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IP cameras serve as the cornerstone of modern video networks, widely used for PoE standard surveillance purposes. To capture and store visual data effectively, network video recorder (NVR) systems come into play, providing advanced protocols and functionality. Industry experts recommend using NVRs to support video networks integrated with IP cameras.
While NVRs can be configured with Ethernet or wireless PoE standard communication protocols, Ethernet remains the preferred choice due to its numerous advantages over Wi-Fi. Often, Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology facilitates the connectivity between NVRs and IP cameras. Understanding how to interconnect NVRs and PoE switches is essential for successful implementation.
This post explores the differences between PoE NVRs and PoE switches, along with methods for connecting them.
About PoE NVR
A PoE NVR combines network video recording capabilities with Power over Ethernet transmission protocols. This setup offers centralized control for managing and storing videos or images. Businesses often pair PoE switches with NVR technology to create a managed PoE NVR network, allowing data and power to flow over Ethernet cables. Multiple switches can integrate to distribute data to powered devices while sending video data to specific IP addresses within the PoE NVR.
About PoE Switches
A PoE switch is a specialized network switch that provides power over Ethernet to PoE-enabled devices, such as wireless access points, network cameras, and VoIP phones. This type of switch facilitates both data communication and power supply using a single RJ45 network cable. Its primary function is to enable devices to operate in locations without power outlets or network connections, helping businesses save on installation costs for electrical and network wiring. PoE switches come in various models, allowing customization based on the specific needs of the network.
Differences Between PoE NVR and PoE Switch
The key distinction between a PoE NVR and a PoE switch lies in their functionalities. While the NVR handles sophisticated video signal processing, PoE switches serve as intermediate devices. Using PoE switches alone allows for managed networking and data transmission over Ethernet, which is suitable for basic video transmission. However, PoE NVRs enable remote IP address management and controlled video data transmission, processing, and storage, significantly enhancing video transmission quality. Integrating PoE and NVR technologies creates a highly effective video transmission network.
How should you connect a PoE switch directly to PoE NVR?
Method 1: Basic Connection Setup
- First, connect the PoE NVR and the PoE switch to the same router using an Ethernet cable.
- Next, plug the PoE cameras into either the PoE switch or the PoE NVR.
Cameras plugged into the PoE switch will obtain an IP address from the router, allowing you to add them to the PoE NVR via LAN. In contrast, cameras plugged directly into the PoE NVR will receive an IP address from the NVR. Importantly, in this method, cameras connected to the PoE switch (excluding the kit camera of the NVR system) can be accessed as separate devices through the Client/App, while those connected directly to the NVR cannot.
Method 2: Alternative Connection Setup
- First, connect the PoE switch to the PoE NVR.
- Then, plug the NVR’s LAN port into the router.
In this method, note that the PoE switch can support a maximum of three cameras due to the bandwidth limitations of the NVR’s Ethernet port (the NVR LAN port is a Gigabit Ethernet port, whereas the other ports are 100 Mbps). Consequently, all cameras will receive an IP address from the NVR and cannot function as separate devices.
Method 3: Similar Setup to Method 1
- Begin by plugging the PoE switch into the router.
- After that, plug the NVR’s LAN port into the PoE switch.
This method mirrors Method 1, where cameras plugged into the PoE switch obtain an IP address from the router, while those connected directly to the PoE NVR receive an IP address from the NVR.
Key Considerations When Connecting a PoE Switch to a PoE NVR
- Power Budget: Ensure that the PoE switch’s power budget exceeds the total power consumption of all connected devices, including the PoE NVR. This approach prevents the switch from becoming overloaded and guarantees that all devices receive adequate power.
- Bandwidth: Verify that both the PoE switch and PoE NVR have sufficient bandwidth to handle the data transmitted by connected devices. This requirement is particularly crucial for high-resolution cameras, which demand more bandwidth.
- Ethernet Cable: Always use high-quality Ethernet cables capable of carrying PoE power. Doing so ensures that devices receive adequate power and minimizes the risk of signal loss.
- Network Topology: Consider your network topology and PoE standard the number of devices that need connection. For larger networks, you may require multiple PoE switches or additional routers to ensure proper network management and distribution.
- Compatibility: Finally, check that the PoE switch and PoE NVR are compatible and can communicate effectively. This compatibility includes confirming that they comply with the same PoE standard (e.g., IEEE 802.3af or IEEE 802.3at) and have consistent protocol settings.
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Author: AJ
As a passionate blogger, I'm thrilled to share my expertise, insights, and enthusiasm with you. I believe that technical knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. That's why I take the time to craft detailed, well-researched content that's easy to follow, even for non-tech. I love hearing from you, answering your questions, and learning from your experiences. Your feedback helps me create content that's tailored to your needs and interests
