Find Replacement Security Cameras Compatible with your DVR

Posted on July 25, 2024September 2, 2024 by Mike Haldas

Here is a guide to selecting replacement security cameras that are compatible with your existing DVR system.

When it comes to maintaining and upgrading your security camera system, one of the most common challenges is finding a compatible replacement camera for your existing DVR. Whether you need to replace a malfunctioning camera or want to expand your system’s coverage by adding additional cameras, it’s crucial to understand the various factors that determine camera compatibility. In this guide, I will walk you through the steps to finding a security camera that is compatible with your existing DVR / NVR. I will also help you determine if it is time to also replace your DVR or NVR.

Identifying Your Security Camera System Type

IP Cameras vs. BNC Coax Cameras

The first step in selecting a replacement security camera is to determine whether you have a network IP camera system or a BNC coax security camera system. This can be easily done by examining the connector and cable type that links your camera to the DVR.

IP Camera Cable

If security cameras are connected to your DVR / NVR with network cable and an RJ-45 connector, similar to the one you use to connect your computer to the internet. Here is a picture of a CAT5e cable with a standard RJ-45 connector end used to connect IP cameras. Sometimes IP cameras are not connected directly to the recorder (NVR). They may be connected to your network via a switch or router. You can follow this section to find a compatible IP camera.

CCTV Camera Cable / HD-over-Coax Camera Cable

If your security cameras are connected to your DVR with coax camera and a BNC connector, then you have an analog CCTV system or HD-over-Coax system (HD-CCTV). HD-over-Coax cameras are just high definition CCTV cameras. HD CCTV video formats include AHD, HD-TVI, and HD-CVI cameras. You can follow this section to find compatible CCTV cameras.

IP Camera Replacement / Compatible IP Cameras

Compatibility Considerations for IP Cameras

When dealing with network IP cameras, one of the key factors to consider is whether your existing NVR (Network Video Recorder) is ONVIF compliant. ONVIF is an open protocol adopted by most IP camera manufacturers worldwide to ensure interoperability between cameras and recorders. However, not all IP cameras and NVRs are ONVIF compliant, especially older models.

How do I know if my NVR is ONVIF compatible?

To determine if your NVR is ONVIF compliant, please refer to the product specification included with your NVR.

If you do not have your original product paperwork, locate the NVR make and model number (usually found on a sticker on the device) and perform a Google search for the product specification. You can see the silver product sticker on the bottom of one of our Viewtron CCTV DVRs in the above picture. The model is VT-DVR4. The Viewtron brand is locate on the front of our DVR.

If your NVR is not ONVIF compliant, it’s recommended to replace it with a newer, ONVIF compliant model. My highest recommendation is one of these Viewtron IP camera NVRs, which offer compatibility with ONVIF IP cameras and advanced features like AI software.

Matching Camera Resolution to NVR Capabilities

Another critical aspect to consider when selecting a replacement IP camera is the maximum resolution supported by your NVR. This information should be available in the product specification. It’s essential to choose a camera with a resolution that is compatible with your NVR’s capabilities. For example, if your NVR only supports 2-megapixel resolution, purchasing a 4K resolution IP camera would be unnecessary and may not work at all. Viewtron offers a range of ONVIF compliant IP cameras in various resolutions, including 2-megapixel, 4-megapixel, and 8-megapixel (4K) models, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of NVRs.

Here are links to ONVIF compatible IP cameras based on resolution.

BNC Camera Replacement / Compatible CCTV Cameras

Here are some things that you must consider when shopping for a replacement BNC security camera / CCTV camera. If you have an existing BNC DVR system, this section will help you find a compatible camera for your existing system.

CCTV Video Formats and Resolutions

If your system uses BNC coax security cameras, you’ll need to determine which video format(s) and video resolution(s) your current DVR supports. Once again, refer to the product specification of your DVR to identify this, and if you do not have your product specification, search online for one or email us the make and model and we can help. Here is a current list of the video formats and resolutions of current and legacy BNC security cameras.

BNC Video Formats: Analog CCTV (CVBS), HD-TVI, HD-CVI, AHD, HD-SDI
BNC Video Resolutions: D1, 960H, 720p / 1mp, 1080p / 2mp, 3mp, 4mp, 5mp, 8mp / 4K

Our Viewtron hybrid BNC security cameras and hybrid CCTV DVRs support all of the above CCTV video formats and resolutions except HD-SDI. HD-SDI video format was used for a short period of time before the advent of AHD and HD-TVI. CCTV Camera Pros does still sell a few HD-SDI security camera models to support customers that still use HD-SDI DVRs.

Al mentioned, CCTV DVRs support multiple video formats and resolutions. Once you determine which ones your DVR supports, you can use the below links to find replacement cameras for your system.

Please note that all of our Viewtron BNC cameras can be switched into CVBS mode to work with legacy low resolution CCTV DVRs. However, if you are using an old CVBS DVR, we highly recommend that you consider upgrading to our Viewtron hybrid DVRs, which will work with your existing analog CCTV cameras and allow you to use the latest 4mp and 4K resolution BNC cameras. You will also have the benefit of an easy to use modern system with an easy to use interface and outstanding mobile apps for remote access.

However, you must identify what type of coaxial / BNC camera cable that you have because there are some limitations.

CCTV / BNC Camera Cable Considerations

Can Your Ensuring Your Coax Cables Can Handle the Upgrade?

When upgrading a BNC camera system, it’s important to consider the limitations of your existing cabling infrastructure.

Pre-Made CCTV Cables

This is a picture of pre-made Siamese CCTV camera cables. Pre-made security camera cables have the BNC and power lead connectors permanently pre-attached to the cable. Pre-made cables can not be cut to custom lengths. The pre-made cables that CCTV Camera Pros supplies are a thick enough gauge and have been tested to work with high definition BNC cameras (up to 4K resolution.

Unfortunately, if you have an older CCTV system with pre-made BNC cables, you may face restrictions in the types of cameras you can use. This is because older, thinner pre-made cables may not support 4mp or 4K resolution cameras. Unfortunately, the only way to know for sure is by connecting an HD BNC camera to your existing cable to see if they work. And, that will require an DVR that supports the HD camera resolution you are testing also.

If you have old pre-made BNC cables, upgrading to CAT6 or CAT5e cables and converting to an IP camera system is almost always your best option. This will not only ensure compatibility with modern, high-resolution cameras but also provide you with access to more advanced features like those provided by AI security cameras.

CCTV Cable from a Spool

If you have high quality coax cable in place, like 95% copper RG59 cable from a spool, you can upgrade to a modern Viewtron hybrid DVR and the latest 4K CCTV cameras. The above image shows RG59 Siamese cable with an F connector and BNC connector attached. You can inspect your cable where it connects to your existing DVR and security cameras to see if you have coax cable from a spool installed. Look closely at the BNC connector to see if at was attached by an installer, instead of permanently attached at a factory. Your cable may also be labeled with text on it that says RG59 or RG6.

If you are having trouble determining the type of cable that you have in place, you can send a picture of it to me at mike@cctvcamerapros.net. Take pictures of where the cable connects to the back of your DVR.

Even if you have high quality coax cable in place, you still consider the advantages of upgrading your cable to CAT6 so that you can install a Viewtron IP camera system with AI software. You can learn more about AI cameras here.

Summary

Selecting the right replacement security camera for your existing DVR system can be a daunting task, but by understanding the key factors that determine compatibility, you can make an informed decision. You must also consider if it makes sense to upgrade your DVR and / or upgrade from a CCTV system to an IP camera system. Whether you have an IP camera system or a CCTV system, it’s crucial to consider aspects such as ONVIF compliance, resolution support, video formats, and cabling infrastructure. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and opting for versatile and compatible solutions, you can ensure a seamless integration and optimal performance when upgrading your camera system.

Remember, if you ever find yourself unsure or in need of expert advice, please email me anytime. If possible, please include the make and model(s) of your existing DVR and cameras and what your goals are short term and long term.

About Mike Haldas

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Mike Haldas is the co-founder and managing partner of CCTV Camera Pros. Mike works on product research and development for the company. Before starting CCTV Camera Pros, Mike worked as a software engineer in the web hosting industry. CCTV Camera Pros is a veteran owned business as Mike proudly served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) from 1993 to 1997. Mike can be contacted for questions about this article and anything related to video surveillance systems at mike@cctvcamerapros.net.