1. Unbox and Set Up the Arlo Base Station or Smart Hub
- Place the Base Station/Smart Hub: Start by placing the Arlo base station (or smart hub, depending on the model) in a central location near your router. This will help maintain a strong Wi-Fi signal between your cameras and the hub.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Plug the base station into your router using the Ethernet cable and power it on.
- Sync the Cameras: Follow the instructions to sync each camera to the base station via the Arlo app or web portal. Usually, there’s a sync button on the base station, and you’ll need to press it while activating the camera.
2. Install the Arlo Cameras
- Position Cameras Strategically: Mount your cameras where they will provide the best coverage. Consider areas such as:
- Entryways: Front and back doors, garages, and side gates.
- Driveways: To monitor vehicles and any movement near your home.
- Backyards: If you have a backyard, ensure that cameras cover all possible points of entry or activity.
- Height and Angle: Mount cameras about 7-10 feet off the ground. Ensure the cameras are angled to capture the areas of most concern, like doorways, windows, or walkways.
- Avoid Obstructions: Ensure the cameras have an unobstructed view and that they’re not hidden by trees, walls, or other objects.
3. Set Up Your Arlo App
- Download and Log In: If you haven’t already, download the Arlo app on your smartphone or tablet. Log in to your Arlo account or create one if you’re new.
- Add Devices: Once you’ve logged in, add your cameras to the system by following the instructions on the app.
- Customize Settings: In the app, customize the camera settings for motion detection, video quality, sound, and more. You can set different motion sensitivity levels depending on the area’s activity.
4. Customize Motion Detection and Alerts
- Motion Sensitivity: Set up motion sensitivity based on the area being monitored. For example, areas with a lot of movement (like a front yard) may require a lower sensitivity, while areas with little movement (like a backyard) may need higher sensitivity.
- Activity Zones: Use the app to create specific activity zones within the camera’s view. This ensures you only receive alerts for important areas, like a front door, and not for every small movement.
- Notifications: Customize alerts to receive real-time notifications for any detected motion, either on your phone or through email. You can choose whether you want to be notified only when a human or vehicle is detected.
5. Adjust Video Quality
- Resolution: Set the camera’s video resolution based on your needs. Higher resolution provides better image quality, but it can also use more bandwidth and storage.
- Video Mode: Choose whether you want to record videos continuously, based on motion, or based on a specific schedule.
6. Set Up Continuous or Event-Based Recording
- Continuous Recording: If your Arlo system supports continuous recording, set up a storage solution (such as an SD card or cloud storage).
- Event-Based Recording: If you’re using event-based recording, adjust the settings so that the cameras start recording when motion is detected. You can also link your cameras to your smart home devices (if compatible) for more automation.
7. Integrate with Smart Home Devices
- Alexa/Google Assistant: If you have smart speakers like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, integrate your Arlo cameras for voice control. For instance, you can say, “Alexa, show me the front door camera.”
- IFTTT: Use IFTTT (If This Then That) to automate security functions with other smart devices in your home. For example, if Arlo detects motion, your smart lights could turn on.
8. Test and Optimize
- Test Camera Placement: After setting up, test the placement of the cameras by triggering motion to make sure the cameras capture the right areas. Adjust the camera angles if necessary.
- Night Vision: Ensure that night vision is enabled, and test the cameras’ ability to record in low light conditions.
- Battery and Charging: Check the battery levels of your cameras regularly and recharge them as needed, especially if you use Arlo wire-free models. Consider using a solar panel if you want continuous charging.
9. Set Up Arlo Smart (Optional)
- Subscription Plan: Arlo offers various subscription plans, like Arlo Smart, which adds advanced features such as cloud storage, activity zones, and enhanced video quality. If you want more functionality and storage, consider signing up for a plan.
10. Monitor and Adjust
- Review Recorded Footage: Regularly check your camera’s recorded footage, either through the app or via web portal. This allows you to make sure that the cameras are working as expected.
- Adjust for Changes: If you notice areas of your home becoming more or less active, adjust your camera settings accordingly to optimize for security.
11. Secure Your Arlo System
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For added security, enable two-factor authentication on your Arlo account to protect your system from unauthorized access.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Make sure your Arlo devices are always running the latest firmware to ensure security vulnerabilities are patched.
By following these steps, you can make sure your Arlo camera system is set up for maximum security. Keep an eye on updates and check your system regularly to ensure it’s always functioning properly.