Context
LPR cameras work as security cameras in addition to reading plates, but they record differently than a standard camera to manage bandwidth and storage. This article explains what gets recorded and how long it is kept.
How recording works
LPR cameras record continuously. Resolution changes based on activity:
- When a vehicle event is detected, the camera records in high resolution. This is the footage tied to the access event.
- During idle periods, recording drops to a lower resolution.
This keeps every plate read paired with clear footage while reducing overall bandwidth and storage use. It is also part of what makes LPR viable at sites with more limited connectivity.
What is attached to each LPR event
Every event in Door Releases includes:
- The license plate the system read
- A snapshot showing a close up of the plate at the moment of capture
- A one minute video clip
- The access point, timestamp, and access decision
- Any vehicle and resident details on file
The system captures frames continuously as a vehicle approaches. The snapshot you see is the best capture the system used to make the access decision.
How long footage is kept
Video retention follows the cloud storage license for that LPR camera. Options are 7, 30, or 90 days, the same tiers as other ButterflyMX cameras. Retention is set per camera license.
Download any clip you need to keep beyond your retention window. Event records themselves remain searchable in Door Releases.
Live streaming
LPR cameras stream live in the ButterflyMX OS or mobile app at any time, the same as any other ButterflyMX camera.