In many cases, picture quality is improved with DVRs, their images can be handled and stored for long periods of time without image degradation, and tape breakage is a thing of the past. As one manufacturer compared it, the effect of DVR usage is similar to the improvement from typewriter to word processor.
Video events now can be sent to and viewed from anywhere in the world and even accessed wirelessly. DVR technology allows instant access to events by date, location and sometimes even by the type of incident or person involved. A DVD or CD of an event can be downloaded and handed to authorities in a matter of minutes with DVRs.