10 Easy Steps to Install Your Blink Outdoor Camera

The Blink Outdoor Camera is a wireless, battery-powered security camera that can be used to monitor your home or business. It is easy to install and can be set up in just a few minutes. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to install your Blink Outdoor Camera.

Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools and materials. These include a screwdriver, a drill, a level, and a tape measure. You will also need to choose a location for your camera. Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can follow the steps below to install your camera.

First, use the screwdriver to remove the back panel of the camera. Next, use the drill to make a hole in the wall or ceiling for the camera mount. Insert the camera mount into the hole and tighten the screws to secure it. Finally, attach the camera to the mount and tighten the screws to secure it. Once the camera is installed, you can use the Blink app to connect it to your Wi-Fi network and begin monitoring your home or business.

Unboxing and Preparation

What’s in the Box?

Carefully open the Blink Outdoor Camera box to reveal the following contents:

Blink Outdoor Camera
Mounting Bracket
Mounting Screws
AA Lithium Batteries
Micro USB Cable
Quick Start Guide

Prepare the Camera and Mounting Bracket

Before installing the camera, prepare it as follows:

Insert the Batteries: Open the battery compartment on the back of the camera. Insert the two included AA lithium batteries according to the indicated polarity. Close the battery compartment securely.

Attach the Mounting Bracket: Remove the base plate from the mounting bracket. Position the base plate on the desired mounting surface and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Drill pilot holes into the marked locations using the appropriate drill bit size. Secure the base plate using the provided mounting screws. Ensure the screws are fully tightened to prevent the camera from wobbling.

Choosing the Camera Location

Selecting the Optimal Position

Determining the ideal mounting location for your Blink Outdoor Camera requires careful consideration. Here are some crucial factors to ponder:

Field of View: Ensure the camera has a clear and unobstructed view of the area you wish to monitor. Avoid placing it behind objects that may block its visibility.
Power Source: Choose a location near a reliable power outlet or solar panel to power the camera. Consider the length of the power cable and ensure it will reach without any undue strain.
Security: Mount the camera at an elevation that minimizes the risk of tampering or vandalism. Ideally, it should be high enough to deter potential intruders.
Signal Strength: Verify that the chosen location provides a strong Wi-Fi signal. A weak signal can result in intermittent footage or connection issues.
Weather Conditions: Consider the camera’s exposure to sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures. Choose a location that offers adequate shelter and protection from harsh weather.

Recommended Mounting Heights

Camera Model	Recommended Mounting Height
Blink Outdoor	6-8 feet
Blink Outdoor – Solar	6-10 feet

Mounting the Camera Base

### 1. Choose a Mounting Location

Find a suitable location with ample sunlight to charge the solar panel. Ensure the area has a clear view of the desired monitoring zone and is protected from rain and wind.

### 2. Prepare the Mounting Surface

Use a drill and appropriate screws to create pilot holes in the selected surface. The holes should be slightly smaller than the screw diameter for a secure fit. For concrete or brick surfaces, use masonry screws and anchors.

### 3. Detailed Steps for Mounting the Base:

Align the Base: Place the camera base over the pilot holes and align it as desired.

Mount Type Alignment Reference

Wall Mount Vertical line on the back of the base

Corner Mount Notch at the bottom of the base
Secure the Base: Drive screws through the base and into the holes, tightening them firmly.
Use caution to avoid overtightening, which can warp the base.
Check Alignment: Ensure the camera base is securely fixed and aligned correctly for optimal performance.
If necessary, adjust the camera position or base orientation to obtain the desired view and coverage.

Mount Type	Alignment Reference
Wall Mount	Vertical line on the back of the base
Corner Mount	Notch at the bottom of the base

Installing the Camera

Once you have selected the ideal location for your Blink Outdoor Camera, it’s time to install it. The process is relatively straightforward and should take around 15-20 minutes.

1. Attach the Mounting Bracket

The first step is to attach the mounting bracket to the wall or ceiling. Use the included screws and drill to secure the bracket in place. Ensure the bracket is level and aligned with the desired camera angle.

2. Insert the Batteries

Before mounting the camera, insert the two included AA batteries into the battery compartment. Make sure the batteries are aligned correctly and the cover is securely closed.

3. Mount the Camera on the Bracket

Slide the camera onto the mounting bracket and secure it with the included screw. Adjust the camera to the desired angle and tighten the screw to fix it in place.

4. Connect to Wi-Fi

To connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network, download the Blink app on your smartphone or tablet. Follow the in-app instructions to create a Blink account, scan the QR code on the camera, and connect it to your Wi-Fi. Ensure your Wi-Fi router is within range of the camera for a stable connection.

Troubleshooting Tips
Ensure the batteries are inserted correctly and the cover is closed.
Check if the Wi-Fi router is within range and the password is entered correctly.
Restart the camera by removing and reinserting the batteries.

Connecting to the App

Once you have set up your Blink Outdoor Camera, the next step is to connect it to the Blink app on your mobile device. Here’s how to do it:

Download the Blink app. The Blink app is available for free on the App Store (for iOS devices) and Google Play (for Android devices).
Create an account. If you don’t already have a Blink account, you will need to create one. To do this, open the Blink app and tap on the “Create Account” button.
Log in to your account. If you already have a Blink account, simply log in using your credentials.
Add a new device. Tap on the “+” button in the top right corner of the app home screen. Then, select “Add New Device.” You will be prompted to scan the QR code on the back of your Blink Outdoor Camera.
Connect to Wi-Fi. Once you have scanned the QR code, you will need to connect your Blink Outdoor Camera to a Wi-Fi network. To do this, enter your Wi-Fi network name and password.

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble connecting your Blink Outdoor Camera to the Blink app, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

Make sure that your Wi-Fi network is working properly.
Make sure that your Blink Outdoor Camera is within range of your Wi-Fi router.
Make sure that you have entered the correct Wi-Fi network name and password.
Try restarting your Blink Outdoor Camera and your Wi-Fi router.

| Problem | Solution |
|—|—|
| I can’t find my Blink Outdoor Camera in the Blink app. | Make sure that your Blink Outdoor Camera is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. Then, try restarting the Blink app. |
| I’m having trouble connecting my Blink Outdoor Camera to my Wi-Fi network. | Make sure that you have entered the correct Wi-Fi network name and password. Also, make sure that your Wi-Fi network is working properly. |
| My Blink Outdoor Camera keeps going offline. | Make sure that your Blink Outdoor Camera is within range of your Wi-Fi router. Also, try restarting your Blink Outdoor Camera and your Wi-Fi router. |

Syncing with the Sync Module

The Blink Outdoor Camera connects wirelessly to a Sync Module, which acts as a bridge between the camera and your home Wi-Fi network. Syncing the camera with the Sync Module is essential for remote access, notifications, and video storage.

Place the camera within range of the Sync Module

Ensure the camera is within 100 feet of the Sync Module for optimal connectivity.
Insert batteries into the camera

Power the camera with two AA lithium batteries.
Open the Blink app

Launch the Blink app on your smartphone or tablet.
Select the Sync Module

Tap on the Sync Module you want to pair the camera with.
Press the sync button

On the Sync Module, press the sync button for three seconds. The LED light will begin to blink blue.

Scan the QR code on the camera

Position your smartphone or tablet camera over the QR code on the back of the Blink Outdoor Camera. The app will automatically detect and scan the code.

Setting Up Motion Detection

Once your Blink Outdoor Camera is installed, you can start setting up motion detection to monitor your property. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Open the Blink Home Monitor app on your smartphone or tablet.

2. Tap on the “Devices” tab at the bottom of the screen.

3. Select the Blink Outdoor Camera you want to set up motion detection for.

4. Tap on the “Motion Detection” tab.

5. Toggle the “Motion Detection” switch to “On”.

6. Adjust the “Sensitivity” slider to set how sensitive the motion detection should be.

7. Configure the “Motion Detection Zones”

This allows you to specify the areas where you want to detect motion. To do this:

a. Tap on the “Motion Detection Zones” tab.

b. Use your finger to draw a box around the areas where you want to detect motion.

c. You can create multiple zones, and you can adjust the size and shape of each zone.

d. Once you’re finished, tap on the “Save” button.

8. Set the “Recording Options”

This allows you to specify how the camera should record motion events. To do this:

a. Tap on the “Recording Options” tab.

b. Select the “Recording Length” and “Recording Quality” you want.

c. You can also choose to have the camera record “All Motion” or only “Significant Motion”.

d. Once you’re finished, tap on the “Save” button.

Configuring Camera Settings

Once your Blink Outdoor Camera is installed and connected, you can customize its settings to optimize its performance and functionality.

Motion Detection Customization

Adjust the sensitivity of motion detection to minimize false alerts. Set the detection zone to focus on specific areas of interest. Choose between “High,” “Medium,” and “Low” sensitivity settings.

Audio Settings

Enable or disable audio recording to capture sounds within the camera’s field of view. Adjust the volume levels for both the microphone and speaker. Set the mode to “Two-Way Talk” for real-time communication or “Siren” to deter intruders.

Video Quality

Select the video resolution to balance image quality with bandwidth usage. Choose between “1080p,” “720p,” and “360p.” Higher resolutions provide sharper images but consume more storage space.

Night Vision

Configure night vision settings to enhance visibility in low-light conditions. Adjust the brightness and contrast levels. Enable or disable the IR LED lights for improved night vision but increased battery consumption.

Live View

Set the default live view mode. Choose between “Full Frame” to display the entire field of view or “Motion Tracking” to automatically track and follow moving objects. Adjust the image rotation to match the camera’s mounting position.

Privacy Zone

Create privacy zones to exclude sensitive areas from recording. Draw polygons or circles to block out specific zones where you want to prevent motion detection or video capture.

Motion Alerts

Customize motion alerts to receive notifications based on your preferences. Set the alert frequency, sensitivity, and zones for which you want to receive alerts. Enable “Intelligent Motion Detection” to filter out false alerts.

Linked Devices and Integrations

Connect your Blink Outdoor Camera with other smart devices, such as Amazon Echo or Google Assistant, for enhanced functionality. Enable voice control, motion-triggered actions, and seamless integration with your smart home ecosystem.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Camera Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

Ensure the camera is within range of your Wi-Fi router and has a strong signal.
Check if your Wi-Fi network is password protected and enter the correct password.
Restart your camera and router by unplugging them for a few minutes and plugging them back in.

Camera Not Recording

Verify that the camera is properly connected and has a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Ensure that the recording schedule is enabled and set correctly in the Blink app.
Check if the motion detection sensitivity is set appropriately.

Camera Battery Draining Quickly

Reduce the frequency of motion detection events by adjusting the sensitivity settings.
Disable unnecessary features such as live view or video storage.
Consider using rechargeable batteries for longer battery life.

Camera Not Responding

Restart the camera by unplugging it for a few minutes and plugging it back in.
Check if the camera is connected to Wi-Fi and has a strong signal.
Re-sync the camera with the Blink app if necessary.

Low-Quality Video or Audio

Ensure the camera lens is clean and unobstructed.
Adjust the camera’s position to improve the lighting and angle of view.
Increase the video resolution and frame rate in the Blink app settings.

Camera Won’t Sync with Blink App

Make sure the Blink app is up to date.
Ensure the camera is connected to Wi-Fi and has a strong signal.
Restart both the camera and the Blink app.

Camera Night Vision Not Working

Verify that the camera is in night mode and has enough ambient light.
Clean the camera lens to ensure it’s clear of any dirt or debris.
Adjust the night vision intensity settings in the Blink app.

Camera Motion Detection Not Working

Set the motion detection sensitivity to a higher level.
Make sure the camera is placed in an area with sufficient movement.
Check if there are any obstructions blocking the camera’s view.

Other Issues

Issue	Solution
Camera freezes	Restart the camera by unplugging it for a few minutes and plugging it back in.
Camera doesn’t power on	Ensure the battery is properly inserted and charged. Check if the camera’s power button is on.
Camera has a red light blinking	The camera is not connected to Wi-Fi or has a weak signal.

1. Choose the Right Location

Place the camera in a spot with a clear line of sight and away from obstacles that could block its view. Consider factors such as sunlight, motion, and mounting options.

2. Secure the Camera

Tightly screw the camera onto its mounting bracket to prevent it from being easily removed or stolen. Use weather-resistant screws for outdoor installations.

3. Orient the Camera Properly

Adjust the camera’s angle to capture the desired field of view. Avoid tilting it too far down, as this can reduce its range and motion detection effectiveness.

4. Test the Camera Regularly

Check the camera’s functionality, motion detection, and video quality periodically to ensure it’s working properly. Access the live view or recorded clips through the Blink app.

5. Clean the Lens Occasionally

Wipe the camera lens with a soft cloth to remove any smudges, dirt, or debris that could affect image clarity.

6. Adjust Motion Detection Settings

Customize the camera’s motion detection sensitivity and motion zones to minimize false alerts and capture only relevant events.

7. Consider Power Options

Choose between battery or wired power for the camera. Batteries need to be replaced periodically, while wired power provides a continuous connection.

8. Use the Blink Sync Module

Connect the camera to the Blink Sync Module to extend its range, store recorded clips, and enable remote access.

9. Integrate with Smart Home Devices

Connect the camera to smart home devices, such as Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub, for voice control and notifications.

10. Monitor Video and Recordings

Access the camera’s live view, recorded clips, and playback options through the Blink app. Share clips with others or save them for future reference.

Tips for Optimal Performance

Enhance Night Vision

Mount the camera in a well-lit area or use the night vision feature with an external light source to improve image clarity in low-light conditions.

Maximize Motion Detection

Increase the motion detection sensitivity, widen motion zones, and use the “Sensitivity” slider to reduce false alerts and ensure accurate motion detection.

Improve Battery Life

Use rechargeable batteries, reduce the motion detection frequency, and adjust the camera’s power settings to conserve battery life and avoid frequent battery replacements.

How to Install a Blink Outdoor Camera

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Blink Outdoor Camera
Mounting bracket and screws
Drill or screwdriver
Level
Pencil or marker

Step 2: Choose an Installation Location

Select a location for your Blink Outdoor Camera that provides a clear view of the area you want to monitor. Avoid placing the camera in direct sunlight or where it will be exposed to rain or snow.

Step 3: Mount the Bracket

Drill or screw the mounting bracket securely to a wall, fence post, or other suitable surface.
Use a level to ensure the bracket is level.

Step 4: Attach the Camera to the Bracket

Align the camera with the mounting bracket and push it into place until it clicks.
Tighten the screw to secure the camera.

Step 5: Adjust the Camera Angle

Adjust the camera angle to point in the desired direction.
Use the adjustment screw on the back of the camera to tighten the angle.

Step 6: Connect the Blink Outdoor Camera to Wi-Fi

Download the Blink app on your smartphone or tablet.
Create an account and follow the on-screen instructions to connect the camera to your Wi-Fi network.