Installing a Blink doorbell camera can significantly enhance your home’s security, allowing you to monitor your doorstep and communicate with any visitors. This device connects wirelessly to your existing network, making it easy to integrate into your smart home system. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the right Blink doorbell camera, setting it up, and customizing its settings for an optimal user experience.
Table of Contents
Getting Started with the Blink App
First and foremost, to set up your Blink Doorbell Camera, you need to properly configure and start using the Blink App. This app is designed to help you monitor your doorbell camera from anywhere with an internet connection. In this section, we will cover the necessary steps to get started with the Blink App.
| Instruction | Details |
| Download the Blink App | Get the app from your device’s app store, such as the Apple App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices. Ensure compatibility based on your smartphone’s operating system and hardware. |
| Install the Blink App | Once downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to install the app on your device. |
| Create an account | Enter your email address and create a secure password. You might also need to provide a valid phone number for verification. |
| Verify your account | After receiving a confirmation email or text message, verify your account to proceed. |
| Add a device within the Blink App | Look for an option in the app to add a new device. |
| Locate your Blink Doorbell Camera’s serial number | Find this number either on the back of the doorbell or within its packaging materials. |
| Enter the serial number in the app | When prompted in the app, enter the device’s serial number. |
| Complete the setup process | The Blink App will guide you through prompts including software updates and configuration of camera’s features. |
| Enjoy your Blink Doorbell Camera | Once setup is complete, your camera will be connected. Use the Blink App for convenience and security. |
Important Preparations Before Installation
Before starting the installation process for the Blink Video Doorbell, it is essential to follow some important preparations. These steps will help ensure a clean and safe installation while maximizing the efficiency and performance of your Blink doorbell camera.
| Task | Detailed Instructions |
| Procure Necessary Components | Gather the drill template, back plate, and all-purpose screws. Having these items in advance will speed up the installation process. |
| Safety Precautions | Always be aware of electrical shock hazards. Disconnect power to the installation area at your circuit breaker or fuse box. Consult with someone qualified if unsure about electrical connections. |
| Prepare the Mounting Surface | Ensure a flat and sturdy surface for the back plate. Clean the area well. For vinyl siding, use a wedge or mounting block for a level surface. |
| Adjust Viewing Angles (if needed) | The Blink Video Doorbell can tilt vertically (5º up or down) and horizontally (25º side to side). If needed, install a wedge or corner mount for specific viewing adjustments. |
| Ensure Weather Protection | Seal any gaps between the back plate and the mounting surface with waterproof tape or silicone to protect against adverse weather conditions. |
In summary, before installing a Blink Video Doorbell, gather all the necessary components, disconnect power for safety, prepare the mounting surface, and consider any custom adjustments for viewing angle and weather protection. Following these important preparations will lead to a successful and safe installation.
Installing the Blink Doorbell Camera
Before installing the Blink Video Doorbell, make sure to have the necessary tools on hand.
You will need a screwdriver, drill, wall anchors, screws, powered chime wires, and a pin for the installation process.
How high should the Blink Doorbell be mounted?
The Blink Doorbell should be mounted 46-48 inches (102 -122cm) above the ground.
Mounting the backplate and Doorbell
- After measuring the correct height mark the mounting holes on the wall with a pencil where the doorbell camera will be attached, using the doorbell template as a guide.
- Drill two holes approximately two inches deep, using the included screws mount the doorbell backplate to the wall, or first mount the wedge or corner mount if needed.
- The next step is connecting the powered chime wires. Locate the two connection points on the back of the doorbell and attach the wires. This will help to maintain continuous power to the doorbell. Ensure the wires are firmly connected and tucked neatly into the housing.
- Finally, use the pin provided in the package to reset the device if necessary. This can clear any initial setup issues and prepare the doorbell camera for syncing with your home network.
Following this installation process will ensure that your Blink Video Doorbell is safely and securely mounted, providing you with peace of mind and state-of-the-art security for your home.
Setting Up the Powered Chime
To set up the powered chime with your Blink Video Doorbell, you’ll need to connect the doorbell to your home’s existing chime system. This process involves handling the chime wires and electrical wiring, so ensure safety measures are taken.
- First, turn off the power to your existing chime system at the circuit breaker. Next, remove the cover from your chime and locate the chime wires. You will be connecting these wires to the Blink Video Doorbell using a wired connection.
- Identify the chime wires in your electrical wiring. Typically, there are two wires: one connected to the “Front” terminal and another connected to the “Trans” terminal. If your current chime system uses a mechanical chime, these wires will be connected directly to the chime. For digital chime setups, you may need a Blink-provided digital adapter.
- If necessary, use wire extensions and wire nuts to extend the chime wires to reach your desired doorbell mounting location. Ensure the wire nuts are securely fastened to protect the connections and avoid any electrical hazards.
- Now, connect the chime wires to the Blink Video Doorbell’s terminals. The exact order of the wires is not crucial, but it’s essential to connect one wire to each terminal. After connecting the wires, mount the doorbell in your desired location according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
With the doorbell connected and mounted, it’s time to power the chime system back on. Turn on the power to your chime system at the circuit breaker. Check that the Blink Video Doorbell is functioning correctly and your powered chime rings when the doorbell button is pushed.
Configuring Motion Detection
The Blink Video Doorbell offers motion detection features that help enhance security for your home. This section will guide you through configuring motion detection settings, including setting up activity zones and privacy zones, and adjusting alert notifications.
Enable Motion Detection
To begin configuring motion detection, you will need to enable this feature on your Blink camera. Remember that you must first arm your Blink system before enabling motion detection. Once armed, you can adjust the settings for optimal performance.
Activity Zones
Activity Zones are areas where the doorbell camera actively detects motion. To set these zones, access the “New Device Layout Settings” in the Blink Home Monitor App. The doorbell camera’s motion sensor has a range of 25 feet (7.6 m) forming a cone shape of about 100º in width, tilted downward 10º. Position the activity zones to cover key areas like walkways, driveways, and entrance doors.
Privacy Zones
Privacy Zones allow you to block certain areas from being monitored. This helps to maintain privacy while still enjoying the benefits of motion detection. To define privacy zones in the app, choose the areas you want to exclude from monitoring.
Retrigger Time
Additionally, you can adjust the Retrigger Time, which is the duration between motion detection events. This gives you control over how often you receive alert notifications.
Live View
The Blink Video Doorbell also includes a Live View feature, which allows you to monitor your camera feed in real-time through the app. This can help in verifying motion detection events and allow you to take immediate action if necessary.
Notifications
Finally, customize your Alert Notifications to receive updates whenever motion is detected in your activity zones. Have these notifications sent to your preferred device, ensuring you are always informed of any activity around your home.
In conclusion, configuring motion detection on your Blink Video Doorbell is an essential step in enhancing your home security. By setting up activity zones, privacy zones, and adjusting alerts, you can make sure your doorbell camera is working effectively to keep your home safe and secure.
Connecting the Blink Doorbell Camera to the Blink App
Before setting up the Blink Doorbell Camera, make sure you have the Blink app installed on your Android, iOS, or Fire OS device. If you don’t have the app yet, download it from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Amazon Appstore, depending on your device.
Sign in to Blink App
Once you have the Blink app installed, open it and sign in using your Blink user account. If you don’t have an account yet, create one by following the app’s setup instructions. For your account’s security, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). This can be done through the app settings, and you will receive SMS text messages for account verifications.
Add Device
Now that you’re logged into the app, it’s time to connect your Blink Doorbell Camera. In the app, tap “Add device” in the top-right corner of the home screen. Then, scan the doorbell’s QR code, which can be found on the back of the camera. Follow the in-app instructions to choose or create a system.
Sync Module
If you’re using a Sync Module with your doorbell camera, make sure it’s already added to your system. The Sync Module helps extend the camera’s battery life and improves its connection. Pairing your Blink Doorbell Camera to a Sync Module also enables additional features, such as saving Live View sessions in the cloud and accessing future updates.
After the Blink app discovers your doorbell camera, follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process. Your Blink Doorbell Camera should now be connected to the Blink app, allowing you to monitor and control your camera remotely.
Integrating with Amazon and Alexa
Blink doorbell cameras are designed to work seamlessly with Amazon and Alexa-enabled products, enhancing your smart home experience. Since Amazon acquired Blink in 2018, the integration between the two has become even more natural.
To integrate your Blink doorbell camera with Amazon and Alexa, first ensure you have the latest versions of both the Blink and Alexa app on your smartphone. Check that your Alexa-enabled device, such as an Echo or Fire TV, is up-to-date.
With your Blink doorbell camera properly set up and connected to the Blink app, you can now link it to your Alexa ecosystem.
- Open the Alexa app and go to the menu, selecting “Skills & Games”. Search for “Blink SmartHome”, then enable the skill by logging in with your Blink credentials. This step authorizes Alexa to access your Blink devices.
- Once the skill is enabled, you can discover your Blink doorbell camera by commanding your Alexa-enabled device. Simply say, “Alexa, discover my devices” and Alexa will search for the Blink doorbell camera. After discovering the device, it will appear in the “Devices” section of the Alexa app.
Note that Amazon Kids mode should be disabled for your Alexa-enabled devices for compatibility.
Now your Blink doorbell camera is integrated with Amazon and your Alexa-enabled products. You can use Alexa to access live camera feeds, receive motion event alerts, and control your Blink doorbell camera with voice commands. For instance, if you have an Echo Show, you can ask Alexa to show the front door and display the live video stream on the screen.
Customizing Your Camera Settings and Notifications
After installing your Blink doorbell camera, it’s essential to customize the settings to best suit your needs. Adjusting various settings such as event response mode, battery life, video clips, and custom alerts will help optimize your camera’s performance and user experience.
Start by opening the Blink app on your smartphone and logging in using your Blink account. Access the settings for your camera by tapping the settings slider icon located above the right top corner of each thumbnail image on the Home screen.
Event response mode
Event response mode plays a significant role in determining how your camera reacts to motion events. Adjust the motion sensitivity and decide whether you want the camera to record video clips, notify you, or both. Fine-tuning the sensitivity helps avoid false alarms and ensures optimal performance.
Battery Life
Managing the battery life of your Blink doorbell camera is essential. Keep the camera charged by inserting the USB charging cable into the camera and plugging it into a power source. Monitoring battery consumption helps extend the lifespan of your device.
Manage Recordings
You can store your camera’s video clips either on the cloud or a USB drive. Storing data on the cloud allows you to view recordings anytime, anywhere via the Blink app. Alternately, save your data on a USB drive by inserting it into the Blink Sync Module 2.
Custom Alerts
Custom alerts are personalized notifications. Modify your alert preferences through the Blink app to receive notifications only when certain criteria are met, like movement detected within a specific area or at specific times.
Privacy Settings
Protect your privacy by adjusting your camera’s privacy settings. Enable or disable features like motion detection, live view, and audio recording as desired.
Infrared Night Vision
Lastly, enhance your camera’s performance during nighttime by configuring your infrared night video settings. Adjust the intensity and range of the infrared LEDs for optimal nighttime visibility.
By customizing your Blink doorbell camera settings, you can achieve the most efficient and personalized experience possible. Remember to regularly check and update your settings to ensure optimal performance as your needs evolve.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
When encountering issues with your Blink doorbell camera, there are several factors to consider for troubleshooting and maintaining optimal performance.
Battery Life
Firstly, ensure that your Blink doorbell camera’s long-lasting battery life is maintained by regularly checking the battery status in the Blink app, and replacing the batteries when necessary. Also, make sure your outdoor camera is positioned correctly and securely to prevent any environmental factors from affecting its operation.
Warning Lights
To help diagnose issues with your camera, pay attention to the light pattern displayed on the device. A blinking blue light indicates that the device is in setup mode or is attempting to connect to a network. A steady green light signifies that your doorbell camera is connected and functioning correctly. If the light pattern does not match these descriptions, consider using the reset button to return the device to its factory settings.
Signal Strength
Another aspect to consider is the signal strength indicator in the Blink app. Check the app to ensure your camera has a strong connection to your Wi-Fi network, as insufficient signal strength may cause connectivity issues. If needed, relocate the camera or adjust your Wi-Fi router to improve the signal.
Software and Firmware
In the case of software-related issues, verify that your smartphones, tablets, and other devices used to access the Blink app are running on compatible operating systems. The Blink app requires version 6.26.0, iOS 14, Android v6.0, or Fire OS v7.0. Updating your devices to the latest version can help resolve app-related problems.
Lastly, make sure your Amazon account is connected to the Blink app, as this is required for the Blink doorbell camera to function seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools are required for Blink doorbell installation?
To install the Blink doorbell camera, you will need a Phillips screwdriver, a drill with a proper drill bit (usually 3/16-inch), and a leveling tool to ensure proper alignment. In addition, the installation kit provided with the doorbell includes screws and wall anchors.
How do I connect the Blink Doorbell Camera to my Wi-Fi?
To connect your Blink doorbell camera to Wi-Fi, download and open the Blink Home Monitor app on your smartphone. Tap the “+” sign and select the doorbell model. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your Wi-Fi network. The app will guide you through the process, making it user-friendly and straightforward.
Can the Blink doorbell be installed on different types of surfaces?
Yes, the Blink doorbell camera can be installed on various surfaces, including wood, brick, and stucco. Use the provided wall anchors and screws for proper installation. Make sure to choose the appropriate drill bit size for the specific surface you are working with.
How do I set up the Blink app for the doorbell camera?
Setting up the Blink app is simple. Download the Blink Home Monitor app from your device’s app store. Open the app, sign in or create an account, and then follow the instructions to add your Blink doorbell camera to the system. The step-by-step guide makes it easy to get your doorbell up and running.
What height should the Blink Doorbell be installed?
For optimal performance, it is recommended to install the Blink doorbell camera at approximately 46-48 inches (102 -122cm) from the ground. This height allows for the best possible detection range and image clarity. To achieve the best viewing angle, ensure that the camera is mounted securely and facing slightly downward.
Is it possible to connect Blink doorbell to an existing chime?
Yes, the Blink doorbell camera can be connected to your existing home chime. The device is powered by two AA batteries but can also be wired to ring your existing chime. Connecting it to your home chime will also help extend the battery life up to 2 years.