How to Set up IP Cameras for NVR Security System with or without PoE Switches?

As security awareness increases significantly in modern times, security surveillance systems are gradually finding broader applications. Network video recorder (NVR) is one of the core items in a video surveillance solution, working together with IP cameras and switches to further provide security protection. How do IP cameras connect to the NVR in a security camera system? Are PoE switches required? This article discusses everything you want to know about NVR and how to configure IP network cameras for an NVR security system with switches.

What Is NVR?

An NVR is a specialized computer system that receives live images or video streams captured by IP cameras and records them digitally to a hard disk, USB flash drive, or other mass storage device. It is typically used in IP video surveillance networks to provide centralized video controls. Users can view, playback, and download video recordings when needed.

Based on Windows or Linux operating systems, NVR recorders have a user-friendly interface for everyday use and are equipped with intelligent motion detection and camera control capability. They also support remote access and offer benefits, such as handling large numbers of video streams and easy installation.

Read More: What Is NVR? Do I Need NVR for IP Camera?

How to Set Up IP Cameras for NVR Camera System?

There are two types of NVRs on the market: PoE NVRs and non-PoE NVRs. They use different methods to connect IP surveillance cameras. Here are the connection considerations and the specific methods for configuring the IP NVR camera system.

Configuration Preparation

It’s important to check the R supports, and compatibility between the NVR and IP cameras when setting up NVR for IP cameras.

First, make sure that the network video recorder supports the IP cameras that you intend to use.

Second, make sure the NVR supports the resolution of the cameras because not all NVRs support 4K security cameras or 12MP cameras at present. Once the camera’s resolution is higher than the resolution that the NVR supports, the users have to access the web interface of the IP camera and reduce its resolution.

Option One: Connecting IP Cameras to PoE NVR without PoE Switch

PoE NVR has a built-in PoE switch, offering PoE ports for connecting IP cameras directly over Ethernet cables. So it does not require a separate power adapter to work. Here are the installation steps for NVR connections:

• Use an Ethernet cable to connect the router and PoE NVR. Make sure the NVR can access the Internet.

• Connect IP cameras to the PoE NVR directly by Ethernet cables. With power over Ethernet technology, the NVR can deliver power to security cameras.

• Connect the NVR and a monitor or TV via a VGA or HDMI cable. Make sure the monitor or TV is connected via the correct input (e.g. VGA, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)

If all connections are made correctly, then the network video recorder is successfully connected to IP cameras. PoE NVR security system is ideal for IP surveillance at homes and small businesses.

Option Two: Connecting IP Cameras to Non-PoE NVR with PoE Switch

Non-PoE NVR does not have Ethernet ports on the back panel, so it can not be connected to network cameras directly, which requires an external PoE switch or a power adapter to provide power to each network camera. Follow the steps below to finish the NVR connections.

• Connect the LAN port on the PoE switch to the router using an Ethernet cable, and connect the non-PoE NVR and the router. Make sure the PoE switch and NVR are in the same network.

• Connect IP cameras to the RJ45 ports on the PoE switch by Ethernet cables. The PoE switch will provide power and video transmission as the NVR does.

• Connect the NVR and a monitor or TV via a VGA or HDMI cable. Make sure the monitor or TV is connected via the correct input (e.g. VGA, HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)

Note that users must add the cameras to the NVR to view the cameras and enable recording. Therefore, please follow the steps in the instruction manual attached to your NVR.

FAQs About NVR Camera System

Does NVR Require the Internet?

Network video recorders can work without the Internet and continue to record and stream the video stream. However, without the Internet, users can not back up the videos on cloud storage, have no access to the recordings remotely, or even won't get push notifications or alerts in case of an intrusion.

Is NVR Better than DVR?

DVR (Digital Video Recorder) is a video processor that works with analog cameras and also functions as storage. The connection between an analog camera and DVR makes use of a coaxial cable. The recorder does not provide power to the connected cameras. Therefore, a splitter is required to provide power to enable cameras to function.

DVRs are less costly than NVRs that work with IP cameras over Ethernet cables. For people who are looking for a relatively straightforward security system, a DVR system will be sufficient, especially if their property is already wired for a coaxial cable. For those who have remote monitor demands or have high-resolution requirements, an NVR with PoE functionality will be more suitable. So as for NVR vs DVR, choices should be made based on actual needs.

What is the Farthest Distance between a Security Camera and the Connected NVR?

The connection between an IP camera and NVR is achieved by Ethernet cables. Because of the signal attenuation, the maximum transmission distance of the Ethernet cable is 100 meters. Thus, the maximum distance that the camera can run from the NVR is also 100 meters. If users require a distance beyond 100 meters, they can use an Ethernet extender to extend the distance.