Imou Camera Stopped Working? Here’s How to Fix It

Imou Camera Stopped Working? A Step-by-Step Recovery Guide

An Imou camera that has suddenly stopped working can be a major concern, leaving a gap in your home security. However, the cause is often a simple issue that you can resolve yourself. This comprehensive guide, written in British English, will help you systematically troubleshoot the problem and get your camera back online.

First Steps: Diagnosis

Before you start changing settings, it's important to diagnose the state of the camera.

• Check the Imou Life App: Open the app on your phone. Is the camera showing as "Offline"? This is a clear indicator of a connectivity or power issue.
• Observe the Status LED: The small indicator light on the front of your Imou camera is your best diagnostic tool.
  • No Light: The camera is likely not receiving power.
  • Flashing Red Light: There is a network connection problem.
  • Solid Green/Blue Light: The camera should be working. If you still can't see a feed, the issue might be with your app or phone.

## Solution 1: Verify the Power Supply

This is the most fundamental step. No power means no camera function.

1. Check the Wall Socket: Ensure the power adapter is firmly plugged into a wall socket that you know is working. Test the socket with another device, like a lamp, to be certain.
2. Secure the Cable Connections: Check that the USB power cable is securely plugged into the power adapter and that the other end is firmly inserted into the power port on the Imou camera.
3. Inspect the Cable: Look over the entire length of the power cable for any visible signs of damage, such as cuts, kinks, or frayed wires. A damaged cable can be dangerous and will not power your camera reliably.
4. Use the Original Adapter: Always use the power adapter and cable that came with your Imou camera. Using a different one, especially from a phone, may not provide the correct voltage or amperage.

If the status LED remains off after checking all these points, you may have a faulty power adapter or a hardware issue with the camera itself.

## Solution 2: Troubleshoot the Network Connection

If the status LED is flashing red, the problem lies with the camera's connection to your Wi-Fi network.

1. Reboot Your Router: The most common fix for network issues is to restart your Wi-Fi router. Unplug it from the power, wait for 60 seconds, and then plug it back in. Wait a further 5-10 minutes for it to fully restart and for your devices to reconnect. Your Imou camera should automatically try to reconnect.
2. Check Wi-Fi Password: Have you recently changed your Wi-Fi password? If so, the camera will not be able to connect. You will need to remove the camera from your Imou Life app and go through the setup process again to enter the new password.
3. Check Signal Strength: Was the camera located far from the router? A weak Wi-Fi signal can cause the camera to drop offline. Try moving the camera temporarily closer to your router. If it connects successfully, you may need to invest in a Wi-Fi extender for a more permanent solution.
4. Router Settings: Ensure your router is broadcasting a 2.4GHz network, as most Imou cameras are not compatible with 5GHz networks.

## Solution 3: Power Cycle the Camera and Restart the App

If the camera has power and the network is stable, a simple reboot of the camera and app can clear up software glitches.

1. Power Cycle the Camera: Unplug the Imou camera from its power source. Leave it unplugged for a full minute to ensure it completely powers down. Then, plug it back in. Give it a few minutes to boot up and attempt to reconnect to the network.
2. Restart the Imou Life App: Completely close the app on your phone. Don't just return to the home screen; use your phone's app switcher to swipe it closed. Then, reopen it for a fresh connection to the Imou servers.

## Final Resort: Factory Reset

If none of the above steps work, you can perform a factory reset. Be aware that this will erase all your settings, and you will need to set up the camera from scratch as if it were new.

1. Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is usually a small, recessed button. You will need a paperclip or SIM eject tool to press it. Its location varies by model, so consult your user manual if you can't find it.
2. Press and Hold: With the camera powered on, press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds until you hear a beep or see the status LED change its pattern.
3. Re-add to App: Once the camera has reset and rebooted, open the Imou Life app, tap the '+' icon, and follow the on-screen instructions to add your camera again.

If the camera still fails to work after a factory reset, it is likely that there is a hardware fault. You should contact Imou customer support for further assistance.