Dahua DHI-NVR5232-16P-EI2 - 32 Channel 16-PoE AI Network Video Recorder

Dahua DHI-NVR5232-16P-EI2 — 32-Channel 5 Series Network Video Recorder

The DHI-NVR5232-16P-EI2 is a 32-channel network video recorder from Dahua's 5 Series, built with 16 integrated PoE ports (ports 1-8 add ePoE for longer cable runs) so most IP camera installs need no separate switch. It takes IP cameras up to 32MP, outputs to an 8K HDMI or VGA monitor, and runs on-recorder AI — including face detection & recognition, SMD Plus, perimeter protection and video metadata — to spot people, vehicles and events without needing AI-enabled cameras on every channel.

Who is it for?

An NVR (Network Video Recorder) receives, records and manages footage from networked IP cameras, giving you central storage, remote viewing and event search from one box. With 32 channels and 16 built-in PoE ports, this model suits mid-to-large commercial sites — warehouses, retail units, multi-site offices or car parks — where you need more cameras than a basic 8 or 16-channel NVR can handle, and want most of them powered directly from the recorder rather than a separate PoE switch.

Key specification

What you will need

• Surveillance-grade hard drives (e.g. WD Purple or Seagate SkyHawk) rated for 24/7 recording — this recorder takes 2 drives, up to 26TB each
• Cat5e/Cat6 cabling to each PoE camera — the 16 built-in ports cover most installs without an extra PoE switch, but add one if you're running more than 16 cameras
• An HDMI or VGA monitor for initial setup and local menu access

Frequently asked questions

How many cameras can I connect to the DHI-NVR5232-16P-EI2?

Up to 32 IP cameras in total. 16 of them can be powered directly from the recorder's built-in PoE ports; any additional cameras connect via a network switch with their own power supply.

Do I need special AI cameras to use the face recognition and analytics features?

No. This NVR runs face detection & recognition, SMD Plus, perimeter protection and video metadata analysis on the recorder itself for a set number of channels, so standard IP cameras still get AI features. Pairing it with Dahua AI cameras extends analytics performance across more channels.

Is there a monthly fee for remote viewing?

No. Remote viewing through Dahua's mobile app and browser access are included with the recorder — there's no subscription required for local recording, playback or remote monitoring.

Will it work with cameras from other brands?

Yes. It supports ONVIF (Profile S, T, G and M) along with direct integration for Panasonic, Sony, Axis, Arecont, Pelco, Canon and Hanwha cameras, so it isn't limited to Dahua-only installs.

The DHI-NVR5232-16P-EI2 is part of our full Dahua range, alongside our wider selection of all CCTV equipment. For stock, compatibility or bulk pricing questions, contact us on 01902 902251, or visit our Wolverhampton trade counter to see it in person.