Is Your Abode System Missing Important Recordings?
Your Abode security system is designed to provide a comprehensive view of your home's safety, and video recordings are a crucial part of that. When you find that your camera has failed to capture an important event, it can be unsettling. Whether it's a motion event that didn't trigger a recording or a gap in your timeline, this issue needs to be addressed promptly. This guide will help you troubleshoot the common reasons for missed recordings on Abode cameras and get your system working reliably.
Understanding Abode's Recording Logic
Unlike some systems, Abode's recording functionality is highly customisable and often tied to two key elements: System Modes and CUE Automations.
- System Modes (Standby, Home, Away): You can configure your cameras to behave differently depending on the system's mode. For instance, you might want a camera to record all motion when you're 'Away', but not when you're 'Home'. An incorrect setting here is a common cause of missed recordings.
- CUE Automations: The CUE (Custom Engine) automation platform is the brain of your system. For a camera to record, it typically needs a CUE automation that tells it to do so. A default automation is usually created, but it can be accidentally disabled or modified.
- Subscription Plan: Video recording and storage are premium features. If you are on the free 'Basic' plan or your subscription has expired, your cameras will not record clips.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Missed Recordings
Let's systematically check the settings to find the root cause of the problem.
1. Verify Your Abode Subscription Plan
First, ensure your account is set up for video recording.
- Log in to your Abode account on the web portal or app.
- Navigate to your account or billing section.
- Confirm that you have an active Standard Plan or Pro Plan. If you do not, you will need to subscribe to enable video storage.
2. Check Your CUE Automations
This is the most likely place to find and fix the issue.
- In the Abode app, tap on the 'CUE' tab.
- Look for automations related to your camera. You should see a default automation that looks something like this: "IF Motion is Detected by [Camera Name] THEN Record a 15-second video clip".
- Ensure this automation is enabled. If it's turned off, the camera will not record.
- Tap on the automation to edit it. Check that it is configured to run in the correct system modes (e.g., you may want it to run in 'Home' and 'Away' modes).
3. Review Device Settings and System Modes
Ensure the camera itself is configured correctly.
- Enable Motion Detection: Go to the 'Devices' tab, select your camera, and go to its settings. Make sure that 'Motion Detection' is toggled on.
- Check Mode-Specific Settings: Some Abode cameras have specific settings for what they do in each mode. For example, in the camera's settings, you may be able to specify if it captures clips in 'Away' mode. Ensure these are configured to your expectations.
4. Test the System
After you've confirmed your settings, it's time to test.
- Set your system to the desired mode (e.g., 'Away').
- Walk in front of the camera to create a motion event.
- Wait a minute or two, then check the 'Timeline' tab in the Abode app to see if a new video clip has appeared.
By methodically checking your subscription, CUE automations, and device settings, you can resolve the vast majority of issues causing missed recordings on your Abode system and ensure it's capturing the events that matter.