Introduction
Blink outdoor cameras are a popular choice for home security and surveillance. They are wireless, weather-resistant, and easy to set up. One of the best features of Blink outdoor cameras is their versatile mounting options – they can be mounted just about anywhere outside your home using the included mounting bracket.
But what if you need to remove your Blink camera from the mount? Maybe you are moving and want to take the camera with you, or you need to reposition the camera in a new location. Removing the outdoor camera from the original mounting bracket is easy to do yourself with just a few simple steps.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the complete process of how to detach your Blink outdoor camera from the mount. We will cover:
- An overview of the Blink outdoor camera mounting bracket
- Step-by-step instructions to remove the camera
- Tips for re-installing the camera in a new location
- Frequently asked questions about removing Blink cameras
By the end of this guide, you will feel confident removing your Blink outdoor security camera from its mount quickly and safely. So let’s get started!
Overview of the Blink Outdoor Camera Mounting Bracket
Before we dive into the removal process, let’s briefly review the key components of the mounting bracket included with the Blink outdoor cameras:
- Mounting plate – This flat, rounded square plate is what attaches directly to the wall or surface where you want to mount the Blink camera. It has holes for screws and a ball joint in the center.
- Ball joint – The ball joint connects the mounting plate to the camera holder. It allows you to adjust and pivot the camera angle.
- Camera holder – The camera enclosure snaps firmly into the camera holder portion of the bracket. The holder connects to the ball joint and has clips to grip the camera on two sides.
- Thumbscrew – There is a small thumbscrew on the underside of the camera holder. This tightens down over the ball joint to hold the camera angle in place once adjusted.
Knowing what these components are will make it easier to follow the removal steps. Now let’s get to work getting that camera off the mount!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Remove the Blink Camera
Removing the Blink outdoor camera from the mounting bracket takes just a few minutes. Follow these straightforward steps:
1. Power off the camera
Begin by powering off the camera. You can do this through the Blink app by selecting the camera settings and choosing “Unlink Device”. This will disconnect and power down the camera.
Alternatively, you can simply remove the battery pack from the rear of the wireless camera. Either way, make sure the camera is powered down before continuing.
2. Loosen the thumbscrew
On the underside of the camera holder portion of the mount, you’ll find a small thumbscrew. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen this thumbscrew 5-6 turns counter-clockwise.
This screw tightens down over the ball joint to hold the camera angle, so loosening it will release the enclosure from the holder.
3. Slide the camera enclosure out
With the thumbscrew loosened, you can now slide the camera enclosure out of the holder clips.
Apply gentle pressure and wiggle it lightly side-to-side to release the enclosure from the holder. Pull it towards you and it will detach completely from the ball joint.
4. Remove mounting plate
With the camera enclosure removed, you can now take the mounting plate off the wall or surface.
Use the appropriate tool to remove the screws holding it in place (screwdriver or drill usually). Take care not to damage the surrounding surface as you detach the plate.
And that’s it! With just those four simple steps, you have detached the Blink camera from the mounting bracket.
Be sure to keep all the mounting components together if you plan to re-install the camera later. Now let’s look at some tips for re-mounting.
Tips for Re-Installing the Camera in a New Location
Once you’ve removed the Blink camera from its original mount, you may want to install it in a new outdoor location around your home. Here are some helpful tips for getting it set up again:
- Choose a new secure mounting surface in the desired spot. This could be under an eave, on a wall or fence post, etc.
- Make sure the new location is within range of your WiFi router signal for connectivity.
- Use the existing mounting plate or purchase a new mount suitable for the surface material.
- Attach the plate securely using appropriate screws and anchors.
- Insert the camera enclosure into the holder and slide down firmly so it clicks into place.
- Position the angle you want and tighten the thumbscrew to lock it down.
- Reconnect the battery pack and sync with the Blink app to power on and test.
- Use the Blink app to adjust any final settings like motion detection zones.
Taking a few minutes to find the optimal new spot for your Blink camera and remount it properly will ensure you continue getting great performance from the wireless security camera.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Blink Cameras
Here are answers to some common questions about detaching your Blink camera from the original mounting bracket:
Do I need any tools to remove the camera?
You just need a small Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the thumbscrew on the camera holder. Optionally, a drill or screwdriver to detach the mounting plate from the wall.
How do I remove the battery pack?
The battery slides into the back of the camera enclosure. Simply push in the tab on top of the battery pack with your finger, and slide it up and out of the camera.
Will removing the camera impact connectivity?
No, detaching the camera from the mount will not disrupt connectivity or integration with the Blink app. As long as you stay within WiFi range at the new location.
Can I remove a Sync Module mounted camera?
Yes, the process is the same. Just make sure to unpair it from the Sync Module in the Blink app first before powering down and removing from the mount.
What if I can’t get the camera off the mount?
Make sure the thumbscrew under the holder is fully loosened. Also apply outward pressure when sliding the camera body upward if it feels stuck. Twisting slightly usually helps release it.
How do I prevent camera damage when removing it?
Power it down fully, loosen the thumbscrew, then gently wiggle side-to-side as you slide it out. Go slowly and avoid any tugging or prying motions.
Following the steps in this guide and handling the camera gingerly should allow safe, damage-free removal.
Conclusion
Removing your Blink XT or XT2 outdoor camera from its original mounting bracket is a quick and straightforward process. Now that you know how to detach it safely and tips for choosing and installing a new mount, you can reposition your camera anywhere.
With the wireless design, weatherproof housing, long battery life, and versatile mounting options, Blink cameras provide flexibility for optimal home security. Just follow the instructions to remove the camera from an existing mount, and it can easily be moved and re-mounted in a new location.
So go ahead and remove that Blink outdoor camera mount when needed to move your camera or upgrade its position. Keep it powered off during the detachment process and handle gently. Then simply remount following the best practices outlined above. Soon you’ll be up and running with your Blink security camera in the new preferred spot around your home!