Sricam Pixelated Video? Here's How to Improve Image Quality
You've installed your Sricam camera to keep an eye on your property, but when you check the live feed, the image is blocky, blurry, and pixelated. A security camera isn't much use if you can't make out any details. Fortunately, poor video quality can usually be fixed by checking a few key areas.
This guide will help you diagnose the cause of your pixelated video and take the right steps to get a crystal-clear image.
### 1. Check the Live View Quality Setting
This is the quickest and easiest thing to check. The Sricam app allows you to choose the quality of the video stream to balance clarity and data usage. It's possible you are simply viewing the stream in low resolution.
- What to do: Open the live view for your camera in the Sricam app. On the screen, look for a button that says "SD" or "HD".
- SD: Standard Definition. This is a lower quality stream that uses less data and works better on slow connections.
- HD: High Definition. This is the highest quality stream, providing the clearest and sharpest image.
- Make sure you have tapped the button so that "HD" is selected. You should see an immediate improvement in the image quality.
### 2. The Main Culprit: Weak Wi-Fi Signal
If you've selected "HD" and the image is still poor, the problem is almost certainly your Wi-Fi connection.
- Why it happens: When the camera's Wi-Fi signal is weak, it can't send all the data needed for a full HD picture. To prevent the video from stopping completely, the camera automatically compresses the video heavily. This compression is what causes the blocky, pixelated look.
- How to check: In your app or router's device list, look for the signal strength of the camera. If it's low (e.g., one or two bars), you've found your problem.
- How to fix it:
- Move Your Router: If possible, move your Wi-Fi router to a more central location in your house, closer to the camera.
- Remove Obstructions: Wi-Fi signals are weakened by thick walls (especially brick or concrete), large metal appliances, and even water (like a large aquarium). Try to ensure a clear line of sight between the router and the camera.
- Install a Wi-Fi Extender: If you can't move your router, a Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh Wi-Fi system is the most effective solution. Place the extender halfway between your router and the Sricam to boost the signal in the camera's location.
### 3. Clean the Camera Lens
It might sound simple, but a dirty lens can have a big impact on image clarity, making it appear blurry or hazy, which can be mistaken for pixelation.
- The Problem: The camera lens is exposed to the elements and can accumulate dust, pollen, fingerprints, or water spots.
- The Solution:
- Use a can of compressed air or a soft blower brush to remove any loose particles.
- Gently wipe the lens with a clean, dry microfibre cloth (the type used for cleaning glasses).
- For stubborn smudges, you can slightly dampen the cloth with a lens cleaning solution, but never spray liquid directly onto the camera.
- Do not use paper towels, tissues, or your shirt, as these materials are abrasive and can cause microscopic scratches on the lens.
### 4. Check Your Internet Upload Speed
While Wi-Fi signal strength is about the connection inside your home, your overall internet plan also plays a role, specifically your upload speed.
- Why it matters: Your camera uploads video from your home to the internet so you can view it on your phone. If your plan's upload speed is very low, it can create a bottleneck.
- What to do: Run an internet speed test on a computer or phone connected to your Wi-Fi. Pay attention to the "Upload" speed. For a smooth HD stream, you ideally want at least 2-3 Mbps of upload speed available for each camera that is streaming. If your upload speed is consistently low, you may need to contact your internet service provider to discuss upgrading your plan.