Amcrest Camera Won't Reset? A Step-by-Step Guide
A factory reset is a powerful troubleshooting step for fixing a variety of issues with your Amcrest camera, from connectivity problems to forgotten passwords. However, it can be frustrating if the camera doesn't respond when you try to reset it. This guide will walk you through the correct procedures and help you figure out why your Amcrest camera isn't resetting.
Why Perform a Factory Reset?
A factory reset, or hard reset, will wipe all of your custom configurations and return the camera to its original, out-of-the-box settings. This includes:
- Wi-Fi network settings
- Usernames and passwords
- Motion detection zones
- All other personalised settings
You typically need to do this if you've forgotten the camera's password, are moving it to a new Wi-Fi network, or as a last-ditch effort to solve persistent glitches.
The Correct Factory Reset Procedure
The number one reason for a failed reset is not performing the procedure correctly. The timing is crucial.
Step 1: Ensure the Camera is Powered On
The reset process will not work if the camera is unplugged or not receiving adequate power.
- Plug it in: Make sure the camera is connected to its power adapter and plugged into a wall outlet that you know is working.
- Wait for it to boot: Give the camera a full two minutes to boot up completely before you attempt the reset. The status LED should be on and stable (e.g., solid green or blue, depending on the model).
Step 2: Locate the Reset Button
The reset button's location varies by model. It is almost always a small, recessed button that you'll need a paperclip or SIM card tool to press.
- Dome/Turret Cameras: Often found on the wiring pigtail or inside the camera's housing, requiring you to remove the dome cover.
- Bullet Cameras: Typically located behind a small, screw-on cover on the underside or back of the camera.
- Indoor/Wi-Fi Cameras: Usually a small pinhole button on the back or bottom of the device.
Step 3: Press and HOLD
This is the most critical part of the process.
- With the camera fully powered on, firmly press the reset button with your tool.
- Continue to hold the button down for a minimum of 30 to 60 seconds. Do not let go after a few seconds.
- While holding the button, you should observe a change in the camera's behaviour. It may emit an audible chime or tone, the LED lights might flash or change colour, or you might hear the internal components of a PTZ camera move.
- Only after you observe this change should you release the button.
- The camera will then reboot, which can take several minutes. Once it has restarted, it will be in its factory default state, and you can begin the setup process again in the Amcrest app.
What to Do When the Reset Fails
If you've followed the procedure above multiple times and the camera shows no sign of resetting, it's time to troubleshoot the hardware.
1. Suspect the Power Supply
An old or failing power supply might provide enough power for the camera's basic functions but not enough to properly execute the reset and reboot sequence.
- Use a Different Adapter: If you have another Amcrest camera or a compatible power adapter with the exact same voltage and amperage rating, try using it to power the camera.
- Try a Different Outlet: Plug the camera into a different electrical outlet to rule out any issues with the original one.
2. Check the Reset Button Itself
It's possible, though rare, that the physical button is damaged. When you press it, you should feel a slight tactile "click." If it feels mushy or there's no click, the button itself may be broken.
3. Firmware Corruption
In some rare cases, a failed firmware update or a sudden power loss can corrupt the camera's internal software to a point where it becomes unresponsive to a reset command.
Final Steps
If you have tried a different power supply and meticulously followed the reset procedure multiple times with no success, the camera likely has a more serious hardware or firmware fault. At this stage, your best option is to:
- Visit the Amcrest Support Website: Check their knowledge base for any model-specific reset instructions you may have missed.
- Contact Amcrest Support: Open a support ticket with their technical team. Provide them with your camera's model number and the exact steps you have already taken. They can offer further diagnostics and determine if the unit needs to be repaired or replaced under warranty.