How to Troubleshoot and Optimise Swann Motion Detection
A Swann security system provides peace of mind, but only if its motion detection is working correctly. Whether your camera isn't recording when it should be, or it's bombarding you with false alerts, this guide will help you fine-tune your settings for optimal performance. Many Swann systems use True Detect™, a combination of PIR heat-sensing and traditional motion detection, so we'll cover that too.
Step 1: Understand Swann True Detect™ Technology
Before changing settings, it's important to understand how your camera "sees".
- PIR (Passive Infrared) Sensor: This detects heat signatures. Moving objects that are warmer than the ambient temperature, like people, animals, and cars, will trigger the PIR sensor.
- Pixel Motion Detection: This analyses the video frame for changes in pixels, like a swaying tree or a flag flapping in the wind.
True Detect™ requires both heat and motion to be detected simultaneously to trigger a recording. This is why it is so effective at reducing false alarms. If your camera isn't detecting a person, it could be because one of these two sensors is not being triggered effectively.
Step 2: Optimise Camera Placement
The physical position of your camera is crucial for accurate PIR detection.
- Angle for Across-Screen Movement: PIR sensors are most effective when a heat source moves across the detection area, not directly towards it. Position your camera so that the expected path of a person or vehicle travels from side-to-side in the frame.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat Sources: Do not point the camera directly at the rising or setting sun. Also, avoid pointing it at air conditioning units, dryer vents, or reflective surfaces that can get very hot, as these can cause false triggers.
- Correct Height and Angle: Install the camera at a height of around 2-3 metres (7-10 feet) and angle it slightly downwards. This provides a good overview and allows the PIR sensor to cover the ground effectively.
Step 3: Adjust Sensitivity and Masking in Settings
You can configure the camera's behaviour through your Swann DVR/NVR interface or the mobile app.
- Access Camera Settings: Log in to your system and navigate to the Menu, then to the settings for the specific camera channel you wish to adjust.
- Adjust PIR Sensitivity: Find the 'PIR Settings' or 'Motion' menu. You will see a sensitivity level (e.g., from 1 to 8). If you are getting too many false alerts, lower the sensitivity. If the camera is missing obvious events, increase the sensitivity. Make small adjustments and test each one.
- Use Motion Masking: Look for a 'Masking' or 'Activity Zone' option. This allows you to draw a grid over the areas you want the camera to ignore. For example, you can mask out public footpaths, roads, or swaying trees. The camera will not trigger a recording for any motion that occurs in the masked area.
Step 4: Check Recording and Notification Schedules
Ensure your system is set up to record and notify you when you expect it to.
- Recording Schedule: In the 'Record' menu, you will find a schedule for each camera. The timeline is usually colour-coded. Make sure the times you want motion detection to be active are marked for 'Motion' (often a yellow or green colour).
- Push Notifications: In the mobile app settings, ensure that push notifications are enabled for motion events on the desired cameras.
By understanding how Swann's dual-sensor technology works, optimising the camera's physical placement, and carefully adjusting the sensitivity and masking settings, you can create a highly accurate and reliable security monitoring system.