We source all of our kit from Hikvision UK, this means there is a standard 3 year warranty and all firmware can be updated direct from the Hikvision UK and Ireland website. We do not sell grey market imports. These are usually around 20-30% cheaper than official products and can be very troublesome, often with english flashed firmware making it impossible to support if something goes wrong.

Here at BCE Direct we love the acusense feature, which is now available on most NVR, DVR or IP Cameras. This is where you can distinguish between a human, vehicle or animal. It's a built in algorithm that can detect the difference between the above and eliminate false notifications. The feature is so good it can exclude leaves birds or rain.

Colorvu in it's simplest form provides full colour throughout the night, these cameras use a small led on the front of the camera to illuminate an area that you are recording and provide full colour sharp images even in complete darkness. Darkfighter are black and white at night cameras and colour through the day but provide some of the clearest crisp images due to it's standard infrared light. Hybrid is a mix of the above, these relatively new cameras are more like a pir floodlight, where they use the acusense feature to identify humans or vehicles and turn the led lights on during the night, so infared (black and white) at night then full colour if something is detected.

When it comes to video surveillance systems, one of the most important decisions you'll need to make is whether to choose a network video recorder (NVR) or a digital video recorder (DVR). While both options serve the same purpose of recording and storing surveillance footage, there are several key differences to consider when making your decision.

First, let's take a closer look at each option.

What is an NVR?

An NVR is a video recorder that records and stores footage from network cameras. It connects to the cameras via an IP network, allowing for high-quality video streaming and advanced features such as remote viewing and motion detection. The NVR records video footage directly onto a hard drive, with the option to add more storage space as needed.

What is a DVR?

A DVR, on the other hand, records and stores footage from analog cameras. It connects to the cameras via coaxial cables and records the video onto a hard drive. While traditional DVRs are limited to analog cameras, some modern DVRs can also work with IP cameras through the use of video encoders.

So, what are the key differences between NVRs and DVRs?

1. Camera Compatibility

As mentioned above, NVRs work exclusively with IP cameras, while DVRs work with analog cameras. This means that if you already have an existing analog camera system, you will need to stick with a DVR. However, if you're starting from scratch or planning to upgrade your camera system, an NVR may be a better option due to its ability to work with high-resolution IP cameras.

1. Video Quality

NVRs generally offer higher video quality than DVRs, as they are designed to work with IP cameras that can provide HD or even 4K resolution. DVRs, on the other hand, are limited to the resolution capabilities of analog cameras, which are typically lower than IP cameras.

1. Remote Access

NVRs offer more advanced remote viewing capabilities than DVRs, as they are designed to be accessed remotely via an internet connection. This allows you to view live and recorded footage from anywhere with an internet connection, using a computer, smartphone, or tablet. While some DVRs do offer remote viewing capabilities, they are often limited in their functionality and require more setup.

1. Cost

DVRs are generally less expensive than NVRs, due to their lower resolution capabilities and simpler technology. However, as the price of IP cameras continues to drop, the price difference between NVRs and DVRs is becoming less significant.

In conclusion, the choice between NVRs and DVRs largely depends on your specific needs and budget. If you're starting from scratch or upgrading your camera system, an NVR may be a better option due to its advanced features and compatibility with high-resolution IP cameras. However, if you already have an analog camera system, a DVR may be a more cost-effective solution. Whatever your choice, make sure to choose a reputable brand with a proven track record of quality and reliability.

We provide a standard 3 year warranty on all Hikvision kit.

View our simple hard drive calculator to determine what size you need for your requirements.

🔵 POE (Power over Ethernet)

Definition:

• Power over Ethernet (POE) allows both power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable (Cat5e, Cat6, etc.), eliminating the need for separate power cables.

Common Usage:

• Used to power IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, network switches, and IoT devices.

Advantages:

• Reduces the need for separate power outlets.
• Simplifies installation and reduces cabling costs.
• Centralises power management.

Limitations:

• Limited power output (up to 90W with POE++).
• Cable length is generally limited to 100 metres (328 feet).

Example Devices:

• IP security cameras
• Wireless access points
• VoIP phones

🟢 POC (Power over Coax)

Definition:

• Power over Coax (POC) uses coaxial cables to transmit both power and data/video signals. It is commonly used in legacy CCTV systems where coaxial cables are already in place.

Common Usage:

• Primarily used in analog and HD analog CCTV systems (such as HD-TVI, HDCVI, AHD).
• Useful for upgrading legacy systems without rewiring.

Advantages:

• Utilises existing coaxial infrastructure, saving costs.
• Supports longer cable runs compared to POE (up to 500 metres or more).
• Provides both video and power over a single coax cable.

Limitations:

• Less common in modern IP-based systems.
• Not as flexible as Ethernet cabling for other data transmissions.

Example Devices:

• HD analog security cameras (HDCVI, HD-TVI, AHD)
• DVRs for legacy CCTV systems

🟠 AOC (Audio over Coax)

Definition:

• Audio over Coax (AOC) allows audio signals to be transmitted alongside video signals through a single coaxial cable.

Common Usage:

• Frequently used in surveillance systems where audio recording is required in addition to video.
• Helps avoid running additional cables for microphones.

Advantages:

• Simplifies cabling by combining video and audio in a single cable.
• Ideal for CCTV systems that require audio monitoring.

Limitations:

• Typically limited to analog or HD analog systems.
• Not compatible with most IP-based systems.

Example Devices:

• CCTV cameras with built-in microphones
• DVRs with audio input

🧩 Key Differences:

AspectPOE (Power over Ethernet)POC (Power over Coax)AOC (Audio over Coax)Cable TypeEthernet (Cat5e, Cat6)Coaxial (RG59, RG6)Coaxial (RG59, RG6)Power TransmissionYesYesNoData/Signal TypeData (IP), PowerVideo, PowerVideo, AudioTypical Use CasesIP cameras, VoIP phones, Wi-Fi APsAnalog/HD analog cameras, legacy CCTVSurveillance systems with audio recordingCable Length LimitUp to 100m (328 ft)Up to 500m (1640 ft) or moreSimilar to POCCompatibilityModern IP-based systemsAnalog/HD analog systemsAnalog/HD analog systemsAdvantagesSimplifies power and data over EthernetUtilises existing coax cablesCombines video and audio in one cable

✅ Summary of Use Cases:

• POE is best for modern IP-based systems that need data and power over a single Ethernet cable.
• POC is ideal for upgrading analog CCTV systems using existing coax cables, providing both video and power.
• AOC is useful for adding audio capabilities to coax-based surveillance systems.