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Once upon a time, when we wanted to record our favourite TV programme, we would set the VCR to record and wait for the results. The resulting recording was, at best, staticy and low-quality. Then we were introduced to the DVD player; our idea of what a movie quality should be changed, and the world started tossing away the old VHS and everyone had to have a DVD player. However, some people chose to hang onto the VHS simply because they could record and watch their favourite TV movie or show at their own convenience – it simply wasn’t easy or cheap to make your DVD player perform the same function. Then along came the solution to the VHS problem in three words – digital video recorder or DVR. The personal video recorders offered the same excellent quality and clarity we were used to with a DVD, but allowed personal recording like the VHS only easier and a whole lot better (which, judging by the quality of some of my own recordings, wasn’t going to be difficult!). The data recorded with the DVR is stored on an internal hard drive unlike the VHS which records and stores data on a VHS tape. The basic functionality is much the same as that of the VHS with playback, recording, pausing, fast forwarding, and rewinding. There are two major categories DVRs fit into – amateur or professional. The majority of people will fit into the amateur category, but every now and then, a professional DVR is necessary. What exactly is considered a professional DVR? Does the average consumer need a professional DVR? One example of a professional DVR is the Sony HSRX200 671H DVR. This DVR is specialized to work in conjunction with a surveillance system for greater flexibility. The single channel disk recorder offers 671 hours of recording and allegedly fits seamlessly into an already existing network. With a design protocol much like that of the analogue time lapse of many VCRs, the Sony HSRX200 671H DVR is definitely going to renovate the way the consumer views surveillance equipment. Another example of a professional DVR is the Speco Technologies DVR-8TN/160 8-Channel Triplex Digital Video Recorder with Network/DDNS Video Serv. This impressive DVR offers oodles of features. The MPEG-4 compression rate is up to 10 times better than other DVRs which makes for a higher quality image; imagine being able to record multiple items at once with ease while viewing a chosen program. The tri-plex operational capabilities allows for enabling of simultaneous operations. The ability to utilise dynamic IP addresses means you can remotely view a live feed or a recording. A further example of a professional digital recorder is the JVC VR-609U 10000 H DVR. This is a great DVR for home networks, and offers a capability to remote view information both as a live feed and as a recording. A quite staggering 10000 hours of capacity (well over a whole year) means information is easily stored, and the quality of the image is better than the average DVR. Finally, there are numerous professional DVRs offering anywhere from 8 to 24 channels in addition to a hard drive disk. For instance, the Pelco DX2016-320 DVR offers 16 channels and a 320GB hard drive with a 320 hour storage capacity of high quality content. This model is mostly likely to be found in large corporate offices or in casinos where surveillance equipment is a must. However, how the DVR is used is entirely up to the consumer as long as local regulations are followed. One way to distinguish a professional DVR from the rest is the intended use; another method is to check the price. Professional digital video recorders will usually cost upwards of £1500. The high price means most professional digital video recorders are utilised solely for surveillance, but if you’re serious about recording quality, then you may consider the extra cost to be worth it. Before making a decision, the consumer must thoroughly investigate the warranty, the return policy, the setup, the manual, and the shipping costs. Comparing the features, the abilities, and the cost with your needs will insure you get the professional video recorder that is right for you instead of one that you are ‘sold’. Do you need a DVR for your home network? Do you need a DVR with a large storage capacity? Does the DVR allow you to record the data elsewhere? These are all essential questions that will greatly influence your final purchase decision.
Staff editor, Electronics Section, March 2007 |
