How to Install SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera - Outdoor Cabinets

Installing a SimpliSafe outdoor security camera is a great way to enhance your home’s security and give you extra peace of mind. With a wireless SimpliSafe outdoor camera, you can keep an eye on your property and get alerts when motion is detected. Installing a SimpliSafe outdoor camera is a relatively straightforward process, but there are some key steps to follow for proper setup. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about how to install a SimpliSafe outdoor security camera.

Overview of SimpliSafe Outdoor Cameras

SimpliSafe offers several outdoor camera options that are weatherproof and designed to withstand the elements. Here are some of the key features of SimpliSafe outdoor cameras:

Wireless connectivity – SimpliSafe outdoor cameras connect to your home’s WiFi network so you can view live footage and receive alerts from anywhere. There’s no need to run video cables.
HD video – Outdoor cameras record in high definition, usually 1080p, for crisp and clear footage day and night.
Night vision – Infrared night vision allows the cameras to see up to 25 feet or more in low light and complete darkness.
Motion activated – The cameras will send you alerts and record video when motion is detected in the camera’s field of view.
Weather resistance – SimpliSafe outdoor cameras are rated for dust, rain, snow, and temperature extremes so they can handle outdoor installation.
Mobile app – View live video and recorded clips from your iOS or Android device with the SimpliSafe app.
Easy installation – The cameras come with mounting hardware and can be installed without any special tools.

Some popular SimpliSafe outdoor camera models include the Wireless Outdoor Security Camera, the HD Outdoor Camera, and the Wi-Fi Camera, all of which have excellent weatherproofing, wireless connectivity, and HD night vision.

Step 1: Choose Location and Mount

When installing your SimpliSafe outdoor camera, the first step is choosing the optimal location and determining the mounting method you will use.

Factors to Consider for Location

Field of view – Position the camera so its field of view covers areas of interest like entryways, driveways, or yards. Make sure the area you want to monitor is not blocked by trees, walls, or other obstructions.
Power source – Most SimpliSafe outdoor cameras need to be within reach of an outdoor electrical outlet in order to be powered continuously.
WiFi signal – The camera needs to be within range of your 2.4GHz home WiFi network in order to connect wirelessly. Test the WiFi signal strength if needed.
Height – Mounting the camera at eave level or higher will make it harder for anyone to tamper with. A height of 8 to 15 feet is ideal.

Mounting Options

SimpliSafe provides several options for securely mounting your outdoor camera:

Screw mount – Use the provided screws to attach the mount plate directly to wood, vinyl, or other rigid surface.
Magnetic mount – Adheres the mount plate to metal surfaces like rain gutters for quick install.
Outdoor adhesive – For mounting on stone, brick, or stucco, use the included outdoor-rated adhesive to affix the plate.

Consider the construction material of your home and outdoor fixtures when deciding on the best mounting method.

Step 2: Install the Mounting Plate

Once you’ve selected the ideal spot for your SimpliSafe outdoor camera, it’s time to install the mounting plate that the camera attaches to. Here is the basic process:

Hold the mounting plate in position and mark pilot holes if screwing it in place. Drill pilot holes if needed.
Use the provided screws, magnet, or adhesive to secure the mounting plate depending on your mounting surface.
Make sure the plate is firmly fixed – it needs to hold the weight of the camera steadily.
The plate can be oriented vertically or horizontally as needed for the camera’s field of view.
Leave at least an inch of space between the plate and any walls or ceilings for the camera to fit.
If you need to run power and video cables, plan out the routing path from the camera location to your power source and NVR or computer.

Take your time when installing the mounting plate since a secure base is crucial for keeping the outdoor security camera firmly positioned.

Step 3: Connect Cables and Power

Before mounting the SimpliSafe outdoor camera itself, any necessary power and video cables need to be connected. Here are the steps for wiring the camera:

If you are powering the camera via Ethernet, connect the included weatherproof Ethernet cable from your router or switch to the RJ-45 port on the camera base. This option allows PoE pass-through to power the camera.
Alternatively, you can use the camera’s micro USB port along with the included outdoor rated micro USB cable and a power adapter plugged into an outdoor outlet to power the camera continuously.
If you need to run cables through your wall to mount the camera, drill a hole just big enough for the connectors and carefully feed the cables through. Apply caulk or silicone sealant around the hole after.
Gather up and organize any excess cabling and secure it neatly with cable ties, clips, or wire holders.
For additional security, consider using conduit tubing to protect exposed exterior cables.
Connect your router and power sources and switch them on once wiring is complete. The camera should start receiving power.

Taking the time to properly route and connect cables gives your outdoor security camera a professional installation.

Step 4: Attach and Position the Camera

With the wiring and mounting plate in place, you can now securely install the SimpliSafe outdoor camera itself:

Align the tabs on the camera base with the slots on the mounting plate and rotate clockwise to temporally attach the camera. This allows you to adjust the positioning.
Point the camera lens to frame the desired field of view, then firmly tighten the thumbscrew on the base to lock the camera securely in position.
If needed, carefully bend and shape the gooseneck on the camera mount to aim the lens for the optimal angle. Avoid repeated or extreme bending.
Attach any external antennas on the back of the camera if your model includes them. These enhance the wireless range.
Remove the plastic lens cover once everything is installed. Your SimpliSafe outdoor camera is now ready to go!

Taking the time to adjust the camera’s position and angle ensures you get a broad, unobstructed view of the area you want to monitor outside your home.

Step 5: Add the Camera to Your SimpliSafe System

With the physical camera installation complete, the next step is to connect and sync your new outdoor SimpliSafe camera with the rest of your home security system. Here is how to add the camera:

In the SimpliSafe app, tap on the menu button and select System Settings > Sensors > Add New.
Press Add Sensor and follow the onscreen instructions to put your SimpliSafe system into pairing mode to connect the new camera.
Scan the QR code on the bottom of the camera using the SimpliSafe app camera to sync it.
Once detected, you will be prompted to name the camera and assign it to a location.
For initial setup, keep the camera close to the SimpliSafe base station for the best connectivity.
After pairing, you can move the outdoor camera anywhere within WiFi range.

Refer to SimpliSafe’s support site for more detailed instructions if you run into any issues getting the outdoor camera to connect. With those simple steps, your new camera will be integrated into your home security system.

Step 6: Test and Adjust the Camera

Before relying on your new outdoor security camera, it’s important to test it and make any needed adjustments to ensure optimal performance. Here are some tips:

Open the SimpliSafe app and view live footage from the camera to confirm the angle provides a clear, unobstructed field of view.
Check that motion detection is working properly by having someone walk in front of the camera while you monitor the app.
Verify that night vision activates in low light and provides adequate visibility at night.
Check that alert notifications are received promptly in the SimpliSafe app when the camera detects activity.
Move or tilt the camera as needed to fine tune the positioning and eliminate any blind spots in the camera frame.
Adjust motion detection sensitivity settings if needed to reduce false alerts.
Test the wireless range by walking with your phone to the max distance before losing connection to the camera.
Secure any loose cables and ensure outdoor wiring connections are waterproof.

Taking the time to test and troubleshoot helps ensure your SimpliSafe outdoor camera is covering the intended area and has optimal connectivity.

Tips for Installing SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera

Here are some handy tips and tricks to help your outdoor security camera installation go smoothly:

When selecting a location, look for existing outdoor fixtures like eaves, lamp posts, or drain pipes to mount the camera on for a seamless look.
Point the camera where there is the least amount of obstructions for the best field of view possible. Trim back branches or vegetation as needed.
Angle the camera slightly downwards to avoid capturing too much sky which can appear dark when viewed remotely.
Don’t worry about getting the angle perfect initially – you can tweak and adjust the position once the camera is mounted.
Use cable clips and ties generously to neatly bundle and organize any loose external cabling in an out-of-the-way spot.
Seal any holes where you feed cables from the inside to outside with silicone caulk to prevent air or water getting in.
Schedule your install so you can test the camera during daylight and nighttime hours to check visibility.
Enable motion-activated notifications when testing so you know the detection settings and alerts are working.
Add some security signage or a fake camera housing to deter tampering with the actual camera.

Following these tips when installing your SimpliSafe outdoor camera helps ensure optimal positioning for security monitoring and peace of mind.

Troubleshooting Common Outdoor Camera Installation Issues

In some cases, you may encounter issues getting your outdoor SimpliSafe camera up and running. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Camera won’t connect or pair with SimpliSafe base station:

Make sure the camera is within 15-25 feet of the base station initially for pairing.
Verify the camera and base station are on the same 2.4GHz WiFi network if connecting wirelessly.
Try power cycling both the camera and base station and then attempting to re-pair.
Relocate the base station closer to the camera to establish connectivity.

Picture is blurry:

Clean the camera lens using a microfiber cloth.
Adjust the camera’s picture settings like brightness, contrast, and exposure in the SimpliSafe app.
Make sure lighting conditions are adequate, especially at night. Add a spotlight if needed.

Getting false motion alerts:

Adjust the motion detection sensitivity and customizable activity zones in the app.
Set up alert schedules to disable notifications during normal activity periods.
Position the camera so the sensor isn’t triggered by vegetation movement, vehicle traffic, etc.

Camera signal drops or goes offline:

Check for sources of WiFi interference like microwave ovens that may disrupt the wireless signal.
To boost signal strength, add SimpliSafe’s external wireless antenna accessory.
Relocate the camera or base station closer together if they are too far apart.

If issues persist, contact SimpliSafe Support for troubleshooting help tailored to your specific situation.

Conclusion

Installing an outdoor security camera from SimpliSafe is a convenient project you can usually tackle yourself. By selecting the ideal mounting location, safely routing cables, ensuring reliable WiFi connectivity, and properly positioning the camera, you can set up an outdoor camera that provides 24/7 monitoring and peace of mind. SimpliSafe’s wireless cameras make it easy to expand your home security coverage to the outside of your property. With the proper setup and positioning, your new outdoor camera will be providing you with added security for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing SimpliSafe Outdoor Cameras

Here are answers to some common questions about installing SimpliSafe outdoor security cameras:

What tools do I need to install a SimpliSafe outdoor camera?

A basic SimpliSafe outdoor camera installation requires minimal tools – usually just a screwdriver, drill, and basic hardware like screws and anchors based on your mounting surface. The camera comes with mounts, cable, and adapters.

How long does it take to install an outdoor SimpliSafe camera?

Plan on the installation taking 2-3 hours from start to finish. This allows time for unboxing, planning cable routing, mounting the hardware securely, and adjusting the camera position for the optimal viewing angle.

Can SimpliSafe cameras be installed outdoors?

Yes, SimpliSafe offers several outdoor camera models that are weatherproof and designed to withstand the elements when installed outside your home. Look for cameras rated for outdoor installation.

How far away can SimpliSafe outdoor cameras be mounted?

SimpliSafe advertises a range of up to 300 feet for its wireless outdoor cameras. Actual range depends on WiFi signal strength and potential interference from obstacles or other electronics.

How much does professional installation of a SimpliSafe outdoor camera cost?

SimpliSafe estimates professional outdoor camera installation to be around $199. DIY install can save significantly on installation costs but requires more effort and time.

How long does SimpliSafe outdoor camera battery last?

Battery-powered SimpliSafe outdoor cameras will run for 2-3 months on a full charge. Solar-powered or continuously powered cameras don’t have to worry about batteries and can run 24/7.

What is the field of view on SimpliSafe outdoor cameras?

Most SimpliSafe outdoor cameras have a 110-degree field of view, which is fairly wide and can cover large areas effectively. Adjust positioning to eliminate blind spots.

Can I connect SimpliSafe outdoor camera to WiFi?

Yes, SimpliSafe’s wireless outdoor cameras connect to your home’s 2.4GHz WiFi network to enable remote access from your phone and receive alerts anywhere.

How do I reset my SimpliSafe outdoor camera?

To reset a SimpliSafe outdoor camera, hold down the power button for about 10 seconds until the LED blinks. This will reset the camera to factory condition so you can re-pair it.

Final Thoughts

Installing a SimpliSafe outdoor security camera takes a bit of planning and some handywork, but it is a DIY home improvement project most homeowners can handle themselves. The key is finding the right outdoor location, securely mounting the bracket, properly wiring and powering the camera, adjusting the angle, and syncing it to your SimpliSafe system. Following this guide takes the guesswork out of setting up your outdoor camera. With the right placement and settings, your new SimpliSafe outdoor camera will soon be enhancing your home’s security, day and night.