Ultimate Guide To Reolink NVR?

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Written By Dinu Sri

Dr H. T. D. S. Madusanka is an electronic expert with 10 years of experience, involved in the research and development of SMART HOME systems.

A network video recorder (NVR) is a customized computer system containing a software application that records video digitally to a disc drive, USB flash drive, SD memory stick, or other mass storage device, such as a hard drive. 

An NVR is devoid of any hardware for capturing video. It’s not uncommon for the program to be executed on a specialized device, generally with an operating system. 

Alternatively, standard operating systems, CPUs, and video management software are employed to enable improved functionality and serviceability. It is common for an NVR to be used in an IP surveillance system. 

It is possible to control all cameras linked to the NVR with exclusive features using Reolink security camera systems.

  • When your camera is connected to an NVR, you can enable continuous recording at any time.
  • You may switch between many cameras and rearrange the order in which they appear on the screen.
  • If your camera has a motion-scheduling feature, you may have it record when the sensor detects movement.
  • The Reolink NVR may be used to replay recordings.
  • In addition, you may download recordings from Reolink cameras that are linked to the Reolink NVR, as well.
  • Users with various permissions may be granted access to the same device by creating separate user accounts.
  • The NVR’s storage capacity may be increased to match your needs.

Does Reolink Cameras Need NVR?

The functionality of Reolink PoE cameras & NVRs may be reduced if they are not connected to the internet.

Which Reolink NVR Suitable For My Smart Home?

When purchasing a network video recorder, there are two crucial factors to keep in mind. You will first need to establish how many cameras you’ll need, which will define the number of services you’ll require. 

Another consideration is whether you need a solo NVR or a regular one.

Reolink NVR TypeConnectivity TechnologyMemory Storage CapacityHard Disk Size
Reolink 8 CHANNELVGA, Ethernet, HDMI2 TB2 TB
Reolink 16 channelEthernet3 TB3 TB

Reolink 8 CHANNEL

Eight PoE cameras may be connected to Reolink’s 8-channel NVR, a 2TB HDD. There is a 2TB hard drive within the NVR, which is roughly the size of a conventional cable box. 

The front panel has a few buttons for navigation, but you will most likely utilize the provided two-button mouse to complete most of these tasks. At the bottom of the device, there is an usb Type socket. 

There is an HDMI and a VGA connector (so you can connect the NVR to either an HDTV or a desktop computer), audio out, a USB port (if you want to backup film to another disc), and a LAN port on the rear panel. 

The NVR only works with Reolink cameras and has eight PoE (power-over-ethernet) connectors. If you require a lot of capacity, you may use the e-SATA connector to hook up a 4TB external drive.

Setting Up And Using The Software

The plug-and-play promise of the Reolink NVR is met. Put in the accompanying ethernet wire, link it to your router, and you’re ready to go. F or cameras with microphones, plug up an external speaker to the camera’s audio out jack and attach the mouse to one of the USB ports.

  • Connecting your Reolink cameras comes next. With PoE, you don’t need to utilize separate power supplies for each camera since the NVR supports this feature. 
  • Using this method, you can set up several cameras around your house or company without running as many cables: For each camera, you’ll need to run a single network wire from the NVR back to it.
  • After the NVR is installed, a setup wizard guides you through generating a password, selecting a level of access, and configuring camera and network settings.
  • As soon as you have finished the setup procedure, you’ll be presented with a nine-panel display showing all your linked cameras in “live view” (the ninth window is empty). 
  • The menu bar at the bottom of the screen allows you to choose between a single-camera view, a 2×2 four-camera view, or an eight-camera view. 
  • Additionally, here is where you’ll be able to navigate between your cameras, enter the picture-in-picture mode, and start a manual recording if you notice something unusual on any of your cameras.
  • Using a series of symbols, the status of each camera is shown. HD 4M denotes high-definition video recording, while a camera symbol indicates the camera in issue is presently recording. 
  • An image of a running figure shows that motion has been detected in the video. Other indicators show when the camera has lost its video feed or is experiencing other difficulties.
  • The menu bar for each camera may be accessed by clicking on a camera view. Playback video, enable live audio, and zoom in on a specific channel are all options here. You may adjust the camera’s image and detection settings, including whether or not to detect motion.

Reolink 16 Channel

Reolink 12MP, 8MP, 5MP, or 4MP IP cameras are all supported. You may create your custom video surveillance setup using this NVR and up to 16 additional cameras (not included). 

This Reolink NVR is the ideal option if you need continuous video recording or have a large number of IP cameras to control. 

Provides 24×7 recording and monitoring on a preinstalled 3TB hard drive. Allow simultaneous recording from all cameras (up to 16 cameras).

When motion is detected, the motion sensor recording feature will begin recording. It’s an excellent tool for long-term recordings since it’s so versatile.

Real Plug-and-Play Setup

A network video recorder that is ready to go out of the box! One network connection connects each IP camera to the NVR for power supply and video signal transfer through PoE (Power over Ethernet). The wiring method could not be more accessible for DIYers.

Professional, dependable, and DIY security camera systems are possible using this NVR with Reolink PoE cameras. 

Any recorded video may be replayed, and any local data backed up. NVR security system RLK16-810B8-A NVR security system for additional functionality.

What Are Things To Look For When Buying A NVR?

A network video recorder (NVR) and other network and power equipment allow continuous recording 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, in the NVR security camera system.  One of the most effective surveillance systems in the world can be set up in minutes because of its easy configuration. 

Typically, for NVR and the network or PoE switching to communicate, they must both be linked to the same router. One Ethernet cable will provide both power and data to the IP cameras through the PoE switch.  Afterward, the video from the cameras will be saved in the NVR for future use.

To ensure the safety of your property and discourage any dangers, video surveillance is a must. Every home and company has to make a tough choice regarding security cameras and video surveillance systems. 

This guide is meant to assist you in making an informed decision about the components of your NVR surveillance camera system.

  1. Wide Viewing Angle And High Resolution

You’ll need a camera that can stand up to daily use for effective video surveillance. High-resolution cameras should be used when photographing broad regions with high degrees of detail. 

Resolutions as high as Full HD/1080p are available for just a slight price premium above 1280 x 720 pixels in most circumstances. 

Additionally, a wide-angle security camera is strongly recommended. FASTCABLING’s PTZ camera has a 360-degree horizontal pan and a vertical tilt range of -90 to 1° above the horizon, which is much broader than the usual viewing angle of fixed cameras.

  1. Remote Control

It is impossible to overestimate the value of remote access in a security system since burglaries and break-ins are more likely to occur while you are away from home. The remote control is available for most security cameras through mobile apps, web browsers, and PC software. 

Thus, you will be able to check on the system from anywhere using your smartphone, and you’ll be able to adjust various parameters to your liking. After a simple setup, you may be able to control the camera’s pan, tilt, and zoom functions.

  1. A Record Of The Sound

Because of the regulations on audio surveillance, most cameras don’t support audio recording, which is an essential step in upgrading the entire video surveillance system. To record a private discussion, authorization from both the subject and the listener must be obtained. 

However, despite the limitations, it is perfectly lawful to record audio if everyone agrees or if there are warning warnings posted. 

Audio surveillance is a sign of a complete security system. Still, it carries a greater need to conduct audio monitoring in a way that respects the privacy of others.

What Are The Drawbacks Of Reolink NVR?

  • Setup Costs:

It is far more expensive to use an NVR surveillance network than a DVR system. It’s essential to include IP cameras, internet connections, operating software, and cloud storage in the price.

  • Compatibility With The Internet Protocol (IP):

Although most IP cameras are compatible with an NVR system, this is not always the case. Businesses should make sure that almost all of the equipment they purchase is compatible with the storage system.

  • Loss of Signal Possibilities:

However, WiFi signal loss would be something to keep in mind while using a wireless system. All surveillance equipment, including any recordings currently being made, will go dark if a link is lost. Even in an outage, certain network video recorders are equipped with an inbuilt Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).

  • Access To The Internet:

An internet connection is necessary to get the most out of an NVR security system. Aside from raising the total cost, this may severely restrict where video surveillance cameras could be set up. Analog DVR systems are better suited for use in rural areas with weak or nonexistent signals.

What Other POE Cameras Work With Reolink NVR?

All IP POE 3MP Swann, Qcam, and Amcrest cameras certified as ONVIF compatible have been tested and found to function with this Reolink model RLN8-410 (which most, if not all, are from these three brands). For the most part, this is an excellent NVR device.

Can You Use Non Reolink Cameras On A Reolink NVR?

Adding non-Reolink cameras to a Reolink NVR is not suggested since compatibility cannot be assured. Reolink cameras are compatible with the NVR. The Reolink NVR may be used with Reolink cameras.

How Do I Add Reolink POE To NVR?

The PoE switch configuration with NVR requires the following steps to be completed.

Steps – 1

NVR & PoE routers should be connected. Operators may consult product instructions if the plug-and-play connection is not an option.

Steps – 2

Use one or even more PoE (Power over Ethernet) switches: Use an Ethernet cable to connect a PoE switch to a PoE router’s LAN port. Connect the PoE switch’s power outlet with a power wire as well.

Steps – 3

PoE switches provide several ports that may be used to connect IP cameras. Anything from one to eight switches is at your disposal in most cases.

Steps – 4

To allow centralized management and video recording, ensure that Cameras are interconnected with the PoE NVR router.

Steps – 5

Finally, turn on the PoE router’s power source, which finally powers the NVR and PoE switches, and the communication will proceed in the same way as NVR does.

Steps – 6

It is possible to transmit video from many IP cameras over a single Ethernet connection with this setup of PoE switches and PoE NVR. There are no cables or power supplies needed for this system.

Do I Need A POE Switch With Reolink NVR?

A PoE NVR is a surveillance footage recorder with a PoE switch integrated for usage with PoE IP cameras. Power and data may be sent via one Ethernet connection when the NVR recorder has a PoE switch. Because an extra PoE switch isn’t required, equipment costs should be lower.

How Do I Add ONVIF Camera To Reolink NVR?

If you want to add Reolink devices with ONVIF Device Manager, follow these simple instructions.

  • Go to Device Settings -> Recording -> Encode, and then choose Base Line for H.264 Profile in the Reolink Client once you’ve added all of your devices.
  • When you open Onvif Device Manager, a list of supported devices appears immediately; click “Add” in the left-end corner to add the cameras if you can’t find them. You’ll need the IP address to do this.
  • Log in using your device’s name and password.
  • Enter your device’s IP address into your browser to locate your device more quickly. Later, the clip will be displayed under Live Video in NVT.

Can I Use Any NVR With Reolink Camera?

You can use only these NVR  B400; D400; RLC-410; RLC-410S; RLC-411; RLC-411S; RLC-420-4MP;RLC-422-4MP; C1; C1 Pro; C2; RLC-210W; RLC-211W; RLC-410W; RLC-410WS; RLC-411WS. 

Finally, 

The plug-and-play promise of the Reolink NVR is met.

As long as you have an HDMI or VGA display, an HDMI cable comes with the device, and an ethernet cable is included, you’ll be able to turn it on and connect it to your network.