Troubleshooting Missing Package Detection on Verkada Cameras
Verkada's cutting-edge package detection feature provides valuable insight and security for your property, alerting you the moment a delivery arrives. However, if you've noticed that your camera is no longer sending these notifications or recording package events, a few configuration settings may need adjustment. This guide provides a professional walkthrough to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
The system relies on a combination of camera placement, software configuration, and AI analytics. By ensuring each component is correctly set up, you can restore this powerful feature.
## Step 1: Confirm Package Detection is Enabled
First, it's crucial to ensure the feature is activated for the specific camera in question. Settings can sometimes be inadvertently changed, especially in an organisation with multiple administrators.
- Log into Verkada Command: Access your account via a web browser.
- Navigate to the Camera: Go to the Devices tab and select the camera you wish to configure.
- Access Analytics Settings: Click on the Settings cogwheel for that camera, then select the Analytics tab.
- Enable Package Detection: Locate the Package Detection option and ensure the toggle switch is in the 'On' position. If it was off, enabling it and saving the changes should resolve the issue.
## Step 2: Optimise Camera Placement and View
The effectiveness of any video analytic, including package detection, is highly dependent on the camera's field of view. The camera needs a clear, stable, and well-lit view of the delivery area.
- Angle and Height: The camera should not be positioned too high or at too severe an angle. An ideal placement provides a clear view of the ground where packages are typically left. Avoid angles that only capture the side of a box.
- Obstructions: Check for any obstructions that could be blocking the camera's view. This could be anything from a plant or outdoor furniture to a new sign.
- Lighting Conditions: The analytic performs best in good, consistent lighting. If the delivery area is poorly lit or subject to harsh shadows, the camera may struggle to identify a package. Consider improving the ambient lighting if necessary.
## Step 3: Define a Precise Region of Interest
To improve accuracy and reduce false alerts, you must tell the system exactly where to look for packages. This is done by setting a 'region of interest'.
- Return to Analytics Settings: In the same analytics menu as before, find the option to edit the detection region.
- Draw the Zone: A grid will overlay your camera's view. Click and drag to draw a box that precisely covers the area where deliveries are made (e.g., your front step, porch, or reception desk).
- Be Specific: Make the zone as tight as possible to the target area. Avoid including busy backgrounds, public pathways, or moving objects like trees, as this can confuse the analytic.
- Save Your Changes: Once you have defined the zone, be sure to save the configuration.
## Step 4: Check Notification and Alert Settings
If package events are being recorded in the camera's timeline but you are not receiving notifications, the issue lies with your alert settings.
- Review Camera-Level Notifications: In the camera's settings, check the Notifications tab to ensure you are subscribed to alerts for that device.
- Configure Custom Alerts: You can create highly specific alerts. Go to the main Alerts page in Command and create a new alert. Set the 'Alert Type' to 'Package Detection' and choose the relevant cameras and notification recipients.
By carefully reviewing and optimising these four areas, you can ensure your Verkada system reliably detects and alerts you to every package delivery. If the problem persists after following these steps, we recommend reaching out to Verkada support for further assistance.