Lowest power consumption Windows machine for off-grid CCTV recording

Which used Thinkpad models should I look into?

I looked at undervolting regular tower PC, it’s still 60 to 80 watts idle according to youtube videos i’ve seen → too much.

If i can get a <$200 laptop that is 20 Watts idle, i won’t need to research and learn Raspberry Pi.

The whole system is computer, router, PoE ethernet switch, two 1.3 MP network cameras from Hikvision.

I know you specifically said windows machine but a Synology DS118 is $180 and is a 12v low powered NVR

Thanks for the suggestion. This is just going in my truck for when i’m traveling long-distance and have to sleep. I already have a 120V AC power solution for all my tools.

I’m looking at Thinkpads and most of them run around 7 watts idle, and already include a screen, so i guess it doesn’t matter which one i pick.

My best idea so far is the one with the i5-4300U CPU for under $100 but i’m very uninformed about laptops. I only know TN screens use less power than IPS.

The other reason I suggest the Synology is that frankly most NVR solutions are garbage. Idk what kind of experience you have with them but I have used Blue Iris, Amcrest, Cloud, Synology, and UniFi. UniFi and Synology are the only ones that are worth a damn imo. All the other ones are substandard imo. I have installed the DS118 in RV’s and campers successfully. You can wire it directly into the 12v harness so that is can run even when the engine is off if you use a 12v powered poe switch.

Regardless of the direction you go I would highly suggest using a SSD.

Good info. I just open the camera in a web browser and hit record. Very basic because I learned 5 years ago Hikvision makes good value hardware but the software integration is bad if not using other special Hikvision recording equipment.

I went with the i5-4300U Thinkpad, it looks like a very good value since it’s liquidated by businesses and sold below cost without regard for profit.

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Wait, so are you recording directly to the cameras SD card and then just reviewing it with the laptop?

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