Upgrading from a DVR to an NVR: keep, convert or replace your cameras
For property and facility managers in Alberta and BC with an older camera system that’s failing or falling behind.
The quick answer
A DVR records older analog or HD-analog cameras over coax cable. An NVR, or video management software, records IP cameras over network cable, which gives you sharper video, analytics and safer remote viewing. You can upgrade all at once, or in stages with a hybrid recorder or by running IP cameras over your existing coax.
DVR vs NVR
| DVR system | NVR system | |
|---|---|---|
| Cameras | Analog or HD-analog cameras. | IP (network) cameras. |
| Cable | Coax to each camera, plus separate power. | Network cable, usually carrying power too (PoE). |
| Image quality | Limited by the older camera formats. | Higher resolution, better low-light, wider choice of camera types. |
| Analytics and search | Basic motion detection. | Person and vehicle detection, line crossing and smart search, depending on the brand. |
| Remote viewing | Often set up with open ports, which is a security risk. | Secure remote access through the manufacturer’s app or platform. |
| Growth | Fixed number of camera inputs. | Add cameras over the network as you need them. |
Three ways to upgrade
Keep and convert
- A hybrid recorder runs your working coax cameras and new IP cameras together
- Ethernet-over-coax adapters let IP cameras use your existing coax where pulling new cable is hard
- Good when budget or access is tight
Replace and rewire
- New network cable and IP cameras throughout
- Best long-term image quality and reliability
- Good when the coax is old or the layout is changing
What we check first
The condition of the existing coax and power, every camera location and what it needs to see, how long you need to keep video, the network the new cameras will sit on (we keep cameras on their own network), and how people will view video remotely.
Then we recommend the approach that fits your building and budget, and show which cameras can stay.
Brands we install
We install and fully support Avigilon, Axis, Bosch and Uniview cameras, and Milestone and Genetec video software. Comparing? Read Avigilon vs Axis and Uniview vs Axis.
Add monitoring when you upgrade
A new system is a good time to add remote video monitoring through our monitoring partner, so cameras are watched after hours instead of only reviewed after a break-in.
Cameras down right now?
If your recorder has failed or cameras are offline, our 24/7 emergency service can help.
Security cameras near you: EdmontonCalgaryRed DeerKelowna. See also system rescue
Stuck with a system nobody will fix?
We repair and take over cameras, access control, intercoms and alarms installed by other companies, when your current provider has fallen short.
Questions
What’s the difference between a DVR and an NVR?
A DVR records analog or HD-analog cameras over coax. An NVR records IP cameras over network cable, with better video, analytics and secure remote access.
Can we keep our existing cameras?
Working coax cameras can stay on a hybrid recorder while you add IP cameras, so you can upgrade in stages.
Can IP cameras use our existing coax?
Often, yes. Ethernet-over-coax adapters carry network and sometimes power over existing coax, which helps where pulling new cable is hard.
Is our old DVR a security risk?
It can be. Older recorders often miss firmware updates and are set up with open ports for remote viewing. We set up remote access securely.
How long can we keep video?
That depends on the number of cameras, resolution and storage. We size storage to the retention period you need.
Do we get admin access?
Yes. You get admin access and full documentation on every project.
More answers: Security camera questionsGlossary: NVRvideo analytics
Get a camera upgrade quote
Tell us how many cameras you have and what’s not working. We’ll follow up to book a site visit.
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