Introduction
As technology progresses, home security has leaped from traditional locks and keys to smart and innovative solutions. One such advancement comes in the form of Blink cameras, a sleek and handy security apparatus that allows users to monitor their homes remotely. A key feature of these cameras is the option to ‘arm’ or ‘disarm’ them. But what exactly does it mean when a Blink camera is armed or disarmed? This guide explores in depth the concepts of arming and disarming Blink cameras, its significance, and how to discern when each mode would be most beneficial.
How Blink Cameras Work
Known for their compact size and immaculate video quality, Blink cameras offer an advanced level of surveillance. Using the latest technology, these cameras capture high-resolution videos and images which can be viewed and stored directly on smartphones or the cloud. They also feature motion detection, night vision, and two-way audio, making them perfect for monitoring indoors and outdoors, day or night.
Armed vs Disarmed: What does it mean?
The terms ‘armed’ and ‘disarmed’ pertain to the operational status of the Blink camera, specifically its motion detection system.
Armed
When a Blink camera is armed, it is fully operational and active. Its motion detection capabilities are enabled, meaning if any movement occurs within the camera’s field of vision, it will trigger an alert and automatically record the activity. You can arm your Blink camera by using the Blink Home Monitor app and toggling on the ‘Arm’ option.
Disarmed
Disarming the camera means essentially putting it to sleep. When disarmed, the motion detection system is turned off, hence, it will not send alerts or record activities. Disarming a Blink camera can be done easily via the Blink Home Monitor app by selecting the ‘Disarm’ option.
Pros and Cons of Arming Blink Cameras
Arming Blink cameras offers several advantages including comprehensive surveillance, real-time alerts, and automatic recording of suspicious activities. However, it may also occasionally trigger false alarms due to pets or harmless activity, which might be slightly inconvenient.
Pros and Cons of Disarming Blink Cameras
While disarming the camera saves battery life and avoids unnecessary alerts, it negates the purpose of installing a security camera as it won’t notify you of actual threats during its disarmed state.
Situations that Require Arming or Disarming Blink Cameras
There’s no hard rule about when to arm or disarm your cameras, it largely depends on individual preference. However, common scenarios might include arming the camera when you’re out of the house or at night, and disarming it during the day when you’re home and activities are regular.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between arming and disarming your Blink camera will help optimize its functionality based on your personal needs and situations. Both modes serve a purpose and can be leveraged to offer the best home security experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why isn’t my Blink camera sending notifications?
If your Blink camera isn’t sending notifications, it could be because the camera is disarmed or the notification settings in your smartphone aren’t enabled for the Blink app.
Can I arm or disarm my Blink camera?
Absolutely! You can arm or disarm your Blink camera through the Blink Home Monitor app.
Can I schedule when my Blink camera becomes armed or disarmed?
Yes, Blink offers a scheduling feature that allows you to pre-set specific times to arm or disarm the cameras automatically.
Can I switch between the armed and disarmed modes remotely?
Yes, the Blink Home Monitor app allows you to remotely switch between modes.
How long does the battery last on armed and disarmed Blink cameras?
Armed or disarmed, the battery life of Blink cameras averages around two years; however, armed cameras may experience slightly quicker battery drain due to constant surveillance and recording.
Can I arm some cameras while disarming others in a multi-camera setup?
Yes, if you have multiple cameras, you can choose to arm some while leaving others disarmed, offering flexibility based on your security needs.