Motion Detection problems from inside looking out - new camera (VMS4130P)

[redsoxfan44]

I can't get my new camera to detect motion on my porch from behind a window.  Live works fine.  I have it temporarily mounted on a coat hook in front of the sidelight.   I have moved it around various angles, closer and further from the window.  I simulate delivering a package from the driveway to the porch and no motion is detected. I've tried it plugged in or not.  I tried activity zone full-width and less-width. I waved right in front of the window from outside and that is not detected.  Here's a pic:

Here is the outside view.  I am concerned that the side walls of the porch are involved in the problem.  I read that the subject is best detected from the side rather than straight ahead.  So I am suspicous of these walls:

But the fact that I can't wave in front of the camera, makes me think its about the glass.

I just tried moving it to a location in the house (top of a bookcase) for an indoor test and it worked perfectly.

I don't understand what could be wrong.  I was told it would work behind a window but I wouldn't have night ability because of reflection.  That's ok.  I just want package delivery detection.  I have 7 more days to return it for full refund!  

I need to keep it in an indoor location.  My wi-fi is not strong enough outside.  No, I don't want to get a booster.  I also tried it from a bedroom window in back of the screen (no glass).  It also didn't detect motion.   

Help! What else can I try?

[StephenB · Accepted solution]

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@redsoxfan44 wrote:

I can't get my new camera to detect motion on my porch from behind a window. 

...

I was told it would work behind a window but I wouldn't have night ability because of reflection.

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Your camera uses PIR sensors to detect motion.  PIR doesn't penetrate glass, so you won't be able to detect motion through your windows.  Were you told it would work behind a window in this forum?  Or was this someone else?

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@redsoxfan44 wrote:

I need to keep it in an indoor location.  My wi-fi is not strong enough outside. 

Did you try it outside?  The camera doesn't connect over your home wifi.  It connects directly to the base station using a closed wifi system.

[redsoxfan44]

darn... (re not behind glass).    I forget who told me.  I think a co-worker who recommended Arlo and/or the Best Buy sales rep.

I will give it a try outside.  I wanted it to be less obvious and no theft potential.  The higher and more secure I make it, the more inconvenient battery charging will be.   I guess those are the tradeoffs.

I will re-try with it between the glass and the screen in a window too.  That might be an option.  It didn't work before, but I might not have had the positioning quite right.