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Affected Roles: Administrator, Owner
Complexity: Medium to High
Software Version: VMAX IP Plus v1.3.7.0 or later
Last Edit: May 26, 2020
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When using a motion recording type for the VMAX IP Plus, the system will seek out and record camera video when motion is detected by the camera. Because motion recording is reliant upon the communication of motion detection between the camera and the NVR, it becomes a priority to determine where issues originate from when motion recording does not operate properly.
This article will outline some things to check on the VMAX IP Plus and for the camera when encountering motion recording problems.
When encountering motion detection issues with the VMAX IP Plus, here are some simple things that you can try:
Power-Cycling
Turn the system power off, then back on. If the VMAX IP Plus does not begin to detect motion and record video, further troubleshooting is necessary.
Check Firmware Version
From the Setup Menu, click on System, then select Information.
To learn more about firmware management, please read Upgrading Firmware For A VMAX IP Plus.
Check Recording Settings
When using the VMAX IP Plus, recording icons will appear at the top of each recording channel. You may check your system for these symbols to determine if the NVR is assigned to use a motion recording type.
To check the recording settings:
Check Motion Area
When using a motion recording mode, make sure that the Motion Area is properly mapped so that the VMAX IP Plus can seek out movement in a specified area.
To set the Motion Area:
Click on specific squares, click-and-drag, or click Select All from the control panel to highlight the zones that you want the system to watch for motion. If an area is not highlighted, motion detection is disabled for that zone.
Additionally, try increasing the Sensitivity setting of the Motion Area.
Click the Save button once you have finished mapping the Motion Area.
By default, Digital Watchdog’s IP cameras have motion detection enabled. This setting can typically be found in the Alarms or Alarm Configuration menu of the camera (varies by model). Connect with the camera’s web client to check these settings.
Note: If the camera is connected directly to the integrated PoE switch of the VMAX IP Plus, please read Connecting With Cameras Through Virtual Ports to connect with the camera.
Using ONVIF Device Manager
It is recommended to download and install ONVIF Device Manager (ODM) on a computer connected to the same network as the cameras.
This application is compatible with Windows OS only, but is a great tool for troubleshooting cameras.
To check camera motion issues with ODM:
Enter the User ID and Password of the camera’s ONVIF profile, then click the Log In button.
Select Video Encoder Configuration and locate the Resolution of the secondary stream.
Make sure that the resolution of the camera’s secondary stream is no greater than 720x576. If needed, this setting can be adjusted through the camera’s web client.
Note: If the resolution of the camera’s secondary stream is 720 x 576 (or lower) and the camera’s motion detection is enabled, it is recommended to update the camera with its latest firmware version, then to default the camera. If motion detection issues persist, please contact Digital Watchdog Technical Support for further assistance.