Are you having trouble getting your Arlo camera to record? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many users face issues with their Arlo cameras not recording, and it can be frustrating, especially if you’re relying on them for home security. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to get your Arlo camera to record, covering everything from basic setup to advanced troubleshooting.
Basic Setup and Requirements
Before we dive into the troubleshooting process, let’s make sure you have the basic setup and requirements in place.
Power and Connectivity
First and foremost, ensure that your Arlo camera is properly powered and connected to your Wi-Fi network. Make sure the camera is turned on and the battery is charged (if it’s a wireless model). Also, check that your Wi-Fi network is stable and working correctly.
Arlo Camera Placement
The placement of your Arlo camera can also affect its recording capabilities. Ensure that the camera is placed in a location with a clear view of the area you want to monitor, and that it’s not obstructed by any objects or furniture.
Arlo App and Account Setup
The Arlo app is the central hub for controlling and monitoring your Arlo cameras. To get your camera to record, you need to have the app set up and connected to your camera.
Downloading and Installing the Arlo App
If you haven’t already, download and install the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Creating an Arlo Account
Once you’ve installed the app, create an Arlo account by following the in-app prompts. You’ll need to provide some basic information, such as your name and email address.
Connecting Your Arlo Camera to the App
After creating your account, connect your Arlo camera to the app by following these steps:
- Open the Arlo app and tap on the “Add Device” button.
- Select the type of camera you have (e.g., Arlo Pro, Arlo Pro 2, etc.).
- Follow the in-app instructions to connect your camera to your Wi-Fi network.
- Once connected, the camera will be added to your Arlo account.
Recording Settings and Modes
Now that your camera is set up and connected to the app, let’s explore the recording settings and modes.
Recording Modes
Arlo cameras have several recording modes, including:
- Continuous Recording: Records video continuously, 24/7.
- Motion Detection: Records video only when motion is detected.
- Scheduled Recording: Records video at specific times of the day or week.
Customizing Recording Settings
You can customize your recording settings by going to the Arlo app and selecting the camera you want to modify. From there, you can adjust the recording mode, video quality, and other settings to suit your needs.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Arlo camera is still not recording, it’s time to troubleshoot some common issues.
Camera Not Connecting to Wi-Fi
If your camera is not connecting to your Wi-Fi network, try the following:
- Restart your router and camera.
- Check your Wi-Fi network password and ensure it’s correct.
- Move the camera closer to your router to improve the signal strength.
Camera Not Recording Due to Low Battery
If your wireless Arlo camera is not recording due to low battery, try the following:
- Charge the battery for at least 2 hours.
- Check the battery level in the Arlo app and ensure it’s not set to “Low Power Mode.”
Camera Not Recording Due to Storage Issues
If your Arlo camera is not recording due to storage issues, try the following:
- Check your cloud storage subscription and ensure it’s active.
- Delete some of your recorded videos to free up storage space.
- Consider upgrading your cloud storage plan for more storage space.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If you’ve tried the above troubleshooting steps and your Arlo camera is still not recording, it’s time to dive deeper.
Checking for Firmware Updates
Ensure that your Arlo camera is running the latest firmware. You can check for updates in the Arlo app by going to the camera settings and selecting “Firmware Update.”
Resetting Your Arlo Camera
If all else fails, you can try resetting your Arlo camera to its factory settings. This will erase all your settings and recordings, so be sure to back up your data before doing so.
Conclusion
Getting your Arlo camera to record can be a frustrating experience, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the issue. Remember to check your basic setup and requirements, Arlo app and account setup, recording settings and modes, and troubleshoot common issues before diving into advanced troubleshooting. If you’re still having issues, consider reaching out to Arlo support for further assistance.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to get your Arlo camera recording in no time, providing you with peace of mind and a secure home.
What is the Arlo camera and how does it work?
The Arlo camera is a wireless, battery-powered security camera that can be placed indoors or outdoors to monitor your home or business. It works by connecting to your Wi-Fi network and sending video feed to your smartphone or tablet through the Arlo app. The camera is equipped with motion detection, night vision, and weather resistance, making it a reliable and versatile security solution.
To get started with your Arlo camera, simply charge the battery, download the Arlo app, and follow the in-app instructions to connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network. Once connected, you can place the camera in the desired location and start monitoring your space remotely.
Why is my Arlo camera not recording?
If your Arlo camera is not recording, there could be several reasons for this issue. First, check if the camera is properly connected to your Wi-Fi network. Ensure that the Wi-Fi signal is strong and stable, and restart the camera if necessary. Also, check the camera’s battery level, as a low battery can prevent recording.
Another possible reason for the camera not recording is that the motion detection feature is not enabled or is set too low. Check the Arlo app to ensure that motion detection is turned on and adjust the sensitivity settings as needed. Additionally, check if the camera’s storage is full, as this can also prevent recording. Consider upgrading your storage plan or deleting old recordings to free up space.
How do I set up motion detection on my Arlo camera?
To set up motion detection on your Arlo camera, open the Arlo app and navigate to the camera’s settings. Look for the “Motion Detection” option and toggle it on. You can then adjust the sensitivity settings to customize the detection range. You can also set up custom motion zones to focus on specific areas of the camera’s view.
Once motion detection is enabled, the camera will start recording when it detects movement within the set range. You can also set up notifications to alert you when motion is detected, so you can stay informed and take action if necessary. Additionally, you can schedule motion detection to turn on and off at specific times of the day or night.
Can I record continuously with my Arlo camera?
Yes, you can record continuously with your Arlo camera, but this feature requires a subscription to the Arlo Smart plan. With this plan, you can enable continuous video recording (CVR) on your camera, which allows it to record 24/7. This feature is useful for capturing important events or monitoring high-traffic areas.
To enable CVR, open the Arlo app and navigate to the camera’s settings. Look for the “Continuous Video Recording” option and toggle it on. Note that CVR requires a stable internet connection and sufficient storage space. You may need to upgrade your storage plan or consider using an external storage device to accommodate the increased recording demands.
How do I access my Arlo camera’s recorded footage?
To access your Arlo camera’s recorded footage, open the Arlo app and navigate to the “Library” section. Here, you can view a list of all recorded videos, sorted by date and time. You can also filter the recordings by camera, motion detection, or other criteria.
To play back a recording, simply select the video from the list and press play. You can also download the recording to your device or share it with others via email or social media. Additionally, you can delete old recordings to free up storage space or upgrade your storage plan to keep more footage.
Can I use my Arlo camera with other smart home devices?
Yes, your Arlo camera can be integrated with other smart home devices, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This allows you to control your camera and access its features using voice commands. For example, you can ask Alexa to show you the live feed from your Arlo camera or arm/disarm the motion detection feature.
To integrate your Arlo camera with other smart home devices, open the Arlo app and navigate to the “Smart Home” section. Here, you can connect your camera to compatible devices and services, such as IFTTT or Samsung SmartThings. This allows you to create custom automation scenarios and enhance your smart home experience.
How do I troubleshoot common issues with my Arlo camera?
If you’re experiencing issues with your Arlo camera, such as poor video quality or connectivity problems, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, restart the camera and check the Wi-Fi signal strength. Ensure that the camera is properly connected to your network and that the firmware is up to date.
If the issue persists, try resetting the camera to its factory settings or contacting Arlo support for further assistance. You can also check the Arlo community forums for solutions to common issues or consult the user manual for troubleshooting guides. Additionally, consider upgrading your camera’s firmware or software to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.