Kasa Camera Not Showing Video? Here's What to Do
A Kasa smart camera is a simple and effective way to monitor your home, but it's useless if you're met with a black screen or an 'offline' message when you open the app. The "no video" issue is a common problem with a number of potential causes, most of which are straightforward to resolve. This guide will help you troubleshoot the problem methodically, from basic power checks to network connectivity, to get your video feed back up and running.
Before you start, take a look at the status LED on the front of your Kasa camera. Its colour and behaviour (solid, blinking) are important clues. Generally, a solid green light is good, while a blinking amber or red light signals a connection issue.
### Common Symptoms of Kasa Video Problems
Let's clarify what "no video" can look like, as the specific symptom can point to the right solution.
- The camera appears as "Local Only" or "Offline" in the Kasa Smart app.
- You can connect to the camera, but the video area is completely black.
- The live feed is stuck on the loading screen with a spinning circle.
- You receive an error message when you try to view the camera.
- The camera works intermittently, showing video sometimes but not others.
## Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for No Video
Let's walk through the troubleshooting process, starting with the most likely culprits.
### 1. Check Power and Reboot the Camera
The simplest explanation is often the correct one. Let's ensure the camera is powered on correctly.
- Check the Connections: Make sure the micro USB cable is securely plugged into the back of the Kasa camera and that the power adapter is firmly connected to a working wall socket.
- Inspect the Cable: Check the power cable for any signs of damage or kinks.
- Power Cycle (Reboot): This is the most effective first step. Unplug the camera from the power source, wait for about 10-20 seconds, and then plug it back in. The camera will reboot, and this often resolves temporary software glitches that cause a black screen.
### 2. Verify Network Connectivity
If the camera has power but still isn't showing video, the next step is to check its connection to your network.
- Check Your Wi-Fi: Is your home Wi-Fi network working? Check if other devices, like your smartphone, can connect to the internet.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your Wi-Fi router, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. This can solve a host of connectivity problems and is a standard step in network troubleshooting.
- Signal Strength: A weak Wi-Fi signal can cause the camera to drop offline. Try moving the camera closer to your router. If the video feed returns, you may need a Wi-Fi extender to provide a reliable signal to the camera's location.
- Recent Network Changes: Did you recently change your Wi-Fi network's name (SSID) or password? If so, your camera can no longer connect. You will need to reset the camera and set it up again with the new Wi-Fi credentials.
### 3. Review Kasa Smart App Settings
Sometimes, the issue can be a simple setting within the app itself.
- Disable Privacy Mode: Kasa cameras have a "Privacy Mode" feature that turns off video and audio recording. Open the Kasa Smart app, select your camera, and ensure that this mode is turned off.
- Update the App and Firmware: Go to your app store and check for updates to the Kasa Smart app. Additionally, within the app's camera settings, check for any available firmware updates for the camera itself. Keeping both updated is crucial for performance and bug fixes.
- Force Close and Re-open the App: A temporary glitch in the app can sometimes be the issue. Force close the Kasa app on your phone and then launch it again.
### 4. Factory Reset the Camera
This is the last resort, as it will erase all your settings and require you to set the camera up from scratch.
- Find the Reset Button: With the camera powered on, locate the small, recessed reset button. You will likely need a paperclip to press it.
- Press and Hold: Press and hold the reset button for at least 10-15 seconds until the camera's LED changes its pattern (it will often flash).
- Re-add to App: The camera is now in its factory default state. Open the Kasa Smart app and follow the instructions to add a new device.
By following these steps, you can likely resolve the "no video" issue with your Kasa camera and restore your peace of mind.