What to Do When Your Geeni Camera Won't Reset
A factory reset is often the ultimate solution for a variety of smart camera problems, from connectivity issues to general unresponsiveness. Resetting your Geeni camera erases its current settings, including Wi-Fi details, and returns it to its original, out-of-the-box state, ready for a fresh setup.
But what happens when you try to reset it and nothing happens? If your Geeni camera is refusing to reset, don't panic. This guide will walk you through the correct procedure and what to do if it fails.
## The Correct Factory Reset Procedure
Before assuming the camera is faulty, let's ensure we're performing the reset process correctly. The exact steps can vary slightly between models (e.g., indoor vs. outdoor), but the general principle is the same.
- Power On the Camera: The camera must be plugged in and powered on for the reset to work. Wait for it to fully boot up. This is usually indicated by a solid status light.
- Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is almost always a tiny, recessed pinhole to prevent accidental resets. You will typically find it on the back, side, or bottom of the camera. It might be labelled "RST" or have a circular arrow symbol next to it.
- Use the Right Tool: You will need a paperclip, a SIM card ejector tool, or a similar thin, sturdy object to press the button.
- Press and Hold: Insert the pin into the hole and press and hold the internal button. You should feel a faint click.
- Keep Holding: Continue to hold the button down for at least 5-10 seconds. This is the most critical step. A quick press will not work.
- Look and Listen for Confirmation: A successful reset is usually confirmed in two ways:
- An Audible Chime: The camera will often emit a beep, chime, or a voice prompt like "Resetting camera."
- Indicator Light Change: The LED status light will change its pattern. It will typically start to flash rapidly, indicating that it has entered pairing mode.
Once you see the light flashing, you can release the button. The camera has been successfully reset and is ready to be set up again in the Geeni app.
## Troubleshooting a Failed Reset
If you've followed the steps above and the camera gives no confirmation and the light doesn't start flashing, it's time to troubleshoot.
### Step 1: Power Cycle Before Resetting
Sometimes, a simple power cycle can resolve a temporary glitch that prevents the reset function from working.
- Unplug the camera from its power source (either the micro USB cable or the mains adapter).
- Wait for 60 seconds. This is important to ensure all residual power in the internal components has dissipated.
- Plug the camera back in and wait for it to fully boot up again.
- Once the boot-up is complete, attempt the press-and-hold reset procedure again.
### Step 2: Check Your Power Source
An unstable or insufficient power supply can cause a camera to behave erratically, which might include ignoring a reset command.
- Ensure you are using the original power adapter and cable that came with the Geeni camera.
- Try plugging the camera into a different wall socket to rule out any issues with the power outlet.
### When to Suspect a Hardware Fault
If you have tried the power cycle method multiple times with the correct press-and-hold technique and the camera remains completely unresponsive, there is a possibility of a hardware issue. The internal reset button could be faulty, or there may be a more significant problem with the camera's main board.
At this point, your best course of action is to check if the device is still under warranty and contact Geeni customer support for further assistance.