Is Your Fermax Intercom Failing to Record?
A key security feature of your Fermax video intercom is its ability to record images or videos of visitors, especially when you're not home. If you've discovered that your system has stopped recording, it can be a significant concern. This comprehensive guide will help you diagnose and resolve the most common reasons why a Fermax system fails to record, getting this vital function working again.
These troubleshooting steps are applicable to a wide range of Fermax monitors, including the popular VEO, VEO-XS, and DUOX models.
### First Steps: Checking Storage and Basic Settings
The root of most recording problems is related to storage or simple configuration errors. Let's start with the most likely culprits.
- Check the SD Card: Many Fermax monitors use a microSD card to store recordings.
- Is it inserted correctly? Power down the monitor, carefully remove the SD card, and re-insert it, ensuring it clicks into place.
- Is it compatible? Ensure you are using a high-quality SD card of a supported capacity and class (e.g., Class 10).
- Is it full? If the card is full, the system cannot save new files.
- Format the Storage Medium: SD cards can become corrupted or may not be in the correct file format (usually FAT32). The most reliable method is to format the SD card using the Fermax monitor itself. Look for a "Format SD Card" or "Storage" option in the settings menu. This will erase all data but ensure the card is perfectly configured for the system.
- Enable the Recording Function: It's possible the recording feature has been accidentally disabled. Delve into your monitor's settings menu and look for options like "Picture Capture," "Video Recording," or "Auto-Capture." Ensure this feature is turned on.
## Diving Deeper: Configuration and System Checks
If the basics are in order, we need to look at how the system is configured to record.
### Reviewing Recording Modes
Fermax systems often have different recording triggers. You need to ensure the mode you want is active.
- Automatic Recording: This mode should automatically save a picture or video clip as soon as a visitor presses the call button on the outdoor panel. Check your settings to ensure this is enabled. If it's off, the system will only show a live view without saving anything.
- Manual Recording: While in a call or viewing the camera, there is usually an icon to manually trigger a recording. Test this function. If manual recording works but automatic doesn't, the problem is definitely with the automatic trigger setting.
- Answering Machine Mode: Some advanced models have a feature that records a video message if a call is not answered within a certain time. If this is the function that's failing, check its specific settings page.
### System and Firmware Issues
If settings appear correct, the issue might be with the system's software.
- Check for Firmware Updates: Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Visit the official Fermax website, find the support or downloads section for your specific monitor model, and check if a firmware update is available. A bug in the current firmware could be preventing recordings.
- Power Cycle the Entire System: A full system reboot can clear temporary software glitches. This involves more than just restarting the monitor. You should power down the entire system, including the monitor, outdoor panel, and the central power supply unit. Leave it off for a minute before powering it back on.
## When to Call a Professional
If you have meticulously followed all the steps above and your Fermax intercom is still not recording, there might be a more serious underlying issue.
- Hardware Fault: It's possible there is a fault with the monitor's internal components or the SD card reader.
- Wiring Problem: In rare cases, an issue with the wiring between the outdoor panel and the indoor monitor could disrupt the data signals required for recording, even if live video works.
- System Incompatibility: If parts of the system have been replaced or upgraded, an incompatibility between components could cause certain functions to fail.
In these situations, it is best to contact the original installer or a qualified Fermax service technician. They have the diagnostic tools and expertise to identify and repair complex hardware and system-level faults.