As a homeowner or business owner, investing in a security camera system is a great way to protect your property and loved ones. Arlo cameras are a popular choice among consumers due to their wireless design, high-quality video, and user-friendly interface. However, to get the most out of your Arlo cameras, you need to set them up to record. In this article, we will walk you through the process of setting up your Arlo cameras to record, including the different recording modes, how to customize your recording settings, and troubleshooting tips.
Understanding Arlo’s Recording Modes
Before we dive into the setup process, it’s essential to understand the different recording modes available on your Arlo cameras. Arlo offers three primary recording modes:
Continuous Video Recording (CVR)
Continuous Video Recording (CVR) allows your Arlo cameras to record continuously, 24/7. This mode is ideal for businesses or homes that require constant monitoring. However, it’s essential to note that CVR requires a subscription to Arlo’s cloud storage service and a sufficient internet connection.
Motion Detection Recording
Motion Detection Recording is the most common recording mode used by Arlo camera owners. This mode allows your cameras to record only when motion is detected. This feature helps conserve storage space and reduces the number of unnecessary recordings.
Scheduled Recording
Scheduled Recording allows you to set specific times for your Arlo cameras to record. This mode is ideal for homes or businesses with predictable schedules.
Setting Up Your Arlo Cameras to Record
Now that you understand the different recording modes, let’s walk through the setup process:
Step 1: Connect Your Arlo Cameras to the Internet
To set up your Arlo cameras to record, you need to connect them to the internet. Follow these steps:
- Connect your Arlo base station to your router using an Ethernet cable.
- Power on your Arlo cameras and wait for them to sync with the base station.
- Download and install the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Launch the Arlo app and follow the in-app instructions to connect your cameras to the internet.
Step 2: Create an Arlo Account
To access your Arlo camera’s recording settings, you need to create an Arlo account. Follow these steps:
- Launch the Arlo app and tap on “Create Account.”
- Enter your email address, password, and other required information.
- Verify your email address by clicking on the link sent by Arlo.
Step 3: Customize Your Recording Settings
Once you’ve created an Arlo account, you can customize your recording settings. Follow these steps:
- Launch the Arlo app and log in to your account.
- Tap on the camera you want to customize.
- Tap on “Settings” and then “Recording Settings.”
- Select your desired recording mode (CVR, Motion Detection, or Scheduled Recording).
- Customize your recording settings, such as video quality, recording length, and alerts.
Customizing Your Recording Settings
Arlo allows you to customize your recording settings to suit your specific needs. Here are some features you can customize:
Video Quality
You can adjust the video quality of your recordings to balance between video clarity and storage space. Arlo offers three video quality settings:
- 1080p: High-definition video quality that provides clear video.
- 720p: Standard video quality that balances between video clarity and storage space.
- 360p: Low video quality that conserves storage space but may compromise video clarity.
Recording Length
You can adjust the recording length of your Arlo cameras to suit your specific needs. Arlo allows you to set recording lengths from 15 seconds to 2 minutes.
Alerts
You can customize your alert settings to notify you when motion is detected or when a recording is triggered. Arlo allows you to set alerts for specific cameras, motion detection, and recording events.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re experiencing issues with your Arlo cameras’ recording settings, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Check Your Internet Connection
Ensure that your Arlo cameras are connected to a stable internet connection. A poor internet connection can cause recording issues.
Check Your Camera’s Battery Life
Ensure that your Arlo cameras’ batteries are fully charged. Low battery life can cause recording issues.
Check Your Recording Settings
Ensure that your recording settings are correct. Check that your desired recording mode is selected, and your video quality and recording length are set correctly.
Conclusion
Setting up your Arlo cameras to record is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. By understanding the different recording modes and customizing your recording settings, you can get the most out of your Arlo cameras. Remember to troubleshoot any issues that may arise, and don’t hesitate to contact Arlo’s customer support if you need further assistance. With your Arlo cameras set up to record, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your property and loved ones are protected.
| Recording Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuous Video Recording (CVR) | Records continuously, 24/7 |
| Motion Detection Recording | Records only when motion is detected |
| Scheduled Recording | Records at specific times |
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set up your Arlo cameras to record and enjoy the benefits of a reliable security camera system.
What are the system requirements for setting up Arlo cameras to record?
To set up your Arlo cameras to record, you’ll need a few basic system requirements. First, you’ll need a stable internet connection with a minimum upload speed of 1 Mbps for each camera. You’ll also need a compatible router and a smartphone or tablet with the Arlo app installed. Additionally, you’ll need to create an Arlo account and have a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan.
It’s also important to note that the specific system requirements may vary depending on the type of Arlo camera you have. For example, some cameras may require a stronger internet connection or a specific type of router. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s website for specific requirements for your camera model.
How do I connect my Arlo camera to Wi-Fi?
Connecting your Arlo camera to Wi-Fi is a straightforward process. First, open the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet and select the camera you want to connect. Then, go to the camera’s settings and select “Wi-Fi Settings.” From there, you’ll be prompted to select your Wi-Fi network from a list of available networks. Enter your Wi-Fi password and wait for the camera to connect.
If you’re having trouble connecting your camera to Wi-Fi, try restarting your router and camera, and then try again. You can also try moving the camera closer to your router to improve the signal strength. If you’re still having trouble, you may want to contact Arlo support for further assistance.
How do I set up motion detection on my Arlo camera?
Setting up motion detection on your Arlo camera is easy. First, open the Arlo app and select the camera you want to set up. Then, go to the camera’s settings and select “Motion Detection.” From there, you can adjust the sensitivity of the motion detection and set up custom motion zones. You can also set up notifications to alert you when motion is detected.
You can also customize the motion detection settings to fit your specific needs. For example, you can set up the camera to only detect motion during certain times of the day or to ignore motion from certain areas of the camera’s view. This can help reduce false notifications and ensure that you only receive alerts when it matters.
How do I set up continuous recording on my Arlo camera?
Setting up continuous recording on your Arlo camera is a bit more involved than setting up motion detection. First, you’ll need to make sure you have a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan, which includes continuous recording. Then, open the Arlo app and select the camera you want to set up. Go to the camera’s settings and select “Recording Settings.” From there, you can select the “Continuous Recording” option and choose how long you want the camera to record.
Keep in mind that continuous recording can use up a lot of storage space, so you may need to upgrade your storage plan or use an external hard drive to store your recordings. You can also customize the recording settings to fit your specific needs, such as setting up the camera to only record during certain times of the day.
How do I view and manage my recorded footage?
Viewing and managing your recorded footage is easy with the Arlo app. First, open the app and select the camera you want to view footage from. Then, go to the “Library” tab and select the recording you want to view. From there, you can play back the recording, download it to your device, or delete it.
You can also use the Arlo app to manage your recorded footage, such as by creating custom folders or tags to organize your recordings. You can also set up the app to automatically delete old recordings after a certain period of time, which can help free up storage space.
Can I use my Arlo camera with other smart home devices?
Yes, you can use your Arlo camera with other smart home devices. Arlo cameras are compatible with a wide range of smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This means you can use voice commands to control your camera, receive notifications on your smart speaker, and even integrate your camera with other smart devices.
To integrate your Arlo camera with other smart home devices, you’ll need to set up the integration through the Arlo app. This typically involves linking your Arlo account to your smart home account and authorizing the integration. Once you’ve set up the integration, you can use voice commands or the smart home app to control your camera and receive notifications.
How do I troubleshoot common issues with my Arlo camera?
If you’re experiencing issues with your Arlo camera, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the problem. First, try restarting your camera and router to see if that resolves the issue. You can also try checking the camera’s settings to make sure everything is configured correctly. If you’re still having trouble, you can contact Arlo support for further assistance.
Arlo also offers a range of online resources to help you troubleshoot common issues, including a knowledge base and community forums. You can also try searching online for solutions to specific problems or issues you’re experiencing.