Looking for some guidance on a new system (Cameras + NVR)

E

eyespyyou72

n3wb
Mar 7, 2026
2
0
US
Hello! I am looking for some recommendations on a system. I am very technical (new to camera systems though) but I do not want this system to need a lot of tinkering and maintenance. I am interested in high quality cameras and an NVR. EmpireTech/US firmware? I was leaning towards Axis/Bosch, but it seems Dahua is the favorite here

The location will have some lighting around the residence, it is wired with Cat 6a for POE. The system will be on its own physical network. The property is 6000 sq ft, so I am anticipating 12+ cameras.

Sorry for the word salad, just putting some ideas out there.

Thanks!
 
Nothing wrong with Axis or Bosch, just 3-5x more expensive

With any quality system there will be extensive “tinkering” to initially get cameras dialed in for day and night profiles. But once done, the EmpireTech cams and higher end NVRs are quite low maintenance.

In most settings there is little to be gained by spending 5x the $$$ on Axis

EmpireTech is OEM Dahua, quite a few to choose from. Typically Andy can get you most anything in their catalog but doesn’t stock every model
www.dahuasecurity.com

Network Cameras - Dahua International

Network Cameras
www.dahuasecurity.com www.dahuasecurity.com
 
Thank you! I'm fine with initial tinkering, just saying that these cameras aren't going to be my primary hobby. What are some of the top choices from EmpireTech? I am leaning towards bullets or turrets that offer good image quality both day and night. I am able to add lighting to improve the nighttime quality.
 
The 4MP 54IR series is the go-to for most as far as image quality (Dahua 5442 series). Both turret and bullet models.

Stay away from the 54PRO series. Great idea with its own onboard white LEDs that can be motion activated, but bad sensor.

There are some good 4K models as well depending on lighting conditions.

Each scene is different and requires different focal length, light, and settings.

One BIG thing for starting out is not trying to do too much with one camera. In general think in terms of do I just want general overview of an area or do I need a separate camera highly zoomed to a choke point for better forensic ID? In some scenes you need both. (Two cameras)

The initial thought is I want all wide angle cameras to see “everything”, until you find that while you can “see” the guy in blue jeans and a white shirt, you can’t “identify” him.

Take some time and do some homework reading in the forum. You’ll start getting an idea.

An aerial view of your bldg can be helpful for guys here to give you suggestions

Good place to start browsing is seeing what others have done to cover various scenes

Camera Captures

Let's see what your camera captured!
ipcamtalk.com ipcamtalk.com
 
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Another educational thread

Ri22o

Thread '"I want 2.8mm cameras everywhere to see everything..." - This is why you need specific FOVs with purposeful focal lengths.'

I am treating this as a living document and will update it with new captures, information, etc from time to time since the journey and knowledge gained never ends. Even though it was originally posted in May of 2023, it is still very much relevant.

I have gained a lot of knowledge since I signed up and wanted to share my experience and examples of improvements and changes for others who are coming from a "I want 2.8mm cameras everywhere to see everything" system mentality.

My ongoing "build/looking for advice" thread can be found here.

The post includes the original...
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