Introduction
Running out of storage means overwriting old footage or—worse—missing recordings when you need them most. Optimising your NVR’s storage configuration can double or triple your recording retention without adding extra hard drives.
Enable H.265+ Compression
If your cameras and NVR support H.265+, enable it. This codec reduces storage consumption by up to 80% compared to H.264 without visible quality loss. It is the single most effective storage-saving measure.
Adjust Resolution and Frame Rate
Not every camera needs to record at maximum resolution 24/7. Indoor cameras in low-risk areas can be set to 2 MP or reduced to 10–15 fps without losing useful detail. Reserve full 4 MP / 25 fps for critical evidence points like entrances.
Use Sub-Stream Recording
Configure the NVR to record the main stream (full quality) only during alarm events and the sub-stream (lower quality) during idle periods. This dramatically reduces daily storage consumption while preserving high-quality footage when it matters.
Schedule-Based Recording
Instead of 24/7 continuous recording, set event-based recording during off-hours. The camera records only when motion is detected—AcuSense ensures it only triggers for humans and vehicles, further reducing unnecessary footage.
Storage Calculation
Use Hikvision’s online storage calculator to plan your HDD needs. Input camera count, resolution, codec, frame rate, and desired retention days. The tool recommends the total storage capacity required, helping you choose the right NVR and HDD configuration.
FastEgy Recommendation
FastEgy configures every NVR for optimal storage efficiency. We enable H.265+, configure smart recording schedules, and size hard drives for your retention requirements. Contact us for storage optimisation on existing or new systems.
About FastEgy
FastEgy is a leading distributor of Hikvision, EZVIZ, and professional security solutions across Egypt. Visit fastegy.net or call us for expert consultation on your next surveillance project.