Tuya T21

T21 Tuya 720P Video Doorbell User Manual

Model: T21

1. Introduction

The T21 Tuya 720P Video Doorbell is a smart home security device designed to enhance your home's safety and convenience. Featuring wireless Wi-Fi connectivity, PIR motion detection, infrared night vision, and two-way audio, it allows you to monitor your doorstep and communicate with visitors from anywhere via your smartphone. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance of your video doorbell.

T21 Tuya Video Doorbell and Chime
Figure 1: T21 Tuya Video Doorbell and Chime Unit
Low Power Intelligent Visual Doorbell features
Figure 2: Key Features of the T21 Video Doorbell

2. Safety Information

Please read and follow these safety guidelines to ensure proper operation and prevent damage:

  • Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture.
  • Use only the specified power source (DC5V USB charging) and battery type (18650).
  • Keep the device away from flammable materials.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Contact qualified personnel for service.
  • Ensure the installation location provides a stable and secure mounting surface.

3. Package Contents

Upon opening your T21 Tuya Video Doorbell package, you should find the following items:

  • 1x T21 Video Doorbell Unit
  • 1x Wireless Chime Unit
  • 1x Mounting Base
  • Mounting Screws and Wall Anchors
  • 1x USB Charging Cable
  • User Manual (this document)

4. Product Overview

4.1 Doorbell Unit Components

T21 Video Doorbell Components and Dimensions
Figure 3: Doorbell Unit Components and Dimensions
  • 135° Ultra Wide Angle Camera: Captures a broad view of your doorstep.
  • Microphone: For two-way audio communication.
  • Indicator Light: Displays device status.
  • PIR Motion Detection: Detects human movement.
  • Doorbell Button: For visitors to press.
  • Horn: Emits sound.
  • Reset Button: Used for device reset and pairing.
  • USB Charging Port: For charging the internal batteries.
  • Battery Compartment: Houses 18650 batteries.

4.2 Chime Unit Components

Wireless Chime Unit Components and Dimensions
Figure 4: Chime Unit Components and Dimensions
  • Music Selection Button: To change the chime melody.
  • Volume Button: To adjust the chime volume.
  • LED Indicator: Shows chime status.

5. Setup

5.1 Battery Installation and Charging

The doorbell unit is powered by 18650 batteries (5600mAh total capacity) and can be charged via a DC5V USB port.

  1. Slide to open the back cover of the doorbell unit to access the battery compartment.
  2. Insert the 18650 batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
  3. Close the back cover.
  4. Before first use, fully charge the doorbell using the provided USB cable and a DC5V power adapter (not included).
Low Consumption Technology with 5600mAh 18650 Battery
Figure 5: Doorbell Battery Information

5.2 Physical Installation

Follow these steps to mount your doorbell unit:

  1. Mount the base to the wall: Choose a suitable location near your door. Use the provided screws and wall anchors to securely attach the mounting base to the wall.
  2. Fit the fuselage into the base: Align the doorbell unit with the mounted base and slide it into place.
  3. Screw in the screws for fixing the fuselage: Secure the doorbell unit to the base using the small screws, typically located at the bottom or side of the unit.
Installation Procedure Diagram
Figure 6: Doorbell Installation Steps

5.3 App Configuration and Wi-Fi Connection

The T21 doorbell connects to your home Wi-Fi network (2.4GHz only) and is managed via the Tuya Smart app.

  1. Download the Tuya Smart App: Search for "Tuya Smart" in your smartphone's app store (iOS or Android) and install it.
  2. Create an Account: Open the app and register for a new account or log in if you already have one.
  3. Add a Device: In the app, tap the "+" icon or "Add Device" and select the doorbell category.
  4. Follow On-Screen Prompts: The app will guide you through connecting the doorbell to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. This typically involves resetting the doorbell (press and hold the reset button until the indicator light flashes), entering your Wi-Fi credentials, and scanning a QR code generated by the app with the doorbell's camera.
  5. Connection Successful: Once connected, the doorbell's indicator light will change, and you will receive a confirmation in the app.
Easy Configuration Steps for App Connection
Figure 7: App Configuration Steps

The doorbell supports accessible ultra-long distance connection, ensuring strong signal penetration through various materials.

Accessible Ultra Long Distance Connection (WiFi signal penetration)
Figure 8: Wi-Fi Signal Penetration Capability

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Live View and Two-Way Audio

Through the Tuya Smart app, you can access a live video feed from your doorbell and engage in two-way communication with visitors.

  • Open the Tuya Smart app and select your doorbell device.
  • Tap the live view to see what's happening at your door.
  • Use the microphone icon to speak and the speaker icon to hear visitors.
Two-Way Audio demonstration with delivery person and smartphone interface
Figure 9: See, Speak, Hear From Visitors

6.2 PIR Motion Detection

The doorbell features PIR (Passive Infrared) motion detection to alert you of activity at your door.

  • When motion is detected, the doorbell will send real-time alerts to your smartphone.
  • You can adjust motion detection sensitivity and set detection zones within the app settings.
PIR Motion Detection diagram with person and phone notification
Figure 10: PIR Motion Detection Alerts

6.3 Night Vision

The doorbell is equipped with infrared night vision for clear visibility in low-light conditions.

  • The 850nm high-power infrared lamp provides a maximum irradiation distance of 10 meters.
  • Night vision activates automatically in dark environments.
Infrared Night Vision illustration (day vs night view)
Figure 11: Infrared Night Vision Capability

6.4 Video Storage

The doorbell supports both local storage via a Micro SD card and cloud storage.

  • Micro SD Card: Insert a Micro SD card (not included) into the designated slot for local video recording.
  • Cloud Storage: The device offers a free 30-day trial for cloud storage. After the trial, cloud storage is a paid subscription service. Various plans are available, such as 14-day video recording for 1 month at $5.99 or 30-day recording for 1 year at $94.99. If cloud storage is not recharged, other doorbell functions operate normally.
Tuya Cloud Storage Charging Standard and Micro SD Card option
Figure 12: Cloud Storage Options and Pricing

6.5 Chime Unit Operation

The wireless chime unit provides an audible alert inside your home when the doorbell button is pressed.

  • Music Selection: Press the Music Selection button to cycle through available melodies.
  • Volume Adjustment: Press the Volume button to adjust the chime's loudness.
  • The chime unit typically plugs into a standard wall outlet.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

  • Wipe the doorbell and chime units with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as they may damage the finish or internal components.

7.2 Battery Management

  • Monitor the battery level through the Tuya Smart app.
  • Recharge the doorbell unit using the USB charging port when the battery is low. The low power consumption technology allows for a standby time of up to 6 months on a full charge.

8. Troubleshooting

  • Doorbell not connecting to Wi-Fi: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is 2.4GHz. Check Wi-Fi signal strength at the installation location. Try resetting the doorbell and re-pairing it through the app.
  • No notifications: Check app notification settings on your smartphone and within the Tuya Smart app. Ensure the doorbell has a stable internet connection.
  • Poor video quality: Ensure the camera lens is clean. Check your Wi-Fi signal strength, as a weak signal can affect streaming quality.
  • Chime not ringing: Ensure the chime unit is plugged in and powered on. Check if the chime is paired correctly with the doorbell (refer to app settings for pairing instructions if needed). Adjust the volume on the chime unit.
  • Short battery life: Ensure the batteries are fully charged. High motion detection sensitivity or frequent live view access can consume more power. Consider reducing motion detection sensitivity or frequency of live view.

9. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Video Resolution720P HD
Camera Lens135° Ultra Wide Angle, 2 Megapixel
AudioTwo-Way Audio (Built-in Microphone & Speaker)
Night VisionInfrared (850nm), up to 10m irradiation distance
Motion DetectionPIR Motion Detection
ConnectivityWireless Wi-Fi (2.4GHz only)
Storage OptionsMicro SD Card, Cloud Storage (30-day free trial, then paid subscription)
Power Source18650 Batteries (5600mAh total), DC5V USB Charging
Standby TimeUp to 6 months
ProcessorIngenic Xburst single core, 1GHz
Doorbell Unit Dimensions45mm x 140mm x 27mm (unit), 63mm x 158mm x 18mm (base)
Doorbell Unit Weight74g (unit), 26g (base)
Chime Unit Dimensions70mm x 45mm x 15mm
Chime Unit Weight0.09kg (box weight)
1080p HD Picture Quality and Ingenic Processor
Figure 13: Camera and Processor Details

10. User Tips

  • For optimal Wi-Fi performance, ensure your doorbell is installed within a reasonable range of your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi router.
  • Regularly check the battery status in the Tuya Smart app to avoid unexpected power loss.
  • Consider a cloud storage subscription for continuous video recording and easy access to event history.
  • Keep the camera lens clean for clear video footage.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

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