What to Do When Your Cove Camera Has Broken or Stopped Working
A broken security camera can leave a significant gap in your home's protection. If your Cove camera has stopped working, seems completely dead, or is otherwise unresponsive, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take before concluding that it's a permanent hardware failure. This guide will help you diagnose the issue and, in many cases, get your camera back online.
Most camera problems fall into one of three categories: power issues, network connectivity issues, or hardware faults. By systematically checking each one, you can identify the root of the problem.
## Step 1: Troubleshoot Power Issues
The most basic reason for a camera to stop working is a lack of power. Don't overlook the simple solutions first.
- Check the Power Adapter and Cable: Ensure the USB power adapter is firmly plugged into a wall outlet and that the cable is securely connected to the port on the camera.
- Verify the Outlet: The problem might be the outlet itself. Plug a different device, like a phone charger or a lamp, into the same socket to confirm it is providing power.
- Look for an Indicator Light: Check for any LED status light on the camera. Even if it's not the normal 'online' colour, any light at all confirms the camera is receiving at least some power. If there is no light whatsoever, the issue is almost certainly with the power supply or the camera's internal power circuit.
- Inspect for Damage: Check the power cable for any visible signs of damage, such as fraying or sharp bends.
## Step 2: Diagnose Network Connectivity Problems
If the camera is receiving power but still isn't working or showing as 'offline' in the Cove app, the problem is likely with its connection to your Wi-Fi network.
### Interpreting the Status Light
The LED light on your Cove camera is your best diagnostic tool.
- Flashing Red Light: This typically indicates that the camera is powered on but cannot connect to your Wi-Fi network. This could be because your Wi-Fi password has changed, your router is too far away, or your internet service is down.
- Flashing Blue Light: This usually means the camera is in pairing mode, waiting to be set up. This can happen after it loses power and fails to reconnect properly.
### How to Fix Connectivity
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your internet router, wait for 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Give it a few minutes to fully restart. This can solve a wide range of temporary network glitches.
- Check Router Distance: If you've recently moved your camera or router, ensure they are still within a reasonable range of each other. A weak Wi-Fi signal can prevent the camera from maintaining a stable connection.
- Perform a Factory Reset: A reset will wipe the camera's settings, including its old Wi-Fi configuration, and put it back into pairing mode. To do this, find the small reset button (you may need a paperclip) and press and hold it for 10-15 seconds until the camera gives an audible confirmation or the LED light begins flashing blue. After a reset, you will need to go through the 'Add New Camera' process in the Cove app again.
## Step 3: Identifying a Hardware Failure
If you've exhausted the power and connectivity troubleshooting steps and the camera is still unresponsive, you may be facing a hardware failure.
- Physical Damage: If the camera has been dropped, knocked over, or exposed to water or extreme temperatures, its internal components may be damaged beyond repair.
- Failure to Reset: If the camera powers on (e.g., shows a solid red light) but does not respond at all to a factory reset attempt, this points to a fault in its internal software or hardware.
- No Power Despite a Working Source: If you have confirmed the power outlet and adapter are working, but the camera shows no signs of life, it indicates a critical hardware failure.
In cases of a suspected hardware failure, the next step is to contact Cove customer support. They can provide further diagnostic help and guide you on warranty claims or replacement options.