How to Solve Poor Video Quality on Netatmo Cameras
Netatmo smart cameras, including the popular Presence and Welcome models, are designed to deliver crisp, high-definition video. If you're finding that your video feed is pixelated, choppy, or just generally poor, the cause is almost certainly related to the camera's Wi-Fi connection. Because these cameras stream high-quality video, they require a strong and stable network signal to perform optimally. This guide will walk you through the steps to improve your connection and fix your video quality.
## Understanding the Wi-Fi and Video Quality Link
Your Netatmo camera constantly adjusts its video quality based on the available network bandwidth. When the Wi-Fi signal is strong, it can stream in beautiful high definition. However, if the signal is weak or unstable, the camera will automatically lower the video quality (compress the stream) to prevent the feed from dropping out completely. This compression is what leads to a pixelated or blocky appearance.
### 1. Diagnose Your Wi-Fi Signal
The first step is to confirm that the Wi-Fi signal is the problem.
- Check Signal Strength in the App: Open the Netatmo Security app, go to your camera's settings, and look for a network status or Wi-Fi signal indicator. Netatmo provides a clear indicator of the signal strength. If it's anything less than "Strong," you've likely found your culprit.
- Relocate Temporarily: As a test, try moving your camera much closer to your Wi-Fi router for a few minutes. If the video quality dramatically improves, this confirms that the issue is signal strength at its usual location.
### 2. Practical Steps to Boost Your Wi-Fi Signal
Once you've identified a weak signal, here's how to fix it:
- Move Your Router: The most effective solution is often to reposition your Wi-Fi router to a more central location in your home. This can improve the signal throughout your house.
- Eliminate Obstructions: Wi-Fi signals struggle to pass through dense materials. Try to ensure there's a clear path between the router and your Netatmo camera. Common blockers include:
- Thick concrete, brick, or stone walls
- Large metal appliances (refrigerators, ovens)
- Water (aquariums)
- Install a Wi-Fi Repeater: If you can't move your router or camera, a Wi-Fi repeater (also known as an extender) is the best solution. Place the repeater halfway between your router and the camera. It will pick up the existing signal and rebroadcast it, creating a stronger connection for your camera.
## Other Important Considerations
While Wi-Fi is key, a couple of other factors can influence the picture you see.
### 3. Optimal Camera Placement
The physical placement of your Netatmo camera can affect the image.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Pointing the camera directly at the sun or another very bright light source will cause the image to look washed out and can obscure details in other parts of the view.
- Night Vision (Netatmo Presence): The powerful infrared floodlight on the Presence model needs a clear field of view. Make sure there are no nearby walls, soffits, or tree branches that could reflect the IR light back into the lens, which can create a "white-out" effect and make the rest of the scene dark.
### 4. Reboot Your Camera and Router
Sometimes, electronic devices just need a fresh start. A reboot can clear temporary glitches that might be affecting performance.
- The Process:
- Start by unplugging your Netatmo camera from the power source.
- Next, unplug your Wi-Fi router.
- Wait for about 60 seconds.
- Plug your router back in and wait for it to fully restart (all the lights should return to their normal state).
- Finally, plug your Netatmo camera back in and allow it to reconnect.
By systematically improving your Wi-Fi coverage and considering these placement tips, you can resolve the vast majority of video quality issues and enjoy the high-definition video your Netatmo camera is capable of delivering.