Typically "yes" they're different but in ever-changing times what used to always be IDE in a desktop is now changing to almost everything SATA.

Servers typically were always (Wide)SCSI...now they're moving to SAS or in cheaper-end servers or when large amounts of storage are needed without tons of extra cost, also SATA.

As Bobby mentioned, let us know what the drive's label has on it and we can help you out a lot easier.

Some of the PC based DVRs (PCs with a PCI recording card) limit the amount of storage the recording software will interface to with license keys. This kept you from getting a base model and adding storage much cheaper than what they would sell it to you for.


Jeff
Lead Field Engineer, MSCNS