Troubleshooting Verkada Camera Microphone Issues
Verkada cameras are known for their high-quality video, but many models also include a built-in microphone to capture audio, adding another layer of security and context to your recordings. If you're having trouble getting audio to work, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps within the Verkada Command platform.
This guide is written in a professional and helpful tone, using British English, to assist you in diagnosing and resolving any microphone-related issues.
## Important Prerequisite: Check Your Camera Model and Local Laws
Before you begin, it's crucial to address two key points:
- Hardware Support: Does your camera model actually have a microphone? While most Dome, Mini, and Fisheye series cameras do, some specialised models might not. You can verify this by checking the datasheet for your specific model on the Verkada website.
- Legal Compliance: Audio recording is subject to strict privacy laws that vary significantly by location. It is your organisation's responsibility to understand and comply with all relevant regulations regarding consent and notification for audio surveillance. Verkada disables audio by default for this reason.
## How to Enable the Microphone in Verkada Command
If you have confirmed your camera has a microphone and you are compliant with local laws, enabling it is a straightforward process. You will need to have 'Site Admin' or 'Org Admin' privileges in your Verkada Command account.
- Log in to Command: Open your web browser and navigate to command.verkada.com.
- Select Your Camera: Go to the 'Devices' page and select the camera for which you wish to enable audio.
- Go to Camera Settings: Click on the Settings (gear) icon to open the camera's settings panel.
- Navigate to the Device Tab: Within the settings panel, click on the 'Device' tab.
- Toggle the Microphone On: You will see a setting labelled 'Microphone'. Click the toggle switch to turn it from 'Off' to 'On'.
- Save Changes: Be sure to click the 'Save' button to apply the change.
The camera will now begin capturing and storing audio along with the video. Note that this change only applies to future recordings; it will not retroactively add audio to past footage.
## Troubleshooting: What to Do If Audio Still Doesn't Work
If you have enabled the microphone in Command but are still not getting any audio, here are the next steps to take.
### 1. Check for Audio in Live View and Playback
When viewing the camera's live feed or a past recording, look for the speaker icon in the video player. If it has a line through it, it means the player is muted. Click the icon to unmute it and listen for audio.
### 2. Confirm Settings Were Saved
Go back to the camera's Settings > Device page and double-check that the 'Microphone' toggle is still in the 'On' position. If it has reverted to 'Off', it may indicate a permissions issue or a temporary glitch. Try enabling it again and saving.
### 3. Reboot the Camera
A simple remote reboot can often resolve temporary hardware or software issues.
- Go to the camera's Settings > Device page.
- Scroll down and click the 'Reboot Camera' button.
- Wait a few minutes for the camera to restart and come back online, then test for audio again.
### 4. Physical Inspection
While rare, it's possible the microphone port on the camera is physically obstructed.
- Check the camera's casing for a small hole, often labelled 'Mic'.
- Ensure this hole is not covered by dirt, dust, insects, or part of the mounting equipment. Gently clean it with compressed air or a soft brush if necessary.
If you have followed all these steps and are still unable to record audio, it may indicate a hardware fault. In this case, you should contact Verkada Support for further assistance.