Why This Matters for Your Security System

When your CCTV system records 24/7 or in high resolution, the video files add up quickly. You need to answer questions like:

• How many days of footage do I want to keep?
• How many cameras are recording at once?
• What’s the resolution and frame rate of each camera?
• Which compression format am I using? (H.264 vs H.265)

These variables directly affect your required hard drive size.

Choosing the wrong NVR/DVR can lead to:

• ❌ Wasted money (overbuying channels you don’t need)
• ❌ Blind spots (underestimating camera coverage)
• ❌ Storage shortages (losing critical footage)

Our TopSecureTools.com NVR/DVR Calculator solves these problems instantly.

How to Use the NVR/DVR Channel Calculator

(Embed your tool here with a short intro)

Key Inputs Explained

1. NVR/DVR Channels
   • *”A 16-channel NVR supports 16 cameras max. Match this to your camera count.”*
2. Camera Resolution
   • “4K cameras (8MP) need 4× more storage than 1080p. Balance quality vs. cost.”
3. Recording Days
   • *”For 30-day retention with 8x 4K cameras, you’ll need ~6TB (use our tool to check).”*
4. Motion vs. 24/7 Recording
   • *”Motion-only cuts storage needs by 70% but may miss events.”*

Critical Calculations (What Our Tool Shows)

1. Channel Compatibility

• *”A 4-channel NVR can’t run 8 cameras. Our tool flags this instantly.”*
• Pro Tip: “Buy an NVR with 25% extra channels for future expansion.”

2. Storage Requirements

(Sample data from your tool)

Resolution	24/7 Storage (per camera/day)	Motion-Only
1080p	32GB	10GB
4K	128GB	38GB

• “H.265 compression reduces needs by 50% vs. H.264.”

3. Bandwidth for Remote Viewing

• *”Each 4K camera @ 15FPS uses ~16Mbps. 8 cameras = 128Mbps (check your upload speed!).”*

4. PoE Power Needs

• *”PoE cameras need 7.5–15W each. A 16-camera 4K system requires a 150W PoE switch.”*

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Future Expansion
   • “50% of users add more cameras within 2 years.”
2. Underestimating Storage
   • *”Real-world usage often exceeds manufacturer estimates by 20%.”*
3. Overlooking Bandwidth
   • “4K remote viewing lags on slow internet—test with our calculator.”

FAQs (Keyword-Rich)

Q: How many cameras can a 16-channel NVR support?

*A: Exactly 16—but our tool shows if your resolution/storage aligns.*

Q: Is H.265 worth it?

A: Yes! Saves 50% storage (see calculator results for your setup).

Q: How long can I store 4K footage on 4TB?

*A: ~7 days for 4 cameras @ 24/7 (or 30 days with motion-only).*