Troubleshooting: Aiphone No Continuous Recording
Aiphone video intercom systems provide robust security by allowing you to see and speak with visitors, but their full potential is realised when paired with reliable video recording. While event-based recording is useful, many users require continuous 24/7 recording for a complete security overview. If you've found that your Aiphone system is not recording continuously, the issue typically lies in the system's configuration, storage media, or network setup.
This guide will walk you through the essential troubleshooting steps to diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your Aiphone intercom is capturing footage around the clock.
Common Reasons for Recording Failure
Before diving into the settings, it's helpful to understand what might be going wrong. Here are the most common culprits:
- Incorrect Recording Mode: The system is likely set to record on 'event' (like a button press) instead of 'continuous'.
- SD Card Issues: The microSD card may be full, corrupted, incompatible, or has simply failed from constant use.
- NVR/NAS Connection Failure: If you record to a network location, the connection between the Aiphone master station and the storage device may be lost.
- Misconfigured Schedule: The recording schedule may have been set up incorrectly, leaving gaps where no recording is active.
- Outdated Firmware: Bugs in the system's firmware could be interfering with the recording function.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable 24/7 Recording
Follow these steps to ensure your system is configured correctly for continuous recording. The exact menu names may vary slightly depending on your Aiphone model (e.g., IX Series, JP Series).
1. Check the Recording Settings
This is the most critical step. You will need to access your system's configuration, usually via a PC running Aiphone's programming software (like IX Support Tool) or through the master station's web interface.
- Navigate to the Recording and Storage or a similarly named section.
- Look for a setting called Recording Mode or Schedule Type.
- You will likely see options such as "Event," "Continuous," or "Schedule."
- To enable 24/7 recording, you must select "Continuous". Alternatively, if you use the "Schedule" option, ensure the entire schedule grid is filled in for continuous recording.
- Save and upload the new settings to your master station and door station. This is a crucial final step.
2. Verify the Health of Your Storage Media
Whether you use a local microSD card or a network drive, its health is paramount.
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For MicroSD Card Users:
- Check Status: In the system settings, find the storage status page. It should show the card's capacity, remaining space, and status (e.g., "Normal" or "Error").
- Enable Overwrite: Ensure that the "Overwrite" or "Circular Recording" option is turned on. This allows the system to automatically delete the oldest footage when the card is full, preventing recording from stopping.
- Format the Card: If you suspect a problem, the best solution is to reformat the microSD card. Always use the Aiphone system's built-in format function. This ensures the card's file system is perfectly optimised for the device.
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For NVR/NAS Users:
- Check Network Path: Verify that the network path (IP address and folder destination) to your NVR or NAS is correctly entered in the Aiphone settings.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the username and password for the network share are correct.
- Test Connectivity: Confirm that the Aiphone master station can successfully ping the NVR/NAS on the network.
3. Update System Firmware
Firmware updates can resolve underlying bugs that cause recording failures.
- Visit the official Aiphone website and find the support section for your specific product series.
- Download the latest firmware for all your system components (master stations, door stations).
- Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the updates. Do not interrupt the power during a firmware update.
By systematically checking your settings, verifying your storage, and updating your firmware, you can resolve most continuous recording issues and restore full functionality to your Aiphone security system.