Tend Camera Hard to Mount? Simple Solutions for a Secure Fit
Tend cameras are designed for simplicity and flexibility, often featuring clever magnetic bases or adhesive pads for quick installation. However, you might find your camera is hard to mount if your desired location has an unsuitable surface.
This guide provides simple solutions and practical tips to overcome these mounting challenges. We'll help you get your Tend camera securely mounted in the perfect spot, no matter the surface.
Common Reasons Why Mounting is Hard
If you're struggling to mount your Tend camera, it's likely due to one of these common issues:
- Weak Magnetic Hold: The magnetic base is not gripping or is sliding down the surface you've chosen.
- Adhesive Failure: The included double-sided adhesive strips are failing to hold the weight of the camera or are peeling off the wall.
- Placement for AI Features: You're unsure about the best position to mount the camera for features like facial recognition to work effectively.
- Unstable on a Shelf: You've placed the camera on a shelf or surface, but its stand is not stable, and the camera is easily knocked over.
- Achieving the Right Angle: You're finding it difficult to position the camera to get the optimal viewing angle without it drooping.
A Guide to Easy and Secure Mounting
Let's solve these problems with some easy-to-follow advice.
1. Understanding the Mounting Options
Your Tend camera likely came with a few options. Understanding where to use them is the key.
- Magnetic Base: This is designed for use on ferromagnetic metal surfaces. Think steel refrigerators, metal file cabinets, or steel door frames. It will not work on non-magnetic metals like aluminium or on any other material like wood or plastic. For the best hold, ensure the metal surface is clean and flat.
- Adhesive Strips: These are for mounting on smooth, non-porous surfaces. Examples include smooth painted walls, glass, tile, or uPVC window frames. They are not effective on wallpaper, brick, concrete, or heavily textured surfaces. Crucial Tip: Before applying the strip, clean the surface thoroughly with an isopropyl alcohol wipe and let it dry completely. This removes any grease or dust and dramatically improves the bond.
2. The Best Solution: Using the Wall Plate
For almost any surface where the magnet or adhesive won't work, the included metal wall plate is your best friend.
- How it Works: The wall plate is a small piece of metal that you screw to the wall. Your camera's magnetic base then attaches securely to this plate.
- Installation:
- Choose your location.
- Hold the metal plate on the wall and mark the screw hole(s) with a pencil.
- If you are screwing into wood, you can screw directly.
- If you are screwing into plasterboard (drywall), it's best to drill a small pilot hole and insert a wall plug first. Then screw the plate into the plug. This provides a much stronger hold.
- Once the plate is secure, your Tend camera will snap right onto it magnetically.
3. Positioning for Optimal Performance
Where you place the camera is just as important as how you mount it.
- Height: For general viewing, place the camera above eye level, angled slightly down.
- For Facial Recognition: For best results, the camera should be placed closer to eye level (e.g., on a bookshelf or mantelpiece) and in an area with good, even lighting. Avoid pointing it directly at a bright window, as the backlight can make faces hard to see.
- Check the Live View: Before you commit to a position, use the Tend app on your phone to check the live video feed. This ensures you're capturing the exact area you want to monitor.
By using the right method for your specific surface, especially the versatile wall plate, you can overcome any mounting difficulty and get your Tend camera set up for success.