How to Hardwire Ring Camera: Step-by-Step Guide

Ring Doorbell Models

Several Ring Doorbell models cater to specific features and preferences. The Ring Video Doorbell 2, for example, provides high-quality video resolution and interchangeable faceplates.

When selecting a Ring Doorbell, consider factors like video resolution, field of view, motion detection capabilities, and aesthetic appeal. By evaluating these aspects, you can find the perfect Ring Doorbell model for your home’s entry.

Indoor and Outdoor Cameras

An important distinction to consider when choosing your Ring Camera is whether you require an indoor or outdoor camera. Both categories offer unique features and benefits.

• Indoor Cameras: These cameras are designed primarily for inside use. Their compact size and discreet appearance make them ideal for monitoring rooms and hallways without being obtrusive.
• Outdoor Cameras: Made to withstand weather conditions like rain and snow, outdoor Ring Cameras offer robust coverage of your property’s exterior. Examples of outdoor cameras include the Ring Stick Up Cam and solar-powered models.

By evaluating your home security needs and considering these key factors, you can confidently choose the right Ring Camera that best suits your requirements and preferences.

Preparing for Installation

Before you begin the hardwiring process for your Ring Camera, it’s important to prepare yourself and your workspace. This will ensure a smoother and safer installation process. Here are a few key sub-sections to help guide you through this stage:

Safety Precautions

Working with electrical wires can be dangerous if not done properly. It’s essential to shut off power to the installation area at your circuit breaker or fuse box before beginning. This will help prevent any electrical shock hazards. If you’re not experienced with electrical work, it’s always best to consult with a licensed electrician to ensure a safe and successful installation.

Gathering Materials and Tools

Before you start, gather all necessary materials and tools to make your installation process smooth and efficient. Ensure you have the following items handy:

• Hardwired Ring Camera
• Mounting bracket
• USB or Ethernet power cable (depending on your camera model)
• Screwdriver
• Wire connectors (if not included with the camera)

Additionally, familiarize yourself with the camera’s specific components, such as the green, black, and white wires that will be connected to the harness during installation.

Installing the Hardwired Kit

In this section, you will learn how to install the Hardwired Kit for your Ring Spotlight Cam. We’ll cover the step-by-step process to ensure a secure and seamless installation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Before you begin, ensure you have the following items: a Hardwired Kit for Spotlight Cam, a 4″ round UL listed weatherproof electrical box (for outdoor installations), a junction box, and a minimum 14AWG 3-core cable.

Follow these steps to install the Hardwired Kit:

1. Turn off the power at the breaker to ensure safety during installation.
2. Locate your junction box and identify the black, white, and green wires. The black and white wires are used for power connections, while the green is the earth/ground wire.
3. Attach the bracket from the Hardwired Kit to the junction box. Make sure the bracket is securely fastened with the provided screws.
4. Feed the black, white, and green wires from your electrical box through the rubber washer and the box cover of the Hardwired Kit.
5. Connect the black wire from the electrical box to the black wire of the Hardwired Kit using a wire connector. Do the same for the white wires.
6. Connect the green (earth) wire from the electrical box to the junction box’s earth screw.
7. Position the box cover on the bracket and secure it tightly. Be sure to run the wires through the rubber washer for proper weatherproofing.
8. Insert your Spotlight Cam into the box cover. Once it’s fully seated, turn it to the right to lock it in place.
9. Insert and tighten the security screw to lock your Spotlight Cam Wired into the box cover.
10. Turn the power back on at the breaker to complete the installation process.

Now, your Ring Spotlight Cam is securely installed and hardwired to your junction box. Enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of your new security camera system.

Wiring the Ring Camera

In this section, we will guide you through the process of hardwiring your Ring Camera. We will cover the wiring process for doorbell cameras, indoor cameras, and outdoor cameras. By carefully following these steps, you will be able to securely connect your Ring Camera to a power source.

Doorbell Wiring

To hardwire your Ring Doorbell Camera, follow these steps:

1. First, turn off the power to your existing doorbell at the breaker.
2. Remove the existing doorbell and disconnect the wires.
3. Attach the mounting bracket to the wall using the provided screws, ensuring that the wires are accessible through the hole in the bracket.
4. Connect the red and white wires from your Ring Doorbell to the existing doorbell wires. You can use wire nuts to secure the connections and wrap them with electrical tape.
5. Position the Ring Doorbell on the mounting bracket and secure it in place with the provided security screws.
6. Turn the power back on at the breaker and test your Ring Doorbell to ensure that it is functioning correctly and receiving power from the wiring.

Indoor Camera Wiring

For hardwiring a Ring Indoor Camera, you can use a Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter. This will enable you to connect your camera to both a power source and an Ethernet cable for a reliable connection. Here’s how:

1. Connect the PoE adapter to an available Ethernet port on your router or switch, and plug the power cord into a power outlet.
2. Using an Ethernet cable, connect the other end of the PoE adapter to the Ethernet port on your Ring Indoor Camera.
3. The PoE adapter will provide power and a network connection to your Ring Indoor Camera, allowing it to function without the need for additional wiring or a separate power source.

Outdoor Camera Wiring

To hardwire a Ring Outdoor Camera, such as the Spotlight Cam or Floodlight Cam, you will need a junction box and a compatible transformer. Follow these steps:

1. Mount the outdoor camera bracket to your junction box, ensuring that the black and white wires from your camera are accessible.
2. Connect the black wire from your Ring Camera to the black wire from your junction box, and the white wire to the white wire. Use wire nuts to secure the connections and wrap them with electrical tape.
3. If your Ring Camera has a green wire, connect it to the green wire from your junction box or attach it to the ground screw if no green wire is present. This will ground your camera for safety purposes.
4. Secure your Ring Camera to the bracket using the provided screws, ensuring that it is properly aligned and pointing in the desired direction.
5. Connect the low voltage transformer to your wired doorbell or power source. Ensure that the voltage output matches the requirements for your Ring Outdoor Camera.
6. Turn on the power at the breaker and test your Ring Outdoor Camera to make sure it functions correctly and receives power from the hardwiring.

Connecting to the Ring App

To get started with hardwiring your Ring camera, you’ll first need to connect it to the Ring app. The app serves as a command center for managing all of your Ring devices, making the process of hardwiring simple and smooth.

Configuration

Begin by downloading the Ring app on your smartphone, available for both iOS and Android devices. Once the app is installed, create an account or sign in to your existing account. Ensure that your phone is connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network, as your Ring camera will require a connection to the same network.

After signing in, tap the “+” or “Add a Device” button, and then choose the type of Ring camera you are setting up from the list. The app will guide you through the step-by-step process, which includes scanning the QR code or MAC ID located on the back of the camera.

Setup

During the setup process, the Ring app will prompt you to name your camera and pick a location for it. You may also need to give the app access to your device’s location services, which will help geofence features function properly.

Next, a series of instructions will walk you through the process of connecting your Ring camera to your home’s Wi-Fi network. Keep your Wi-Fi password handy, as you will need it to complete this step. Once connected, your Ring camera will appear within the app, allowing you to view live footage, adjust settings, and control the device remotely.

In summary, connecting your Ring camera to the Ring app involves downloading and signing in to the app, following the guided setup, and connecting it to your Wi-Fi network. With your camera connected, you can proceed with hardwiring it to your preferred power source.

Other Power Options

While hardwiring your Ring camera ensures a continuous power supply, it’s worth considering other power options to meet your unique requirements. This section will explore battery charging and solar power solutions, aiding in maintaining and optimizing the functionality of your Ring cameras.

Battery Charging

Various Ring camera models, such as the Ring Doorbell and Stick Up Cam, come equipped with rechargeable batteries, providing flexibility in positioning around your home. To make the most out of battery-powered Ring cameras, follow these guidelines:

• Keep additional rechargeable batteries as backup, ensuring a seamless transition during the charging process.
• Observe and maintain a routine charging schedule to avoid unexpected downtime.
• Consider connecting your Ring camera to an existing doorbell wiring for charging, enabling constant battery replenishment.
• In case your camera is an indoor model, utilize its power adapter for direct wall outlet charging.

Solar Power Solutions

If you’re interested in eco-friendly and energy-efficient power options, solar power solutions are a great choice. For this, Ring provides solar panels designed specifically to function with various camera models, such as the Stick Up Cam and Spotlight Cam.

Employing solar power solutions allows for uninterrupted operation while also contributing to a greener environment. Remember to position your solar panels in an area that receives abundant sunlight and routinely clean the panels to ensure optimal efficiency.

Adding Extra Features

In this section, you’ll learn about adding extra features to your hardwired Ring camera installation. These features include auxiliary light control, weatherproofing the installation, and enhancing security. By implementing these additions, you can create a more functional and secure camera system for your home.

Auxiliary Light Control

Adding optional floodlights or other auxiliary lighting to your Ring camera setup can improve visibility and increase the total power draw of the system. To control these lights, use compatible smart switches or integrate them with your existing home automation system.

When adding lights, make sure to consider the VA (volt-amps) rating for your breaker, as the combined energy consumption of your camera and lights should not exceed the breaker’s limit. This will ensure safe and consistent operation for your camera and lighting systems.

Weatherproofing the Installation

To protect your hardwired Ring camera installation from rain and other weather conditions, consider weatherproofing the installation. Start by using wire nuts to secure and protect wire connections. Some Ring camera kits may include these, but confirm the contents of your kit or purchase separately if necessary.

Additionally, securely attaching the weather cover included with your Ring camera can help keep exposed cables safe from the elements. If available, waterproof junction boxes or conduits can also be used to keep wires and connections dry and secure.

Enhancing Security

To enhance the security of your hardwired Ring camera installation, consider integrating it with your existing security system, if applicable. This can provide added protection and monitoring for your home during routine usage.

Lastly, ensure that the mounting bracket is properly secured to a stable surface. This will help guarantee your camera stays in place and is better positioned to withstand external forces such as wind or potential tampering.