Imou Camera Not Recording? Here's How to Fix It

How to Fix an Imou Camera That's Not Recording

An Imou security camera that fails to record is a critical issue, as it means moments of interest are being missed. Whether you are using a local microSD card or an Imou Protect cloud subscription, the problem usually stems from a handful of common configuration or hardware issues.

This guide will walk you through the essential troubleshooting steps to get your Imou camera recording again.

Where Does Imou Store Recordings?

First, understand the two destinations for your video footage:

1. Local Storage: A microSD card inserted directly into the camera.
2. Cloud Storage: Motion-activated clips are uploaded to Imou's servers, requiring an Imou Protect subscription.

You must troubleshoot the specific storage method you are using.

Troubleshooting for MicroSD Card Recording

This is the most common method. If your camera isn't saving video to the SD card, follow these steps.

1. Check the SD Card Status in the App

The Imou Life app can tell you if the camera recognises the card.

1. Open the Imou Life app and select your camera.
2. Tap the gear icon in the top right to go to Settings.
3. Scroll down and select Storage.
4. Look at Local Storage. It should display the SD card's capacity and usage.
   • If it says No SD Card or Card Status: Abnormal, the camera doesn't see or can't use the card.

2. Resolve SD Card Issues

If the status is abnormal, do the following:

• Re-insert the Card: Power off the camera, carefully eject the microSD card, and then re-insert it firmly until it clicks into place. Power the camera back on.
• Use a Compatible Card: Ensure you are using a reputable, high-quality microSD card (Class 10 or higher is recommended). Low-quality or counterfeit cards are a frequent cause of failure.
• Format the SD Card: Formatting erases the card and sets it up with the correct file system. This will delete all existing footage. In the app, go to Settings > Storage > Local Storage and tap Format. This is the most effective fix for many card-related problems.

3. Enable the Recording Schedule

You must tell the camera when to record.

1. Go to Settings.
2. Find and tap on Recording Schedule.
3. Make sure the toggle at the top is ON.
4. You can then choose between General (for continuous 24/7 recording) or Event (for recording only when motion is detected). Tap the grid to set the schedule for different days.

Troubleshooting for Imou Cloud Recording

If your clips aren't appearing in the cloud, check these things.

1. Verify Your Imou Protect Subscription

Cloud recording is a paid service. You must have an active subscription for it to work.

1. In the Imou Life app, go to the main 'Me' tab.
2. Select Imou Protect.
3. Check that you have an active plan and that it is correctly assigned to the camera in question. Ensure the subscription has not expired.

2. Check the Camera's Network Connection

The camera needs a stable internet connection to upload video clips to the cloud.

• Check the LED Light: A solid green light on the camera indicates a stable connection. A flashing green light means it's connecting, and a solid red light often points to a network issue.
• Reboot Your Router and Camera: A simple power cycle can often resolve temporary connectivity glitches. Unplug both your router and your Imou camera, wait 60 seconds, then plug the router back in first, followed by the camera.

3. Ensure Cloud Recording is Toggled On

Just like with an SD card, you need to enable the feature.

• Go to Settings > Storage.
• Under the Cloud Storage section, ensure the toggle switch is enabled.

By systematically checking your storage status, recording schedules, and subscription plans, you can quickly identify and fix the reason your Imou camera has stopped recording.