Note: We’ve enhanced the design of the Blink app. If the steps listed in this article do not match your current app version, you can view the updated design.

This article will show you how to change the order of your Blink cameras in the Blink app. 

1.First, tap App Settings  on the bottom left of your Home screen.

2.Then tap Device and System Settings.

3.On the Device and System Settings screen, select the system you want to change under Systems.

On the System Settings screen tap All Devices.

From the Manage Devices screen, you can change the order that your Blink cameras appear in the app. To change the order, press and drag the three bars on the camera that you want to move. Place it in your desired location.

Once you change the order of your cameras, that order will display until you change it.

Return to the Home screen to see the new order of your cameras.

If you have additional mobile devices logged into the same Blink account, you will not see the new camera order on them. This is a per mobile device setting, which gives you the flexibility to view different camera orders on different mobile devices.

Using Your Blink Camera

Read More : Troubleshooting for Blink Mini Camera

Blink and iOS VoiceOver Screen Reader

Hear what your Blink camera sees

The iOS VoiceOver Screen Reader feature allows you to hear descriptions of Live Views and Motion Notifications in the Blink app. Once you enable the VoiceOver and Audio Descriptions options in your iOS device, you can hear descriptions of Live Views, Motion Notifications, or motion clips by tapping on the image in the Blink app.

Note

To ensure the VoiceOver Screen Reader works with the Blink app (version 6.15.0 or later), the iOS must be R15 or later. 

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Examples of VoiceOver describing Motion Notifications in the Blink app

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How to hear a VoiceOver Audio Description in the Blink app

• For a Live View description, tap the camera thumbnail to enter Live View. When Live View opens, the scene description is spoken from your iOS device.

• To hear a description of a Motion Clip, tap Clips  on the Blink home screen. Select a clip and the scene description is spoken from your iOS device.

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iOS VoiceOver links

For instructions on enabling VoiceOver Recognition, visit Use VoiceOver Recognition on the web or in apps without accessibility information.

If you are not already familiar with using VoiceOver, learn about basic navigation and operation gestures.

What are Image Notifications?

Snapshot image from your Blink device

Image notifications send you a snapshot image of what’s happening in front of your Blink camera, so you can easily see activity without opening the Blink app. With a quick look at your notification, you can know immediately if you need to open up Live View to take a closer look, or wait and review your video later. Learn more about how to receive notifications of motion detection.

In order to view image notifications, your Early Notification camera setting must be disabled. Click to learn more about Early Notifications in the Blink app.

Note: Image notifications do not work with the Blink Video Doorbell. Since the Blink Video Doorbell always has Early Notification on by default, you will not be able to view image notifications on it.

If Local Storage is your only available method for saving clips, image notifications will not display since thumbnails are not generated in this case. Learn more about using Local Storage for saving clips.

iOS devices

Android devices

When you have motion alerts enabled on your iOS device, you will see a motion detection notification on your home screen. 

Tapping a notification on your home screen, will take you to the clip list in the Blink app with that saved clip.

When you “long press” on a notification, you will see a larger snapshot of your detected motion.

Image notifications also display when you are within the Blink app.

How to use Live View

  Note: We’ve enhanced the design of the Blink app. If the steps listed in this article do not match your current app version, you can view the updated design.

Use this article to understand how to access Live View from your Blink camera. Live View allows you to see your camera’s live video and hear sound directly from the Blink app and from certain Alexa enabled devices‍. 

Blink cameras use your Wi-Fi network to send Live View. The connection must have 2 MB per second or faster upload speed (from your camera to the Blink app). Live View can fail if the internet connection is too slow or external factors like signal strength and wireless interference.

How to access Live View

From the Blink app

To access Live View from the Blink app, tap the Live View play icon on the camera image you want to view.

From a motion notification

Available with certain cameras, Live Views can also be accessed by tapping the Motion Alert push notification sent to your mobile device. This setting must be enabled in the app in order for push notifications to be sent to your device. Learn more about Early Notifications.

If you do not see the Live View play icon for you Video Doorbell, your camera may be in Event Response mode. When this occurs, Live View is only accessible from the notification sent to your mobile device in response to a motion event. Learn more about Event Response.

Note: Even though a motion notification may appear simultaneously on multiple devices, Live View access is limited to one user at a time.

Live View additional options

To conserve bandwidth, your Live View may dim and a Continue? button appears at certain intervals. The button appears a few times until your viewing limit of five minutes is reached. Tap this button to continue watching the Live View.

Portrait orientation

When viewing the Blink app in portrait orientation (tall, not wide), the camera view fills the screen width. You can use the ‘pinch to zoom’ gesture to view image details; however, the actual image size does not change.

Tap the  icon in the top right of your Live View to switch to from portrait to landscape view. You can also turn your mobile device 90° sideways to automatically switch to landscape view.

Landscape orientation

Generally, the Blink app is viewed in landscape orientation (wide, not tall) and the images appear in full screen (as shown below). 

Tap the icon in the top right to switch back to portrait view. You can also turn your mobile device 90° vertically to automatically switch back to portrait view.

Save

Saving Live View clips is an exclusive feature of a Blink Subscription plan. Learn more about how to save Live View clips.

Audio Options

Speaker Icon
While in Live View, tap the speaker icon  to enable or disable the camera’s audio.

Two Way Audio
Cameras with a microphone and speaker display a microphone button  at the bottom. Two-Way Audio‍ is supported on the Video Doorbell, Outdoor and Indoor (Gen 3), Mini, and XT2 cameras.

Learn more about how to use two way audio with your camera’s microphone.

Note: The audio button name depends on your camera.

More Options

While in Live View, tap More for other options. Settings vary between devices.

Extended Live View

Extended Live View is only available in through the Blink Basic, Blink Plus and free trial subscription plans. 

This feature provides images and sound directly from a camera to the Blink app, up to 90 minutes at a time without user intervention. In addition, you can view regular Live View sessions up to five minutes without tapping on Continue.

Learn more about Extended Live View.

Device Settings
Device Settings can be accessed in two ways. One way is from the Blink app’s home screen through . The other way is by tapping the More button in Live View and then tapping . Learn more about how to access your camera’s device settings.

Wired Floodlight Camera: Siren On/Off

The siren can be turned on and off remotely through the app. This plays a loud alert noise through your Wired Floodlight camera’s internal speaker.

Learn more about using the Floodlight Siren.

How to leave Live View

When you’re ready to stop Live View, tap Close in the top left corner on iOS devices and < on Android devices.

Alexa enabled screen devices do not provide the Continue button and remain in Live View until the limit is reached. If the Live View ends before you are finished, you can re-enter Live View by pressing the icon again.

How to record Live View clips

To save Live View clips, you must have a Blink Subscription Plan or a free trial. Visit How to Save Live View clips to learn how to save Live View clips.

Two-way audio

Talking and hearing through your camera

The Blink Outdoor 4, Wired Floodlight, Video Doorbell, Outdoor and Indoor (3rd Gen), Mini, and XT2 cameras have two-way audio. Accessing the Blink app through your mobile device, you can speak and hear through the camera’s speaker and microphone.

Note: Two-way audio is not available in the XT and Indoor (1st Gen).

Confirm microphone access

Enabling your mobile device’s microphone

Before using two-way audio, check your mobile device to ensure the Blink app has permission to use the microphone.

iOS – See the If the microphone doesn’t work in a specific app article for instructions on enabling your mobile device’s microphone.

Android – See the Use your camera & microphone article for instructions on how to enable your mobile device’s microphone.

What if I don’t see the Blink app listed on my mobile device Microphone Permissions list? 

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Two-way audio in the Blink app

Indoor and Outdoor (3rd Gen), Mini, and XT2

Note: Two-way audio is not available in the XT and Indoor (1st Gen).

1.Tap Live View for any of your eligible cameras.

2.At the bottom of Live View is the Hold To Talk button.

3.Press and hold this button while you speak. 

◦ A small animation appears above the button indicating your mobile device’s microphone is active and that your audio will be played through your camera’s speaker.

◦ Release the button when you are finished talking and the microphone will mute itself automatically. The audio can be heard through the camera’s speaker on the other end.

4.After 5 minutes, your Live View will stop and you must return to the Home screen to start another Live View session.

Note: With a Blink Subscription Plan or trial, you can use Extended Live View on the Mini camera. Extended Live View provides up to 90 continuous minutes of viewing.

Outdoor 4, Wired Floodlight Camera and Video Doorbell

1.Tap Live View for any of your eligible cameras.

2.While you’re in Live View, press the Tap to unmute button. The button will turn blue. 

◦ A small animation appears above the button indicating your mobile device’s microphone is active and that your audio will be played through your camera’s speaker.

3.When you’re finished talking, press Tap to mute.

4.After five minutes, your Live View will stop and you must return to the Home screen to start another Live View session. 

Note: With a Blink Subscription Plan or trial, you can use Extended Live View on the Wired Floodlight Camera. Extended Live View provides up to 90 continuous minutes of viewing.

Troubleshooting audio noise

Echo, feedback, or sudden repeated squeal noises

When the camera picks up sounds coming from the Blink app and transmits them back to the Blink app, “feedback” is created. Feedback is a repeating sound that increases in pitch and volume. It can occur when you have the Live View of a camera open in the Blink app and you are within hearing range of the camera.

• To avoid feedback, ensure that your mobile device accessing the Blink app is at least 10 feet away from your Blink camera. 

• To stop existing feedback or unwanted noise, tap the Mute  icon to silence the camera’s speaker. You can also stop the Live View session or switch out of the Blink app entirely.

Chirping, digital noise, or robotic sounds

Blink cameras convert audio into a digital stream so it can be heard for Live Views and recorded clips. During this conversion, extra sounds can sometimes be heard. These sounds may sound like a cluster of noises, scrambled distortion, chirps, or clicks when accessing a Live View or playing back a recorded clip.

The upload speed of your network plays an important part of your digital stream. When network speeds change quickly, your audio may be distorted. Blink devices require at least 2 Mb per second of available upload speed for each Blink device, even when multiple users are online.

Placement of your Blink devices

Device placement recommendations

Placing your camera near hard surfaces may produce unwanted sounds. Because a hard surface reflects sound, the camera microphone may pick up both the original sound and the reflected sound.

Placing the camera on an enclosed shelf or wall, or set back from a table’s edge near or between other objects may create a boxed-in environment that can affect the audio quality of the camera’s microphone and speaker.

For ideal placement, avoid placing your cameras near dense materials like brick, stone, concrete, or metals. Also, avoid placement near other electronic devices and confined spaces.

Setting your camera name and thumbnail

  Note: We’ve enhanced the design of the Blink app. If the steps listed in this article do not match your current app version, you can view the updated design.

When a camera is first installed, its serial number (DSN) is the default camera name, and the thumbnail image will be gray. If you want to change the name of your camera or add a thumbnail picture, follow the steps below.

Change the camera name

From the Home screen, tap the camera name to change it, enter the new name, then tap OK to save.

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Generate a thumbnail

From the Home Screen, tap the thumbnail button . The camera will take a screenshot of what is currently in view and replace the gray with this screenshot. 

The thumbnail remains the same until you refresh it with this button. Learn more about using the Blink app.
 

Device Settings

  Note: We’ve enhanced the design of the Blink app. If the steps listed in this article do not match your current app version, you can view the updated design.

Info

Please update your Blink app if your settings appear differently than shown below. To learn more about updating, visit Current Blink App Versions.

This article describes the Device Settings in the Blink app.

Device Settings is found by tapping the icon  in the top right corner of each thumbnail image on the home screen.

The following settings are accessible by tapping on each menu option.

 General Settings

Last Updated
Tap Pull to Refresh to manually update your camera status.

Name
Camera name that will be displayed on your Home screen. You can edit this name at any time from here or at the Home screen.

Battery Level
This will indicate if your batteries are OK or need to be replaced.

Firmware
Displays your current firmware version.

Status LED
You can set when the LED light displays either as Off or Recording.

Change Wi-Fi  
Use this option if you need to connect your Mini or Wired Floodlight camera to a different router or reconnect your camera to your existing router to troubleshoot an issue.

Connection to Wi-Fi
Displays the Signal Strength from the last time the camera connected. After moving your camera it is a good idea to return here and ensure you have good signal strength.

Connection to Sync Module
Displays the most recent Signal Strength measurement. After moving any part of your system, it is a good idea to visit this settings page to ensure you have good signal strength. If not, move the camera closer to the Sync Module or the Wi-Fi router.

Temperature
The current temperature of that camera. Tap on the temperature to enable temperature alerts or to calibrate the thermometer.

Delete Device
This option removes the camera from your Blink system and it will no longer appear on the home screen.

 Motion Settings

Motion Detection
This setting must be on for the camera to detect motion. If this setting is off, the camera will not detect motion. Note: Once you enable motion detection, arm your camera to receive Motion Detection notifications and to save motion clips.

Motion Recording Types
For Outdoor 4 and Wired Floodlight cameras, select whether you want to see video for all motion, people only, or have them suppressed so no recordings are saved. Note: The Person Detection feature is only available when you have a Blink Subscription plan.

Motion Sensitivity
Controls motion sensor sensitivity. Low sensitivity detects larger objects in motion. High sensitivity detects smaller objects. Adjust sensitivity then test by creating motion notifications to achieve the right balance for your needs.

Motion Zones
Disables motion detection for selected regions of the camera view to prevent unwanted motion clips or notifications.

Retrigger Time
The length of time from the completion of one motion clip to the start of another. This can be set from 10-60 seconds.

Early Notification
This option sends the notification as soon as motion is detected and before the clip is complete. In the Blink App, tap the notification to be immediately taken to the Live View of that camera.

 Video and Photo Settings

Motion Clip Length
The length of motion clips to be recorded and this can be set between 5 and 60 seconds. Mini and Doorbell cameras record clips up to 30 seconds.

Video Quality
This allows you to change the video quality of your Blink camera. More information about the different modes can be found here.

End Clip Early If Motion Stops
If the camera stops detecting motion, the clip will end before the full clip length is reached.

Flip Video
This should be enabled when mounting a Mini camera upside down on a ceiling so that the image is rotated right side up.

Night Vision
If set to Off, the illuminator will not turn on. If set to On, the illuminator will always turn on. If set to Auto, the illuminator will only turn on in low light conditions.

IR Intensity
This value controls brightness of the IR illuminator. This value can be set to Low, Medium, or High. Adjust to control glare or show more detail.

Illuminator Intensity
Adjusts the brightness of the LED on the Indoor (1st Gen) camera.

Photo Capture
If Photo Capture is enabled, a photo is taken once per hour. If motion notifications or other events happen (or not), the images are assembled at the end of the day into a photo-animation in the Clip Roll. 

Note: Photo Capture only works with Indoor and Outdoor (3rd Gen) and Blink Video Doorbell cameras when you have an active Blink Subscription Plan. Learn more about Photo Capture.

 Audio Settings

Speaker Volume
A slider sets the speaker audio level on the camera, as well as the chime loudness of your Video Doorbell.

Ringer Volume
Controls how loud the Blink chime sound plays when you press your Video Doorbell button when it’s wired.

 Floodlight Settings

Wired Floodlight Settings:

Light Brightness 
This slider sets the lights’ brightness from a scale of 1-10. The default setting is 5.

Dusk to Dawn
Turn on this setting to automatically switch your floodlights on at dusk and off at dawn, based on the amount of light the camera senses.

Timeout after Manual Activation
Select the amount of time the lights will stay on after they are manually turned on. The default is 5 minutes and you can set the lights to stay on for 30 seconds or up to 15 minutes. You also have an initial option Until I turn off, which requires you to manually turn off the lights.

Motion Activation
When enabled, the lights will turn on if motion is detected. The lights will turn on regardless of whether your system is armed or not.

Motion Activation when armed: When enabled, the lights will turn on if motion is detected and the camera will record a motion clip.
Motion Activation when disarmed: When enabled, the lights will turn on if motion is detected, even if your system is disarmed. No clips will be saved.

Learn more about arming and disarming your Blink system.

Timeout after Motion Activation
Select the amount of time the lights will stay on after motion is detected. The default is 30 seconds and you can set the lights to stay on for 30 seconds or up to 15 minutes.

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Floodlight Mount Settings:

Battery Level
Displays the battery charge percentage for the floodlight.

Light Brightness
This slider sets the LED brightness from a scale of 1-10. The default setting is 5.

Timeout after Motion Activation
This setting controls how long the LEDs remain lit after the detected motion stops. You can chose between 15 seconds or up to 5 minutes after activation. 15 seconds is the default.

Note: When battery powered floodlights are manually turned on they will stay lit up to one minute.

Daylight Mode
When enabled, the LEDs will activate when motion is detected during certain daylight hours, when the outside light is limited like at dusk and dawn. The LEDs will not activate when there is an abundance of outdoor light, often during midday hours.

Daylight Sensitivity
This setting only appears when “Daylight Mode” is enabled and controls the sensitivity of the lights during daylight hours. Lower setting values only activate the LEDs in darker conditions and higher values will activate the LEDs in brighter conditions.

Firmware
This displays your current firmware version which may be automatically updated at certain intervals.

Pan Tilt Settings

Firmware
View your current firmware version.

Calibrate Pan-Tilt Mount
Select this option to perform a manual calibration. Learn more about how to calibrate your Mini Pan-Tilt mount.

Doorbell and Chime Settings

Chime settings when Doorbell isn’t wired:

Use Blink Mini Camera as Chime
Opens the Mini camera selector. All Mini cameras on the system will be displayed. Learn more about using the Mini camera as a chime.

Mount with wiring
Full instructions for mounting with wiring.

Mount without wiring
Full instructions for mounting without wiring.

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Additional settings when Doorbell is wired:

Chime Type
Select the chime type you use such as Mechanical, Digital or Mini.

Chime Power
Allows you to adjust the power of your chime.

Learn more about setting up your Blink Video Doorbell.

Privacy Settings

Privacy Zones
Disables motion detection for selected regions of the camera view to prevent unwanted motion clips or notifications.

Video Recording
When this setting is off, the camera will only send motion notifications without recording clips; however, Live View is still available.

Audio Streaming
Turn this setting off to disable the audio features of your camera.

Can I Disable the Blue Recording LED on the Camera?

Blink cameras have an activity indicator in the form of a blue color LED light on the front of the camera.

For the Blink Indoor, Outdoor and Mini, the Status LED is controlled in camera settings.

Blink XT and XT2, have a physical hardware switch inside the camera to control whether the status light is on or off.

The Blink Video Doorbell and 1st generation Indoor cameras are not adjustable.
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Blink Indoor and Outdoor blue recording status LED setting

For the Blink Indoor and Outdoor cameras, there is a switch in the Blink app camera settings screen, named Status LED. The Status LED can be set to the following:

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Blink Mini blue recording status LED setting

For the Blink Mini camera there is a switch in the Blink app on the camera settings, General Settings screen named Status LED. The Status LED can be set to the following:

XT and XT2 blue recording status LED switch

The XT and XT2 cameras have a hardware switch inside the battery compartment  to control the blue recording light.  This feature is not available on the Blink indoor cameras.

This article will show you how to turn off the blue recording LED on Blink XT. This LED is enabled by default from the factory.

1. Remove the battery cover. To see how to do that, click here.
2. To the right of your camera’s serial number, you’ll see a switch that says “REC. LED” with two positions, “ON” and “OFF”.

3. Using tweezers or a similar tool, slide that switch to the off position (toward the top of the camera).

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Blink Video Doorbell blue recording status LED

The Blink Video Doorbell has a blue LED that flashes when the doorbell button is pressed. There is no setting to change this.

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Blink 1st generation Indoor camera blue recording status LED

The first generation of Blink indoor camera does not have a setting to control the blue LED.

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For more details, please visit the article New Device Layout Settings.

How Do I Use Scheduled Arming?

Set a schedule for automatically arming and disarming your Blink system

This article describes how to set an automatic schedule to Arm and Disarm your Blink system.

Create a schedule

1.To get started, open up the Blink app and tap Settings in the bottom right of the home screen and select Device and System Settings.

2.Next, select the system you want to schedule.
A system is a compilation of one or more cameras. When multiple cameras are added to the same system, they are linked together so that when you arm your system, all of the cameras in that system will arm at the same time.

3.To ensure that your system arms and disarms at the correct times, make sure your time zone is set correctly.

4.Next, tap Scheduling.

5.On the Weekly Schedule screen, create your schedule. Tap  in the top right of the screen.

6.By default, Arm will be enabled and the toggle on the right will be set to AM.

7.Schedule Arming: First, set the time and day you want to set your schedule arming. Drag the clock hands to your desired time. Time is changed in 15 minute increments. Select the desired days located at the bottom of the screen. When you’re done, tap Save to set the scheduled arming and you are taken back to the Weekly Schedule screen.

8.Schedule Disarming: Next, set the time and day you want to set your schedule disarming. In the example below, the week schedule is highlighted in blue because the the disarm time has not been set. Tap the  again to set disarm schedule.

9.Disarm scheduling is done in the same manner, but you will want to switch the toggle on the left to Disarm. Drag the clock’s hand to your desired disarm time and select the days of week again. Once you have your disarm schedule set to your desired time, tap the Save button again.

10.Your schedule is now set.

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After your schedule is set

Modify existing schedule

You can modify saved schedules by tapping on the arm and disarm toggles and setting new days or times.

Disable Switch

If you want to temporarily disable your schedule (Example: You’re going on vacation), you’ll now see a disabled toggle on Scheduling in the System Settings menu. Enabling this switch this will disable your schedule until you turn it off.

Delete schedule

1.To delete your schedule, go back into your schedule view. Tap the trash can icon  to delete the schedule.

2.You’ll be asked to confirm. Tap Yes.

Note: Scheduled arming and disarming of your system will override any manually set or IFTTT or Alexa triggered arm and disarm settings. 

In order to record motion events, you must have motion detection enabled for a specific device by tapping on the Running Man icon from the home screen or enabling motion detection in the device’s setting screen. Learn more about understanding motion detection.

Deleting a System

Use this article to understand how to delete a system.

System basics

Blink devices work together as part of a system. Each system can manage up to ten Blink devices.

When you delete a system, all of its devices are deleted, and an email is sent to the account owner. Use this to quickly remove items from your account, for situations such as selling a device or replacing an existing device.

Deleting a system will not delete any previously saved clips within your storage location.

To delete a system

1.From the Home screen, tap Settings  to view system settings.

2.Tap Device and System Settings.

3.Tap the name of the system you wish to delete.

4.From the System screen, tap Delete System, and then tap DELETE in the confirmation popup.

After confirming, you are returned to the Settings screen and the system has been removed.

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Empty system

Empty systems contain no devices and is ready to either have devices added to it or be deleted.

If you delete all devices from a system, or have an incomplete setup after creating a system name, it is found in App Settings > Device and System Settings.

App settings

App settings

  Note: We’ve enhanced the design of the Blink app. If the steps listed in this article do not match your current app version, you can view the updated design.

This article describes the app settings found on the Settings screen.

Home screen

The home screen has three icons at the bottom of the screen:

 Home – Tap this to bring you back to the home screen where your cameras are accessible.
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 Clips – Tap this to view the Clip List where all of your Live Views and Motion Clips are saved. Learn more about how to view motion clips in the app.
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 Settings – Tap this to see the Settings screen, which contains all of your Account, Subscription Plan and System settings. All of your account settings are found on the Account and Privacy screen.

App settings

Tap the Settings icon on the home screen to display the Settings screen.

 Account and Privacy

Account settings, link to Amazon, Alexa, Neighbors and privacy preferences.

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Email
This is the email account used when creating your account. You can change your email by tapping on this item and following the prompts.

Password
Use this option to modify your account password. Learn more about how to modify your password.

Require Face ID
This feature helps to keep unrecognized people from accessing your camera systems.

Phone Number
This displays the phone number associated with your account for verification purposes and can be modified. Learn more about how to change your phone number.

Country
This option helps us personalize your experience when you select the country you live in, by ensuring you receive the right messages based on your location.

Link to Amazon Account
Use this option before you purchase a subscription plan, in order to link your Blink and Amazon accounts. Once your accounts are linked it will display as Amazon Account Linked. Learn more about linking your Blink and Amazon accounts.

Link to Alexa
Use this option to directly open your Alexa app in order to enable voice alerts and voice control for your devices. Learn more about Alexa.

Neighbors App
The Ring neighbors program and mobile app is available to customers. The app and more information can be accessed from https://ring.com/neighbors.

Manage Mobile Devices
To ensure only authorized people can access a Blink account, the account owner can view and control all additional devices that access their account within the Blink app.

Enable Crash Reporting
If the Blink app suddenly stops working, use this toggle to control the sending of crash reports.

Grant Blink Support Account Access
Enable this toggle to give the support team access to your account for up to 14 days. Learn more about granting access to your Blink account.

Sign Out
Use this option to sign out of your Blink account.

Delete Account
Tap this button to delete your account. If you delete your Blink account, you lose access to clips that are stored on our systems, as well as access to any Blink devices through the Blink app. Learn more about how to delete your account.

Blink Plans

View and manage your Blink plans

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Trial Information
If you are within a Blink subscription trial period, you will see the trial end date as well as an option to cancel your trial. Learn more about Blink subscription plans.

Learn about Blink Plans
Select this to view a comparison of Blink subscription plans.

Link to Amazon Account
Use this option before you purchase a subscription plan, in order to link your Blink and Amazon accounts. This will not appear if your accounts are already linked.

Note: If you are not subscribed to one of our subscription plans or on a trial, you may not see the Blink Plans option under your Blink app settings screen.

Device and System Settings

Create schedule, organize camera displays and other system settings

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Systems
All of your systems in your account are listed here. When you tap on a system, you will be taken to the System Settings screen. 

Here you can rename your system, sort your cameras as they appear on the home screen, set scheduling, time zone, access your Sync Module settings and enable Save all Live Views. You also have an option to delete your system if necessary.

Temperature Units
Select this option to set your temperature units to display as either Fahrenheit or Celsius, which appears in your camera settings page.

Notifications

Customize notification preferences

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The Blink app provides notifications to alert you about events that occur in your account and systems.

Events are as follows:

Alerts are as follows:

<p>The post Using Your Blink Camera first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>

How to set presets & auto-patrol for xmartO PTZ cameras?

The xmartO WT series, DZ series and DPM series PTZ cameras support up to 8 preset points.

Definition of ‘presets’: PTZ cameras can be navigated to view different areas. Presets record the key points so you can reach the recorded poinits with one tap.

Auto-patrol: a feature xmartO developped based on preset feature. The camera patrol the preset points back and forth. AKA auto-cruise, auto-scan.

1. Set preset points

While viewing the camera, tap PTZ icon to enter PTZ menu; then tap Preset to enter preset menu. Use the joystick to navigate the camera to the 1st point, tap ‘Add Preset’ to save the point 1; then navigate the camera to next point and tap ‘Add preset’ to save the point 2…you can save up to 8 points.

2. In the preset menu, you can tap ‘Go to‘ to reach the preset points.

3. Start Auto-patrol

a) If your camera does not have optical zoom, tap the image, on right you will see the A icon. Tap the A icon the camera will start to patrol the preset points.

b) If your camera is the version with optical zoom, well it has higher level chipset inside. The Auto-patrol is a bit different. In preset menu, tap ‘Shortcut mode’, type in ’13’ and tap Go to, the camera will start to patrol the preset points.

4. Stop Auto-patrol

Tap any of the direction on the joystick will stop the auto patrol.

Tips: cameras added to xmartO NVR have the same steps. It’s similar to on the NVR. Only the NVR’s UI is a bit different and the A icon is in the middle of the joystick. 

Read Next : How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices

View XMARTO WiFi cameras on PC

CMS is called Camera Monitor System. It is a camera monitoring client for online preview image, video storage, remote playback, device management, video/screen download and other functions. It is suitable for DVR, NVR, IPC, VR CAM, Wifi IPC and other devices.

Below are the basic instructions of using CMS on your computer. If you need detailed user manual of CMS, you can download it from our website: https://xmarto.com/pages/download

Also, you can click More Function-System Message-Open the manual to find more details of xmartO WallPixel CMS.

1. Download xmartO WallPixel CMS Software
Link: https://www.xmarto.com/downloads/

2.Installation and operation  

Step 1: Run the xmartO_WallPixel_for_PC_Setup.exe installation package.

Step 2: Select the language that your system needs to use.

Step 3: Read and accept the agreement.

Step 4: Select and determine your software installation path.

Step 5: After the installation is successful, immediately run and use.

 

3. Login

3.1 Local Login

Default username: admin
Default password: no password, leave it blank

For security reason, we suggest you set a password after you are logged in.

3.2 Cloud Login

Use the app account: Enter the username + password of the app account on the cloud login interface to log in.

Register an account:Click on the registered account in the cloud login interface, enter the mobile phone number / email (if using the mobile phone number to register, you need to add the mobile phone number area code), click OK, enter the password and verification code and click Register now, after verification, you can complete the registration.

Forgot password:Click on the forgot password in the login interface, enter the registered account to obtain the verification code, enter the verification code and the new password and click OK to reset the password.

 

4. Add Device to CMS

You can add devices to the CMS in two ways:

Method 1: After adding the device using the mobile APP, directly log in to the CMS using the APP account password, and you can view the device you have added in the CMS system;

Method 2: Please make sure that your device is equipped with a network or a network cable, log in to the CMS, and click the add button in the upper right corner.

Add IP / DDNS: manually enter the device “IP / DDNS + port + channel number + device password”, select “type” according to the actual situation of the device, the rest of the information remains the default, click Finish to add successfully.

Cloud ID addition: manually enter the device “cloud ID number + channel number + device password”, select “type” according to the actual situation of the device, the rest of the information remains the default, click Finish to add successfully.

 

 

LAN search device addition: select the device management in the function bar below the system, click the interface refresh button, wait for the device to be searched, check the required device and click add (enter the device IP / ID to quickly find the need to add device)

5. Live View
The xmartO WallPixel  CMS allows you to view cameras on your computer both locally and remotely.

5.1 Main Menu Introduction of CMS:

• Playback: Click to playback videos stored in your hard drive
• Device Management: Manage your device(s)
• User Parameter: Some basic settings of CMS
• Record: Record short videos of live view cameras, videos will be stored to your computer
• Screenshot: Take snapshots of live view cameras, pictures will be stored to your computer
• Disconnect All: Turn off live view of all cameras on CMS
• Screen Number: Choose how many cameras you want to display on one screen, the CMS allows you to view up to 64 cameras simultaneously
• More Function: More basic functions of CMS, including creating user, setting password and etc.

5.2 Multi-channel Viewing
CMS allows you to view up to 64 cameras simultaneouly. So if you have multiple systems, you can view all cameras in multiple systems simultaneously on this CMS.

5.3 Record and Snapshot
CMS allows you to record short videos and take snapshots when live view cameras, videos and snapshots will be saved in your computer. You can change the storage path here as shown in the picture.

 

6. Playback
CMS allows you to playback your history videos stored in hard drive. With this CMS, you can playback videos stored in hard drive or micro SD card from all over the world. Detailed instruction as below:

a. Click “Playback” on bottom navigation, it will pop out message “Close the video being played?” Choose Yes.
b. Select a window on left(1), select a channel from the device(2), choose the Record Type, select a date(3), and click “Retrieval”(4). The CMS will start playback videos of that channel immediately. Move the cursor on the time bar at bottom to locate an exact time to replay the camera per your needs.

c. You can record short videos or take snapshots while playback videos. Videos and snapshots will be stored to your computer.

 

7. Backup 
CMS allows you to download and backup videos to your computer.
The downloaded video files are in .mp4 format, you can playback with any player.

Detailed instruction here:
Click “Playback” on bottom navigation, select a device channel, choose Record type, select a date and then click “Download” on bottom right. You’ll see below interface with a list of all recorded videos.

 

Videos will be saved to your computer, as shown in below picture. You can also change the storage path.

 

8. User Management

8.1 Change admin password
Click “More Function” on bottom navigation, choose “System Message” and click “Change Password”. Keep the old password blank, and enter your new password, confirm your new password, and click “Confirm” to save it.

 

Something important need to pay attention to:
If you have once installed old ESeeCloud version on your computer and plan to upgrade to this new one, you need to uninstall the old version from your computer completely, and delete related files. Then install this new version, otherwise the new one does not work on your computer.

Here is how to uninstall the old one and delete the related files from your computer:
1. Uninstall the current ESeeCloud software from your computer.
2. Go to the place where you install this software on your computer and delete the file named with ESeeCloud completely, usually it is stored here:  C:\Program Files (x86)\EseeCloud
3. Go to below path and delete the ESeeCloud file, as shown in below picture.
C:\Users\Administrator (or your username)\AppData\Local\EseeCloud
C:\Users\Administrator (or your username)\AppData\Local\EseeCloud_Data
C:\Users\Administrator (or your username)\AppData\Roaming\EseeCloud

If the file is not shown there, then you need to check “show hidden files, folders and drives “, as shown in below picture.

How to view xmartO cameras on Mac?

EseeCloud is an updated CMS to preview, playback and backup the xmartO cameras/ camera systems on Mac.

1. Download ESeeCloud CMS Software
Download the EseeCloud CMS from xmartO website:
https://www.xmarto.com/downloads

2. Install and run ESeeCloud CMS on your Mac.
Install the CMS on your Mac and run it. If you have problem installing ESeeCloud CMS to your Mac, please refer to,

https://support.xmarto.com/?action=faq&cat=1&id=20&artlang=en

3. Login ESeeCloud
After that, you will be asked to type in the username and password. The default username is “admin”, default password is blank. For security reason, please set a login password to prevent unauthorized access.

4. Add Device to ESeeCloud CMS

4.1 Auto add, applies to add devices in LAN
EseeCloud CMS will search the devices in LAN automatically and display them in the Device Management list.

a. Click “Device Management” in upper navigation, you’ll see your device(s) listed there.
b. Select the device(s) and click Add. Your device(s) will be added to ESeeCloud CMS. They will show on upper right.

 

c. Go back to Live View, and click on the “play button”

behind each device to preview. If you want to view cameras from all devices at the same time, simply click “All Connect” at the right bottom. Click on the “stop button” behind each device to stop previewing cameras of this device.

4.2 Manual add, applies to add devices remotely
If you want to view cameras from a remote computer, you need to add the device to your ESeeCloud CMS manually on that computer.

a. Run and login ESeeCloud, then click “+” at top right corner. Or click “Device Management” on upper navigation.

b. You’ll see below interface. There are two ways to add device to ESeeCloud: Add cloud ID and Add IP/DDNS.
Add cloud ID: Add device to ESeeCloud with your NVR’s Device/Cloud ID. It is available for local and remote access.
Add IP/DDNS: Add device to ESeeCloud with your NVR’s IP address. It is available for local access only, so if you want remote access your cameras on this computer, choose the first Add cloud ID.

c. Type in the information required and click “Add”, the device is added to this ESeeCloud CMS, you can preview the cameras now.

Note: If you are adding xmartO VR camera, please turn on the Panorama.

5. Live View
5.1 The ESeeCloud CMS allows you to view cameras on your computer both locally and remotely. Please refer to below image for basic introduction of buttons.

5.2 It allows you to view up to 64 cameras simultaneously.

5.3 It supports all xmartO security camera systems and VR cameras. You can turn on panorama for VR cameras here, and also you can turn on the auto cruise.

6. Playback
The ESeeCloud CMS allows you to playback your camera videos. With this CMS, you can playback videos stored in hard drive or microSD card from all over the world. Detailed instruction as below:

a. Click “Playback” on upper navigation.
b. Select a window on left(1), select a channel from the device(2), choose the type(3), and select a date(4), click “Search”(5). The CMS will start playback videos on camera windows shortly. Move the cursor on the time bar at bottom to locate an exact time to replay the camera per your needs.

Note: The ESeeCloud CMS allows you to playback 4 cameras at the same time.

7. Backup (It works in LAN network only)
The ESeeCloud CMS allows you to download and backup videos to your computer.
The recorded video files are in .avi format, you can playback with any player.

Detailed instruction here:
Click “Resource Management” on upper navigation, then select the channel you want to back up, select the type and date, click “Search”, you will see the recordings on the left. Click the “Download” icon to download the videos you want. Videos will be saved to your computer.

Videos will be saved to below path in default:

/Users/macusername/cms_data/cms_video_download/

You can change the storage path here:
Click the setting icon at upper right corner, then you’ll see below box. Click the three dots to change the storage path, and click Confirm.

8. User Management
8.1 Change admin password
The ESeeCloud CMS’s default username is admin, and default password in blank, means no password. For security consideration, we suggest you set a password for CMS after logged in. Here is how:

Click the “human” icon at upper right corner, then click Change Password. Keep the old password blank, and enter your new password, confirm your new password, and click Confirm.

 

8.2 Add new user
You can add new user for ESeeCloud CMS, here is how:
Click User Management on upper navigation, then click New, you’ll see below box.
Enter a username and remark name, click Confirm. (Remark name here is your nick name.)

Note: When you create a new user, you are not asked to enter new password for this user. It uses default password blank. You can change the password after logged in.

How to view cameras on the mobile app (WallPixel)

1. Download and install WallPixel App

Download the free WallPixel mobile app from App Store or Google Play Store and install the application on your phone or tablet.

          WallPixel HD

2. Creating an Account                                                                                                   

Tap the app, click “Register”, enter the required information to create an app account.
If you already have an account, login with your username and password.

After click “Register”, input your phone number or email address then the app will send you the verification code.

Check the email or text you’ve received and input the verification code.

Then you need to set a password and confirm it again. (The password should be a combination of 6-20 numbers or letters.)

At last, click “OK”,you’ll create the account successfully.

3. Adding NVR Device to App

Tap “+” at the top right corner, then tap the first option ” Wifi Camera Kit with NVR” to add your NVR device to the app.

4. Entering Device Information

Enter the required device information and click Save.

Cloud ID: This is your system’s Device ID, which can be found at the right bottom of your monitor. It is 9 digits. (NVR Device ID can also be found at NVR’s System setting – Network setting)
Username: Your NVR login username, default is admin. If you’ve set a new user for your NVR, use the new username here.
Password: Your NVR login password, default is empty, means no password, leave it blank. If you’ve set a new password for your NVR, make sure to type in the new password here.

* You can also scan to add your NVR device to the app.
a. Right click your NVR mouse, then click System setting – Network setting, click “Show QR Code”. The Cloud ID QR Code will be displayed.
b. Open the app, click + at upper right corner, then choose Scan and scan the QR Code displayed in your NVR’s network setting interface.
c. Enter your NVR’s login username and password, save the settings. Your device is now added to app. You can start live view cameras now.

5. Viewing Cameras on Phone

Once you click “Save”, the device will be added to your account and you’ll be directed to the device list page. As shown in below picture. Click the device to start live viewing your cameras.

6.View live video on mobile

Playback: You can playback the recorded videos in HDD on your mobile. Select any channel and click playback to review recorded videos of that channel.

Window: You can choose to view 1/4/6/8 cameras at a time.

Aspect Ratio:You can adjust the aspect ratio of the cameras’ image.

SD: Change live view resolution. You can select from HD or SD. HD means high definition resolution, while SD means standard resolution.

7.My account info.

Personal info: View your account information and change the password.
App setting: Some basic settings for your app.
Version: Your current app version.
Logout: Log out your current account.

How to view xmartO cameras on Alexa Echo Show?

Now all of our xmartO products can work with Alexa.

Pls see the details in the following link to view your cameras on Alexa Echo Show:

https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media/sc/37fa1474-c687-4fdf-af21-76a8b73f4b28.pdf

How to set camera’s light mode on the NVR? (solves black night vision)

The light mode of each camera lets you select which lights to use.

Click the camera image, it will pop-out a quick menu on bottom, pls click Color & Light-Light Model.

Infrared mode: uses IR LEDs only. At night you see B&W night vision. And the camera will then automatically adjust the day & night vision.

full color mode: flood lights stay on at night, you see color night vision.(Only cameras with floodlight can do it)

smart mode: B&W IR night vision when nobody detected, flood lights automatically turn on when people detected.

How to Upgrade xmartO IP camera firmware

OTA upgrade cameras firmware from APP (for standalone cameras)

1. For standalone cameras, in the APP device list, tap “…” at upper right corner of your device, choose “Settings”. It will show a red dot if there is a newer version.
2. Tap the red dot to upgrade your camera from OTA server.

It will take a few minutes to update your camera; and the update requires your camera to have good Internet connection.

Upgrade camera firmware from NVR

For multiple-camera systems, if you want to upgrade the cameras, you will need to do it from the NVR menu with an USB stick.

1. Please download the camera’s new firmware from xmarto.com or contact customer support for new firmware

2. Copy the firmware to an USB flash disk’s root directory (not in any folder)

3. Plug the USB flash disk to your NVR’s USB port

4. Go to System setting-CH Setting- IPC Maintenance, choose the firmware from USB Storage, and click start to update the firmware of your camera.

The camera will be uprgraded and you will see a new version.

Tips: if your NVR has only 1 USB port, click Start, the NVR will start a 60-second count down. Within 60 seconds, unplug the mouse and plug the USB flash drive, your camera will be upgraded. 

How to enhance WiFi connection between cameras and NVR?

While using XMARTO WiFi security camera system, customers may experience video freeze, video lag or even “no video” issue.

This is typically caused by weak WiFi signal from cameras to the NVR.

Based on 2.4Ghz WiFi, all cameras connect to the NVR’s own WiFi, just like your phones/ tablets connect to your home WiFi router.

In line of sight, XMARTO WiFi cameras can be mounted 1000ft (300m) away from the NVR. The camera system handles distance very well.

However, like any WiFi devices, the cameras do not handle obstacles very well. Each wall reduces its WiFi strength noticeably.

How Obstacles Affect Your Signal Strength

When your wireless signal is transmitted through various materials, such as walls and windows, the signal strength is affected. Though the NVR and wireless camera may be very close in proximity, you could still notice high signal interference if the signal passes through certain obstacles. For instance, if the signal passes through a concrete wall it will be severely weakened. Please reference the below chart to see which obstacles highly affect your signal and which do not.

Based on the facts, below are some suggestions of how to optimize your cameras’ WiFi connection.

1. Select a WiFi channel with least interference for your NVR

As the only hub, the NVR’s WiFi performance is crucial. To select a least-interfered WiFi channel for the NVR, ensures its performance not affected by other WiFi devices.

This is how to,

A) In NVR’s System setting – Network setting – WiFi setting. Click “Auto Select Channel“, the NVR will automatically select a WiFi channel with least WiFi interference.

B) For Japanese customers, you can choose region MKK and channel “Other” (channel 14) to avoid some WiFi interference.

2. Place your NVR and cameras reasonably

The NVR is the only WiFi hub, all cameras are WiFi devices that need to connect to the hub. Centralize the position of the NVR so it reaches all cameras well.

Principle of placing NVR and cameras: avoid any possibly avoidable wall, in the line from NVR to cameras.  

Do not place near high voltage wires or other sources of electrical interference. Electrical interference will degrade the quality of the signal.

Below are some more tips:

 

 

If there has to be obstacles between the NVR and camera, adjust the height of camera or NVR to avoid floor. Floors are normally heavier than walls.

Always find possible open between NVR and camera, mount camera and place NVR’s spot accordingly to allow signal to pass.

Metal walls (including metal garage gate) absorb wifi signal. Use extra extendable wifi antenna to bring camera’s antenna inside the wall. This also works for heavy concrete wall.

Try to keep camera and NVR’s antennas parallel to get better signal pick-up.

3. Bring the camera’s antenna through a wall

If a camera needs to be mounted behind a wall, you may use a WiFi antenna with extension cable to pass the wall.

Search “WiFi antenna with extension cable” on retail website like Amazon, you will find a lot of options.

Mount the camera behind the wall, drill a hole, wire through the hole to bring the antenna inside the wall.

4. Take advantage of XMARTO Dream Liner WiFi Relay technology
The xmartO Dream Liner technology uses cameras in middle as repeaters. That way, further cameras connect to closer cameras 1st, and then to the NVR as a group.

The latest G3 XMARTO WiFi camera systems do it automatically.

WiFi Relay

G3 Auto WiFi Relay

Here is an article about WiFi Relay,

https://support.xmarto.com/index.php?action=artikel&cat=1&id=32&artlang=en

5. Use a WiFi camera repeater

Add an RPT20 physical WiFi camera repeater for that camera,

6. Hard Wire Cameras
If you cannot get a camera to work via WiFi anyway, you should consider to hard wire that camera, especially when it’s PTZ camera.

Here is how to hard wire a camera,

https://support.xmarto.com/?action=faq&cat=1&id=50&artlang=en

How to pair a camera to an XMARTO NVR?

After you purchased an extra add-on camera, or when you want to swap a certain camera, you need to pair the new camera to your NVR.

1. Add by WiFi (for most cameras)

XMARTO’s “Add Cam by WiFi” feature makes this super easy.

1. Bring the camera close to the NVR, plug it to power.

2. On NVR screen, right click to enter main menu > Add Cam by WiFi. The NVR will search and add the new camera(s). Done.

The new camera will be added to NVR channel within a miniute.

What if: If this does not work, hold the camera’s reset button 6 – 10 seconds to bring the camera into config mode. Run “Add Cam by WiFi” on NVR.

 

2. Add with Ethernet cable (for cameras without reset key)

 Another way: pair the camera with an Ethernet Cable.

1.Plug the new camera to power. Use an ethernet cable to hardwire the camera to your NVR’s LAN port.

2. On NVR screen, right click to enter NVR’s main menu > Camera Manage.

3. In upper box, click “Refresh” button to search the camera out. The camera will be listed out an initial IP address 192.168.1.xxx

4. Click to select the camera, then click in below box to select an empty channel.

5. Click “Match Code“. The system will start to pair the camera to NVR’s WiFi.

6. Within a minute or so, the camera will be successfully paired to channel and displays image. You can now unplug the camera and mount it to where you want.

How to set a closer camera as a WiFi repeater for a camera that is out of WiFi range?

Start from Generation 3 (NVR and camera with ver.3.0+), XMARTO WiFi camera systems come with AUTO WiFi Relay.

AUTO WiFi Relay: when a camera is having weak WiFi signal. It shall come in and out frequently. Such a camera will AUTOMATICALLY find a close-by camera as WiFi repeater, connect to that camera, thus to relay back to the NVR.

First of all, to get good WiFi connection for cameras, you should decide your NVR’s location and WiFi channel well.

1. Centralize your NVR location so it reaches all cameras well.

2. Use a WiFi channel with least WiFi interference, here is how,

A) In NVR’s System setting – Network setting – WiFi setting. Click “Auto Select Channel“, the NVR will automatically select a WiFi channel with least WiFi interference.

Dream Liner Auto WiFi Relay

Q1: How do I know whether the Auto WiFi Relay is on?

A1: It’s set on by default. Right click to enter NVR main menu – WiFi Relay, you can see the status.Make sure Auto WiFi Relay is checked.

Q2: How can I take advantage of AUTO WiFi Relay?

A2: Since it’s an auto feature now, you don’t need to do much setting job.

Here is our suggestions:

Before mounting your cameras, simply place all cameras where you want, plug them to power, wait up to an hour to see whether all cameras can stream smoothly to the NVR. If they do, mount them; if they don’t, adjust the location of your NVR, or a certain camera, till you get a stable connection for all cameras, then mount them.

When you do the test run, most cameras shall be able to connect directly to the NVR. A certain camera that is far, or with more obstables may have weak WiFi signal to connect to the NVR. It may come in and out. When it’s coming in & out, it trys connecting to the NVR as always. If it feels hard to connect, it will find an alternative – a middle camera as repeater.

This is an algorithm, it may take up to 30 minutes for the camera to form a relay chain; and suprisingly you may find it’s a changing relationship. Maybe in the morning the CAM2 connects to CAM1, in the afternoon you find CAM2 connects to the NVR directly.

It’s not hard to understand. WiFi signal is something invisible and changing. Maybe in the afternoon you had your iPad in your room, your NVR in the living room is less interfered, CAM2 finds the NVR itself a better hotspot to connect.

After the test run, as long as you have all cameras streaming well to the NVR, you can mount them to their tested spots. (regardless how many WiFi bars they give you)

If you do have a camera that is hard to connect after adjusting other cameras’ locations, you should go ahead to mount the other cameras, then come back to this very camera.

You have 2 solutions：

1. Hard wire that camera, here is how to,

https://support.xmarto.com/?action=faq&cat=1&id=50&artlang=en

2. Add an RPT20 physical WiFi camera repeater for that camera,

====

Version 2 camera systems

For customers who has older version 2 camera systems, you can manually set a middle camera as a WiFi repeater. Click to see more details

 View More >> 

How to enable PTZ camera auto tracking on the NVR/Phone ?

When you add the PTZ cameras to the exsisting system as add-on cameras:

Go to System setting-CH Setting- Video Detection and enable the Motion Detection Tracking

On NVR version 3.2+

1. Click the image of a camera to pop-out the quick menu on bottom. Click ‘PTZ control’ to enter PTZ menu.

2. In PTZ menu, use the joystick to move the camera to where you want. Type preset ‘1’ and save. This point is saved as preset #1.

3. Enter ‘Auto tracking’ menu, check ‘Motion detection tracking’ and ‘Home point’, type preset 1 as the home point and Apply.

The camera will return to preset 1 after the tracking.

On the phone：

Run the app, click “…” at upper right corner of your device, Choose “Device Setting”

In “Smart Detection“, Enable the Motion Detection Tracking

====

If your NVR firmware is earlier than 3.1.4.4, or your camera version is older than 3.6.28; you need to upgrade your camera/ NVR to obtain the auto track feature. 

1. Update your NVR version to 3.1.4.4 or higher

Online upgrade: make sure your system is getting online condition.

Right click your NVR mouse>System setting>System Admin>System upgrade, choose Online upgrade, check upgrade when download finished, click Start.

2. Download the camera firmware 3.6.28,

https://www.xmarto.com/download/firmware/IPG5323_W_20210803_3_6_28_572010(1).rom

3. Put the file to your USB flash disk’s root directory, not in any folder.

4. Plug the USB flash disk to your NVR’s USB port.

5. Go to System setting-CH Setting- IPC Maintenance, choose the firmware from USB Storage, and click start to update the firmware of your camera.

6. Go to System setting-CH Setting- Video Detection and enable the Motion Detection Tracking

Now, your PTZ camera DZ2034/DZ20313, DT3034/DT30320, WT2054/WT20512, DPM2024 can achieve the auto tracking function when they connect to the NVR system.

==

XMARTO PTZ cameras has a lot of advanced features if you are interested. Please refer to the XMARTO PTZ camera command codes manual,

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0628/9912/6502/files/XMARTO_PTZ_Dome_Camera_Command_Codes.pdf?v=1649837464

How to set home point for XMARTO Auto-Track PTZ cameras?

The XMARTO PTZ cameras have Auto-Track function. The Auto-Track is an AI feature that tracks activities and record.

It makes sure to record what happened even while you are not watching.

A concern comes along with the Auto-Track: would the camera track and view the wall or ground, and never come back to the entrance it was watching?

You can set a home point for the PTZ cameras. The camera will return to this key point after each track. 

Follow below steps, you can set your default view point.

1. Set Home Point On APP

While viewing the camera in App, tap PTZ and use the joystick to move the camera to watch the spot you want. (such as an entrance)

Then tap Preset to enter preset menu.

In Preset menu, tap the + sign to add preset points.

The 1st preset point will be the home point.

The camera will return to this point after each track.

   =>    =>  

Tap the Edit sign, you can delete and change preset points, including the 1st home point.

2. Set Home Point in NVR Menu

If your camera is used with a NVR, you can also set the home point in NVR menu.

a) while viewing the camera on NVR screen, click the image of a camera, you will see a pop-out menu on bottom. Click PTZ control to enter PTZ menu.

b) In PTZ menu, use the joystick to move the camera to where you want. In preset type 1 and save. This point will be saved as preset #1.

c) Switch to Auto tracking menu, check Motion detection tracking and Home point, type 1 as the home point and Apply.

The camera will return to preset 1 after each tracking.

NOTE:

1. If your NVR does not have this Auto tracking menu, upgrade your NVR to latest version
2. If your NVR does not have this Auto tracking menu after the firmware upgrade, set the home point from mobile App.

How to replace my old NVR without pairing each camera again?

XMARTO’s long range WiFi security camera systems have been the best sellers on Amazon during 2015 – 2016.

Many customers’ security camera systems were runnning for 6-7 years, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

With that workload, some customers feel the necessity of replacing their old NVRs, or some of their old cameras.

Is there a way to swap the old NVR out without taking all cameras down for pairing? 

The answer is affirmative. 

As you may already know, the NVR itself is also a WiFi router.

The theory is simple: each time you replace your old WiFi router, you only need to set your new WiFi hotspot name and WiFi password exactly the same as before, your devices will automatically reconnect. Same thing for XMARTO NVRs.

Here are the steps replacing your old NVRs without re-pairing all cameras:

Step 1: Record the WiFi information of your old NVR. 

As showed in below image, in your old NVR’s menu, navigate to System Setting – Network setting – WiFi setting, you will see the ESSID and password information, which is the WiFi name and WiFi password of this NVR. Take a photo to record this information.

Step 2: Revise your new NVR WiFi information to the same as old NVR’s. 

Swap your old NVR out and plug your new NVR, enter the same WiFi setting. Revise the new NVR’s ESSID & password to exactly the same as on the old NVR.

Step 3: Find your cameras back

With the old WiFi information on the new NVR, your cameras are connected with the new NVR.

Now you need add the cameras to your NVR channels.

In the NVR menu, right click – Camera Manage; click Search till you see your cameras listed in the above box. Then click ‘Add One’ to add the cameras to NVR channels.

Your cameras will be added to the channels in the below box and work as before.

 

FAQ

1. My old NVR is still working fine. Should I upgrade it to a newer one?

Not necessarily. As long as they are working fine. You don’t have to upgrade the NVR, or the camera.

    2. I plan to add the latest XMARTO PTZ camera, or solar cameras to my old system. Is it compatible?

XMARTO products are compatible with each other. But if your NVR is 960p or 1080p, they are not capable to take in the new 3MP & 5MP cameras.

Please check your NVR’s version in System admin. If you have version 3.0+, you can feel free to add latest cameras. If your NVR version is earlier than 3.0, please consider to upgrade your NVR (hardware) to the latest model.

    3. What if my old NVR does not turn on and I cannot enter the menu?

Please try to open the old NVR, unplug the 2 cables on hard drive, see if you can enter the menu to record old WiFi information.

If you cannot enter the old NVR’s menu to find WiFi info, you will need to pair your cameras to the new NVR one by one. Here is how to,

https://support.xmarto.com/?sid=229823&lang=en&action=faq&cat=1&id=15&artlang=en

“Incorrect password” while viewing XMARTO cameras from App

The XMARTO home security systems have 2-layer of security password.

1. The NVR device password (AKA the admin password)

Each time you access the NVR menu, it requires the admin password. Without a device password, users will be locked out.

Device admin password can be set when you follow the 1st time initial setup, or at any time in System setting – System admin – User.

This is very important and we suggest you to set and remember your admin password at 1st time.

This device password (device lock) is local and it locks access to your NVR, no matter whether your NVR has Internet connection or not.

2. App login password

Like using any Internet service, using WallPixel App requires you to create an user account.

Your App user account is normally an email address or a phone number; and the password is the code protecting your user account.

If you don’t have a WallPixel App user account, tap Register to create an user account.

The App user account is different from your device admin password. They are 2 sets of combinations.

The NVR admin password is a local password locking your NVR; the App user account password is an Internet password locking access to your WallPixel user account.

3. The connection

The connection between App user account and the NVR/ camera is based on Cloud ID.

The Cloud ID is an unique ID number of a XMARTO NVR or camera. On most NVRs/ cameras, you can find a QR code indicating the device’s Cloud ID. You can also find the Cloud ID on NVR screen’s below right corner.

To access the Cloud ID corresponding device, you need to provide the device password. Without the password, you will be locked out.

As advised in the manual, when you add the NVR/ Camera to the App, you are lead to provide the admin password,

        

The password here refers to the NVR/ camera’s admin password, not the App user password.

Provide your admin password, you will be able to view the cameras remotely from the App.

If you are an authorized user by the administrator, provide your user name and your password.

4. Update device password

If you’ve changed your admin password lately, you need to update it to the App.

 =>   => 

A few important tips

1. The default password
   If you skip setting a password for your NVR or camera, then the default password is empty.
   You leave the password area empty and tap next to view the cameras or access the menu.

   That also means, theoretically anyone who knows your Cloud ID can access the NVR/ camera. (although no one will know your Cloud ID unless you show them). So it is strongly suggested to set an admin password; as soon as you start to use the XMARTO NVR/ camera.

 2. Secondary users

If you are running a store, an office etc; in the System setting – System admin – User setting, you can add a few users with secondary permissions.

Then give those secondary user accounts to your employees. For example, you added user “JohnWayne” with password “batman”.

When he try to access the NVR’s screen, he needs to change the username from “admin” to “JohnWayne”, then enter password “batman” to access the NVR menu.

Same thing in the App. Obviously John Wayne needs to create his own App user account with his own email or phone #.

Then when he add the NVR system or camera to App, he input or scan the Cloud ID, provide his own NVR/Camera access combination, to access the NVR/ camera, with your nominated permissions only.

3. That sounds way too complicated. “I’d simply let my families know my Cloud ID and admin password so they can view” 

Not suggested. Logically, the WallPixel Cloud will take the 1st App user who added the Cloud ID as the owner.

If you have a 2nd or 3rd user adding the same Cloud ID as admin, 1 or few of you may miss some features, such as the App notifications.

The correct way is to use the Sharing feature.

a) let your families download and install WallPixel App, then create his/ her own App user account.

b) in the App, tap sharing, set sharing perimissions and valid time. Then send the QR code to your families.

c) In WallPixel App, your families scan the QR codes to add the camera/ system.  (no matter where they are)

4. “My XMARTO security system have 4 cameras and a NVR. Does that mean I have 5 Cloud IDs?”
No, when you use a XMARTO camera system, the App only takes the whole system as a single device; so it recognize only the NVR’s Cloud ID; and let you view 4 to 10 cameras simultaneously in App, just like what you see on the NVR’s screen.

Privacy tips

1. Does XMARTO know my device admin password?
   No we don’t. The device password is a local password you set in the initial setup. We cannot know that.
   If you forgot the password, the only way is to hard reset it.
   About how to reset password, please contact support@xmarto.com
   The hard reset can be done only by yourself, with the hardware in hand.
2. Does XMARTO know my App user password?
   No we don’t. Any App attempts to collect user’s password will not be approved by App Store or Google Play.
   If you forgot the App user password, the only way is to tap “Forget password” and follow steps to reset password, or simply create another user account.
3. If someone hacks my App user account, what should I do?
   That never happened. But if you believe someone hacked your App user account, the 1st thing to do is tap “Forget password” in App to reset your user password; or contact support@xmarto.com to know how-to hard reset your device password. Any of the 2 password reset will lock the access immediately.

   For standalone cameras, please change the device password in device setting; or hold reset button to reset the camera and set it up again.
   For NVR or NVR systems, the way of hard resetting password is not public. Please contact support team with your order # to learn how to reset NVR admin password.

   Relax, it’s almost impossible to happen.

<p>The post XMARTO NVR WiFi PTZ Camera System FAQ first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>

Blink Mini Camera Not Connecting To Wi-Fi

1. Consider relocating your Mini closer to your Wi-Fi router if it regularly disconnects from your network. Poor signal strength is the most prevalent reason of disconnection.
2. Please double-check that the password for your in-home Wi-Fi network is accurate. This is normally displayed on the router label, although it might also have been set during router configuration. If you’re not sure if you’re using the right password, try connecting a new device to your Wi-Fi network (laptop, tablet, or phone). If your device is already connected to your Wi-Fi network, you can reconnect by entering the password again after detaching and forgetting the network.
3. Check to see if your network is preventing access to the Mini camera. This might happen if you get a notification indicating a device is trying access but you don’t recognize the name. Instead of the Blink product name, radio chips are occasionally used to identify Blink devices. The following are some well-known identifiers that you should allow if they are detected:

– Generic Doorbell Camera

– Generic Security Camera

– My Simple Link

– Texas Instruments

– < no title >

• Do you use VPN on your mobile device?  If so, please disable VPN and proceed with setup. You can enable your VPN after you complete setup.
• Make certain your router is broadcasting a 2.4 GHz network since Blink cameras cannot connect to a 5 GHz band.
• Try restarting your router, which may resolve your connection problem.

Blink Mini Camera Offline

If you see a “Camera Offline” message that says “Your Blink Mini is offline,” it implies the Blink servers can’t communicate with the camera anymore. There are a few actions you may take to get back in touch. Please contact Technical Support if these instructions do not reconnect your camera.

Instead of batteries, the Blink Mini small camera is powered by a direct connection to a USB standard power adapter. The power cable must be securely attached to a 5 volt 1 Amp power source and fully plugged into the camera in order for it to work.

The camera must be linked to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi internet connection with upload speeds (coming out from your network) of at least two megabits per second (2 Mb/sec) at all times in order to transmit you photos and audio, even if others are using the same internet connection.

The Blink Mini is usually taken down due to a broken or sluggish internet connection.

The alert shown in the Blink app provides helpful tips. The first, is to check the Wi-Fi internet and the power supply, then check the camera power connection.

How to Fix?

1. Check Wi-Fi. Ensure that you can connect to the internet, and that the password has not been changed. If the password has been changed, refer to the next step.
   Rebooting the Wi-Fi router is often very effective to resolve Blink connectivity issues.
   If you have rebooted your router and Blink does not connect after 3 minutes, continue.
2. Check your password. If the password is changed, or if you wish to use a different Wi-Fi network, tap the Change Wi-Fi button:     Change Wi-Fi     and follow the instructions.
   If the password or network have not changed, continue.
3. To repeat the camera installation process, tap the Delete Camera button:    Delete Camera   and follow the instructions.

Blink Mini Motion Detection Not Working

When some settings limit the camera’s critical functionality, the Blink camera may not respond as expected. It’s possible that the setting was altered manually or by accident.

Before you finish, double-check each area. When the blink camera setting is not working properly, it may be restored as normal.

1) Access the Blink system and ensure the motion detection is turned on. Go to the setting where you can find the motion detection on and off button.

2) The next step is to see if the camera is turned on. It indicates that the camera has a setting where the dark “running man” next to the camera setting button may be seen.

3) In the app, look for another setting that states the entire system is armed. In the lower right-hand corner, you’ll find the setting. It should be turned on.

4) The inability to connect to a Wi-Fi network might be the source of the issue. Getting the proper signal strength will get your camera up and running again. Carry your device close to the router and attach the camera as usual to check for a network problem.

Check and output the video when you’ve finished recording it. The camera is not getting enough bandwidth if it is performing perfectly near the router with a solid network connection signal.

Either the location is out of the WIFI network’s range. Alternatively, the barrier around the camera may be blocking Wi-Fi access. You might also consider replacing your router with a high-capacity Wi-Fi device that broadcasts high-frequency radio waves.

Data may be sent between remote devices using a contemporary Wi-Fi network with high-speed internet access. Check the camera with the various routers to see whether the problem is resolved.

5) Batteries may be the source of the problem. Because they have been stored for a long period, the batteries that come with the cameras may contain a lot of power.

Replace the batteries and test the device to check whether it functions correctly. Allow the camera to remain empty on the table for a minute after removing the batteries. After some time has passed, replace the batteries and check to see whether it works correctly.

More:

1. How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices
2. How to set up battery powered Cameras
3. Troubleshooting Physical Cameras in 3 steps

Blink Mini Camera Night Vision Not Working

Night vision is standard on all Blink Cameras. Blink cameras light an area with an infrared emitter, resulting in a black-and-white image. The intensity of the IR emitter may be changed using the Blink app’s settings.

How To Turn On Night Vision On Blink Camera?

f your default setting somehow has been changed, here is how to enable night vision on your Blink camera.

1. Open the Blink app
2. Click on the Camera Settings icon

The Camere Settings icon in the far right button is located above the camera image. It is to the right of the camera name and just the right of the motion detection icon (The running man).

3. Scroll down to the “Night Vision” section

The Night Vision section is the fourth section down. As of writing this article, the sections are currently in this order: 1. General, 2. Monitoring, 3. Motion Detection, 4. Night Vision, etc.

4. Enable the night vision by changing the “Control” option to either “Auto” or “On”

Blink Camera Night Vision Settings

There are two-night vision settings that you can adjust:

1. Control (On, Off, Auto)
2. Intensity (Low, Medium, High)

Blink Night Vision Control

The Blink night vision control setting is the option that determines if night vision is enabled or not. Whether it comes on or stays off.

The Control setting has three options: On, Off, or Auto.

Auto: Auto will toggle night vision on or off based on the lighting conditions.

On: On will constantly have night vision enabled.

Off: Night vision will not turn on, no matter how dark it is.

Auto is Blink’s default setting and what I would recommend using unless your Blink camera is always going to be in a dark setting.

Blink Night Vision Intensity

The Blink intensity setting is the option that controls how bright the IR emitter shines. This is useful for controlling glare in specific locations.

The Intensity setting also has three options: Low, Medium, High.

After you have the camera mounted and where you plan on keeping it, I’d recommend opening up a live stream when setting the IR intensity.

Steps to set your Blink Cameras IR Intensity

1. Wait until nighttime
2. Open up live view
3. If being used for motion detection, stand as close as you think a person might reasonably stand.
4. Adjust the IR intensity for the best image quality.

If the IR intensity is too high, the image will appear whitewashed. It will be hard to make out objects because everything seems white. Lower the Intensity.

If the IR intensity is too low, the image will appear dark. You won’t be able to see anything. Increase the Intensity.

What Is Dark Mode Setting On Blink Camera?

People will often see the dark mode setting and think it has something to do with night vision. In reality, it has nothing to do with night vision.

The dark mode option allows you to customize the look of your Blink app. Dark text on a white background appears in light mode, whereas light text appears on a dark backdrop in dark mode. The Blink app will match whichever mode your phone or tablet is presently set to in system mode.

So after recommended setting Why Blink Mini Camera Night Vision Not Working?

You’ve set the IR control mode to “On,” but the Blink camera is only showing a black image.

First and foremost, I’d want to point out that there have been known firmware problems in the past. If you own a Blink Mini, make sure the firmware is version 9.70 or above. This update was released in late 2020, so it should be far passed that point by now, but double-checking is always a good idea.

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix it?

• Replace The Batteries With New Batteries
• Ensure The IR Emitter Is Not Covered
• Reboot the Blink Camera
• Remove IR Reflective Materials

Replace The Batteries With New Batteries

If you have a battery-operated Blink camera, either the Indoor or Outdoor variants, difficulties with the IR emitter is one of the first symptoms that the batteries are going to expire.

Changing the IR intensity setting is one method I’ve seen folks play with this. A better image is obtained by lowering the intensity, but a darker image is obtained by increasing the intensity.

I’m not sure what’s going on here, but I’m guessing the batteries are running out of juice and can’t power both the camera and the high-intensity IR emitter.

Ensure The IR Emitter Is Not Covered

This is a common problem when users do not use the mount that came with their Blink camera, or they’re trying to hide the camera behind something.

If you are using custom housing, perhaps a housing so you can use your Blink Mini or Blink Indoor in an outdoor setting, make sure that the IR emitter is not covered.

Blink has diagrams on its website that indicate where the IR sensor is located.

Blink Mini Layout: Click Here

Reboot Blink Camera

I get that this is the beginning of your basic tech assistance, but there is a reason they encourage you to attempt it. It’s simple and can occasionally solve the problem.

Rebooting the device may resolve any firmware faults that have caused it to become stuck in a certain state. Although it’s a software flaw, you won’t have to wait for a firmware update.

For Blink, Mini unplug them from the power source and plug them back in.

If the problem starts back up again in a few days after it was seemingly resolved, it is probably a battery issue. Try replacing them. Blink recommends using lithium AA batteries.

IR Reflective Materials Must Be Removed

When in night vision mode, Blink cameras are extremely sensitive to IR light. That’s how they make a picture! They must be considerate.

However, if the IR light is reflected back into the lens, the camera will be blinded. In a dark room, imagine someone beaming a spotlight into your eyes. You’d be unable to see anything else as well.

Look at the camera view with night vision turned on and look for any white areas. White objects reflect the most infrared light back to the camera.

Shiny items are the most difficult to deal with. Consider the shine on certain types of paneling or the glossy coating on leaves. There are a variety of items that may reflect light back to you.

How To Reset Blink Mini Camera?

The Blink Mini has a reset button on the bottom side of the camera

Helpful Tip: Make certain to perform a reset before and while the Mini is plugged in for best results. We also recommend inserting either a paperclip or small screwdriver (not safety pins or thumbtacks) to reset the camera.

1. A long press of the reset button (more than 5 seconds) will reset it.
2. Both red and blue lights will flash rapidly shortly before the button is released.
3. The blue light will then slowly blink, which indicates the camera is ready to be added to a system.

Contact Blink Support

If none of these solutions seem to be the issue, the camera might be malfunctioning and the IR emitter isn’t working. Blink will send you a replacement after going through basic troubleshooting processes as long as the camera is still under warranty.

The Blink Support “Contact Us” page is located here.

<p>The post Troubleshooting for Blink Mini Camera first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>

Blink products do not support, or make use of Amazon Sidewalk
To learn more about Amazon Sidewalk and how Alexa devices make use of this service please click to visit the Amazon Sidewalk website. You can also click to visit the Alexa Sidewalk Help Page to learn how to enable or disable the service.

Content Links

Blink SmartHome Skill

Supported Alexa Devices

How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices

Alexa security voice code

Alexa Voice Commands

Frequently Asked Questions

Troubleshooting

Blink SmartHome Skill

Blink SmartHome is an Alexa skill that allows you to conveniently access Blink cameras with just your voice! Easily connect to your Alexa account from the Blink app, then your devices will be automatically discovered.

The features of this skill are available on Echo Dot, Spot, Show, Tap, Fire TV, Stick, Cube and Fire Tablets as shown in the following table. Click for a table of voice commands.

Please note that the Blink SmartHome Skill is currently only available in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain.

Supported Alexa Devices

Here are the Alexa devices that are currently compatible with the Blink SmartHome skill. Some features may only be available on certain devices.

Supported Blink Accessories

Blink Floodlight Mount

Supported Non-Screen Devices

Echo Gen 1, 2
Echo Dot Gen 4 With clock and Alexa
Echo Dot Gen 4 (2020 release)
Echo Dot Gen 2, 3
Echo Plus Gen 2, 3
Echo Studio Gen 2, 3
Echo Tap (does not support Motion Announcements)

Supported Screen Devices – (camera audio is listen only)

Echo Show 15
Echo Show 10 Gen 3
Echo Show Gen 2
New Echo Show 8
Echo Show 8
All New Echo Show 5 Gen 2, 2021 release
New Echo Show 5 Kids Gen 2
Echo Show 5
Echo Show Gen 1
Echo Spot
Fire Tablets Fire HD 8, Fire HD 10, Fire 7″, Fire 8″, Fire 10″
Fire TV Edition Fire TV Gen 1, 2, Element 4k, Toshiba 4k, Insignia 4k, Toshiba HD, Insignia HD
Fire TV Stick Fire TV Stick 4k, Fire TV with Alexa Voice Command
Fire TV Cube

 

How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices

1. Open the Blink app, tap the Settings iconin the bottom right of the screen and select Account and Privacy.
   
2. Tap “Link to Alexa” under Linked Accounts.
   
3. Tap “Open Alexa App” and you are taken to the Blink SmartHome skill page in the Alexa app.
   
4. Tap “ENABLE TO USE” and you are sent to the Link Account Sign-In page.
   
5.  Enter the email address and password of your Blink account. Then tap the “Sign In” button.
   
6. By default, multiple factor authentication asks you to confirm a PIN code we sent to your mobile device. Enter the code and tap “Verify Code”.
   If you have not received a code within 2 minutes, tap “Resend Code”.
   
7. The Alexa app communicates with Blink account servers, and then displays a message saying, “Your Blink SmartHome account has been successfully linked.”
   Tap “CLOSE” to begin device discovery in the Alexa app.
   
8. Tap “DISCOVER DEVICES” to allow Alexa access.
   
9. After about 45 seconds, the Setup screen appears informing you that devices have been found and connected with the Blink SmartHome Skill. Tap “NEXT” to begin setting one up.
   
   Note: Occasionally, the app message will say that no new devices were discovered. In that case, tap the Devices icon on lower right of the screen for a list of known devices.
10. The SETUP screen shows you new connected devices.
    
11. Tap on one of the devices you want to configure for use by Alexa.
    In this example, the “House” camera is selected.Tap “SET UP DEVICE”.
    
12. Since Blink home security systems can be armed and disarmed from Alexa, you are asked to create a 4-digit “voice code” to confirm you are the owner of the account. When you ask Alexa to disarm your system, she asks you to say the voice code numbers. There is one voice code per system.Tap “SKIP” to not have Alexa disarm your systems.
    Tap “NEXT” to create a new voice code.
    
13. Type in the four digit voice code and then confirm the same code again in the next screen.
     
14. Now, you are presented with a confirmation screen. You are shown the control phrase to use with this camera and you can tap “CONTINUE” to return to adding more discovered devices.If there are no more devices to configure, you are taken to the Alexa app main screen.
    
15. If you have more devices available, you are returned to the connected device SETUP screen. The device you just configured is no longer on the list, and you are able to select another device to repeat the process.
    
16. When all of the devices have been configured, you are shown a final confirmation screen, tap “DONE”.
    
17. From the Alexa main screen, you are told how many devices were discovered (“7” in this example). You can tap the alert to see them, you can also tap the “Cameras” icon , or tap “Devices” in the app footer, to view your configured devices.
    
18. Tapping “Cameras” opens a screen showing all of your configured cameras. Tap the one you wish to view details of.
    
    Note: Alexa has it’s ‘own’ Live view feature that Blink cameras do not use, and that is why you see “Live view not supported on this device.” Blink Outdoor, Indoor (gen 2), and Mini cameras support Blink’s Live View feature when you ask “Alexa, show me the <camera name>.”
    The Blink Video Doorbell does use Alexa’s Live View feature – see step 21.
19. Alexa Settings screen for Blink cameras.
    

    	Camera name Phrase to use
    	Connected Alexa devices Motion Announcements On/Off Battery interaction settings
    	Connected to Blink Description of the device Type of Device If this camera is active for Alexa

20. Alexa Settings for the Blink Video Doorbell
    If you tap a doorbell entry and see a Live View session, tap the gear iconin the upper right, to access settings.
    
    Two Alexa settings for the Blink Video Doorbell control what events Alexa responds to.
    • Motion Announcements (off  on)
      Alexa says “Motion detected at your <Camera Name>.”
    • Doorbell Press Notifications (off  on)
      Alexa says “Someone is at your <Doorbell Name>.”

    Enable your Devices
    Blink devices must be “Enabled” to allow Alexa interactions with your system.

    Note: The settings here only control Alexa interactions. Turning “Motion Announcements” to “On” in the Alexa app settings does not “Arm” your Blink camera system. However, it does let Alexa announce events that happen when your Blink camera system is armed. Click for more information on arming your system for Motion Detection.‍

The Alexa Voice Code

 The Alexa Voice Code is part of first set up of the Blink Skill.

When you ask Alexa to disarm a system, you are asked for the four digit voice code, which is created by you in the Alexa app. If Alexa has not been configured to Disarm your system, Alexa asks you to visit the System Settings, then activate and configure the “Disarm by voice” feature.

Open the Alexa app, and tap “All Devices”.

From the All Devices screen, you can find Blink systems by the shield icon .
Tap the system you want to enable for Alexa Disable command.

From the system device SETTINGS screen, tap the “Disarm by voice” toggle.

A popup confirms you want to allow Alexa to disarm your security system by voice.
Tap “OK”.

You are presented with a number pad to create your voice code with. Type in four numbers that you will remember when you ask Alexa to disarm your system.
Enter the same code in the Confirm screen that follows.

 
Now, you are presented with a confirmation screen that shows the control phrase to use with this system.

Tap “CONTINUE” to finish installing and get to the Alexa app main screen.

Alexa Voice Commands

Alexa requires you to say the exact name of the system or device that you want to control. The exception is if you have only a Blink brand security system, and one camera system on that account.

To have Alexa Disarm your system, it needs to have the “Disarm by voice” option set in the System Settings. To view the System Settings, tap ALL DEVICES tab in the Alexa app, and your Systems are shown next to a shield icon . For more information, visit the section above.

Non screen devices

Screen devices

Accessories

If you have only a Blink brand security system on your Alexa account, with only one camera system.

Action	What to say	Result
Arm	“Alexa, Arm.”	Camera system is armed.
Disarm	“Alexa, Disarm.”	Alexa asks “What’s your voice code for <System Name>?”

If you have more than one system, you must say the exact system or camera name.

Action	What to say	Result
Arm	“Alexa, Arm <System Name>.”	Camera system is armed.
Disarm	“Alexa, Disarm <System Name>.”	Alexa asks “What’s your voice code for <System Name>?”
	“Alexa, Disarm <System Name>, my pin is ####.”	Alexa disarms the system.
Status	“Alexa, ask Blink to get my status” “Alexa, ask Blink what’s my status” OR “Alexa, is <System Name> armed?” “Alexa, is <System Name> disarmed?”Note: This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.
Detailed Status	“Alexa, ask Blink what my detailed status is.”  “Alexa, ask Blink to get my detailed status.” (includes last motion clip details for each system) Note: This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.
Schedule	“Alexa, ask Blink to list my schedule.”  “Alexa, ask Blink what my schedule is.”
Motion Clip	“Alexa, ask Blink when was the last motion clip.”  “Alexa, ask Blink when was my last motion alert.”Note:This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.
Motion Clip Count	“Alexa, ask Blink, how many motion clips do I have?”  “Alexa, ask Blink, how many recordings do I have?”Note: This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alexa FAQ

Where can I download the Alexa app?

Alexa is available from Amazon in most mobile device app stores.

Amazon App Store

Apple App Store

Google Play Store

Microsoft Apps for Windows 10+

What is the “voice code” number?

To disarm a home security system, Alexa asks for a voice code that you create during device set up. Anyone asking Alexa to disarm a Blink system can provide the voice code if they know it.

During setup of the Blink SmartHome Skill, you are asked to enter your Blink login information to connect your accounts on the two services. In this process, a code is sent to the account phone number by text message, for verification. To confirm you are the Blink account owner, enter the code provided by Blink.

The Blink code is not related to the “voice code” that you create in the Alexa app.

 

Do Alexa Routines work with Blink SmartHome?

Alexa Routines are enabled for the Blink SmartHome skill.

Learn more about Alexa Routine Triggers‍.

 

How do you enable motion detection notifications for Alexa?

Notifications of motion detection are currently supported for Alexa devices.

Learn more about Motion Announcements.

Note: Alexa does not provide announcements for cameras using Local Storage to record clips directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.

Why are Live Views saving as clips when that setting is disabled in the Blink app?

You can activate a Live View session from a camera that uses Cloud Storage by saying: “Alexa, show me <Camera Name>.” Live Views show in the Alexa device for five minutes unless cancelled manually.

If you have the System Setting of “Save all Live Views” active when you ask Alexa to show you a camera on that system, the entire Live View is saved in Cloud Storage.

Does Blink SmartHome Skill support Auto Live View with Doorbell press or motion detection?

No, currently the Blink SmartHome skill does not automatically stream live view when the Blink Video Doorbell is pressed or motion detection is triggered. On Alexa devices with a screen, saying “Alexa, show me <Camera Name>.”  begins a Live View session.

For Video Doorbells that are part of a subscription and connected to a Sync Module or powered wiring, you enter a Live View session when you tap the doorbell entry in the Alexa “Cameras” screen.

Note: Live View from an Alexa command is not available when the Blink Video Doorbell is in Event Response mode.

Do Alexa routines work with older Blink devices?

The XT and Indoor (gen 1) cameras are not supported on some “Alexa Built-in” devices like newer smart TVs, the Alexa PC app, and other clients that use the Alexa web player.

Troubleshooting

Be sure that you have the latest version of the Blink app, and that your Alexa device is also updated. Find and select “Check for Software Updates” under “Device Options” in the Alexa app.

“Sorry, cameras don’t work on this device.”

If you come across this error message, this may mean that the voice command is not supported by the type of Alexa device you have integrated with the Blink SmartHome skill.

To resolve this, verify what type of Alexa enabled device you are using to check its compatibility with the command(s) you were trying to issue. You can also make sure that each device has a unique name.

Viewing motion clips or Live View commands are supported only on the following devices: Echo Show, Spot, Fire Tablets (sold in the US), Fire TV, Stick, and Cube

Blink XT and Indoor (gen 1) cameras are not supported on some “Alexa Built-in” devices like newer smart TVs, the Alexa PC app, and other clients using the Alexa web player.

“Couldn’t find a device named <the Name you requested>.”

This error message occurs when Alexa has not discovered the device you are trying to control. Follow the steps to discover any new devices.

1. Open the Alexa app > Tap “Devices” > Tap “Cameras” > Check to ensure all of Blink devices are listed there.
2. If all Blink devices are not discovered, go to “Devices” > Tap “plus sign” located on upper right-hand corner > “Add Devices” > “Cameras” > “Discover Devices”

If you continue to experience issues with the command, please follow the below troubleshooting steps to delete and relink the “Blink SmartHome” skill:

1. Tap the “Curtain Menu” located on top left corner of the Alexa App.
2. Tap “Skill & Games” > “Your Skills” > locate “Blink SmartHome” and disable the skill.
3. Once the Blink SmartHome skill is disabled, tap “Devices”, located on bottom right corner.
4. Tap “Cameras” and select each one of Blink cameras listed, then delete each by tapping on the “Trash” icon.
5. After the Blink SmartHome skill is disabled all Blink devices are removed, follow the Enabling Blink SmartHome skill steps to re-link the skill.

“Please specify a system”

If you have multiple Blink systems set up on your account, and you say “Alexa, arm.” without saying exactly which system you want to control, you receive this response. Make sure to include the exact system name you want to control. For example, if you have a System named “Home”, say: “Alexa, arm Home”.

“Hmmmm, Camera is not responding” or “Ok. I’m not quite sure what went wrong” or just “OK”

This error message occurs if your devices are muted when you use a voice command “Alexa show me the camera name“. It is only an issue when the Echo Show has the firmware version 6.5.4.1 installed. The solution is to enable the microphone for that camera in the Blink app’s Live View settings.

Disarming the system instead of disabling the skill

Because it is a major event, Alexa needs a “voice code” to complete a command to disarm your Blink home security system.

Caution: Saying “Stop Blink” turns off the Blink SmartHome Skill entirely and you must Launch it again to use.

To disarm the single system on an account, say “Alexa, disarm, my pin is <####>.” and speak the PIN number that you set up in Alexa. If you do not include the pin number, Alexa asks you to provide it.

If you have more than one system on the account, include the exact system name in your request. As in, “Alexa, disarm <system name>, my pin is:” and speak the PIN number that you set up in Alexa.

If your system is named “House” and your PIN is “1234”, the request would be:
“Alexa, disarm House, my pin is 1234.”

<p>The post How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>