Is Your Scout Security System Refusing to Reset?
A factory reset is a powerful troubleshooting tool that can resolve persistent issues with your Scout security system. It's also a necessary step if you're moving house or selling your system. The process is designed to wipe all your custom configurations and return the Scout hub to its original settings, allowing you to start fresh. However, the process can sometimes fail or be confusing, leaving you stuck with a system that won't reset.
This guide provides clear instructions on how to properly factory reset your Scout hub and what to do if the reset process isn't working as expected.
Before You Begin: What a Factory Reset Does
It is crucial to understand the consequences of a factory reset. This action is irreversible and will:
- Delete all paired sensors: All your door panels, motion sensors, and other devices will be disconnected from the hub.
- Erase all user codes and settings: Custom names, entry delays, and user PINs will be wiped.
- Remove Wi-Fi and network configurations: You will need to reconnect the hub to your internet.
- Disconnect from professional monitoring: Your link to the monitoring service will be severed.
Only proceed with a factory reset if you are certain it's what you need to do.
How to Factory Reset Your Scout Hub
The standard procedure for a factory reset requires using a paperclip or a similar small, pointed object.
- Keep the Hub Powered On: Ensure the Scout hub is plugged into its power adapter.
- Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is a tiny, recessed button located on the bottom of the Scout hub. You will need to look carefully inside a small pinhole.
- Press and Hold the Button: Insert the end of a paperclip into the pinhole and press down on the reset button.
- Hold for 15-20 Seconds: You need to hold the button down for an extended period. Don't release it after a few seconds. Keep it held down firmly.
- Observe the LED Lights: As you hold the button, watch the LED lights on the hub. The lights should flash or change colour to indicate that the reset process has begun. Once you see this confirmation, you can release the button.
- Allow the Hub to Reboot: The hub will then go through its reboot process. This can take several minutes. The lights will cycle, and the hub will eventually settle into its initial setup mode, indicating the reset was successful.
Troubleshooting: What to Do If the Reset Fails
Are you following the steps, but nothing is happening? Here's what to check.
Problem: The hub's lights do not change or flash.
- You're not holding the button long enough. This is the most common mistake. You must hold the button down for a full 15-20 seconds. Try again and count slowly.
- The button is not being fully depressed. You should feel a faint 'click' when you press the button. If you don't feel it, you may not be pressing it correctly. Ensure the paperclip is going in straight.
- The hub is not powered on. While it seems obvious, double-check that the power adapter is securely plugged into both the hub and a working wall outlet.
Problem: The hub seems completely unresponsive.
If the hub is frozen and won't respond to the reset button, try a full power cycle first.
- Unplug the main power adapter from the hub.
- Open the battery compartment on the bottom of the hub and disconnect the backup battery.
- Wait for 5 minutes. This allows all residual power to drain from the internal components.
- Reconnect the backup battery first.
- Then, plug in the main power adapter.
- Allow the hub to boot up completely, and then try the factory reset procedure again.
Problem: The reset completes, but I still can't set up the hub.
If the reset seems to work but you can't re-register or set up the hub in your Scout app, it may be because the hub is still associated with your account on Scout's servers. In this case, you should:
- Log into your Scout account on the web portal or in the app.
- Navigate to your system settings and look for an option to deactivate or delete your hub.
- Once you have removed the hub from your account, the successful factory reset will allow it to be set up as a new system.
If you have tried all of these steps and your Scout system still won't reset, it may indicate a more serious hardware issue. At this point, it is best to contact Scout's official customer support for further assistance.