How to Fix Yi Home Camera "Setup Failed" Errors
Setting up a new Yi Home Camera should be a quick and easy process, but it can be very frustrating if you keep hearing "Waiting to connect" or seeing a "Setup Failed" error in the app. Don't worry, these problems are almost always solvable.
Follow these steps in order to diagnose and fix the issue, and get your camera connected to your Wi-Fi network.
## Step 1: Check the Basic Requirements
Before you even begin, make sure you have the following sorted. This is the cause of failure 90% of the time.
- Use the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Band: This is the most important step. Most Yi cameras do not support 5GHz Wi-Fi networks. Your phone must be connected to the 2.4GHz band of your Wi-Fi network before you start the setup process. Many modern routers broadcast both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, sometimes with the same name. You may need to go into your router's settings to temporarily disable the 5GHz band or ensure they have different names (e.g., "MyHomeWiFi_2.4GHz" and "MyHomeWiFi_5GHz").
- Correct Wi-Fi Password: Double-check that you are entering your Wi-Fi password correctly. It is case-sensitive. Avoid using complex special characters in your password, as some cameras can have trouble with them.
- Camera Placement: During setup, the camera should be close to your Wi-Fi router (within a few metres) to ensure a strong signal. You can move it to its final location after the setup is complete.
## Step 2: Perform a Full Reset of the Camera
Starting from a clean slate is the best way to resolve stubborn setup issues. A reset will erase any previous failed attempts and restore the camera to its factory default settings.
- Plug the camera into a power source and wait for it to fully boot up. You should hear the "Waiting to connect" prompt.
- Find the reset button. On many models, it's a small button on the back or base of the camera. You may need a paperclip or the included reset pin to press it.
- Press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds.
- The camera will play a sound or a voice prompt to confirm the reset is complete.
- Wait for the camera to restart and begin saying "Waiting to connect" again before you proceed with the setup in the app.
## Step 3: Tips for Scanning the QR Code
The setup process requires the camera to scan a QR code that is displayed on your phone's screen. If this step fails, the setup cannot continue.
- Increase Screen Brightness: Turn your phone's screen brightness up to the maximum level.
- Clean Your Phone Screen: Wipe away any smudges or fingerprints from your phone's display.
- Hold it Steady: Hold your phone steady about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) away from the camera's lens. You may need to slowly move it slightly closer or further away until the camera's focus locks on.
- Avoid Glare: Make sure there are no strong lights reflecting off your phone's screen, as this can prevent the camera from reading the code. Try to do this in a well-lit room.
- Remove Phone Case: Some bulky or reflective phone cases can interfere with the process.
## Step 4: Check App Permissions and Phone Settings
Your phone's operating system can sometimes block the app from working correctly.
- App Permissions: Go into your phone's settings, find the Yi Home (or Kami Home) app, and ensure you have granted it all necessary permissions, especially for Location and Camera.
- Disable VPN: If you are using a VPN on your phone, disable it during the setup process.
- Disable Mobile Data: As a precaution, temporarily turn off your phone's mobile data. This forces the phone to use only the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network for the setup process, preventing any confusion.
By carefully following these steps, you should be able to overcome the "Setup Failed" error and successfully add your Yi camera to your account.