Troubleshooting Annke's Vehicle Detection Feature
One of the most powerful features of modern Annke security cameras is the intelligent ability to distinguish between general motion and the specific presence of a vehicle. This AI-driven vehicle detection is designed to provide you with more meaningful alerts while dramatically reducing the number of false alarms caused by moving trees, shadows, or animals.
However, if you find that your camera is failing to detect cars, or is still sending you too many irrelevant notifications, some simple configuration adjustments are usually all that's needed. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fine-tune your Annke camera's settings for optimal vehicle detection performance.
Common Reasons for Vehicle Detection Failure
When vehicle detection isn't working as expected, it's typically due to one of a few common issues:
- Outdated Firmware: The detection algorithms are constantly being improved. If your firmware is out of date, you may be missing out on crucial performance enhancements.
- Incorrect Configuration: The feature may not be enabled correctly, or the detection zone might be improperly defined.
- Poor Camera Placement: The camera's angle of view, height, and lighting conditions can all have a significant impact on the algorithm's accuracy.
- Sensitivity Levels: The detection sensitivity might be set too low (missing events) or too high (causing false alarms).
A Step-by-Step Guide to Optimising Vehicle Detection
Follow these steps to ensure your camera is perfectly configured to spot vehicles.
1. Update to the Latest Firmware
This should always be your first step. Check the Annke support website for the latest firmware version for your specific camera or NVR model. Updates often contain critical improvements to the AI detection features. Apply the update and test the system again before proceeding.
2. Configure the Smart Event Settings Correctly
You need to tell the camera exactly where to look and what to look for.
- Log into your camera or NVR's web interface or access the settings via the Annke app.
- Navigate to the Event or Smart Event section.
- Select Vehicle Detection or a similar option (sometimes called VCA or IVS).
- Enable the feature. There will be a checkbox to turn it on.
- Draw the Detection Area: You will see a view from your camera. Use the drawing tools to create a box or lines that define the specific area where you want vehicles to be detected (e.g., your driveway, a parking space). Be precise. Do not include a busy street or a neighbour's property in the zone.
- Set the Schedule: Ensure the detection is scheduled to be active during the times you need it (usually 24/7).
3. Adjust Detection Sensitivity
The sensitivity setting controls how significant a change needs to be to trigger an event.
- If your camera is missing actual vehicles, try increasing the sensitivity level slightly.
- If you are getting false alarms from shadows or other objects, decrease the sensitivity level.
- Make small adjustments one at a time and test the results before making further changes.
4. Optimise Camera Placement and View
The algorithm works best when it has a clear, unobstructed view.
- Angle: Avoid pointing the camera straight down or directly at the horizon. An angled view from a height of 3-5 metres is often ideal.
- Lighting: Ensure the area is adequately lit at night. While Annke's night vision is excellent, the AI works best when it has a clear image. Consider adding an external infrared illuminator or motion-activated light if needed.
- Obstructions: Make sure there are no tree branches, flags, or other objects that could blow in front of the camera's lens and obscure the view of the detection zone.
By systematically checking your firmware, refining your detection zones, and optimising your camera's physical placement, you can solve most vehicle detection problems and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with accurate, intelligent security alerts.