Search by Category

Search our F.A.Q's - Please type your search words here: Any word All words Exact match ID

You are here: RootDVRsInstallation  Installation  No sub-categories FAQs in current category: Do I need a special PC or monitor to view and operate the DVR from a remote location? Do I need a special PC or monitor to view and operate the DVR from a remote location?  Print No. The remote DVR software works with any Microsoft Windows Operating system. Do I need any other PC's to operate the DVR? Do I need any other PC's to operate the DVR?  Print The DVR will operate on its own. If you would like to view the DVR in another location away from the DVR you will need an additional PC. How does the PC monitor connect to my cameras? How does the PC monitor connect to my cameras?  Print The cameras connect to the DVR. The DVR then outputs the signal to the PC monitor or to a CCTV monitor. How many cameras can I plug into a video capture card? How many cameras can I plug into a video capture card?  Print It depends upon the particular DVR system but typically anywhere from 1 to 32 cameras. The cameras typically plug into BNC or RCA inputs on the capture boards or sometimes capture boards come with a single video adaptor and use a "pigtail" cable which has multiple adaptors on one end and a single connection on the opposite end. How much time does it take to install a DVR? How much time does it take to install a DVR?  Print If you are replacing an existing VCR with a DVR it can be accomplished in a couple of hours. If you are installing a system from scratch then obviously there are several aspects of an installation that come into play. It is not much different than wiring for a computer network or wiring a phone system. You are basically pulling cable which consists of a video and power line which lead back to the “head” end where the DVR is located. In some instance a third wire carries audio. There are integrated cables available that carry all the functions in a single cable so as you only have to pull one cable. What happens in the event of a power outage? What happens in the event of a power outage?  Print To protect the DVR you want to use a power backup, which serves as a surge protection device and a power source for a limited period of time in the event of a power failure. If the power failure continues for an extended period of time, the DVR will intelligently shut itself down. When the power returns it will return to its mode immediately prior to the interruption of power. What kind of cabling do I need to run from a surveillance camera to the DVR? What kind of cabling do I need to run from a surveillance camera to the DVR?  Print Standard coaxial cable such as the one which runs in your home to connect with the cable company is highly recommended (RG59U). You need to connect a BNC connectors on the DVR end and BNC or RCA connectors on the camera end depending upon the camera. Try to keep distances under 300 feet and avoid close proximity to fluorescent fixtures or other electrical devices that may cause interference. For longer distances there are a variety of other solutions from RG56U to fiber.