1. What is an HD Security DVR, and how does it work?

An HD Security DVR (Digital Video Recorder) is a device that records video footage from HD cameras over coaxial cables. It stores the footage on hard drives and allows users to view live or recorded videos locally or remotely through computers, tablets, and smartphones.

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2. What does "Penta-brid" mean in DVRs?

A Penta-brid DVR is compatible with five different camera technologies: HD-CVI, HD-TVI, AHD, analog, and IP cameras. This flexibility allows you to mix and match cameras of different types in a single system.

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3. What is the difference between H.264 and H.265+ compression?

• H.264: An older video compression standard that requires more storage space for recorded footage.
• H.265+: A more advanced compression technology that reduces file sizes by up to 50%, allowing for longer recording times with the same hard drive capacity.

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4. What is Smart Motion Detection (SMD+)?

Smart Motion Detection (SMD+) uses AI to differentiate between humans, vehicles, and other objects. This reduces false alarms caused by irrelevant motion, such as moving leaves or animals.

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5. How many cameras can be connected to an HD DVR?

The number of cameras depends on the DVR model. The DVRs on this page support:

• 4 channels (for up to 4 cameras).
• 8 channels (for up to 8 cameras).
• 16 channels (for up to 16 cameras).
• 32 channels (for up to 32 cameras).

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6. Can I mix analog and HD cameras with these DVRs?

Yes, most HD DVRs are backward compatible with analog cameras while also supporting HD cameras. This allows you to upgrade your system gradually without replacing all existing cameras at once.

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7. Do these DVRs support 4K resolution?

Yes, several DVRs on this page support 4K resolution for crystal-clear video quality. For example, the Elite Series 16 Channel 4K DVR is capable of recording and displaying ultra-high-definition footage.

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8. How much storage capacity can these DVRs support?

The storage capacity varies by model:

• Entry-level DVRs typically support 1 hard drive.
• Advanced models can support up to 8 hard drives, allowing for extensive recording storage. You can calculate your storage needs using the Hard Drive Calculator available on the website.

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9. What is Perimeter Protection, and how does it work?

Perimeter Protection allows you to define specific areas or lines (virtual fences) in the camera view. The DVR will trigger alerts or record events only when the predefined boundaries are crossed by people or vehicles, minimizing irrelevant recordings.

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10. Can these DVRs be accessed remotely?

Yes, all HD DVRs on this page support remote access via free mobile apps and desktop software. You can monitor live footage, review recordings, and manage settings from anywhere with an internet connection.

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11. What is Face Recognition in DVRs?

Face recognition is an AI feature that identifies and matches human faces in the video feed against a database of known individuals. It’s useful for access control, identifying intruders, or tracking specific people in surveillance footage.

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12. What is the difference between Mini 1U, 1U, and 2U DVR sizes?

• Mini 1U: Compact DVRs designed for small installations with limited space.
• 1U: Standard-sized DVRs suitable for most systems.
• 2U: Larger DVRs with higher storage capacity and advanced features, ideal for enterprise-level systems.

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13. Do these DVRs support external storage or backup?

Yes, you can back up video footage to external USB drives or network-attached storage (NAS). This ensures additional redundancy for critical recordings.

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14. Can these DVRs record audio?

Yes, many DVRs on this page support audio input from cameras with built-in microphones or external audio devices. Check the DVR specifications for the number of audio channels supported.

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15. What is the maximum distance HD cameras can be connected to these DVRs?

With coaxial cables, HD cameras can typically transmit video up to:

• 500 meters (1,640 feet) for HD-CVI.
• 300 meters (984 feet) for HD-TVI.
• 300 meters (984 feet) for AHD. Signal boosters or amplifiers can extend these distances if needed.

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16. Are these DVRs NDAA-compliant?

Some DVRs, such as those in the Elite Series, are NDAA-compliant, meaning they meet U.S. government standards for use in federal projects and sensitive installations.

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17. Do all these DVRs support AI features?

Not all models support AI features. Higher-end models include advanced AI capabilities like SMD+, Face Recognition, and Perimeter Protection, while entry-level models focus on basic recording functionality.

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18. What is the benefit of using a Penta-brid DVR for system upgrades?

A Penta-brid DVR allows you to mix and match old analog cameras with new HD or IP cameras. This is a cost-effective solution for gradually upgrading your surveillance system without replacing everything at once.