All About DVR

The term DVR simply stands for "Digital Video Recorder" (although it is sometimes referred to as "PVR" or "Personal Video Recorder"). It is basically a device that records video digitally and saves it on a digital storage medium. We have the popular news station CBS to thank for this development.

In 1965, the broadcast station played with the idea of using freeze-frames and instant playbacks during sporting events. However, it wasn't until 1999 that the first DVRs available for consumers, ReplayTV and TiVo, were released in the market.

The many perks of DVR

As technology increases so do the many features available on such devices as DVRs. Since their inception into the mainstream, for the first time viewers have had the option of skipping commercials entirely, recording shows or movies onto DVDs, sharing recording over the net, pausing or putting live TV into slow motion, instant replay, and more. Also available is HD DVR, or high-definition DVR.

How it works

DVRs basically use audio/visual signals that are broadcast over the air in a digital format. The process of recording digital TV is essentially capturing the binary data being received. It doesn't require any expensive hardware since the television broadcasters have mostly already done the grunt work of compressing the signal.

Security features

As the technology has evolved, so have the uses of DVR. Many DVRs today are configured for use on closed circuit television cameras. These are used in many homes and business for security and documentation purposes.

Hardware

Obviously, the hardware features will vary between different manufacturers, but here is a basic list of what is involved.

Rack mounting or desktop configurations

Multiple video inputs and connections

External video display monitors

Front panel switches and displays

Connections for various devices such as keyboards.

Internal CD, DVD, and VCR devices.

Security features such as inputs for external alarm devices.

Software

Image capture rates available for all inputs.

Available image resolution selection for any or all inputs.

Motion or lack of motion detection.

Multiple sound recording channels.

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