Review of ICRealtime MAX4 Digital Video Recorder
Reviewed by HAI Staff
ICRealtime MAX4 Digital Video Recorder
The ICRealtime MAX4 Digital Video Recorder is a Pro Surveillance System.
Overall Rating: 8.5 out of 10
Surveillance Product Features
The MAX4 DVR has the following features:
- H.264 compression algorithm ideal for standalone DVR
- Real-time live display up to 4 cameras, 100/120 fps recording for CIF, 25/30fps
recording for 4CIF. - Pentaplex function: live, recording, playback, backup & remote access
- Multiple control methods: Front panel, IR remote control, keyboard, USB mouse
and network keyboard. - Smart video detection: motion detection, camera blank, video loss.
- Smart camera settings: privacy masking, camera lock, color setting, and title
display - Pan Tilt Zoom and Speed Dome Control: more than 60 protocols supported,
preset, scan, auto pan, auto tour, pattern, auxiliary function supported. - 4-channel audio inputs and bidirectional talk supported
- Alarm triggering screen tips, buzzer, PTZ preset.
- Enterprise Professional Surveillance System (EPSS) Software providing network access for remote live viewing, recording, playback, setting, system status, & event log.
We tested the MAX4 connected to the Mini Speed Dome PTZ camera (model ICR100X) and were able to control all functions available with this camera locally at the MAX4 or remotely using the EPSS software on our PC. The motion detect, video loss, camera blank and alarm functions worked flawlessly for each type of camera we connected to the MAX4. The H.264 compression algorithm enables more efficient use of hard drive capacity. We found a 250GB hard drive to be more than enough storage for a typical 4-camera system.
The 127-page User's Manual covers all the right topics, except the depth of explanation was inadequate for a professional installer not previously familiar with this product, and would leave homeowners scratching their head trying to understand how to do some tasks. Fortunately the manual is being re-written at this time and should be available by April, 2009. But without it be prepared to call Technical Support for help on some very basic things like on-screen menu navigation.
Also, the handheld IR remote control is not able to access some important features like the calendar on the search screen, which allows you to pick the date to start searching for video clips. As a result 99% of customers use the mouse to navigate the on-screen system, but this limits the locations where the DVR can be placed, as flat surface space must be availabe to maneuver the mouse.
Rating: 8.0 out of 10
Ease of Installation
ICRealtime products are sold and installed by Dealers who have received the required training and hands-on experience. The Dealer can propose a complete surveillance solution and the right cameras and DVR to meet your needs. Onsite installation activity includes mounting the cameras, running audio/video or Cat5e cables from cameras to the DVR location, and setting up the DVR to capture video either continuosly at certain times or when motion is detected by the DVR. A variety of other configuration parameters/features may also be configured depending on user needs. Make sure the Dealer includes adequate time to demonstrate the operation of the DVR before you accept the system.
Note the Dealer is backed-up by a responsive technical support staff at ICRealtime, who deal with both authorized Dealers and homeowners directly to ensure your satisfaction with the system operation.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
Surveillance System Reliability
You should expect the MAX4 DVR to be a highly reliable surveillance system. You should experience trouble free operation for years after the initial installation. This DVR comes with a 1 year warranty.