DVR Buying Guide

DVR (Digital Video Recorder) is a device that has similar functioning as a VCR. It stores the data in a digital format on a hard drive. DVRs are widely replacing VCRs nowadays due their advance features and great functionality.

• DVRs do not require video tapes as it digitally records the data on a hard drive or memory card.


• DVRs are equipped with a feature called "motion detection" which only triggers recording when it senses action or movement which helps to save recording space.


• They contain an Electronic Programming Guide (EPG) that helps the users to schedule recordings according to their convenience.


• They offer a better image quality than VCRs and larger recording space.

Today the market is flooded with Digital Video Recorders each claiming to be better than the other. DVRs are available in various makes and models but the selection of the DVR highly depends upon your requirement or application. This article assists you in finding most suitable DVRs according to your needs or specifications.

Features to consider when buying a DVR

• Need and Purpose: Before you buy a DVR, you must analyze your requirements. DVRs can be used for entertainment or surveillance purpose, so evaluate your needs before investing.
  
  
• Budget and Recording Capacity: DVRs come in various price ranges. If you have a limited budget and need DVRs to record TV shows then it’s good to go for a basic model having a recording capacity of 40-80 hours but if money is no bar and the purpose of buying is 24x7 surveillance, then a high capacity recorder with recording space of 200 hours will be best.
     
• Recording Time and Space: The recording space of digital video recorders range from 80 to 300 hours. The price of DVR is highly influenced by recording space of DVR. In general one gigabyte equals one hour of programming, so it’s good to analyze your recording space before buying your equipment.
   
• Display Options: The surveillance area determines the kind of display options useful. There are different display options in DVRs like sequence, freeze, zoom, picture in picture, and full mode. The zoom option, full mode and sequence options are beneficial in DVR for monitoring large surveillance areas. Freeze and sequence in sequence are useful for viewing television program.
  
  
• CD-RW Drive: Based upon your requirement, you can select a DVR with or without CD-RW drive. A CD drive will help to retransfer the recordings on CD for archiving, reviewing, prosecution purposes or training purposes.
   
• Password Protection: It is advisable that you select a DVR with password protection feature to prevent unauthorized users from tampering.
   
• Remote control and Jog Shuttle control: For better and easy viewing, you should select a DVR model with remote control and jog shuttle control. It also has easy rewind and fast forward feature.
  
  
• Technical/Customer Support: When buying a DVR, ensure that the company is offering technical/customer support. This will help you in solving your problems or queries.

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