There are two benefits I can think of, first its easier to wire up..having to homerun 4 cables vs 1. Second, this method allows you to record the cameras to more than one storage device, two NVR's, nvr and pc etc...Also, if the Swann nvr does not support virtual host, this method makes it easier to connect directly to the cams..
I didn't think about the mult storage devices - that makes sense. The easier to wire up, i don't know that i get though. You are still running wires to the switch, then a single from the switch to the NVR so you are still running at least one wire all the way back to the d-mark... Thus if you are pulling one cable or 4 your still going from point a to b. You already pulled the 4 to the switch, now your pulling the single from the switch, thus same run/work imo at least and you've added another potential failure point into the system that most likely isn't needed (unless you are connecting to melt nvr's/storage devices.)
Good question. (Option 1) I want to place the NVR in the basement next to my router. I have full access to my attic where I can easily run the cables from each camera to a central point. Also, I have one free cable running from the basement to the attic, so I can easily connect a switch in the attic to this cable which will run to the NVR in the basement. So, running the camera cables to the switch is easy as is connecting the switch to the NVR. Running three new Cat5e cables from the attic to the basement would be very difficult.
I have mounted a small shelf in the top corner of peoples closet before on the second floor. A shelf that is about 6 inches down from the ceiling (still providing room for air movement) and around 1' deep. The NVR sits up the shelf out of sight and the cables drop through the closet wall. Keeps it away from all other technology devices that may be stolen in a home break in - why i'm not a fan of putting your recording device near your TV or Computer/Office. Sure no place is technically "safe" during a break in but i would like to believe that the top ceiling in a kids room closet or bathroom closet is safer then with other technology devices. Also its typically easy to access a power cable to run an outlet to that location as well since attics normally have all kinds of electrical runs.
Yes, this is another option (Option 3). I do have a closet with a shelf up high that could work, but I will need to run power which is not that easy. I might try this set up for a while running extensions to see how it works out before fishing romex.
I'm wondering if the cameras and the router and PoE ports are on the same / compatible IP address range.
No - if that logic worked people would buy 4channel NVRs saving a a few hundred bucks and connect 16 cameras
