What to Do When Your Yi Home Camera is Not Charging
A security camera that won't charge or power on is a major concern, leaving your home vulnerable. If you've discovered your Yi Home Camera is not charging, don't worry just yet. The problem is often related to the power accessories or a minor glitch, which can be easily fixed.
This guide will take you through a series of simple troubleshooting steps to identify the cause and get your Yi camera powered up and working again.
## Step 1: Verify the Power Source
Before troubleshooting the camera itself, it's essential to confirm that the power source and its components are working correctly. This is the most common point of failure.
### 1. Check the Power Outlet
Plug another device, like a lamp or a phone charger, into the same wall outlet to ensure the outlet is providing power. Sometimes, an outlet can be switched off or connected to a faulty circuit.
### 2. Test the USB Cable and Power Adapter
The micro-USB cable and the power adapter are handled frequently and can easily become damaged.
- Isolate the Issue: Use the Yi camera's cable and adapter to try charging another device, such as a smartphone. If that device doesn't charge, you've found your problem.
- Use a Known-Good Cable/Adapter: More effectively, take a charging cable and adapter that you know for a fact are working (e.g., your phone's charger) and plug them into your Yi camera. If the camera powers on, you simply need to replace the original faulty cable or adapter.
Important Note: Ensure the power adapter you use provides sufficient output. Check the original Yi adapter for its output rating (e.g., 5V/1A or 5V/2A) and use a replacement with a matching or higher rating.
## Step 2: Inspect the Camera and Connections
If the power source is working, the next step is to check the camera's physical connections and status indicators.
### 1. Look for an Indicator Light
Most Yi cameras have an LED status light. When you plug the camera in, you should see a light turn on.
- Solid Yellow/Blue Light: Typically indicates the camera is booting up or powered on.
- No Light: If there is no light at all after plugging it in with a known-good power source, it suggests a more significant issue with the camera itself.
### 2. Check the Micro-USB Port
Carefully inspect the micro-USB port on the back of the camera.
- Debris: Use a can of compressed air to gently blow out any dust or debris that may be preventing the cable from making a proper connection.
- Damage: Look for any bent or broken pins inside the port. If the port appears physically damaged, it may require professional repair.
## Step 3: Perform a Camera Reset
Sometimes, a software glitch can cause the camera to become unresponsive and appear as if it's not charging.
- Power Cycle the Camera: The simplest reset is to unplug the camera from all power, leave it for a full minute to allow all internal components to discharge, and then plug it back in.
- Hard Reset: If a power cycle doesn't work, perform a hard reset. Look for a small, recessed reset button (you may need a paperclip to press it). With the camera plugged in, press and hold this reset button for 5-10 seconds. This will reset the camera to its factory settings, and you will need to set it up again in the Yi Home app.
For battery-powered Yi cameras, these same steps apply. The key is to first confirm your charging cable and adapter are working. When plugged in, the app should give an indication that the device is charging. If it doesn't, the issue lies with the power accessories or the camera's charging port.