How to Fix a Merkury Camera That Is Missing Recordings
It can be incredibly alarming to discover that your Merkury security camera has missed recording a crucial event. Whether there are gaps in your timeline or no recordings at all, the issue usually stems from the storage settings, motion detection configuration, or the microSD card itself. This guide will help you resolve the problem.
### Step 1: Check the MicroSD Card
The microSD card is the most common point of failure for recording issues.
- Is a Card Installed? It may seem basic, but first, confirm that a microSD card is physically inserted into the camera.
- Card Compatibility: Ensure you are using a compatible card. Merkury cameras typically require a Class 10 microSD card. Using a slower, older card can result in failed or corrupted recordings. Check your camera's specifications for the maximum supported card size (e.g., 64GB, 128GB).
- Format the SD Card: The card may be corrupted or in the wrong format. It's essential to format the card using the Geeni app.
- Open the Geeni app and select your camera.
- Go to the camera's Settings (usually a pencil icon or '...').
- Find "Storage Settings" or "SD Card Settings".
- Tap the "Format" option and confirm. This will erase all data on the card and prepare it for use with the camera.
- Test the Card: If formatting doesn't help, the card itself might be faulty. Try the card in another device (like a computer) to see if it can be read and written to. If not, the card needs to be replaced.
## Step 2: Review Your Recording and Motion Settings in the Geeni App
Your camera's settings in the Geeni app determine when and how it records.
### Recording Mode
- Continuous vs. Event Recording: In the storage settings, you'll find two main modes.
- Continuous Recording: The camera records 24/7. This will use up storage space much faster.
- Event Recording: The camera only records when it detects motion. If you have gaps in your timeline, you are likely using this mode.
- Check the Schedule: Some models allow you to set a recording schedule. Ensure you haven't accidentally set it to only record at specific times of the day.
### Motion Detection Settings
If you're using 'Event Recording', then missed recordings are often due to the motion detection not being triggered.
- Motion Detection Enabled: Go to the "Motion Detection" settings in the app and make sure the main toggle is switched on.
- Sensitivity Level: If the sensitivity is set to "Low", the camera may not pick up distant or subtle movements. If you are missing events, try increasing the sensitivity to "Medium" or "High".
- Activity Zones: If you have configured an 'Activity Zone', the camera will only detect motion within that specific area. Make sure the zone you've drawn covers the entire area you want to monitor. An incorrectly drawn zone could be causing the camera to ignore events.
### Step 3: Check Wi-Fi Connection
A poor or intermittent Wi-Fi signal can also interrupt recordings. If the camera temporarily disconnects from your network, it cannot save the recording, which can lead to gaps.
- Check Signal Strength: In the Geeni app, go to the camera's "Device Info" section to check the Wi-Fi signal strength. If it's weak (e.g., less than 50%), consider moving your router closer to the camera or using a Wi-Fi extender.
By systematically checking the microSD card's health, optimising your in-app recording and motion settings, and ensuring a stable network connection, you can resolve the vast majority of issues with missed recordings on your Merkury camera.