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Zmodo DVR Kit Buying Guide

 

Important Things to Consider When Purchasing a Zmodo DVR Kit

 

1. How many cameras will you need? 

  • You are generally limited by the field of view of the cameras, and will generally need more cameras than you expect to cover an area.
    • If in doubt, it's cheaper in the long run to go with a kit with more channels and fewer cameras so that you can add more cameras later without having to purchase a new DVR.
    • The number of cameras you can have is determined by the number of channels in the DVR. We sell our DVR's in 4, 8, and 16 Channel configurations. 

2. What type of security cameras should you get in your Zmodo DVR Kit? (This covers the very basics.)

  • CCD or CMOS? Our kits are sold with either CCD or CMOS image sensors. Our CCD cameras offer a crisper image, and work better outside. The type of image sensor is what makes the biggest difference. 
  • How many IR LEDs? The more IR LEDs on the camera, the more they'll illuminate (in IR, not visible to us) the given area for the camera to see. We have cameras with a range of IR options, starting with 11 IR LEDs up to 36. 
  • Dome or Bullet? - This is really a personal preference. The Bullet Cameras are more versitale, but Domes work great when mounting to a ceiling. Usually a mix of both is good for a business, whereas a homeowner usually wants all bullet cameras to mount outside. 

3. What DVR do I get? 

  • Do you want buttons on the front, or not? Buttons are good for ease of access, but all our DVRs come with a remote and mouse that provide for quick and easy control. This is a matter of personal preference only. 
  • What size HDD do you need, and how long do they record for? 
    • On Average, for every 4 cameras, you can record 24/7 for up to 2 weeks and only use up 500GB's. 
      • 4CH System - 500GB
      • 8CH System - 1TB (Upgradeable to 2TB)
      • 16CH System - 1TB (Upgradeable to 2TB)

Additional Items you might/will need: 

  • Extra Cables. Most of our kits come with a 60/ft cable to go with each camera. You'll almost always need more. (If you go more than 160/ft, consider upgrading your power supply to a 5Amp camera power supply to avoid signal issues. 
  • Don't forget your Female to Female BNC Connectors you'll need to connect 2 cables end to end.
  • Additional Upgraded Zmodo Cameras!
  • Patience! - These are great affordable systems, but they do take some effort to install properly. Make sure you've allocated yourself plenty of time to do the job right. If you are planning on connecting your network, don't forget you'll need to get an Ethernet cord over to where the DVR will be stationed as well.