Blink cameras allow the user to remotely access their camera’s footage straight from the phone using the Live View mode. What if the Blink Live View is not working?
When the Live View fails, most likely it will be a connection issue or simply dead batteries. There are a few troubleshooting tips that can help you get rid of this error.
Although Blink cameras tend to work well, sometimes it happens that the live view fails and you can’t see anything. It can get frustrating and it’s something that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. In this guide, we will offer a few easy methods on how to fix this issue.
How to fix Blink Live View not working?
Blink camera can be linked to Blink Home Monitor and this allows you to see the Live View video and audio feed.
Additionally, devices such as Alexa can access the Live View using voice commands. Live View is one of the most useful features of any camera and it needs to be fixed as soon as possible.
Some Blink cameras as the indoor or outdoor models come with the two-way audio feature on the Live View that allows the user to hear from the camera and talk back. Basically, it functions like a walkie-talkie that enables you to communicate with any person located in front of the camera.
You can access the Live View options just by pressing the “Live View icon” for the associated camera. Keep in mind, that if you watch the camera frequently on Live View, it will impact the battery life. So, try to keep it balanced. This is one of the downsides of using battery-powered cameras.
Let’s get to the topic. If your Live View is not showing up or failing, it could be the result of several different factors.
It can be caused by a poor wireless connection, poor WiFi coverage, or the cameras being far away from the Sync Module. All these may render Blink’s live view useless.
Moreover, many users use incorrect batteries on their cameras. Blink recommends using only AA Lithium batteries, as they provide sufficient power for the system. However, many users use alkaline or rechargeable batteries which they deplete rapidly and fail to sufficiently power the camera. Thus the users can’t access the footage or the Live View.
Anyway, if you’re having a problem with the Live View on your Blink cameras, try the suggestions listed below.
Check the red light indicator
There’s a visual indicator that allows you to identify the issue of Live View not working. Blink cameras come with LED indicators that relay the operational status of your device. For example, blue light means that the camera is actively recording.
When the indicator is solid red, it means that the camera cannot establish a connection to your internet, or that the WiFi connection has been disconnected.
It will show red even when the signal is weak or unstable. You can use the Home Monitor app on your phone to check the signal of your local network.
The Blink cameras and the Sync Module need to have at least three bars of signal strength to function properly. If the signal is strong, then you can reset the camera or the Sync Module.
Reset the camera
Resetting the camera can potentially solve many problems including the Live View not loading up. You can reset only after you’ve verified that the internet connection on the camera works properly.
Useful note: if your devices appear to have intermittent connectivity issues, it’s recommended to power cycle your modem and router. Turn them off for 60 seconds and then power them on again.
Resetting Blink camera
Apart from fixing the Live View, resetting the camera can also be used if you want to bring your device to its original factory settings or intend to re-configure the camera.
Most Blink devices have a physical reset button specifically designed to allow users to troubleshoot the camera. Simply locate the button and follow the instructions below:
- Locate the reset button on your camera. Usually, the reset button is located under the back cover, next to the battery slot (depending on the model). Most of the time, there’s a symbol or a reset inscription.
- Use a thin object such as a paperclip and hold the button down for at least 10 seconds.
- The LED indicators will turn off and then begin flashing red, signifying that your device has been reset.
- The device will be ready to connect to the WiFi internet.
Resetting Sync Module
To reset the module is quite easy, follow these steps:
- Press and hold the reset button with a thin object until you see a red light on the module. The reset button can be found on the right side, close to the USB port.
- When you see the red light, release the reset button and the lights should be alternating between solid green and flashing blue. This indicates the unit is reset and is ready to be connected to your wireless network.
Conclusion
The Live View on Blink cameras is crucial for people who like to peek at their homes. Moreover, it allows you to access the footage remotely which increases the overall security of your premises.
Blink cameras need to be connected all the time to the internet and when the Live View won’t work if the internet has issues.
Connectivity issues such as slow internet connection, weak signal, weak coverage, or internet outage will cause the Live View not to show up.
You can follow the troubleshooting tips listed in this article to solve it quickly. If you can’t get it to work, reach Blink support and they’ll be happy to help you out.