A Guide to Aiphone Motion Detection: Setup and Troubleshooting
Aiphone video intercoms are powerful security tools, and one of their key features is the ability to detect motion, which can be used to trigger recording, alerts, or other automated actions. However, if not configured correctly, this feature can either fail to detect important events or create a nuisance with constant false alarms.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how Aiphone motion detection works and how to troubleshoot common problems to ensure your system is performing optimally.
How Motion Detection Works on Aiphone Systems
Most Aiphone systems with this feature use video motion detection (VMD). This technology works by analysing frames from the video feed and identifying changes in pixels. When a significant enough change occurs within a designated area, the system registers this as a motion event.
It's important to understand this because it means the system can be triggered by any significant visual change, not just people. This includes:
- Headlights from a passing car.
- Rapidly changing shadows as the sun comes out.
- Trees or large bushes swaying in the wind.
- Heavy rain or snow.
Proper configuration is essential to filter out this environmental "noise".
Troubleshooting Common Motion Detection Problems
Whether you're getting no alerts or too many, the solution is usually found in the system's programming.
Problem: Motion Detection Isn't Working at All
If the system is failing to detect a person walking clearly in front of the camera, follow these steps.
- Check if the Feature is Enabled: First, you must confirm that motion detection is activated in the system's programming. This is typically done via the master station's settings menu or through a web browser interface for IP-based systems like the IX Series.
- Verify the Detection Area: The most common cause of failure is an incorrectly configured detection area (or "zone"). You must define the specific part of the camera's image where the system should look for motion. If no area is defined, or if it's defined over a static object like a wall, it will never trigger. Ensure you have drawn a zone over the path, doorway, or area you wish to monitor.
- Increase the Sensitivity Level: The sensitivity setting determines how much change is needed to trigger an event. If the sensitivity is set too low, it may be ignoring all but the most dramatic movements. Try increasing the sensitivity level incrementally and testing after each change.
- Check for Obstructions: Ensure there are no physical obstructions, like a new plant or decoration, that are blocking the camera's view of the detection area.
Problem: Too Many False Alarms
If you're being bombarded with alerts from irrelevant events, you need to fine-tune the settings.
- Lower the Sensitivity Level: This is the first and most effective step. If your sensitivity is at a high setting, the system will react to every little change. Reduce the sensitivity to a medium or low level.
- Refine the Detection Area: This is critically important. Adjust your motion detection zone to be as precise as possible. Exclude any areas that cause false triggers. For example, aim the zone at your walkway but exclude the public street beyond it and the large tree that sways in the wind. The more focused your zone, the fewer false alarms you will have.
- Consider Camera Placement: If the camera is aimed directly at a source of constant motion (like a busy road), and you cannot exclude it with a detection zone, you may need to physically adjust the camera's angle slightly to minimise the problematic area in its field of view.
By carefully balancing the sensitivity level and the precision of your detection area, you can configure your Aiphone system to provide accurate and meaningful motion alerts, enhancing the security of your premises.