosing a DVR.
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