Is Your Tp Link Camera Failing to Record Continuously?
One of the most valuable features of a security camera is its ability to record 24/7, ensuring you never miss a moment. If you've discovered that your Tp Link camera has stopped its continuous recording, it can be a significant concern. This guide will walk you through the common causes and provide clear, professional solutions to get your camera back to recording around the clock.
## Why Continuous Recording Might Fail
The problem usually isn't with the camera itself but with the storage medium or settings. Here are the most likely culprits:
- MicroSD Card Issues: The card may be faulty, full, improperly formatted, or not fast enough.
- Incorrect App Settings: The continuous recording feature might simply be turned off.
- Power Interruptions: The camera may be losing power, causing breaks in the recording.
- Firmware Glitches: Outdated camera firmware can sometimes cause recording issues.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Continuous Recording
Let's systematically address the potential causes to resolve the issue.
### 1. Inspect and Manage Your MicroSD Card
The microSD card is the heart of the recording process. Its health and configuration are paramount.
- Check for a Card: First, physically ensure a microSD card is inserted into the camera.
- Verify Card Compatibility: For the demands of continuous video recording, a high-endurance Class 10 or UHS-1 microSD card is strongly recommended. Standard or older cards may not have fast enough write speeds, leading to failed recordings.
- Format the Card via the App: It is crucial to format the microSD card using the Tp Link app (Tapo or Kasa). This ensures the file system is optimised for the camera. You can find this option in your camera's settings, usually under a "Storage & Recording" or "microSD Card" menu. Be aware that formatting will erase all existing footage.
- Enable Loop Recording: Inside the same settings menu, make sure "Loop Recording" is turned on. This feature automatically overwrites the oldest footage when the card is full, allowing the camera to record continuously without stopping.
### 2. Configure Your Recording Settings in the App
You need to explicitly tell the camera to record continuously.
- Open the App: Navigate to your camera's live view.
- Go to Settings: Access the settings menu for that specific camera.
- Find Recording Schedule: Look for an option labelled "Recording Schedule" or similar.
- Set to Continuous Recording: Within the schedule, you can set different times for motion detection or continuous recording. Ensure you have selected "Continuous Recording" for the times you want it active. The grid should be coloured in to indicate 24/7 recording is on.
### 3. Ensure Stable Power and Connectivity
An unstable connection can interrupt the recording process.
- Check the Power Supply: Make sure the camera's power adapter and cable are securely connected at both ends. Any power loss, even for a moment, will create a gap in your recording timeline.
- Update Firmware: Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Check within the app's settings for any available firmware updates for your camera and install them.
### 4. Test With a Different SD Card
If you have completed all the steps above and the issue persists, the microSD card itself may be faulty. They have a limited lifespan, especially under the heavy load of continuous writing. Try using a new, high-quality microSD card, format it in the app, and monitor if the recording becomes stable.