17 - Monitors & Remote Viewing
Viewing Options
There are several options for viewing live and video playback, all of which can be used simultaneously with the same system.
Direct Connect
This is the most basic option. A widescreen TV or computer monitor is connected to the video recorder using an HDMI cable. An HDMI cable can be up to 65 feet long. A USB mouse is connected to a USB port on the recorder providing all user interface options. A keyboard is not needed.
A monitor connected to the video recorder is required during initial setup, but once complete, the monitor can be removed from the system and one of the other access options listed below can be used.
Mobile Devices
By connecting the video recorder to an internet modem or network using a standard network cable, a user can access the system using a smartphone or tablet. A free app is downloaded onto the mobile device which can link to the NVR using local WiFi or a broad band internet connection. There are no monthly fees associated with remote viewing. As long as the recorder is connected to WiFi or the internet, mobile access will work. As mentioned earlier, the broadband service should provide a minimum of 5mb upload speed, which is common with most service providers.
Computer Access
By connecting the video recorder to a network or internet modem, the user has the option of accessing the system using a computer connected to the same network or remotely through the internet. The user can access the system using an internet browser such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari. The user can also download our Client Software, which is a computer-based app which allows complete management of the system with any computer.
TV Viewing
Many residential customers already have large 4K TVs in their home. The video recorder can be connected to one of the HDMI inputs on the TV and a user can switch the source from cable box or gaming system to video recorder using the source button on the TV's remote.
We offer HDMI splitters which allow a single HDMI signal to be duplicated and sent to up to four different TVs. Keep in mind the distance limitations of HDMI cables when using this viewing option. Match the distance to the correct HDMI cable.
Any combination of these viewing options can be used on the same system.