Home Security DVR

Above are the main components of the Defender SN300-4CH-001 User Friendly Web Ready DVR Security System with 4 Indoor/Outdoor Night Vision Surveillance Cameras. If you check out home security systems reviews, you'll find this is a pretty good system.

(Check current pricing here: Defender SN300-4CH-001)

• DVR - controls and stores the feeds from the attached cameras; replaces the need for VHS tapes


• Cameras - capture video and send to DVR


• Power Cables - supply power to the cameras and deliver the video feed to the DVR


• 4-1 Power Cord - gathers the camera power cords and supplies them with power


• Network Cable - connects the DVR to the internet for remote viewing


• BNC Connectors - attaches the camera output cord to the video input outlet on the back of the DVR


• Software - the application that allows you to view and control and the video output


• Stickers - window stickers that warn others your home or business is protected with a security system

Basically, the cameras record what they see and send the video to the DVR. Software you load on your computer allows you to access that video and manipulate it by searching, storing, and viewing. The DVR box can also be connected to the internet so that you can access the video remotely.

Around that basic functionality, you have some choices to make in order to find the best home security DVR arrangement for your home or business. This feature and selection guide will help you choose the functionality and features most important for your personal objectives.

DVR Hard Drive Size - How many days of video will you need to store for backup purposes? A day? A week? A month? The amount of time you need to store determines how large a hard drive you need on your home security DVR setup.

DVR Channels - Each channel allows the connection of a single device - a camera, a microphone, or some other combining connection. The more cameras you need, the more channels you need. The average home can make do with a 4 channel home security DVR system. Decide where you would place cameras on your property and how many you'd need to determine your channel requirements.

Camera Quality - Cameras used around your home's exterior should be weatherproof and have night vision capability . You also need to decide just how clear a picture you need for your security purposes. If you're monitoring employee activity and need to see their cash register behavior, computer screen images, or paperwork you'll need higher quality cameras than if you simply need the video to pick up the fact that someone is lurking outside your home. The degree of detail you require from your video will determine the quality of the cameras you should use in your surveillance system.

Video Access - Each home security DVR comes with its own software for controlling the cameras and monitoring the video feed. These programs offer different options like remote scheduling, motion detection, smartphone access (ie, iPhone, Blackberry), condition alert messaging or email, and storage functionality. When considering any package, review the list of software features and decide if they are sufficient for your needs.

A few DIY tasks are required for setting up a home security DVR system:

• Mount the Cameras - packages usually include the camera mount software. You will need to pick locations inside and/or outside of your home and mount the cameras by attaching them with the supplied brackets.


• Wiring - the power/video feed cables will need to be run from each camera to the power supply adapter near the DVR. If you're installing cameras outside of your home, the cables will need to pass through your exterior walls and run between walls or along your attic and then drop down between walls near your power supply if you want to keep the cables out of sight.


• DVR Setup - requires connection of the camera cables to the DVR box, connecting the DVR to the monitor or computer, and connecting the DVR to a wireless router if you want to enable remote monitoring


• Router Setup - changes may be necessary to the settings of your wireless router to enable remote monitoring


• Software Installation - load the software that allows access to the video feed

The most difficult step in setting up a home security DVR system is running the cables from the cameras to the DVR. If necessary, a handyman can be hired to complete this step of the project.

Besides being able to record activity in and around your home or office, the benefits of a home security system using DVR include financial and safety bonuses:

• Check on children at home with a care provider while you are at work or travelling


• Monitor the activity of your children inside or outside of your home from your monitor, TV, or phone


• No monthly security monitoring fees


• Portable investment that you can take with you if you move


• Some companies provide insurance discounts for having a surveillance system (check with your homeowner's insurance provider)


• No tapes to buy and store for backup purposes


• Can be viewed on computer, stand alone monitor, TV, or smartphone


• Expandable system options as your household changes or your business grows

A good system is going to cost upwards of $400 but will last for years. Spread out over the life of the system, the expense is minimal compared to the benefits.