# Adjust detection settings - General procedure

Subject detection works well if there is good contrast between the subject and the background in the video image, and for the whole duration of the trials. Increasing the contrast (for example, by changing the background so it differs as much as possible in color from the subject) is far more effective than any detection setting.

To adjust the detection settings

1.Select the sample rate and video file. See Video file, image quality and sample rate

2.Use the Automated Setup functionality to detect the subject. See Detection settings: Automated setup

3.Optionally use advanced detection settings if Automated Setup does not give satisfying detection. See Detection settings: Advanced setup

Notes

▪important Make sure you carefully follow the order of steps as described in the next topics. If a particular step does not apply to your setup, proceed to the next step.

▪Every time you apply changes in the Detection Settings window, you can see the consequences in the Video window.

▪To save the detection settings, click the Save Changes button at the bottom of the pane. If you have made more changes and you want to return to the last saved settings, click the Undo Changes button.

▪EthoVision XT offers a number real-time statistics on the quality of detection that you can check while you adjust detection settings.