Zmodo Package Detection Missing or Not Working?
Package detection is an incredibly useful AI feature that provides specific alerts when a parcel is left in your camera's view, helping to protect your deliveries from theft. If you're expecting this feature on your Zmodo camera but can't find it, or if it's not working correctly, it can be a real puzzle.
This guide will help you determine why the feature might be missing and what steps you can take to enable and optimise it.
## 1. Check for Camera and Subscription Compatibility
Before anything else, you must verify that your setup supports package detection. This feature is not available on all Zmodo products.
- Camera Model: First and foremost, check the official product specifications for your specific Zmodo camera model. Package detection requires advanced on-camera or cloud-based AI processing, which older or more basic models may not have.
- Subscription Plan: Zmodo, like many security camera companies, often reserves its most advanced features for customers with an active Zmodo Cloud subscription. If your trial period has ended or you are using the free service tier, this feature may be disabled. Log in to your account in the Zmodo app and verify your subscription status.
## 2. Ensure the Feature is Enabled
If your camera and plan are compatible, the feature might simply be turned off in the settings.
- Open the Zmodo app and select the camera you want to configure.
- Go to the camera's Settings (often a gear icon).
- Look for a menu named 'Alerts', 'Smart Detection', or a similar name.
- Inside this menu, you should find toggles for different detection types. Make sure the toggle for 'Package Detection' is switched to the on position.
## 3. Update Your Firmware and App
Running outdated software is a common cause for features to be missing or malfunctioning.
- Update Camera Firmware: In the camera's settings within the Zmodo app, find the 'Device Information' or 'Firmware Update' section. If an update is available, proceed with the installation. This can deliver new features and fix bugs.
- Update the Zmodo App: Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your smartphone and check that you have the latest version of the Zmodo app installed.
## 4. Optimise Camera Placement for Better Detection
If the feature is enabled but isn't reliably detecting packages, the issue may be with the camera's position and view.
- Clear Line of Sight: The camera needs a completely unobstructed view of the area where packages are typically left. Bushes, pillars, or decorations can block the view.
- Angle and Height: Mount the camera so it looks down at the delivery zone. A height of 7-10 feet (around 2-3 metres) is often ideal. If the camera is too low, the package might be too close to the lens; if it's too high, the package might be too small for the AI to recognise.
- Lighting: Ensure the area is well-lit, especially at night. While infrared night vision helps, good ambient lighting provides the best results for the detection algorithm.
## 5. Reboot the Camera
As a final simple step, a power cycle can often resolve temporary glitches. Unplug your Zmodo camera from its power source, wait for 60 seconds, and then plug it back in.
If you have confirmed compatibility and tried all the troubleshooting steps above, but the feature is still missing or not working, it is best to contact Zmodo's customer support for further assistance.