Introduction to the DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C) and its key features
The DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C) is a compact 4‑channel network video recorder (NVR) designed for small CCTV projects that need simple, reliable local recording with built‑in power over Ethernet (PoE) and the option of 4G cellular connectivity. Combining 4 integrated PoE ports, H.265+ video compression, and a 4K HDMI output, this unit targets retail kiosks, small offices, remote sites and temporary installations where ease of deployment and compact footprint matter.
Key features at a glance:
- 4 IP camera channels with 4 built‑in PoE ports (IEEE 802.3af/at) and total PoE budget ≤ 50 W.
- Supports cameras up to 8 MP (4K) and efficient H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264 compression.
- Video outputs include HDMI up to 3840×2160 (4K) plus VGA (simultaneous output supported).
- Optional cellular connectivity via micro‑SIM and SMA antenna (LTE/WCDMA/GSM bands supported).
- Single internal SATA bay (up to 8 TB) and smart search/playback functions.
Detailed specifications and benefits
This section breaks down the DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C) specification set and explains how those numbers translate into real‑world benefits for installers and end users.
- Max camera resolution:Up to 8 MP (4K). You can connect modern 4K cameras for high‑detail capture on critical areas such as entrances or checkout counters.
- Compression:H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264 support reduces bandwidth and storage demands—especially important when using the single SATA bay. H.265+ in particular yields significant storage savings for typical surveillance scenes.
- Decoding capacity:1ch@8MP (30 fps) / 3ch@4MP (30 fps) / 6ch@1080p (30 fps). Decoding limits indicate how many channels can be displayed or processed at full resolution; for most small deployments this capacity is sufficient for live monitoring and local playback.
- Display outputs:HDMI up to 3840×2160 (4K/30 Hz) and VGA (1080p/60 Hz) allow for simultaneous local monitoring on modern displays or legacy VGA screens.
- PoE:Four built‑in PoE ports (10/100 Mbps), IEEE 802.3af/at compatible, with total available PoE power ≤ 50 W. Benefit: plug‑and‑play camera power and data on the same cable—ideal for fast installs. Caveat: the 50 W budget limits high‑power cameras (like PTZs) or the simultaneous use of four power‑hungry devices.
- Ethernet & bandwidth:1 × RJ‑45 (10/100 Mbps). The recorder supports incoming 40 Mbps and outgoing 80 Mbps. This suits small sites but is not as future‑proof as gigabit NVRs for very high multi‑stream environments.
- Cellular option:Micro‑SIM slot and SMA antenna interface supporting GSM/WCDMA/LTE bands. Cellular WAN is a clear advantage for locations without reliable wired internet or where cellular backup is required.
- Storage:1 × SATA bay, up to 8 TB. For many small deployments a single 6–8 TB drive provides days or weeks of retention depending on camera resolutions and motion activity.
- USB & audio:Front and rear USB 2.0 ports (useful for manual backups or USB mouse), plus RCA audio in/out for local audio monitoring or two‑way audio setups with compatible cameras.
- Power supply:48 VDC, 1.875 A for the unit (PoE drawn separately). Power consumption ≤ 10 W (without HDD, PoE off).
- Operating range:−10 °C to 55 °C and 10%–90% RH, making it suitable for typical indoor and some sheltered outdoor enclosure environments.
Use cases and scenarios where the DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C) excels
The DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C) targets installations where compact size, simple PoE camera deployment and optional cellular connectivity are important.
Small shops and kiosks often need 2–4 cameras covering entrances, counters and aisles. The built‑in PoE ports simplify wiring and reduce the need for separate PoE switches. H.265+ compression helps extend retention on the single HDD bay while the HDMI 4K output supports an ultra‑clear manager display.
For kiosks, construction trailers, vending sites or pop‑up events where wired broadband may not be available, the 4G option provides an immediate WAN option or backup for remote monitoring and alerts. The small footprint means the unit can be mounted in a cabinet or equipment box with modest cooling.
Installers deploying many small sites (e.g., chain stores) can benefit from the unit’s plug‑and‑play PoE and cellular failover. It reduces on‑site networking complexity compared with separate PoE switches and modems.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating the DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C), consider how it stacks up against other compact NVR offerings and what trade‑offs matter for your installation.
- Integrated PoE vs separate PoE switch:The DS‑7604 integrates four PoE ports which simplifies installs. Competing NVRs without PoE require an external switch—adding cost, space and cable runs. Conversely, some competing 4‑channel NVRs include a higher PoE power budget (e.g., 60–100 W) or gigabit uplinks, which allow use of higher‑power cameras or smoother remote streaming.
- 4G capability:The optional cellular slot is a differentiator versus many budget NVRs. Some rivals offer dual‑WAN or built‑in LTE with higher speed modules—check band compatibility and carrier support before choosing a unit for a particular region.
- Storage & expansion:This model offers a single SATA bay up to 8 TB—sufficient for small sites. If you need multiple HDDs, RAID support, or longer retention at high resolution, consider larger NVRs with multiple bays.
- Network ports:The DS‑7604NI‑K1 uses a 10/100 Mbps LAN port. Some competitors offer gigabit Ethernet for higher throughput and future scalability, which can be important when multiple high‑resolution streams are uploaded to cloud storage or central monitoring.
Customer testimonials and real‑world feedback
Hikvision lists this SKU as discontinued, and there are limited centralized, verified public reviews specific to this exact model. Where direct testimonials are not available, installers and small business operators commonly report the following practical observations for similar compact PoE NVRs with cellular options:
- Positive recurring themes:Easy, fast installation because of integrated PoE; reliable local recording; useful 4G option for sites without wired internet or as a backup connection; clear 4K HDMI output for owner monitoring.
- Constructive criticisms:Limited PoE power budget can restrict camera choice—careful planning required for cameras with heaters, PTZs or high power draw. The 10/100 Mbps LAN port is a constraint for installations that later scale with multiple high‑bitrate cameras. Also, discontinued status means buyers should verify firmware and warranty availability.
Recommendation: When purchasing a discontinued model, ask your reseller for any known field notes or reference installations, confirm firmware downloads and reach out to the manufacturer or authorized partner about warranty and support options.
Conclusion: why this product can be a great choice
The DS-7604NI-K1/4P/4G(C) is a pragmatic solution for small, focused surveillance projects that prioritize simplicity, compactness and optional cellular connectivity. Its integrated PoE ports make installs fast and tidy; H.265+ support reduces storage needs; and 4K HDMI output provides crisp local monitoring. For retailers, kiosks, remote sites and temporary deployments this NVR offers a strong feature set in a small package.
That said, its limitations are important to weigh: the total PoE budget (≤ 50 W) restricts high‑power cameras, the single SATA bay caps onboard storage, and the 10/100 Mbps network interface is less future‑proof than gigabit alternatives. Finally, because the SKU is listed as discontinued, verify availability, firmware updates and warranty support before purchase.
In summary: choose the DS‑7604NI‑K1/4P/4G(C) when you need a compact, easy‑to‑deploy 4‑channel NVR with built‑in PoE and cellular capability for small sites. For projects requiring more PoE power, greater onboard storage or gigabit networking, evaluate larger or more recent models from Hikvision or rival manufacturers.
