Arlo Camera Installation Difficult? A Simple Guide
Setting up your Arlo security camera should be a straightforward process, but sometimes technical issues can create frustrating roadblocks. If you are finding the installation difficult, this guide is here to help. We'll cover the most common setup problems in clear British English, from syncing issues to connectivity woes, ensuring you can get your Arlo system protecting your home without the headache.
## Arlo Installation Essentials: What You Need
Before diving into troubleshooting, let's review the keys to a successful setup. Proper preparation can prevent the majority of installation problems.
- Charge Your Cameras: Ensure any battery-powered Arlo cameras are fully charged before you begin the setup process. A low battery can cause the sync to fail.
- Arlo Secure App: Download the latest version of the Arlo Secure app onto your smartphone and create your account.
- Stable Internet: A reliable, high-speed internet connection is essential. Remember that Arlo systems operate on a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
- Proximity: During the initial pairing process, keep your camera, smartphone, and SmartHub/Base Station close to each other and to your router.
## Troubleshooting Syncing and Connectivity Issues
This is where most installation difficulties occur. Let's break down the solutions.
### 1. SmartHub or Base Station Won't Connect
The heart of your system must be online before you can add cameras.
- Check Connections: Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected from the Base Station to your router, and that the power adapter is plugged in.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your internet router, wait 60 seconds, and plug it back in. Allow it a few minutes to fully restart before checking the Base Station's status.
- Check the LED: A solid blue LED on the Base Station indicates it is connected and ready. If you see a flashing amber light, it's having trouble connecting to the internet.
### 2. Camera Fails to Sync
If the app can't find your camera, or the syncing process times out, try these steps.
- Initiate Sync Mode Correctly: First, press the 'Sync' button on top of the SmartHub/Base Station for about two seconds. You will see a green LED begin to flash. You then have two minutes to complete the next step.
- Press the Camera's Sync Button: Press the 'Sync' button on the camera itself for about two seconds, until the blue LED on the camera begins to blink rapidly.
- Bring Them Closer: If syncing fails, the camera may be too far from the Base Station. Bring the camera within one metre of the Base Station and repeat the sync process.
### 3. QR Code Not Detected (for Wi-Fi Cameras)
Some Arlo cameras connect directly to your Wi-Fi and use a QR code for setup.
- Phone Brightness: Turn your smartphone's screen brightness up to the maximum level.
- Correct Distance: Hold the phone with the QR code about 20cm (8 inches) from the camera lens.
- Listen for the Chime: The camera will make a chime sound when it has successfully scanned the code. If you don't hear it, slowly adjust the distance of the phone from the camera.
## Tips for Mounting and Positioning Your Arlo Camera
Once your camera is online, proper placement is key to its performance.
- Check Signal Strength: Before you permanently mount the camera, take it to the desired location and use the 'Camera Positioning' tool within the Arlo app to check the Wi-Fi signal strength to the Base Station or router.
- Height and Angle: Mount your camera at least 2 metres (7 feet) off the ground and angle it slightly downwards for the best motion detection coverage.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not point the camera directly at the sun, as this can affect image quality and potentially damage the lens.
If you've followed all these steps and still can't complete your installation, it may be time to contact Arlo's support team for more in-depth assistance.