Hello Amanda,
Thank you for reaching out to us and sharing your feedback on our Swann DVR-4580 4-Channel 1080p 1TB DVR Security Camera System. We are sorry to hear about the most recent experience you had at your home. Based on the information provided, you may have required assistance with further setup. PIR sensors work optimally when the camera is mounted around looking down somewhat and the subject of detection passes across their front. The more the object must "cross" the front of the camera the better the detection reliability. When placing your camera try to avoid situations where the subject would move straight toward the camera if possible. You may need to experiment with the sensitivity settings in the app and camera placement to get the proper setting for detection.
Our support team can be reached 24/7 and are here to help. Click on the blue box on the bottom right-hand corner to live chat with a technical support agent or contact us over the phone.
https://support.swann.com/s/contactsupport
Please let us know how we may further assist you,
Thank you.
JV
Swann Customer Support