Error: Device Timezone Out of Sync / Time Zone Mismatch
If you’re seeing a "Device Timezone Out of Sync" or "Time Zone Mismatch" error in your Swann Security app, it usually means your device’s time settings don’t match your phone or account. This can affect accurate video timestamps and event recordings. Fixing it ensures your security system logs the correct time for all activity.
Common Questions / Variations
- What does “Device Timezone Out of Sync” mean? →
- How do I fix time zone mismatch on my Swann device? →
- Why is my camera or recorder showing the wrong time? →
Do you have a Recorder or Standalone Camera?
Disable DST on Recorders (Important for Account-Paired Devices)
Short answer:
- Go to the Main Menu > System > Date and Time
- set the correct non-DST time zone on your location
- Uncheck
- Click to save the settings.
Explanation:
Even if your location uses DST, your Swann Security account automatically manages time zone settings. Leaving DST enabled on the recorder can cause conflicts, resulting in incorrect timestamps or recurring sync errors.
NOTE: Only enable DST if your recorder is not paired to Swann Security so it can adjust it's time zone automatically.
How to Fix The Error
Short answer: If the error appeared, tap
- (Android) or
- (iOS) when prompted in the app.
Explanation:
When this error appears, your mobile device already has the correct time zone. Using the sync option instantly aligns your Swann device with your phone’s settings, resolving most mismatch issues in seconds.
Fix Incorrect Timestamp (No Error Message)
If you find that the timestamp on your clips or live view are incorrect, but not getting an error about incorrect time zone, manually fix it by changing it from the settings within the app.
Steps:
- Open the Swann Security app
- Tap then tap your camera
- Tap
- Choose the correct Time Zone (iOS) or then tap (Android)
Explanation:
This applies to both recorders and standalone cameras when there’s no sync error, but timestamps are incorrect. Manual adjustment ensures recordings reflect the correct local time.
If That Doesn't Work
Try adjusting your profile's time zone too.
- Tap then
- Tap and choose the current time zone
Why This Matters
Accurate time settings are essential for reviewing footage, verifying events, and maintaining reliable security records. A mismatched time zone can make it difficult to track incidents or provide accurate evidence when needed.
Related Scenarios or Questions
- Why does my camera show the wrong time after setup?
→ Time zone may not be configured correctly in device settings - Do I need DST enabled on my recorder?
→ No, disable it if the device is linked to your account - Why does the error keep coming back?
→ Check DST settings and re-sync with your phone - Does this affect recordings?
→ Yes, timestamps may be inaccurate
Summary & Next Steps
To fix a timezone mismatch error, simply sync your device with your phone (and disable DST on account-linked recorders.) If timestamps are still incorrect, update the time zone manually in the app.