As I embarked on the journey to upgrade my home security system, I wanted to share my first step, which served as a test to ensure everything would work seamlessly. After a lot of research, I decided to order the Amcrest 4K 8CH PoE NVR (model NV4108E-A2) and the Amcrest 5MP Turret PoE Camera (model IP5M-T1179EW-28MM).

Setting Up the NVR
The setup began with connecting the NVR to my network switch. I ran an HDMI cable from the NVR to a spare TV I placed in the office for live view and connected the power. Almost immediately, the NVR began to beep incessantly. A quick investigation revealed the cause: the NVR didn't have a hard drive installed. This was not an issue for me because I planned to use my Synology NAS for storage. I quickly disabled the alarm, silencing the beeping.

Connecting the Camera
Next, I unpackaged the PoE camera and connected it to the NVR. The system worked flawlessly and found the camera almost instantly. This was a promising sign that everything was going according to plan.

Integrating with Synology Surveillance
The final step was to log into Synology Surveillance. Since everything was connected to the network, the Synology system quickly found and added the camera. This seamless integration allowed me to view everything without needing a subscription, providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for my home security needs.

Conclusion
This first step was more of a test than anything else, but it proved that my chosen components could work together seamlessly. With the NVR connected to my network and spare TV in the office, and the PoE camera up and running, I am now ready to continue expanding and fine-tuning my home security system. The ability to use my Synology NAS for storage and avoid subscription fees is a significant advantage, making this a successful initial test.

As a homeowner and tech enthusiast, I’ve always been particular about my home security setup. For the past few years, I’ve relied on Ring security cameras to keep a watchful eye over my property. However, I’ve been contemplating an upgrade, and I’m excited to share an early draft of my plan to transition to a more robust and integrated security camera system.

Why Amcrest?After extensive research and consideration, I’ve decided that Amcrest will be the cornerstone of my new security setup. Here’s why:

1. Headquartered in the USA: Amcrest is a company based in Houston, Texas. I appreciate supporting a domestic company with a solid reputation for quality and customer service.
2. PoE Capabilities: Amcrest cameras offer Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities, which simplifies installation by allowing a single cable to provide both power and data connectivity. This will reduce cable clutter and improve the reliability of my system.
3. Compatibility with Synology NAS: One of the key factors in my decision is the seamless integration with my Synology NAS. I plan to utilize my Synology DiskStation DS923+ as a centralized storage hub for all my security footage, ensuring easy access and enhanced data security.

While this is still an early draft, here’s a rough outline of the steps I intend to take to transition from my current Ring cameras to a full-fledged Amcrest system:

1. Assess Current Setup: I’ll start by evaluating my existing Ring camera placements to determine the best spots for the new Amcrest cameras. This includes identifying areas that require enhanced coverage and ensuring all critical points are addressed.
2. Choose the Right Amcrest Models: Amcrest offers a variety of camera models, each with different features. I’ll select cameras that provide high-resolution footage, night vision, and weather resistance to suit both indoor and outdoor surveillance needs.
3. Install PoE Infrastructure: Since PoE is a crucial aspect of my new setup, I’ll need to run Ethernet cables to all camera locations. Fortunately, my home’s layout and existing network infrastructure make this feasible. I’ll use different colored cables to distinguish between PoE and regular Ethernet connections, as follows:
   • PoE Cables: Yellow or Orange
   • Regular Ethernet Cables: Blue or Green
4. Integrate with Synology NAS: Once the cameras are installed, I’ll configure them to store footage directly on my Synology NAS. This will involve setting up the Surveillance Station application on the NAS and ensuring all cameras are properly connected and recording.
5. Testing and Optimization: After installation, I’ll conduct thorough testing to ensure the system operates smoothly. This includes verifying camera angles, adjusting settings for optimal performance, and fine-tuning the NAS setup for efficient storage management.
6. Gradual Transition: To minimize disruptions, I’ll transition gradually from my Ring cameras to the new Amcrest system. This phased approach will allow me to address any issues that arise and ensure a seamless shift to the new setup.

This transition is an exciting step forward in enhancing the security of my home. While it’s still in the planning phase, I’m confident that moving to an Amcrest system will provide better coverage, reliability, and integration with my existing tech ecosystem. I look forward to sharing updates and insights as I progress through this project.