Arlo No Continuous Recording? Understanding and Fixing CVR
While Arlo cameras are famous for their battery-powered, motion-activated recording, many users want the peace of mind that comes with continuous 24/7 video recording (CVR). If you've been trying to set up CVR on your Arlo system but can't find the option or get it to work, it's likely due to a misunderstanding of the specific requirements for this premium feature.
This guide will clarify why you may not have the continuous recording option and provide troubleshooting steps for when CVR isn't working correctly.
## Understanding Arlo's CVR Requirements
Unlike standard motion recording, CVR is a specific feature with strict requirements. If you are missing any one of these, the option for 24/7 recording will not be available.
- Eligible Camera Model: Not all Arlo cameras support CVR. It is typically available on higher-end, powered models like the Arlo Ultra, Pro 4, Pro 3, and Pro 2. The original Arlo Wire-Free and some other models do not have this capability.
- Mains Power Connection: This is the most common point of confusion. CVR does not work on battery power. The camera must be plugged into a wall outlet using a compatible Arlo indoor or outdoor power adapter. The constant video processing and streaming would deplete a battery in just a few hours.
- Active CVR Subscription Plan: You must have a specific CVR membership plan for the camera you want to use it on. This is an add-on to the standard Arlo Secure plans. A single CVR plan covers a single camera.
## Symptoms of CVR Issues
If you're having trouble with CVR, you'll likely encounter one of these scenarios.
- The CVR option is missing: You go into the camera's settings, but there is no toggle or menu for enabling 24/7 recording.
- Timeline is not available: You have a CVR plan, but when you go to the Library in the Arlo app, you can only see motion-detected event clips, not the continuous timeline.
- Gaps in the CVR timeline: You can view the 24/7 timeline, but there are greyed-out sections or gaps, indicating periods where the camera stopped recording.
- "Camera is offline" message: The camera frequently disconnects, interrupting the continuous recording stream.
## How to Troubleshoot and Enable Arlo CVR
Follow these steps to ensure you meet all the requirements and to fix common issues.
### 1. Verify Camera Model and Power Source
First, confirm the two most basic physical requirements.
- Check Your Model: Identify your camera model (e.g., Arlo Pro 4, Ultra 2) and check on the official Arlo website to confirm it is CVR-compatible.
- Confirm Power Connection: Ensure the camera is connected to a working wall outlet with a compatible Arlo power cable. Look for the battery icon in the Arlo app; it should have a "charging" bolt symbol inside it, indicating it is receiving mains power. If it only shows a battery percentage without the bolt, it is running on battery power and CVR will not work.
### 2. Check Your Arlo Subscription Plan
You need to have the correct plan active on your account and applied to the right camera.
- Log In to the Website: The easiest way to manage subscriptions is by logging into your account at my.arlo.com on a web browser.
- Navigate to Subscription: Go to Settings > Subscription.
- Verify Your Plan: You should see your Arlo Secure plan and, listed separately, a "CVR" plan for 14 or 30 days of recording.
- Manage CVR Cameras: Ensure that the specific camera you want to use for CVR is selected and assigned to your active CVR plan. If you have multiple cameras but only one CVR plan, you must choose which camera will use it.
### 3. Troubleshoot Connectivity Issues
If you have all the requirements but the CVR timeline has gaps, the issue is likely your internet connection. CVR requires a stable and reasonably fast internet upload speed.
- Run a Speed Test: From a device connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Arlo system, run an internet speed test. Arlo recommends a minimum of 2 Mbps of upload speed per camera that is streaming CVR.
- Check Wi-Fi Signal: In the Arlo app, go to the camera's settings and check its Wi-Fi signal strength. A weak signal will cause the CVR stream to drop. You may need to move your camera closer to your router or Arlo SmartHub.
- Reboot Your System: A simple reboot can often fix connectivity glitches. Unplug your Arlo SmartHub/Base Station and your router from power for 30 seconds, then plug them back in. Also, restart the camera itself by removing and reinserting the power cable.
By ensuring you have the correct camera, a constant power supply, and the right subscription plan, you can unlock the powerful 24/7 recording capabilities of your Arlo system.