16-channel security recording with room for more storage

The HiLook by Hikvision DVR-216U-M2 is a versatile Turbo HD digital video recorder for larger homes, shops, workshops and business premises. Sixteen analogue camera inputs and two hard drive bays make it a practical central recorder for sites with several entrances, work areas and perimeter views.

For an existing coaxial CCTV installation, this recorder offers a way to improve event review and storage flexibility while retaining compatible cameras and cable runs. A planned upgrade can focus spending on the areas that need attention, rather than replacing an entire system at once.

Why choose the DVR-216U-M2?

• Cover more of your premises: 16 BNC inputs let you bring multiple camera locations together on one recorder.
• Find relevant activity faster: Motion Detection 2.0 classifies human and vehicle targets on all analogue channels, helping reduce unwanted motion alerts. Search by object or event type to narrow down footage.
• Flexible camera compatibility: supports HDTVI, AHD, HDCVI, CVBS and compatible IP cameras, useful when upgrading a mixed system.
• More recording capacity: two SATA bays give you the option to fit additional storage as your retention requirements grow.
• Efficient compression: H.265 Pro+ helps reduce the amount of recording data stored, with results depending on the scene and settings.
• Useful local and remote viewing: connect a suitable HDMI or VGA display on site and configure HiLookVision for access away from the premises.

Detailed technical specifications

Buying advice for your installation

Check each camera before upgrading. Matching BNC connectors does not guarantee compatibility. Confirm video format, resolution and camera output settings, particularly when combining older cameras with newer high-resolution models. Input acceptance and recorded frame rate are different specifications.

Plan storage around the footage you need to keep. Camera count, bitrate, resolution, frame rate and continuous versus event recording all affect retention. Ask NMC to help size surveillance-rated hard drives for your required recording period. Two bays provide capacity flexibility; do not assume automatic mirrored backup or RAID.

Allow for movement in the scene. Higher resolution can reveal more detail, while higher frame rates can make fast activity easier to follow. Choose settings for the actual viewing distance and activity at entrances, driveways, counters and loading areas.

Check hybrid expansion requirements. Maximum IP channel figures depend on converting analogue channels and the selected operating mode. Enhanced IP mode can conflict with Motion Detection 2.0 or other smart features. Confirm the intended camera mix and functions before commissioning.

Arrange camera power and networking. This recorder has no integrated PoE camera ports. Analogue cameras require suitable separate power, and IP cameras need their own supply or compatible PoE equipment. Remote viewing requires network configuration and a suitable internet connection.

Nepean Micro Computers in Penrith can help you choose compatible cameras, storage, cabling and accessories for a new system or recorder replacement. Cameras, monitor and installation accessories are separate unless expressly included in your quotation.

Official technical datasheet

Download the official HiLook DVR-216U-M2 datasheet (PDF)