Subscriber Discussion

Buying NVR Vs Desktop Computer And VMS?

CS
Cam Sherwood
•Jan 29, 2018

As I understand it, a system consists of cameras, NVR (computer hardware) and software to manage the images (I am a beginner, so pls correct me if this isn't right).

How does one look for NVR as a separate item? Since the only obvious difference between a desktop PC and an NVR seems to be the hardware interface for the cameras, is that available separately?

I am contemplating purchasing a desktop computer, adding a camera interface card (or whatever), buying a VMS from some vendor (e g, Milestone), and then cameras.

Is this feasible?

JH
John Honovich
•Jan 29, 2018
IPVM

If you are only using IP cameras, you can use a commercial off the shelf PC or server and just add VMS software. Some NVRs today have built-in switches (e.g., NVRs - Embedded vs Separate PoE Switch (Statistics) but that's not a requirement.

Also, related see VMS Vs NVR Usage Statistics.

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