Pink or Purple Tint on Abus Camera Footage? Here’s What to Do
If your Abus camera is displaying a pink or purple tint on video, you’re not alone. This issue is often linked to hardware or software misconfigurations. Common causes include a stuck IR cut filter, sensor damage, or outdated firmware. Follow this guide to identify and fix the issue efficiently.
Quick Fixes to Resolve the Pink or Purple Tint
try these simple checks that can resolve the issue in under 30 seconds:
- Power cycle your camera: Unplug the power adapter or remove the batteries (if applicable) for 10 seconds, then reconnect. This can reset temporary glitches.
- Restart the App2Cam Plus app: Close the app completely and reopen it. This ensures the app is running smoothly and not causing display issues.
- Check the LED status: Look for any unusual blinking or colours on the camera’s LED. A red or amber light may indicate a hardware fault.
- Verify power cable/battery: Ensure the power cable is securely connected or the battery is charged. A weak power supply can lead to inconsistent video output.
- Log out and back into your account: Sometimes, app login issues can distort video feeds. Log out of your account and re-login to refresh the connection.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Persistent Issues
Check Your Abus Camera’s Wi-Fi Band Settings
Abus cameras typically use 2.4GHz Wi-Fi (802.11b/g/n). Poor connectivity can cause video distortion. To switch to a 5GHz band (if supported):
- Open the App2Cam Plus app and navigate to Device Settings.
- Look for the Wi-Fi Band option and select 5GHz if available.
- Ensure your router is configured to allow 5GHz connections and that your camera is within range.
Verify RSSI/Signal Strength
Weak Wi-Fi signals can lead to corrupted video feeds. Check the signal strength in the app:
- In the App2Cam Plus app, go to Device Health → Network Diagnostics.
- Look for the RSSI (Signal Strength) value. A reading below -70dBm may indicate poor connectivity.
- If the signal is weak, move your router closer to the camera or reduce obstructions (e.g. thick walls, metal objects).
Update Firmware and App Settings
Outdated firmware or app versions can cause unexpected issues. To update:
- Open the App2Cam Plus app and go to Device Settings → Firmware Update.
- Ensure your camera is connected to a stable power source and Wi-Fi network.
- Tap Update if an update is available. Restart the camera after the update completes.
Check Router Settings for Port Forwarding
If your Abus camera is used for remote access, incorrect port forwarding settings may interfere with video quality. To check:
- Log into your router’s admin panel (typically via a web browser).
- Navigate to the Port Forwarding or NAT settings.
- Ensure the following ports are open for your Abus camera:
- Port 80 (HTTP)
- Port 443 (HTTPS)
- **Port ** (Custom, if used)
- Save changes and restart your router.
Perform a Factory Reset
If the issue persists after basic steps, a factory reset may resolve deeper configuration problems. Follow these steps for your model:
- ABUS PPIC31020 Privacy Indoor: Press the reset button on the bottom of the camera for 5 seconds using a paperclip. Re-pair the camera through the app.
- ABUS PPIC35520 Video Doorphone: Hold the reset button on the back for 5 seconds until the LED flashes. Re-pair via the app.
- ABUS PPIC42520 PTZ Outdoor: Open the side cover with an Allen key and press the reset button for 5 seconds. Re-pair via the app.
Re-Pair Your Abus Camera
After a factory reset, re-pair your camera to ensure it’s properly connected:
- Open the App2Cam Plus app and navigate to Add New Device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to re-pair your camera.
- Ensure the camera is within range of your Wi-Fi network and powered on.
Advanced Diagnostics and Support
Check Diagnostic Logs
If the tint issue persists, diagnostic logs may reveal underlying problems:
- In the App2Cam Plus app, go to Device Diagnostics → View Logs.
- Look for error messages related to the camera’s sensor, IR filter, or firmware.
- Save the logs and share them with Abus support for further assistance.
Contact Abus Support
If all else fails, reach out to Abus support for professional guidance:
- Visit the official support page at https://www.abus.com/int/Service.
- Submit a detailed description of the issue, including steps you’ve already taken.
- Attach diagnostic logs, firmware versions, and screenshots of the tint issue.
Root Causes of Pink or Purple Tint on Abus Cameras
A pink or purple tint on your Abus camera footage is most commonly caused by:
- Stuck IR Cut Filter: The IR cut filter switches between day and night modes. If it fails to switch, it can cause colour distortion.
- Sensor Damage: Physical damage to the camera’s sensor can result in abnormal colour output.
- Outdated Firmware: Older firmware versions may not handle lighting conditions correctly, leading to tinted footage.
- Poor Connectivity: Weak Wi-Fi signals can corrupt video data, causing unexpected colour shifts.
In the UK, construction materials like solid brick or foil-backed insulation can exacerbate Wi-Fi signal issues, leading to intermittent tint problems. Ensure your camera is positioned to avoid such obstructions.
Prevention and Long-Term Care
To avoid future issues with your Abus camera:
- Regularly update firmware: Enable automatic updates in the App2Cam Plus app.
- Monitor battery health: For battery-powered models, replace batteries every 2-3 years to maintain performance.
- Avoid obstructions: Place your camera away from thick walls, metal objects, or foil-backed insulation.
- Perform routine checks: Use the Battery Health Monitor in the app to track battery condition.
When to Consider Replacement
If your Abus camera is more than 5 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Wired cameras typically last 5-8 years, while battery-powered models last 3-5 years. Signs that replacement may be needed include:
- Persistent tint issues after troubleshooting
- Frequent firmware update failures
- Battery degradation (e.g. less than 30% capacity)
Under the UK’s Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have up to 6 years to claim faulty goods. If your camera is still under warranty, contact Abus support for a replacement.
A Managed Alternative for Reliability
If you find yourself frequently resetting your Abus camera or dealing with persistent tint issues, a fully managed system like scOS may offer a more reliable solution. scOS handles monitoring and response automatically, eliminating the need for constant troubleshooting. With scOS, you don’t have to worry about batteries or Wi-Fi connectivity—your cameras are permanently powered and connected, ensuring consistent video quality without the frustration of recurring issues.