Cubieboard NVR case

thingiverse

A Network Video Recorder (NVR) solution in the market can be quite expensive as software licenses for NAS-based solutions cost over $50/camera, while custom hardware solutions could cost thousands of dollars. However, it is possible to build a custom NVR with a total cost of approximately $140, which includes an SD card and power brick. The components used include a Cubieboard2 (AllWinner A20 dual-core ARM, 1G RAM), a 2.5" 500GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD), and Zoneminder software. This custom NVR can handle four standard-definition (VGA) MJPEG streams from Foscam cameras in moderate mode with one zone each at a frame rate of 1fps, while leaving CPU cycles for additional cameras if needed. The Cubieboard2 model used is parametric and can be modified to fit different case designs. To assemble the NVR, print all three parts of the case, clean out any holes, and test-fit everything. Insert the Cubieboard into the base part, followed by the HDD part with its SATA and power cables connected. Screw the HDD onto the bottom part using four long M3 screws and thread, securing it to the previously inserted nuts. The lid is friction-fitted. A WD Blue 2.5" Slim drive is recommended for its quiet operation, but standard height 2.5" drives may also work with slight modifications to the case design. For software installation, choose a preferred distribution (in this example, Cubian) and configure the network settings. Assign a fixed MAC address if desired. Install Zoneminder by running 'apt-get install zoneminder.' Move the Zoneminder cache, log, and tmp directories to the HDD partition and update their symlinks accordingly using the web interface. Set up Zoneminder according to the specific camera instructions, move the MySQL data directory to the HDD partition as well, and ensure that all services are started and set to run on boot. The Amazon Basics power brick, rated for 2A, is a good choice at $9.