Connected vs Non-Connected: Choosing the Right DVR Solution

When advising clients on the right DVR system for their fleet, one of the first strategic decisions is whether they need a connected or non-connected MDVR solution. As an installer, your recommendations shape not just the initial setup but the long-term value and effectiveness of the system. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations that should guide your choice, and how the Virtus Fleet range supports both options seamlessly.

Connected MDVRs – Real-Time Visibility and Fleet Intelligence

Connected DVRs are network-enabled devices (usually via 4G/5G) that integrate directly with fleet management platforms such as Virtus Fleet Connected. These systems offer near real time video footage with remote access and near real-time alerts, which brings several advantages:

• Instant incident response – View footage within seconds of an event.
• Proactive driver monitoring – Monitor driving behaviour and take corrective action early.
• Fleet-wide visibility – Manage all vehicles from a central dashboard.
• Remote maintenance – Update firmware or diagnose system faults without a site visit.

This solution is ideal for fleets focused on safety, compliance, and operational control, especially in high-risk or time-sensitive industries such as logistics, transport, and waste management.

We offer both 4-channel and 8-channel connected DVRs, fully compatible with Virtus Fleet Connected, making them flexible enough to scale from vans, HGVs to Plant Machinery. Our wide range of DVR Fleet Cameras allow you to tailor each install to suit the client’s vehicle type and risk profile.

Non-Connected MDVRs – Reliable Local Recording

For clients who don’t require instant access, non-connected MDVRs still provide a reliable way to capture high-quality footage locally. These systems are often more cost-effective, and they’re ideal in situations where:

• Cellular signal is limited or non-existent
• Footage is only reviewed post-incident 
  
• Budget constraints require a simpler setup

These DVRs offer the same quality of footage, but all data must be accessed manually, typically via hard drive or SD card. For lower-risk fleets or internal-use vehicles, this can be a perfectly sufficient solution.

Key Technical Considerations for Installers

When deciding which direction to go, keep the following in mind:

• Number of camera inputs: Our 4-ch and 8-ch units accommodate a wide range of vehicle types and layouts.
• Storage needs: Consider retention period, camera resolution, and whether footage is overwritten. Connected DVRs can offer cloud offloading to reduce local storage dependency.
• Power management: Look at parking mode, vehicle battery protection, and start-up time.
• Integration with existing systems: If the client already uses a fleet tracking platform, ensure DVR compatibility (our connected units are fully integrated with Virtus Fleet Connected).
• Ongoing support: Connected units often allow for easier post-install support, reducing the burden on your team.

The right MDVR solution for your customers

The right MDVR solution depends on your client’s operational needs, risk exposure, and digital infrastructure. As an installer, offering both connected and non-connected options backed by flexible camera configurations means you can recommend with confidence.

If your clients are ready to take fleet safety and visibility to the next level, our connected DVR range paired with Virtus Fleet Connected is the ideal place to start. And if they just need robust local recording, we’ve got that covered too.

If you are still unsure on what is right for you, get in touch with our expert team.