Live view works but the recording folder is empty — a situation we handle often in Batam after power outages or full HDDs without overwrite enabled. This guide helps you find why your CCTV is not recording before calling a technician.
Common Reasons CCTV Stops Recording
If live view works but playback is empty, check these causes:
1. Hard Disk (HDD) Failure
HDDs work 24/7 and develop bad sectors from heat or age.
- Symptoms: continuous beeping, HDD status “Error” or “None”.
2. Insufficient Power Supply
The adapter may power cameras but not spin the HDD — DVR lights stay on while recording is dead.
3. Recording Schedule Disabled
After power loss or firmware updates, schedule recording may reset to off. Verify in Menu > Record > Schedule.
4. Overwrite Disabled
Without overwrite, recording stops when the disk is full.
5. Loose SATA Cable Inside DVR/NVR
Vibration or poor internal routing can loosen the HDD data cable.
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
Before calling CCTV Batam service:
- Reboot DVR/NVR — power off 30 seconds, then restart.
- Check HDD status — Menu > Storage > HDD Management; confirm “Normal”.
- Format HDD — only if detected with errors; this deletes all footage.
- Test power adapter — try a matching spare adapter.
When to Call a Professional
If DIY steps fail, internal board or HDD failure is likely. Faust Technology provides professional CCTV service across Batam Center, Nagoya, Batu Aji, Muka Kuning, and Kabil — with spare HDDs and power testing tools on site.
Prevention Tips
- Use surveillance-grade HDDs — not desktop drives.
- Install UPS — Batam power fluctuations damage HDDs during outages.
- Monthly playback test — do not wait for an incident to discover empty storage.
CCTV trouble? Do not take risks with missing evidence.