What to Do When Your Arlo Camera Won't Sync
Setting up a new Arlo camera, or re-adding an existing one, should be a straightforward process. However, one of the most common roadblocks is the camera failing to sync with the Base Station or SmartHub. When your Arlo camera won't sync, it can't connect to your system, leaving a gap in your security coverage.
This frustrating issue is usually caused by a handful of common problems that are easy to resolve. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive set of troubleshooting steps, starting with the simplest fixes, to get your camera synced and your system fully operational.
Common Symptoms of a Sync Failure
You'll know you're facing a sync issue if you encounter any of the following problems during the setup process.
- You press the sync buttons on the Base Station and the camera, but the camera's blue LED does not start blinking rapidly.
- The blue LED on the camera blinks rapidly for a few seconds, then stops or blinks amber, indicating the sync has failed.
- The Arlo app gets stuck on the "Searching for devices" screen and eventually times out.
- The Base Station does not respond when you press its sync button (the camera LED on the station doesn't blink).
- An already-synced camera has gone offline and refuses to re-sync with the Base Station.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting to Fix Syncing Issues
Follow these steps in order. Most syncing problems are resolved within the first few steps.
1. Check Proximity and Battery Level
These two factors account for the vast majority of sync failures.
- Bring the Camera Closer: During the initial sync process, the camera must be very close to the Base Station. Bring the camera within 1 to 3 metres (3-10 feet) of the Base Station. You can move it to its final location after the sync is successful.
- Ensure a Full Battery: A low battery can prevent the camera from completing the sync process. If you are syncing a wireless camera, make sure the battery is 100% charged before you begin. For new cameras, they often ship with a partial charge, so it's wise to charge them fully first.
2. Follow the Correct Syncing Sequence
The order in which you press the buttons matters.
- Base Station First: Press and release the sync button on your Base Station or SmartHub. The corresponding LED (often showing a camera icon) should start to blink. You now have approximately two minutes to complete the next step.
- Camera Second: Press and release the sync button on your camera.
- Observe the Camera LED: A blue LED on the camera should start blinking slowly, then blink rapidly to indicate it has found the Base Station. A solid blue light confirms a successful sync. If it blinks amber, the sync has failed.
3. Power Cycle Your Base Station
A simple reboot can clear temporary software glitches that might be preventing a new connection.
- Unplug the Power: Disconnect the power adapter from the Arlo Base Station.
- Wait: Leave it unplugged for at least 60 seconds.
- Reconnect Power: Plug the power adapter back in and wait for the power and internet LEDs to turn solid green. This may take a few minutes.
- Retry the Sync: Once the Base Station is fully online, attempt the syncing process again.
4. Minimise Wireless Interference
Your Arlo system uses Wi-Fi, and it can be disrupted by other devices.
- Check for Obstructions: Ensure there are no thick walls (especially concrete or brick) or large metal objects (like a refrigerator) between the camera and the Base Station during the sync.
- Move Away from Other Devices: Keep the Base Station and camera away from other wireless devices like cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens, as these can cause signal interference.
5. Factory Reset the Camera (Last Resort)
If a specific camera still refuses to sync while others work fine, you can try resetting it.
- Press and Hold Sync Button: With the camera powered on, press and hold its sync button for about 15 seconds.
- Watch for the LED: The camera's LED should flash amber a few times and then turn off. This confirms the reset is complete.
- Re-add the Camera: You will need to remove the camera from your account in the Arlo app and then try the sync process from the very beginning.
By following these checks, you can systematically eliminate the potential causes and resolve your Arlo syncing problem.