Reolink Camera Not Showing Video? Here Is How to Fix It
It is a major concern when you open the Reolink app to check on your property and are met with a black screen or a "Connection Failed" message. A camera that is not providing a video feed is a significant security vulnerability. Fortunately, the "no video" issue on Reolink cameras is usually caused by a handful of common problems that can be solved with systematic troubleshooting.
This guide will take you from the most basic checks to more advanced network solutions to get your Reolink camera streaming video again.
## Step 1: Is It a Power Problem?
The first and most critical thing to verify is whether your camera is receiving power. Without power, it cannot function at all.
### For DC-Powered Cameras (e.g., RLC series, E1 series):
- Check the Power Light: Look at the camera's status LED. If it is not lit at all, there is no power.
- Secure the Connections: Ensure the power adapter is plugged securely into a working wall socket and that the cable is firmly connected to the camera's power port.
- Test the Outlet: Plug another device (like a lamp) into the same socket to confirm the outlet is working.
- Try a Different Power Adapter: If you have another compatible Reolink power adapter, try using it. The original adapter may have failed.
### For Power over Ethernet (PoE) Cameras:
- Check the NVR/Switch Port: Look at the indicator lights on the NVR or PoE switch port where the camera is connected. They should indicate a link and activity.
- Test the Ethernet Cable: The cable itself could be damaged. Try a different, known-working Ethernet cable.
- Try a Different Port: Plug the camera into a different PoE port on your NVR or switch to rule out a single faulty port.
### For Battery-Powered Cameras (e.g., Argus series):
- Check Battery Level: Open the Reolink app and check the last reported battery percentage for the camera.
- Charge the Battery: If the battery is low or dead, remove it and charge it fully using the provided charger.
- Check Solar Panel Connection: If you use a solar panel, ensure the cable is securely connected and the panel is clean and receiving direct sunlight.
## Step 2: Is It a Network Issue?
If you have confirmed the camera has power but you still cannot see a video, the problem is likely with the network connection.
### 1. Reboot Your Network and Camera
This is the most effective fix for many temporary connectivity glitches.
- Power off your Reolink camera (unplug it or remove the battery).
- Unplug your modem and your Wi-Fi router from power.
- Wait at least 60 seconds.
- Plug the modem back in first. Wait for its lights to become stable.
- Plug the router back in. Wait for its lights to become stable.
- Power your camera back on. Give it a few minutes to reconnect to the network.
### 2. Check the Camera's Network Connection
- For Wi-Fi Cameras: Is the camera too far from the router? A weak Wi-Fi signal can cause the video stream to fail. Try moving the camera closer to the router temporarily to see if the video returns. If it does, you may need a Wi-Fi extender.
- For PoE Cameras: An IP address conflict on your network can cause connection issues. You can check your router's DHCP client list to see if the camera has been assigned a valid IP address.
## Step 3: Is It an App or Software Problem?
Sometimes the camera is working perfectly, but the device you are using to view it has a problem.
- Switch Viewing Device: If you are using your phone, try the Reolink PC client, or vice versa. If the video works on one but not the other, the problem is with the device, not the camera.
- Clear App Cache: In your phone's settings, find the Reolink app and clear its cache. This can resolve issues caused by corrupted temporary data.
- Reinstall the App: If clearing the cache does not work, try uninstalling and reinstalling the Reolink app.
- Check the "Stream" Setting: In the live view window, there are options for "Fluent" and "Clear" streams. The "Fluent" stream is lower quality but uses less bandwidth. Try switching to "Fluent" to see if the video appears. If it does, it confirms you have a bandwidth issue.
By methodically working through these power, network, and software checks, you can identify and resolve the vast majority of "no video" issues with your Reolink cameras.