Is Your Tend Camera No Longer Working?
A security camera that isn't working is a significant concern. If your Tend camera appears to be broken, offline, or is simply not turning on, it can leave your home's security compromised. These issues can stem from simple power problems, network glitches, or, in some cases, hardware failure.
This troubleshooting guide is designed to help you diagnose why your Tend camera isn't working. We will walk you through a series of checks and solutions, from the most basic to the more advanced, to help you get your camera back online and operational.
## Common Symptoms of a Broken or Failing Tend Camera
First, let's identify what the problem looks like. Understanding the specific symptom is the first step toward finding the correct solution.
Here are the most common signs that your Tend camera has a problem:
- The camera's LED light is off or flashing incorrectly: The status light is a key indicator of the camera's health. If it's off, it may not be receiving power. If it's flashing in an unusual colour or pattern, it's signalling an error.
- The camera is warm to the touch but shows no signs of power: This can sometimes indicate an internal power issue or a fault in the hardware.
- No video feed is available in the Tend Secure app: The app may show the camera as 'offline', 'unavailable', or simply fail to load the live stream.
- The camera makes a clicking or buzzing noise: Unusual noises can be a sign of a mechanical issue with the lens or a problem with the internal components.
- Physical damage is visible on the camera body or lens: Obvious damage from a fall or impact is a clear sign that the hardware may be broken.
- The camera fails to connect to the Wi-Fi network after multiple attempts: Even with the correct password, the camera cannot establish a connection.
- The app reports the camera as 'offline' or 'unavailable': This is a common symptom that can be caused by power, network, or hardware issues.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, follow the steps below to troubleshoot your device.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Tend Camera
Let's start with the simplest solutions and work our way to the more complex ones.
### 1. Verify the Power Supply
The most common reason a camera stops working is a lack of power. Don't overlook the basics.
- Check the Cable Connections: Ensure the USB power cable is securely plugged into the camera's power port and that the power adapter is firmly seated in a wall outlet.
- Test the Outlet: Plug another device (like a lamp or phone charger) into the same outlet to confirm it is providing power.
- Inspect the Cable: Check the power cable for any visible signs of damage, such as cuts or frayed wires. If you have a compatible replacement cable and adapter, try using them to see if the originals are faulty.
### 2. Restart Your Camera and Network Equipment
A simple reboot can often resolve a surprising number of technical glitches.
- Power Cycle the Camera: Unplug your Tend camera from the power source. Wait for at least 30 seconds to allow it to fully discharge. Then, plug it back in. Observe the LED light to see if it powers on and begins its startup sequence.
- Reboot Your Router: Unplug your Wi-Fi router from its power source. Wait for about a minute, then plug it back in. It can take a few minutes for your network to come back online. Once it does, see if your camera reconnects automatically.
### 3. Check the Wi-Fi Connection
If the camera has power but remains offline, the issue is likely with its connection to your network.
- Check Network Status: Ensure your home Wi-Fi is working correctly on other devices, like your smartphone or computer.
- Router Proximity: Has the camera or router been moved recently? The camera may now be too far from the router to maintain a stable connection. Try moving the camera closer to the router temporarily to see if it connects. If it does, you may need a Wi-Fi extender for a permanent solution.
- Recent Network Changes: Did you recently change your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) or password? If so, your camera will not be able to connect. You will need to perform a factory reset and set up the camera again with the new Wi-Fi credentials.
### 4. Perform a Factory Reset
If the steps above don't work, a factory reset is the next logical step. This will erase all the camera's settings and return it to its original, out-of-the-box state.
- Locate the Reset Button: The reset button is typically a small, recessed button. You will likely need a paperclip or a similar pointed object to press it.
- Press and Hold: With the camera plugged in, press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds. The camera will usually provide an audible or visual cue (like a chime or a change in the LED light) to indicate that the reset process has started.
- Set Up Again: Once the camera has reset, it will enter setup mode. Open the Tend Secure app and follow the on-screen instructions to add the camera to your account again, as if it were a new device.
If your Tend camera still fails to power on or connect after a factory reset, it is possible that it has suffered a hardware failure. At this point, your best course of action is to contact Tend's official customer support for further assistance and to inquire about your warranty status.